How to get my parents started running ...

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18 Replies Last post: Apr 11, 2007 5:25 PM by Sandikal 1 2 Previous Next

kponds

100 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

Apr 11, 2007 9:41 AM

How to get my parents started running

Hey all,

I hope it's ok for me to post here. I'm only 24 -- but I have boomer parents.

Simple questions:

-What made you 45+ year olds start running?
-How can I best convince my paren'ts to do the same?

I started running (ok...I started off with walking) about a year ago, and the changes that it's brought to my life have been tremendous. I've gone from couch potato to marathoner (hopefully...my attempt is in a few weeks) over the course of that period, and lost a tremendous amount of weight in the process.

I want my parents to start running. They're getting close to 50, and I think they feel like they are too frail. My mom is getting the first tinges of arthritis.

I think their health would greatly benefit from running. I have this (probably naive) idea that it would help them finally kick their pack-a-day cigarette habit. My mom is an adult-onset diabetic, and probably at risk for heart disease, also osteoarthritis later on. Dad doesn't have any specific health issues right now (other than the cigs), but I can't see running hurting him at all.

But I get the idea that they think they're too old, running is too high-impact, it's something that you do when you're in your 20s until you blow out your knees, and regret it for the rest of your life.

They've seen their son go from stage 2 hypertension, insulin resistant, high cholesterol, and morbid obesity to (I'm bragging here...sorry) impeccibile health. They've been astonished, enthralled, and encouraging during my 175 lb weight loss, and while I'm glad that they are proud of me, I'd rather see them taking steps towards their own health.

So far I have tried to lead by example -- but I don't think that is doing anything. I don't want to come across as too pushy. They're both big readers, and I have been thinking of sending them John Bingham's book No Need For Speed, but I don't know if I want to be so blunt yet. I'd rather subtly get them to show interest first, I think.

As an aside: You guys rock. When I started running, I thought that I would never be a fast runner because I started past my prime (again I'm 24), and didn't have a high school track background. Now I know how silly this is. When I see you guys who are in your 40s or 50s, haven't been running all your life, and are doing sub-4 hour marathons, I'm just amazed at what the human willpower can accomplish.

tomwhite

1,998 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

1. Apr 11, 2007 9:45 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

....I like the idea of sending them the magazines.........and getting them walking regularly would be the first step.......

...obviously THEY have to want to do it, just share your thoughts and the benefits you've gotten (BIG CONGRATULATIONS on that, nicely done) and let them come to their own conclusios..........if they wanna post over here with other Boomers, they're gonna get a supportive welcome......

...........nice of you to think of them...........

pmcneb

582 posts since
Jan 10, 2006

2. Apr 11, 2007 10:27 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Ack..Don't send them over here.

.

I was scared to death when I first posted here. Some of these guys are fast.

If they do come here, tell them there are mortal humans here also. Some of us are slow.

and congrats on taking control of your life.

------------------
Patty

Coastwalker

394 posts since
Aug 14, 2007

3. Apr 11, 2007 10:58 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Get them walking, the same way you started. The first step is always the hardest, so if you can get them out the door and moving on a regular basis, it will be a lot easier to get them to transition to running. But even if they just keep walking, you (and they) will have accomplished a lot.

Try to convince them to go to some local races to provide moral support for you. Maybe they'll see all the boomers and boomers+ who are running and having a great time, and get the idea that they can do that too. Are they going with you to your first marathon? It might be also good for them to see how many of their contemporaries are capable of finishing a marathon.

They aren't even close to being too old to start running! Many people didn't start till they were in their 60's and are still going strong. Don't let them get away with that excuse.

Subtle, and perhaps not-so-subtle reminders of how much running has helped you improve the quality of your life should eventually sink in!

Congratulations on all that you've accomplished so far, and good luck in your first marathon!

Jay

bigapplepie

2,636 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

4. Apr 11, 2007 11:00 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

quote:<HR>Originally posted by kponds:
Hey all,

Simple questions:

-What made you 45+ year olds start running?
-How can I best convince my paren'ts to do the same?

<HR>

Where do you live?

I was 43 when I started running so my views don't count

First of all they have to want to change their lifestyle. You can't force them to, you can't persuade them too, they have to choose.

Take them to watch a local run and race (preferably one you are taking part in) so they can see how many people their age are running. In the recent Bronx Half-marathon, for instance, 43% of the field were over 40.

Somehow they need to know that a lot of these are not grizzled old running vets but people who actually started running in middle age.

A lot of bigger events and bigger cities have a series of lectures and classes for beginners or for people who may want to take up running.

Check out the big charity events that are coming up over the summer. See if they want to register to raise money for charity. If they don't want to run it they can walk. It will give them something to train for (no-one wants to finish last).

Find a really easy, low impact training program, such as couch to 5K on this site. The goal is not to get them to run a marathon. Its to get them to enjoy running and to kick start a healthier lifestyle.

Finally you could appeal to their pocket. Running is really the cheapest mid-life crisis going

Canfit

1,056 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

5. Apr 11, 2007 11:15 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Two thoughts worth considering ...

1) there's lots of research out there that proves running does not hurt your knees if done right ...this is one of the biggest myths (excuses) put forth by non-runners

2) I was always very active & competitive at your age, participated in many high intensity sports at a fairly high level. The one thing that always stood in the way of me doing distance running was my "15 min barrier". I always thought that 15-20 mins was a long run ...it sure felt that way and I never thought I could run for 30, 60 mins not to mention 3-4 hours. Getting new runners over the "15 min barrier" is key. It takes me 15 mins just to get warmed up and 'into the running zone'. I didn't discover this until my 50's.

As others are suggesting, "walk before you run". Take is slow and easy ...you don't want to turn them off.

I'm trying to get my kids to take up running ...I'm sure they think I'm nuts. Maybe someday leading by example will pay off.

I'm sure there's a lot more more wisdom out there that you'll receive, but this is my 2¢ worth.
PJ

RunstheBitterroot

591 posts since
Aug 14, 2007

6. Apr 11, 2007 11:32 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

It might be easier to just let your parents run thier own lives. Larry

------------------
My Photo's[/URL" target="_blank"> "If you see a man running up a mountain trail in Montana with a fly pole attached to his back, you are probably lost. LDD

pmcneb

582 posts since
Jan 10, 2006

7. Apr 11, 2007 11:37 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

If they go to watch you race...and you can pull the sympathy card there.."I may need you if I am not in good shape after running it..blah blah blah", make sure they watch the folks at the end of the race. That is where you see the folks who are just trying to finish the race. we are certainly all different shapes, sizes and ages at the tail end of the pack.

I was amazed at my first race that there were others who were in worse shape than I was physically and they were doing it.

------------------
Patty

vista129

801 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

8. Apr 11, 2007 11:48 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

It is the KISS principle......."Keep It SImple Stupid" (the stupid being all of us who try to make things more complicated than they should be)

Before they run, they need to walk. If you can get them in the habit of walking you will have done well.

Don't even MENTION Marathon or long distances because that is way beyond the comprehension of most people at this stage in life (or any stage for that matter). If you get them to do a mile, or two miles you will have done well.

Lead by example. You already are doing this, but your positive example goes a long way towards influencing them.

Don't mention racing. At this stage in life MOST are not interested in racing. The goal more often is to simply gain the benefits of exercise in ANY form. The reward come in the sense of accomplishment that this brings.

Have a heart to heart talk. This should come from a son concerned about his parents health. Use your testimony of the benefits running has been to you as the approach. Let them know you love them and want them around in a healthy condition for years to come. Ask them what you can do to help them? Don't nag, but let the heart of a concerned son show through.

There are plenty of good articles that chronicle the benefits of exercise for ALL ages. It is never too soon or too late to do exercise.

Most likely you will not be able to get your parents to do exactly what you dream they will do. However, success in this is relative (no pun intended). Whatever amount and form of exercise you can get them to do, is a success. Take that success and build from there.

Keep it simple.

Let us know if we can help.

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vista129[/URL" target="_blank">

Kimble053

233 posts since
Jan 26, 2007

9. Apr 11, 2007 11:57 AM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Hi!

You could try getting your parents interested in doing the C25K programme - it's on this site and the first few weeks are really doable - alternating walking and jogging - so it's it's very encouraging. I'm on W8 now - and I'm 48 and had never run before. (OK I had done lots of other cardio, but nothing prepares you for running!) I think walking might be a good way to start if they don't want to run to start off. Maybe brisk walking 3 times a week starting off with as little as 10 minutes and building up gradually, and then when they've been walking briskly for 30 minutes 3 times a week they could start the C25K. That gets you running 3 times a week - aiming for 30 minutes of continuous running at the end of week 9. Worth a try - and good luck getting your parents motivated. Oh and huge congratulations and well done to you, as well. That was some weight loss!

Kimble

JPGarland

777 posts since
Dec 7, 2007

10. Apr 11, 2007 1:51 PM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

I'm over 50 and have been running for 36 years -- a decade before you were born -- so while on the one hand I've had time to develop efficiencies, on the other I've had plenty of time to break down. My wife keeps telling me that I'm getting too old to run. Whatever.

The important thing about age and running is form. There's no reason why a repetitive movement like running must wear down things like the knees. I actually had a major knee issue a couple of years ago and was sidelined for months. But I worked with a physical therapist about slight form adjustments to correct some imbalances, and I've been injury-free since. In addition, I rarely have the aches and pains during runs that I had before that therapy.

As to getting them to do it, that's up to you, and ultimately to them (and their doctor). I just want to note that I have 50 years on my various body parts and they're still holding together.

bigapplepie

2,636 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

11. Apr 11, 2007 1:54 PM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Running can actually strengthen the knees. It kills you feet, shins, quads, hamstrings, buttocks and hips but it can strengthen your knees

Tamalina

1,594 posts since
Aug 14, 2007

12. Apr 11, 2007 1:59 PM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

I haven't read through all the responses - just skimmed them. But I know these boomers all gave good advice. In case it hasn't been said, if they want to take up exercise (they have to want it too. it can't just be you wanting it for them), given the health issues they presently have ( I think you mentioned pack a day smokers, osteoarthrities and maybe diabetes), they really need to get the green flag from their doctor. C25K is a good-ease-into-it program. If you do a walk/jog program with them, that might be more motivating for them. And maybe pick out a 5K fun run scheduled a few months out that you all could do together - either running it or even a walk/run combination. I know for me, when I first started out, having a race in mind that I wanted to do helped keep me motivated and focused.

Congratulations to you on how you turned your health around. That's a major accomplishment!!

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Tamster[/URL" target="_blank">

GrayDave

183 posts since
Aug 14, 2007

13. Apr 11, 2007 2:09 PM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Tell them they are getting too old and frail to start running. That ought to get them started just to prove you wrong.

To be serious, I have been running on and off since high school cross country, so I don't know how to get someone started later in life. If running doesn't excite them, something like tennis may interest them.

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Dave[/URL" target="_blank">

kponds

100 posts since
Dec 14, 2007

14. Apr 11, 2007 2:09 PM

in response to: kponds

Re: How to get my parents started running

Yeah -- they are coming to my marathon.

I'd like to get them on the C25K, but I know they have to want it first, and that's what I'm having trouble with. I can tell them everything they need to do to get started exercising, but I can't make them want to.

And like RunsTheBitterroot said, I don't want to come across like I'm trying to run their lives. I don't want to tell them what they should do, I want to do things to cultivate a desire in them, and if that works, help it grow.

There's a great charity 5k scene here (at least one every weekend), so that's a good idea.

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Apr 11, 2007 9:41 AM

How to get my parents started running

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