Run Smarter Not Harder: AI Training for All Levels Runners

April 3

I never place myself in a specific age group. I am willing to run with young people, which allows me to regain a sense of youth and keep my mindset young.

—— @-Yulan

Julia Hawkins participated in a 50-meter race last year at the age of 100.

"I've always loved competing," Julia said. A great-grandmother, retired teacher, four-time Senior Olympics cyclist, and two-time gold medalist. Almost every day, she enjoys cycling near her home, but at 101, she recently found a new freedom in running. "When I'm running, it's just me and my body. All I have to do is step out of the house, and I can do well without anyone's help."

Although she only recently started running, Julia is not worried about not doing well. "I know I can run because I'm always busy in the yard, and sometimes when the phone rings, I run to answer it," she said. Julia is also an avid gardener. She and her late husband built a garden behind their house in 1949, planting many bonsai trees. Last year's successful 50-meter race inspired her to aim for a higher goal: the upcoming 2017 Senior Olympics 100-meter race. "Because I think it would be interesting for someone over 100 to run 100 meters," Julia said with a smile.

With three months left until the race, Julia's training is unhurried. One of her sons measured and marked a 100-meter distance in the yard, so when Julia feels like it, she runs back and forth between the markers. Julia has never had any formal training or a coach. "As the race approaches, I'll run every day to get in better shape, and I'll seek advice from some running friends." Another thing Julia insists on is stretching. Starting in May, she will begin timing herself. "Most of my friends are too old to even leave their homes, so I need to find a younger friend who can come out and time me."

Julia Hawkins participated in the Louisiana Senior Olympics cycling competition in 2016.

Julia enjoys watching professional track and field events on TV, but she often sees athletes "almost falling over at the finish line because they've given it their all." Speaking of her own races, "I also want to give it my all, but I'll save a little bit so I can wave to my family and friends at the finish line."

For energy, Julia eats a lot of fruits like bananas and many vegetables, and she doesn't eat much meat. She never smokes or drinks alcohol. Other longevity secrets include: "Stay in good shape, don't be overweight, get good sleep, and maintain a habit of exercise and training." She also offers a word of caution: "Pushing your limits and giving it your all has a boundary. Do your best without exceeding it."

But I think the most inspiring thing about Julia is her youthful mindset. "I don't feel like I'm 101," she said. "I feel like I'm 60 or 70. Maybe a 101-year-old isn't perfect in every way, but nothing can stop me."

When we are young, we can run fast and run a lot. But I think living to 100 and still being able to run is the ultimate pursuit of a runner's life.