Frazz by Jef Mallett for December 07, 2014

I run (jog actually) because it helps me feel better when I AM NOT jogging, but more because as a grey-haired old guy, it is nice to be able to do so, and is unexpected.

Not only runners hover. That looks like the day after “leg day,” as well!

So Burke is a follower of Friedrich Nietzsche, who said, “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Of course, any doctor will tell you that in fact, what doesn’t kill you just softens you up for the next thing, the one that will kill you.

While it’s true that appropriate exercise strengthens muscles and tendons that support joints, and builds bone density, it’s also true that the benefit curve flattens out and eventually turns down—you reach a region where more exercise simply accelerates wear or causes outright damage. The question is, where on this curve does the “next-day butt-hover” fit?

It’s going down stairs the day after a very long run that hurts the most.

I was a dedicated runner for 35 years – only minor injuries, mostly self created. Nevertheless, at 73 and no longer running, I’m facing an epidural on two lumbar nerves tomorrow morning. Running may put off aging for a while, but nothing is forever. Except of course when we stop aging.

Squats people, SQUATS! You’ll live longer and your a** will look infinitely better! Throw in some lunges and dead lifts for good measure!

My shoulders won’t handle weights any more, but I still go through the motions, along with 2.5 miles on the treadmill, about 1/3 running (slowly) and a bunch of other stretches. Results: I can shop all day without dropping, and take stairs in stride. Totally worth the 1 to 2 hours a day.

All this “debate” on running — I’m glad (and surprised) that nobody mentioned Jim Fixx.

My granparents do the pool and weight room at their Y. They get to work out and socialize so it really seems to work for them..I don’t “exercise” I prefer to “play” with my kids. I think every one would be better off if they all went to the jungle gym more ;)