How exactly do you feel every day? Do you feel that you can no longer push for that extra mile despite being able to do so last year? Do you wonder why you tire more easily, despite being in your mid-20s? Well, it all comes down to one reason.

Our body ages, some faster than others. Depending on a number of factors and life choices, such as smoking and poor diet, your body may possibly be older than your current physical age. Our youthful energy begins to fade as our body functions slow down.

It is natural for such a thing to occur. Every one of us goes through that phase at some point in time. Even celebrated sports players know when their peak is over and quietly retire for a coaching position. Hence, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Races offer veteran categories to those who still feel up for the challenge, putting them in on an even footing with other aspirants, rather than against younger competitors.

Of course, the veteran categories are not just about pride. As you age, your blood pressure begins to rise due to changes in your body, responding to hormonal changes or decreased efficiency of the heart. This increases the risk of high blood pressure, which can lead to more serious complications that include heart failure or kidney disease.

Running a strenuous race in such physical conditions can result in dire consequences to your health, sometimes even with fatal outcomes. Veteran categories, which are less taxing compared to other categories, allow experienced runners to keep themselves at their best without putting their lives at unnecessary risk.

You could consider some supplements to meet your needs. An example would be the coenzyme CoQ10, which is essential for the health of almost all the body’s tissues and organs. CoQ10 can also bring about as much good for young people, keeping the heart muscle functioning at optimal levels and preventing any possible heart complications in the years to come. Multivitamins, particularly containing vitamin B Complex, C and E are good for general health, especially in active individuals. Omega-3 fatty acids have a positive effect on the health of your heart by optimising lipid levels. This reduces your chance of encountering heart disease as you age.

There’s nothing more important than your own well-being, so don’t put yourself in a situation where you might end up regretting it. Ageing is simply part and parcel of our lives. Accepting it gracefully will eventually show you that there’s much more to life than trying to stay young.