Still fit for a sports challenge

Fitness lovers aged 28 to 63 share how they prepare for sports events and why they want to test themselves

- Akshita Nanda

Ms Jaslyn Koh and Mr Steven Chek are three decades apart in age, but both are training to run the same 55km ultramarathon on June 7. They are among 10 runners invited to clock this distance to celebrate Income Insurance's 55th anniversary.

Mr Chek, 63, took up running three years ago when he retired from roles in sales and business development in companies making healthcare products or adhesives.

Ms Koh, who turns 32 in November, is an accounting advisory consultant who finds that long runs help her relax and reflect after work.

While both enjoy running long distances, they also say that long runs strain the body.

Ms Koh stretches morning and night to relieve aches. "When we run, we get very tight hip flexors. I do a lot of work to relieve that tension," she says.

Mr Chek has to run on alternate days, rather than every day. "I'm a senior, so my recovery time is longer," he says.

Whether running 5km or 55km, or lifting heavy weights, competitive sports take a toll on the body.

How does training for a sports challenge differ when you are in your 60s versus your 30s? Would you train for a race in your senior years or are feats of strength and endurance best left to younger people?