Motivation for the Master Runner

 As you get older you begin to realize that you will not run your lifetime personal best time in an event, especially if you were an avid runner in your younger days.  Despite having more experience and being much wiser than you were in your earlier days, father time places limitations on you that prevent you being able to run as fast as you could when you were 25 years old!

To keep your motivation you have to reset your expectations and goals, here are few things to try. 

• Retire your PR’s and start on a new set when you reach age 40 (and even again when you reach 50!).

• Find some events that you might not have run in your younger days (I did not run my first marathon until I was 40!)

• Use age grading scales to compare your performances to that of your younger days.  Age grading is based off world records for each age, and gives you an idea of how your performance compares to that of a 25 year old.  It also gives you a score, so you can compare to your performances in other events.  More on Age grading can be found here:  http://www.usatf.org/statistics/calculators/agegrading/

• Join USA Track and Field and participate in the many programs they have available for Master runners. Aside from events set up exclusively for master runners, the also have awards especially for master runners

• The Phidippides Award is given for recognition of participation in road races.  Master runners are awarded points for competing in events throughout the year, the longer the event the more points.  Earn enough points and you are eligible for the award, and will receive a free plaque to commemorate your accomplishment!  Find out more at this link: http://www.usatf.org/Resources-for---/Masters/LDR/Phidippides-Award.aspx

• Finally, if you still have some speed left in your legs you can earn All American status.  USATF members are eligible for All American status if they meet the time standards set for their age group.  Find out if you are eligible here: http://www.nationalmastersnews.com/aa_main.htm