starting running at 56

Question
Hi...I just turned 56 & decided it's time to start running again. I haven't run for about7-8 years now, though I've been very consistent on the stationary bike & elliptical (5-7 days/wk). Less consistent with weights, but am starting that back up again now, too.

I started last week, doing 3 mins walking, 1 min of running on the treadmill, for a total of 35 mins the first day, and 40 mins the second day (Mon & Weds of last week). The previous week, I'd gone into a running shoe store, went on their gait diagnostic treadmill & ran for the guy who checked my gait & matched it to the correct shoe. I was on that treadmill for quite awhile, and must have ended up putting in about a mile during the testing. This was the first time I've run in years. Then the following week, I ran very short intervals, as described above.

Today, 3 days after my last treadmill session, my left kneecap is hurting a lot. Is this chondromalacia? Wow, that happened fast! I'll follow your advice on rehabbing, but I guess my question is: AM I NOW TOO OLD TO START UP A RUNNING PROGRAM???
thanks for what you do...
madge

Answer
Madge,

You are not too old, but I would take it quite slow. Don't do any type of intervals for sure!! I would recommend doing some light leg weights to help build some strength before geeting into the pounding also. Start with very easy jogging and slowly build up. Also, for now, take a week off, rest the knee, take ibuprofen and ice it. Then start fresh and slow. Hope this helps

RYan