Many believe that physical activity declines with age—but athletes in their 40s, 50s, and beyond are proving that notion wrong.
Take Amy Clark, for example. A seasoned runner, Clark had completed more than 20 marathons since 2002 but eventually craved a greater challenge. That’s when she turned to ultramarathons—races longer than 26.2 miles. Since then, she’s completed her first 100-mile race, the Western States 100.
Clark is far from alone. The number of ultramarathon finishers surged from 33,000 in 2008 to 113,500 in 2018, with runners in their 40s making up the largest percentage of competitors. And it’s not just running—middle-aged athletes are increasingly participating in cycling, triathlons, and other endurance sports.
A global study of 3.5 million marathon records found that not only is the 40–49 age group the largest, but it’s also one of the fastest. In major races like the New York Marathon, the average age of finishers continues to climb, with the 40–44 age bracket making up the bulk of participants. Even the fastest-growing group of marathoners is surprising—runners aged 90–99.
Several factors contribute to this shift:
More Event Variety – From obstacle course races to endurance cycling, there are more ways than ever to challenge oneself athletically.
Increased Patience & Experience – Older athletes often approach training with a long-term mindset, focusing on consistency over speed.
Better Training & Recovery Knowledge – With improved access to information on injury prevention, nutrition, and recovery, athletes are extending their peak years.
Years of training provide valuable insight into recognizing fatigue and potential injuries. Unlike younger athletes who may push through discomfort, seasoned competitors benefit from respecting their limits. Prioritizing rest and recovery leads to long-term gains.
Adding strength training, yoga, or cycling to your routine can improve flexibility and prevent overuse injuries. Cross-training not only breaks up monotony but also builds a more resilient body.
In younger years, athletes may have gotten away with skimping on sleep, hydration, or post-workout nutrition. However, optimizing recovery through proper fueling and rest becomes crucial for sustaining performance.
Elite ultrarunner Katie Arnold, who won the Leadville 100 in her mid-40s, shared her training philosophy: “You don’t necessarily have to train long—just smart.” She integrated workouts into her busy life, making every session count rather than overloading her schedule.
Aging doesn’t mean slowing down—it means adapting. With experience, smart training, and a willingness to challenge limits, athletes in their 40s, 50s, and beyond are proving that their best performances may still be ahead. Whether running marathons, tackling triathlons, or simply staying active, this generation is redefining what it means to grow older while staying stronger.