I have never thought about doing that. I mean we started having an alumni race where the graduates and current runners would race each other on our home course. But I stopped doing that a year or two after graduating hs. I would really like to take a stab at one of the harder courses that we ran in high school. The course was literally just 3 really big/hard hills. Good times..

I’ve found that the best way of dealing with them depends upon whats causing the aches and for that you need a good physiotherapist, chiropractor or surgeon.

I had a couple of problems emerge from running, the worst being anterior knee pain. I knew I had flat feet and pronated but the physiotherapist recommended I strengthen the muscles the support the knee. This has worked wonders so far and it even seems to have improved my Plantar fasciitis.

Another problem I’ve experienced is neck pain and severe headaches. These arose from years of bad posture and spending hours on a computer. I’ve done lots of strengthening and mobility work and focused on improving posture which has really helped, however I still occasionally get the headaches, especially when I’ve been hiking. At these times I reach straight for the painkillers and the heat patch! I guess this just goes to show that we can do a lot of the recommended mobility, rehab and strengthening work but may still have to suffer sometimes.

The manipulation/massage performed by the physio also seemed to generally help a lot. I also try and do some gentle static stretches on the days I’m not doing any exercise and always stretch after exercise. I did try Pilate’s classes for a while which seemed to help my posture. I also try to get help for new problems when they arise. I’ve recently noticed a sharp niggling pain from my left hip so will have to deal with that soon.

Your right about avoiding the anti-inflammatories and painkillers if possible as they bring their own issues. I’ll stop rambling now as the nurse has arrived

I’ve found those new aches and pains. And I’m still in the first five years so every race is a new PR. I have no hope to ever place in my age group. I’ll just wait for everybody else to drop out.