THE MARATHON MAN
Phillip Howells – 69
How has your fitness developed over the years?
I had a ‘road to Damascus’ moment after my wife died when I was 50. I was four stone overweight and knew I had to do something. I ran a five-hour 20-minute London Marathon two years later. The next year I cut that down to under four. Marathons are one thing, but South Africa’s Comrades ultramarathon is another entirely. What drives you? I knew I could run a marathon, but two and a bit marathons? I started thinking about it and it wouldn’t go away. It’s a very emotive race. I did the first one in 10 hours and seven minutes. A friend said, “Your only limit is your self-belief.” It’s become something of a mantra.
Have you peaked yet?
I’d say running a 35-mile ultra aged 61 while feeling mentally and physically strong was my best performance.
How does your training routine work?
I feel fitter if I do more than just running, so I cycle and swim. I get on the crosstrainer for core and upper-body strength and I do free weights, too. In a week I’ll run 30 miles, swim two miles and cycle 40. It recharges me mentally as much as physically. Do you take much notice of advances in sports science?
To an extent, but I believe the greatest performances in sport come from mental training. I know people with more talent than me, but often the people with the right attitude triumph. I also think having an understanding of nutrition makes for a better athlete. If something is more than 10% sugar, I won’t eat it.
What’s changed the most?
I have to go slower now. I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation in 2012, which can cause stroke. My doctor told me I wouldn’t be able to run marathons any more, but I’m very bloody minded. As long as I take it fairly easy during the races I should be OK.
Do you often suffer from racing injuries?
No, but I have friends who get injured and take months off. If it’s achilles, groin or hamstring, you probably do need to rest up. But for most injuries it’s a case of active recovery. Dial down your ego, slow up a bit and you’ll be back to full speed in no time.
What does the future hold?
I’m hoping to complete 333 marathons. Then I’ll do park runs. I will always set targets, albeit within my limits. Being fit improves your quality of life. The key is to keep going. I’ll be doing it until I collapse.