“You’re Too Old For That” is a regular series that explores inspiring activities being pursued by those over 50 years old who feel you’re never too old to do what lights you up.

When you get older, you’re supposed to get slower – or so the science says. Studies suggest that runners will get 20% slower between the ages of 35 – 59. But Anthony Rodio, turning 60 in September, is an exception to that trend. He’s gotten 18% faster. During his 30’s, his personal record (PR) in the marathon was 3 hours and 47 minutes. By his late 50’s, Anthony had lowered his PR by nearly 35 minutes, to 3:12.

He’ll commemorate his recent 60th birthday by running the Chicago Marathon (26.2 miles) in October. The following month he’ll run the New York City Marathon. The month after that he’ll compete in The Marathon Project, which is actually two separate marathons, one for elite pros and one for fast amateurs (like himself). He’s also running a half- marathon (13.1 miles) every month as part of his training. His weekly training exceeds 80 miles of running.

If he can just maintain his current pace into his 60’s, he’ll rank in the top 1% of his age group, per the Abbot World Marathon Majors Rankings. But he’s focused on an even faster goal, which is: Finishing a marathon in less than 3 hours. Running a sub-3:00 marathon in his 60’s would put him in the top 4% of all male marathoners regardless of age group, according to Marathon Handbook. It would be an impressive accomplishment.

In the Q&A below, which is edited for length, Rodio shares his perspective on aging in good health and why he’s turning the science about speed upside down.

Slowing down during your 50’s would be understandable, even expected. What helped you defy the passage time?

Honestly, the wisdom that comes with age made me a better runner. When I was younger I wanted my natural ability to be enough. I didn’t take the work seriously. I hoped to rise to the occasion on race day, because I was blessed with some natural speed. It took me until I was in my 50’s to understand that one doesn’t rise to the occasion. They sink to their level of preparation.

How did you feel about turning 60?

I’m very excited. I’m curious to see how long I can go without looking or feeling my age. I’m not saying I look young. I have a full head of grey hair. But friends and family are always asking me how I look younger than the last time they saw me. That feels good. For me, it’s more about how I move and feel than anything else. I want to live a long time and be active doing it.

How do you approach goal setting?

I recommend setting goals that are stretching but achievable. I do this every new year. They aren’t always about fitness. I include things like “Be a better partner and parent,” and “Read x number of books per month.” One goal that I always have is “Be healthy.”

I also think it’s very important to involve your spouse or partner. Gabriella (Anthony’s fiancée) and I run some of the same races. But more importantly we share lifestyle habits, like not eating out, getting fresh produce at the farmers market, avoiding processed foods, going to bed and getting up early, and taking after-dinner walks. It’s so much easier when it’s a shared experience.

You recently started working with a coach, Scott Fauble. (Fauble is an elite pro marathoner and co-author of Inside A Marathon). What convinced you to invest in coaching, after enjoying so much success on your own?

At first, I saw massive gains from coaching myself. I cut 34-plus minutes off my marathon finish time. However, the improvements were becoming incremental even as my training volume went way up.

I really want to break 3 hours in the marathon. What I was already doing wasn’t going to get me there. As I was contemplating all of this, my favorite pro runner Scott Fauble posted on Instagram that he was taking on a couple more coaching clients. That was a catalyst for me. Fauble’s ability to dig deep and suffer, and the way he articulates it in his writing, is incredibly aspirational.

What advice would you give to older adults who are thinking about hiring a coach?

I recommend it, if you are serious about your chosen pursuit. A coach isn’t going to make up for missed workouts, or a bad diet, or not getting enough sleep. Those basic things matter more than any training plan or advice you’ll get from a coach. However, if you have goals and are committed to showing up, I definitely recommend the investment in a coach.

Fauble puts my plan together in advance, but adjusts it every week based on how the prior week went. For example: How is my health? Did I hit my targets on the quality sessions? Did I get all my easy runs in? Do I have any work commitments or travel?

He provides unbiased feedback. And, for me, being able to tap into the latest knowledge from a truly elite pro gives me peace of mind.

You’re also a coach yourself.

I believe in giving back. I coached Gabriella’s former boss as he started running, and ultimately to completing his first marathon. I’m happy to provide guidance to anyone who asks. Most runners love nothing more than talking about running.

What are some of your other fitness pursuits?

I love road biking. I also completed, very slowly, a full Ironman (which consists of swimming 2.6 miles, then biking 112 miles, followed by running a marathon).

I’m a firm believer in strength training. Until last year, one of my annual goals was to bench press four plates (225lbs). I still lift weights once or twice per week.

What are some things you to do to avoid injury?

When I was younger, I focused all my strength work on my upper body. I figured running and bike riding was sufficient lower-body work. Once I got into my 50’s that just didn’t cut it. So I do a lot of lower-body plyometric and strength work now. My current favorite exercise is a hamstring curl with an exercise ball.

Tell me about your participation in the upcoming Marathon Project.

What appeals to me about that race is the chance for a non-elite runner like me, to have an elite experience. You get your own water bottle at six different stations along the course. It’s a flat and fast, repeating loop course. It’s in Arizona so the time change is very easy for me. I believe it’s an ideal opportunity to attempt a PR (personal record). As a bonus, my coach will be there. It’s the first time he will be at one of my races in person.

Final thoughts?

When I was younger my goals were around having a successful career, taking care of my family and giving my children a better life than I had growing up. I am fortunate to have exceeded those goals. At a certain point it became about something more than making money. For me that something is freedom and time. Having the freedom to go for a 50-mile bike ride on a Friday, or the time to run a marathon in Berlin. I believe there’s truly nothing better than being outside, running or riding through nature, miles from home. That’s soul food.

Are you doing something inspiring? Do you know someone who is pursuing a passion in their older years? If you or someone you know is 50 years old or older and should have their inspiring story told, please email the editors at Nifty 50+

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