The first week of 2026 has been the best period of training I have had since my injury last May. I’m going to attempt to do weekly updates for myself and for anyone else who likes to follow an old guy training.

The goal is to be in racing shape by summer. Currently in 0 level of fitness, (perhaps 10 or 15) I am striving to improve core and upper body strength and aerobic capacity. So, that involves a core and lower back strengthening routine, running in the water and swimming, upper body weight exercises, running on the treadmill and working on the elliptical machine and best of all working on the indoor track at Mammoth University for actual running workouts. It is a lot, but I want it to be a lot.

During this first week of the year, I have done all of that on seven of the eight days and my back is holding up pretty well. Although there is soreness after activity, I am recovering quickly.

The hardest thing may be staying under control and progressing steadily so that I don’t wind up injuring myself.

I’m thankful for many things with the start of a new year.  My family is well and close by. My retirement, in it’s 26 year, continues to be comfortable. To top all of that off I am still able to train  with the goal of competing in something I love as an 82 year-old person. 👣 🙏

Wishing a happy and healthy new year to all 😊