[pct-l] RE Subject: Being 61

[JOHNNY J FARBER]

Hi Bill,
EZ and I are 62 so here's my 2 cents.  First what kind of surfaces are you training on?  If you're hiking on pavement get off it onto the sholder or grass.  Hard surfaces are jolting to the legs and don't strenghten the feet and legs for the uneven surfaces of the trail.  Second, be sure your shoes offer support.  Shoes are supposed to be good for 500 miles, but can break down before that.  Third, get some superfeet from REI.  If your feet aren't supported there is extra stress on the knees.  Fourth, strenghten those knees with leg extensions--3-4 sets of 12 to 20 every day 3xweek.  Fifth, stretch, stretch, stretch.  Stretch before, during and after training.  As muscles get stronger they shorten and this puts stress on the knee and other joints.  Sixth, I've used a neoprene brace for support if something hurts and after a few days the injured area heals.  Hope this helps---Sharon "FREE' Farber

original message
Hello,

I am new at this so forgive my transgressions. I plan to hike in '09  
and I am really hoping that this old body(I'll be 61) will make it.  
Even though my knees are creaky the Dr says they should make the  
milage. I have been doing 15 mi on the weekends and I feel pretty  
sore afterwards.  I exercise on a regular basis so I am a bit  
disheartened. I plan on doing 20 mi. days once on the trail so I am a  
little nervous. Perhaps you guys can offer some advice to help me get  
ready for my trip? Will there be suggestions made at ADZPCTKO?

Thanks Bill