Anil Kapoor, 69, returns to running after four years: What experts say about starting again

At 69 years old, Anil Kapoor has returned to running. He recently posted an Instagram video of himself running, sharing that it has been four years since he last recorded a run like this. Kapoor emphasizes that progress is not solely about speed, but rather persistence and consistency.

Dr. Anup Khatri, a senior orthopedic consultant at Gleneagles Hospital in Mumbai, advises that age does not necessarily mean one must stop running if they have been physically active in the past and have healthy joints. However, he cautions that the body may require more recovery time as one ages, so proper joint health, muscle strength, flexibility, and running technique should be prioritized over increasing speed or distance.

Dr. Khatri recommends starting gradually for those new to running by brisk walking and short intervals of jogging, warming up with 5-10 minutes of walking and gentle movements, and strengthening key muscle groups such as thighs, hips, calves, and core. He also stresses the importance of wearing supportive, well-fitting running shoes and choosing appropriate terrain to minimize impact.

Regular rest days are essential for recovery, and increasing mileage, speed, or intensity too rapidly should be avoided. Kapoor's case demonstrates that with sensible precautions, running can be a part of an active lifestyle even in one's late 60s.