by Clarissa Hartley

The esteemed world-record holder Fiona Stride opens an insightful discussion on the mental and physical rewards of running, underscoring its value across generations.

On Running and the Youth

Stride unreservedly extols the massive benefits running offers to younger individuals. Gaining self-knowledge and breeding self-confidence, running serves as a sturdy ladder leading to both mental and physical health. It imbibes the spirit of teamwork, hones strengths, and works on weaknesses. This profound love for the running track subsequently teaches how to set goals and mitigate stress. “It’s a positive force with zero negativity. Observably, children excelling in sports also thrive academically. In their adulthood, they fair brilliantly under work pressure due to the values instilled by sports,” states Stride.

Running for the Elderly

The unique aspect of running is its inclusivity – it embraces interested individuals at any stage of life. Endurance seems to shine naturally for late-starters, but particularly for women passing through menopause, strength requires nurturing. Stride suggests making small, consistent efforts like bodyweight squats to support readiness for running. Furthermore, variety in pace – intermittent periods of walking and running, quick hill exercises – will contribute to an efficient running routine. “The secret is in anaerobic surges. This method stops muscle decline due to ageing while building up muscle mass. This strategy ensures that you’ll harness maximum benefits,” Stride explains.

Strength Amidst Crisis

Stride’s personal life recently saw a challenging time when her daughter was diagnosed with cancer. She drew strength from sportive principles, maintaining focus and adhering to a plan. “It was heartening to observe shrinking of the tumour due to chemotherapy. The indispensable support from family and friends was immensely beneficial. Allocating time for my own health for regaining energy and offering her the same was crucial during this time,” says Stride.

Current Exercise Routine

Stride practices running in a relaxed manner, giving in to how she feels that particular day. The run could last anywhere between 35 minutes and an hour and a half. Sometimes, she coordinates with a friend; other days, she spontaneously runs with an acquaintance. She relishes the liberty of an unstructured run, undefinable by a formal name – hill reps, tempo runs, or steady runs. If she finds the urge to do strides or hills midway, she readily does so. Running, for Stride, is practically a mental exercise rather than a physical chore.

Plans for the Year

Stride has been closely observing the impact of the pandemic on children’s physical activity levels. It’s known that girls have a tendency to quit sports between 13 and 16 years, but kids generally maintain their fitness. However, the effects of the lockdown on fitness have been concerning, particularly for those who have been inactive. Through her initiative Families on Track, Stride aims to encourage school participation. “It has been remarkable observing families bonding over running sessions,” Stride concludes, hoping for more involvement.

Running benefits, youth in sports, mental health benefits of running, women in sports, maintaining fitness in older age, anaerobic surges, stress management, exercise routine, impact of pandemic.