Running After Age 40

Happy Holidays from The Running After Age 40 Podcast!We discuss QUICK ways to be a little kinder on the roads. Kindness matters. This episode is sponsored by Garden Cup! Enjoy healthy, ready-to-eat salads delivered to your door. Use this LINK for 20% off your first order. Perfect for quick meals, on-the-go lunches, and healthy snacks.Additional Resources:Holiday Gift Ideas for Runners: Check out the show notes for our holiday gift list for runners.https://runningwithgrit.com/gifts-for-runners/

We dive into an issue that many runners face—overthinking. Whether you're hesitating to start running, debating on signing up for a race, or just getting stuck in your thoughts, these 10 strategies can help simplify your running journey and bring more ease to your routine. Drawing from insights from friends, top running advice, and mental strategies, these tips are perfect for runners of all levels.Key Takeaways:Use the 5-Second RuleInspired by Mel Robbins, the 5-Second Rule (counting down 5, 4, 3, 2, 1… and go!) helps you overcome hesitation and self-doubt to get out the door.Focus on One Enjoyable ThingShift your focus to one positive aspect of the run—whether it’s the fresh air, your favorite song, or a little sunshine.Set a Clear IntentionInstead of overthinking, set a simple intention for the run, like gaining energy or relaxing. This helps curb the tendency to spiral into unnecessary thoughts.Give Yourself Permission to Be a BeginnerEmbrace the beginner’s mindset—don’t worry about others or comparing yourself. Remember, every runner starts somewhere!Stay CuriousTreat each run as an opportunity to explore, stay engaged, and prevent nervous overthinking by noticing new things along the route.Play the Noticing GameFocus on specific colors or sounds during your run (e.g., looking for yellow leaves or listening for birds). This simple mindfulness exercise makes your run feel more meditative and less cluttered by thoughts.Establish a Pre-Run RoutineA familiar song or quick routine signals to your brain that it’s time to run, reducing overthinking and helping you stay consistent.Treat It as a Trial, Not a CommitmentSign up for a running club or race as a trial to avoid pressure. Viewing it this way makes it easier to enjoy and reduces stress.Adopt a Learning MindsetApproach each run with curiosity—“I’m learning!”—to lessen performance anxiety and keep a positive, open attitude.Set a Timer for Decision-MakingIf you’re caught in analysis paralysis, set a timer for five minutes to make a decision and move forward.Episode Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by Garden Cup! Enjoy healthy, ready-to-eat salads delivered to your door. Use this LINK for 20% off your first order. Perfect for quick meals, on-the-go lunches, and healthy snacks.Additional Resources:Holiday Gift Ideas for Runners: Check out the show notes for our holiday gift list for runners.https://runningwithgrit.com/gifts-for-runners/Join us and try these tips to kick overthinking to the curb and keep your running simple and enjoyable. Don’t let overthinking hold you back—run, walk, or crawl, but just keep moving!

Special Guest Episode with Joseph Emas-  his philosophy that running, like fine wine, only improves with time. Joe’s inspiring story includes overcoming health challenges, running marathons, and finding joy in every step of his running journey.Key Highlights:Introduction to Joe’s Running JourneyJoe shares insights from his 47 years of running, including completing 50 marathons and building lasting friendships through the sport. His positive mindset and determination have helped him face both personal and health challenges, including cancer and heart issues.The Power of Community and ConnectionJoe discusses the sense of camaraderie running fosters, bridging age gaps and building friendships. Whether in training groups or races, he emphasizes the value of shared experiences.Memorable Race StoriesFrom a Halloween costume run in Miami dressed as a cow to dodging falling iguanas in a South Florida race, Joe’s race stories are unforgettable! He even recounts a special moment from running alongside Oprah in the Marine Corps Marathon.Racing Plans and Future GoalsJoe plans to keep running and celebrating milestones with unique races, including the Marine Corps Marathon’s 50th anniversary in 2025. He shares his goal of continuing to run, enjoying the journey, and keeping up with the friends he’s made along the way.Tips for Longevity in RunningJoe attributes his longevity in the sport to maintaining a balanced routine with cold showers, using massage tools, and allowing time for proper recovery. He stresses the importance of adapting training as you age, including hill work instead of track speed workouts.Travel and Racing PreparationJoe gives practical tips for managing stiffness and recovery while traveling for races. He advises giving yourself extra time to acclimate and stay loose with light movement before the race.Maintaining Motivation in Your 70s and BeyondReflecting on his journey, Joe highlights the value of continually learning and adapting. He encourages runners of all ages to focus on enjoying the sport and the relationships it brings, not just race results.Episode Sponsor:Today’s episode is brought to you by Garden Cup, making it easy to fuel your run with nutritious, ready-to-eat salads. Find the link in the show notes for 20% off your first order!Closing Thoughts:In Joe’s words, retirement is just the beginning of new adventures. Keep exploring, connecting, and embracing each run as part of a joyful life journey.Today’s episode is sponsored by Garden Cup. Enjoy their convenient, delicious salads on the go! Get 20% off your first order using THIS LINK.Favorite Things: https://runningwithgrit.com/favorites/

Welcome to Episode 122 of the Running After Age 40 podcast! Today, we’re tackling a topic that every runner, and really anyone committed to a fitness routine, has likely faced—burnout. We share seven powerful strategies to help you manage those times when you feel drained and ready to give up on running. Here’s a rundown of what to expect:Key Takeaways:Reconnect with Your WhyBurnout often comes from losing touch with your deeper motivation. Rediscover your purpose, whether it’s to stay active for your future grandkids or simply to feel energized each day.It’s Okay to Take a BreakA break from running could be just what you need! Explore alternative workouts or consider other challenges like triathlons. Sometimes, stepping away reminds you what you love about running.Embrace Discipline Over MotivationNot every day will feel inspiring, but showing up with discipline can keep you moving forward even on tough days.Check Your Sleep QualityFatigue often masquerades as burnout. Ensure you’re getting restful sleep—reduce caffeine, minimize screen time before bed, and create a relaxing pre-sleep routine.Try Something New (or Stick with Routine)Adding variety can refresh your routine, but sometimes sticking to simple, familiar runs can be just as grounding.Social Connection HelpsCall a friend while you run or connect afterward. Combat the loneliness of running by sharing your experience and motivation with someone else.Make One Small ChangeDon’t overwhelm yourself with drastic changes. Try something small, like a new route or a post-run treat, to keep things fresh.Sponsor Mention:Today’s episode is sponsored by Garden Cup. Enjoy their convenient, delicious salads on the go! Get 20% off your first order using THIS LINK.Favorite Things: https://runningwithgrit.com/favorites/