Top 10 training tips for masters athletes : what do science and experience say?

Masters athletes are typically older than 35 years of age and systematically train for, and compete in, organized forms of sport specifically designed for older adults (16). They are well-educated and motivated to participate for a wide variety of reasons including competition, keeping physically fit, sharing the enjoyment of sport with a group, developing new skills, weight control and relaxation (15). Age-related declines in endurance, speed, and power, and strength performance appear curvilinear from age 35 years until approximately age 60–70 years and exponential thereafter, especially in endurance events (1,17,18,20). Based on both research evidence and personal experience gained over 25 years of competing in high performance masters sport, the top 10 training tips for masters athletes will be presented.