It’s Hard to Stop Being Superman: Reflections on Aging, Performance, and Finding New Joy in Fitness
At a recent 70.3 race, I found myself deep in conversation with a fellow athlete, reflecting on how different racing feels now compared to my 30s or even my mid-40s. He shared a quote from Mike Pigg, one of triathlon’s early legends: “It’s hard to stop being Superman.” That statement hit me in a way I can’t quite explain—it was raw, true, and deeply relatable.
For over 20 years, I poured my heart and soul into training, competing at Kona nine times, and consistently staying at the top of my age group. The physical demands were immense, but the mental and emotional investment was even greater. And if I’m honest, part of me still yearns for that level of performance. But another part of me... doesn’t.
The Internal Struggle of Letting Go
Race day is where this internal conflict becomes most apparent. As a strong swimmer, I often find myself exiting the water with athletes half my age, still near the front of the pack. My instinct is to compete as I always have, but I’ve had to learn to let it go, to adjust my expectations, and to simply enjoy the experience.
This transition isn’t easy. Memories of top-end fitness and past performances linger, making it hard to feel “okay” with doing less, even when logic tells me it’s the right choice. Balancing the desire to compete with the realities of aging is a journey in itself—a humbling and sometimes bittersweet process.
A New Perspective on Longevity and Fitness
For years, endurance training has been my foundation, and its benefits for health and fitness are undeniable. But as I’ve aged, I’ve realized it’s not the whole picture. Muscle is often referred to as the “organ of longevity,” and preserving muscle mass, bone health, posture, and mobility becomes critical as we age. Think about it: most elderly individuals don’t struggle with endurance; they struggle with basic strength and mobility. They want to feel good, look good, and move well.
While triathlon rewards a lean physique, it doesn’t inherently promote muscle mass. For long-term health, this imbalance is worth considering. The question then becomes: how do you build strength without losing the joy of racing? For me, traditional gym workouts felt monotonous, and while I respect CrossFit, it never sparked my passion. That’s when I discovered HYROX.
Finding New Challenges in HYROX
HYROX offered something new—a refreshing blend of endurance, functional strength, and variety. It was the first event I entered in years without expectations or standards to meet. My only goal was to enjoy the experience, and I did. Participating without the pressure of chasing a personal best was liberating.
The combination of movements in HYROX—rowing, sled pushes, lunges, and more—are essentially “life skills” in strength form. They build functional fitness that translates into daily life, not just racing. For triathletes, who often stick to swim, bike, and run, this type of training fills an important gap.
Balancing Two Worlds
As I reflect on this journey, I see the value in becoming a well-rounded athlete. Balancing endurance events like a 70.3 with functional strength challenges like HYROX keeps me engaged and supports my long-term health. Sure, it means I might not achieve my absolute best in either discipline, but the trade-off is worth it for longevity and overall fitness.
The Balanced Athlete: Key Takeaways
Aerobic Endurance (Zone 2): This remains a cornerstone of longevity and is something triathletes excel at.
Strength and Functionality: HYROX builds grip strength, muscle mass, and functional movements—essential for aging well.
I’ve come to accept that it’s okay to run a bit slower or carry a bit more muscle. It’s okay not to “win” every event. What matters most now is feeling strong, fit, and healthy for life.
A Message for Fellow Athletes
If you’re navigating a similar journey, know you’re not alone. The transition from peak performance to a more balanced approach isn’t easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Find joy in new challenges. Embrace opportunities to grow in different ways. And remember: we’re doing this for health, fitness, and, most importantly, for ourselves.
For me, the journey continues. I’ll keep racing, lifting, and finding my balance. And while I may not feel like Superman every day, I’m building the foundation for a strong, healthy future.