Now that the weather has cooled and the humidity has dropped significantly, I've been doing some serious running.

I've been a life-long runner: in my 20s, I was capable of sustaining less than 6.5 minute miles on 3 mile runs, and less than 7 minutes on 6 mile runs.

These days, with a *lot* of work, I can approach a 5 mile run at a 10 minute pace. Currently, after a long hot summer, I'm up to running nearly daily 4 miles at better than 12 minutes. I'm trying to get my endurance back up to 10 miles, regardless of speed (though, closing in on 100 years, this is becoming increasingly difficult!).

I've totaled about 120 miles since the end of September, and make progress each run.

I don't run for "exercise", even though the health benefits are unmistakable, especially for someone who loves beer, cigars, and pizza.

I was born with a horrible physical restlessness that drives me nuts if I don't exhaust it. I suppose I'm like one of my German Shepherd Dogs: if I don't have a structured outlet for my physical energy, I get into trouble.

I noticed that a few of the old-timers here talk about improving their health through various means. Anyone want to talk about what they do, and why?

 

Oh, and I'm considering starting strength training: I haven't lifted serious weights since shortly after college.

I'd want to do it with a trainer, though. Maybe pay one at a local gym.