I read an article about Ed Whitlock — the first person over 70 (at age 72) to run a marathon in under three hours (2:59:10), and at 85 he ran it in 3:56:34: Lepers R, Cattagni T. Age-related decline in endurance running performance – an example of a multiple World records holder. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2018 Jan;43(1):98-100.
I wanted to write a short biography about him to highlight his training method and mindset.
Ed Whitlock (1931–2017) was a legendary Canadian marathon runner known for redefining the limits of age in distance running. Born in England and later moving to Canada, he became the first person over 70 to run a marathon in under 3 hours: at age 72, he completed a marathon in 2:59:10. At 85, he ran 3:56:34, still a world record for that age group.
Training Style
His method was surprisingly simple and “old-school.” Every day, he ran for hours, alone, doing laps around a small cemetery near his home—no music, no GPS, no coach. He didn’t do strength training or cross-training. His running shoes were often years old, and he usually wore the same worn-out gear.
Mental Approach
Whitlock’s secret was less about physical power and more about mental strength:
- Simplicity: He kept things uncomplicated. Running was a natural act, repeated daily with patience.
- Consistency: He believed in the power of routine. “Keep showing up” was his unspoken motto.
- Humility: He never saw himself as a “serious athlete” and never took himself too seriously.
- Solitude as strength: He found comfort in running alone, without distractions—almost like meditation.
- Embracing discomfort: He didn’t shy away from effort. He knew it was part of the process and accepted it calmly.
Whitlock became a true icon for those who believe that discipline, simplicity, and love for running matter more than age or technology. A shining example of how mental strength can outperform statistics.
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