Ever wondered how some people seem to defy age? Meet Susan Ingraham. At 65, she’s shattering stereotypes and setting new fitness benchmarks. This Texan swimming coach isn’t just dabbling in wellness; she’s making waves with her tenacious workout routine.
Swimming has been Susan’s sanctuary, a low-impact activity perfect for her age yet challenging enough to keep her engaged. Unlike some who pick up the sport later in life, she’s been in the water for decades, continuously pushing her boundaries. Her swimming exploits include participating in a grueling four-day open water event in Morocco, covering over 18 miles at the age of 63, and swimming the length of Waikiki Beach, which spans 2.4 miles, just recently.
Growing up with athletic parents who juggled tennis and volleyball, Susan always had role models in fitness. She describes her parents as ‘very active adults,’ and this legacy influenced her lifestyle choices. The early experiences in sports eventually led her to realize the importance of personal fitness, not just to chase after her children, but to carve out something meaningful for herself.
Her typical week revolves around swimming five days, with each session lasting about 75 minutes. The routine is meticulously divided into segments starting with a warm-up, followed by a series of drills and endurance sets. These sessions are instrumental in sharpening her speed and technique, concluding with a soothing cool-down period.
Complementing her aquatic workouts, Susan engages in strength training twice a week, focusing primarily on her shoulders and back. This regimen is crucial for maintaining muscle tone and supporting her swimming.
When time allows, she enjoys a brisk 40-minute walk with her husband and occasionally indulges in Pilates or hot yoga on the weekends. Although work commitments sometimes disrupt her plans, she prioritizes flexibility and balance in her fitness routine, understanding their long-term benefits.
The driving force behind Susan’s commitment is the freedom fitness affords her. She enjoys adventurous hikes and has the strength to lift her grandchildren, emphasizing that physical well-being reduces her risk of severe illnesses. Her approach is pragmatic — start small, maybe with simple walks or gardening, and gradually build up your capacity.
Susan Ingraham is living proof that it’s never too late to reinvent oneself through fitness. By weaving physical activity into the fabric of her life, she shows that age is just a number when it comes to staying fit and active.
Source: Yahoo
