Edwina Brocklesby, a 77-year-old Ironman triathlete and director of the charity Silverfit, has criticised the fitness industry for neglecting older people. She argues that brands focus too heavily on younger demographics, missing a growing market of active pensioners.
Brocklesby, who took up running at 50 after her husband's death, says exercise helped her cope with grief. 'Running was better than counselling,' she explains. 'The endorphins kick in, but the social element is more important. You're with people who support you.'
She completed her first marathon at 53 and her first triathlon at 58. Now, despite having no anterior cruciate ligaments in either knee, she swims and cycles to stay active. 'Falls are one of the biggest costs to the NHS,' she notes. 'Keeping bone and muscle strength up reduces that risk.'
Brocklesby, who was awarded the British Empire Medal, says she is slower now but still runs 5km. 'I feel lucky to jog along the Thames,' she adds.
