At some point, many former athletes go from diving for balls to diving for the TV remote (and not much else). But in pursuit of greater longevity, a recent story from InsideHook is getting us off the sidelines once more: According to “When Did You Stop Playing Sports? It Matters,” researchers found that injuries, time constraints, and fading interest all contribute to a noticeable drop-off in sports participation after age 26. Rather than ending your relationship with sports entirely, the author suggests lowering your intensity level or time commitment. A weekly pickleball game or soccer run may help preserve your coordination and sense of community. That’ll help maintain key skills and mobility which are essential for maintaining independence as you age. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time to warm up, and keep some humility about your former glory days so you don’t overdo it. We recently covered a related idea in “Using top speed to improve your endurance,” which examined the claim that many adults over 30 will never sprint again. Short, carefully introduced sprints may improve VO2 max, power, muscle-fiber recruitment, and running economy, even in distance runners. For proof that athletic development has no strict expiration date, “Life Lessons From Senior Athletes Who Started Competing Late In Life” profiles competitors in their 70s and beyond who took up swimming, track, table tennis, and powerlifting. Provided you train safely, these activities offer goals, independence, and mental sharpness to support a long and fulfilling life.

#PlayTheLongGame