Jogging and Blogging- why I started both at almost 60: My Journey to Lose Weight and Run a 5K

Is 60 too old to start jogging, or blogging?

Starting a jogging routine (and blogging about it) at almost 60 (that event will be this year, after Independence Day but before New Year’s Eve) might seem like a bold challenge, but it’s one I’m excited to take on. Post Covid it’s been far too easy to “just be lazy”, and chalk it up to getting older. For years, I’ve thought about (and talked about) getting in better shape, but life has a sneaky (or convenient) habit of getting in the way. Now, I’m determined to make a change- not just for my health, but also to prove to myself that age (and/or mindset) is no barrier to accomplishing new goals. So I’ve set a few new ones for myself encompassing physical, mental, and intellectual obstacles or hinderances that I will have to overcome, intending to force myself out of comfort (lazy) zones that are far too familiar. My goals are to run a 5k, lose probably 10-15+ pounds (target is the spare tire around my waist), and broach the “modern” world of technology and social function, by starting a blog. These are my motivations:  

Jogging to lose weight with multiple goals.

The idea of losing weight and running a 5K has always intrigued me, but I’ve never fully committed (I have made intermittent attempts over the past several years to get some type of exercise routine started but always failed). At this stage in life, I realize that my health should be a top priority (FWIW I was very athletic when I was younger, played several sports, was on collegiate teams, and spent countless hours in the gym.. although at the time jogging was never a consideration). Jogging now offers a fun (better word probably convenient), simple way to get active (without too much impact, or as I’m hoping risk of injury), and the added challenge of training for an actual race is encouraging and empowering.

What’s starting a blog about jogging all about?

So, why start a blog about this journey? For me, it’s not just about documenting my progress; it’s about sharing the ups and downs and the moments of doubts and accomplishment with others who may be in the same boat (and it also gives me something to talk to myself about when I’m on a run and my voice is alone in my head). Jogging at my age isn’t easy (nor is attempting to comprehend WordPress), but it’s something I believe anyone can do with the right mindset, determination, and support.

This blog is my accountability tool (and hopefully a deterrent to failure). By writing about my struggles and victories, I hope to inspire others to start their own journey to better health, no matter their age. Plus, I’ll share the tips I discover, the milestones I reach, and the lessons I learn along the way. My goal is not just to lose weight but to enjoy the process (to the extent possible) and finish that 5K- one step at a time (and then see where the run takes me).

Want to join along for the run?

If you’re thinking about starting your own fitness journey later in life, I encourage you (after first consulting with your doctor of course – CR#1, I will get to explaining it later) to take that first step. It’s never too late to chase new goals, and you never know what you’re capable of until you try. Join me on this adventure- let’s inspire each other to keep moving forward!