IM for the Geriatric Set

[katekosar]

If you could write the perfect IM training plan, how would you modify it for older people with arthritis and chronic aches and pains? Assume that there is no time goal for finishing the IM.

Would you support a low-level narcotic program, assuming a doc would go along, to get rid of the daily groans so your client could train at an IM-type level?

Just curious. Really would like to know how the older people out there put in the time without always gnashing teeth and dealing with the pain from arthritis, etc.

Thanks!

[jeff jls]

The oldest person I have ever worked with was 81 years old and he has been exercising his entire life and tended to have very few injuries except from rollerblading and jetskiing...really!

Older athletes, in my experience and opinion, need to spend more time in the gym and working on technique than anything as they train. Similar to everyone else, as strength increases, injuries tend to decrease or at least become more manageable, and then distances can improve. I am a firm believer that you do not become a better runner, biker, or swimmer by doing it more, but be getting better at it through training and conditoning. The coach I work with on my running is in Miami, and he also coaches triathletes for running and swimming, and has trained individuals for an IM in 6 months by forcing them to have great technique before they put in distance...and it works...maybe not winning, but completing.

I cannot give you a training plan for an IM because it is not my strength...but I would focus on strength and technique first, distance later. That should help you get rid of some of the aches and pains.

Good Luck,

Jeff