RED Episode 313 Heart to Finish: Jeff Galloway's Journey Through Eight Decades of Marathons
RUN, EAT, DRINK, and Celebrate Jeff Galloway’s 80th birthday with us!
Jeff Galloway, famously known as "America's Coach" and Olympic athlete, is about to achieve something remarkable that no one else has done before – running marathons across eight decades of life. Now approaching his 80th birthday, Jeff shares his journey toward completing this historic milestone at the Honolulu Marathon this December.
Behind this extraordinary achievement lies a deeply personal story of resilience. Jeff candidly discusses his recovery from heart failure and a heart attack, revealing how he adapted his renowned Run-Walk-Run method to accommodate his new cardiac reality. Starting with just three seconds of running at a time post-heart attack, he's now able to complete 13-mile training runs by carefully balancing short running segments with strategic walking breaks. His approach isn't just about survival – it's about thriving within new limitations while maintaining the mental benefits that made him fall in love with running decades ago.
The Honolulu Marathon holds profound significance for Jeff beyond just being his eighth-decade marathon attempt. It's where he proposed to his wife Barbara nearly 50 years ago, where he stationed during his Navy service, and where he achieved one of his most memorable victories in 1974, defeating Olympic medalists Frank Shorter and Kenny Moore. Now, he's returning with a different goal – simply crossing the finish line while potentially setting a world record.
Throughout our conversation, Jeff shares fascinating insights about running's evolutionary importance, explaining how movement shaped human brain development and continues to activate neural circuits that improve our attitude, energy levels, and problem-solving abilities. "Running is what enabled our species to survive," he explains. "When we run, we grow more brain cells and activate the parts of the brain that give us a better attitude, more energy, and the ability to overcome challenges."
For those inspired by Jeff's journey, he's created an opportunity to join him in Hawaii through a special travel package that includes accommodations, pre and post-race celebrations, and his personal coaching. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or curious beginner, Jeff's story reminds us all that the true power of running lies not in speed or distance, but in "staying in the game" through every decade of life.
Find out more and connect with Jeff at www.jeffgalloway.com.
THAT’S A WRAP!
Thank you for listening! Because of your support, we are in our ninth year of the podcast! Don’t forget to follow us and tell us where to find you next on our website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Also, check out our store on the website and get some swag, thanks to Pure Creative Apparel. Thanks to www.PodcastMusic.com for providing the music for this episode, too!