Midlife makeovers
Inspirational women who feel better than ever
‘Running has enhanced everything in my life’
Diane Cook, 72, lives in Lincolnshire and works as a mental health nurse. Until the age of 70, she had no interest in exercise, but a desire to get fit and healthy saw her lacing up her running shoes.
In October 2018 I reached a point where I realised that to enjoy my grandchildren as they grew up, I would need to be fit. I’ve always been aware of the need to eat well, but I never exercised. I started with Couch to 5k and nearly died after the first threeminute run! But I was surprised at how quickly I was able to run further. So, I joined Louth Athletic Club, because I like running in a group. I would run three to four miles regularly and then I built up the distance ready to take on the Great North Run half marathon.
I’m from South Shields originally, where the Great North Run usually ends. I had a
fanciful notion when I turned 50 that I would do it, but I never did. I’m the sort of person who stays in my comfort zone if I haven’t got a challenge. I kept thinking, I wanted to do it at
50, maybe I could do it at 70? Lots of people thought I was completely mad, and others said go for it, see what you can achieve.
On the starting line in 2019 I decided to try to run the whole distance. And I did! Not very fast, but it was in the top 5% for my age. I was amazed I kept going. Even as I finished, I wasn’t completely out of breath – I had kept to a steady pace. It was a brilliant feeling. I went straight home and booked my place for 2020! There is a bit of me that thinks I’d be happy sticking to 10km now, but another bit thinks, why not run another half marathon?
My age is a number, but it’s also an attitude. I look older, I’ve got grey hair and wrinkles, but I honestly don’t feel any different to how I have all my life. I don’t feel like an old lady. Running has enhanced everything in my life. I feel fitter and stronger, and there’s a confidence that comes with knowing I can run. If I want to do something, I have got the energy to go and do it.
Visit greatrun.org for more ✢ information on signing up to virtual challenges or physical events around the UK