I Turned 40 & I Don't Think I Can Continue. A Hike & Photo Trip Gone Wrong.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
- At the age of 40, I grabbed my camera gear and set off to hike half of the Tour de Mont Blanc. Unfortunately, this photography hiking trip didn't go to plan. Thanks to MPB for sponsoring this video. Buy, Sell & Trade Your Gear: bit.ly/3A5UKSs
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I remember when I thought forty was old. Now I’m looking down the barrel of 60 wondering where the last 20 years went. 😂
Me too. And I am still the one who gets to tear the roof off. This one will be good for 40 though.
Well it also has alot to do with genetical disposition.
I was hiking long tours with lots of height gain in my 20s.
But shortly after turning 30 my knees got worse. Just bad luck in the gene department.
I still hike but when I could make 2000m+ up and down and 30km+ in 1 day no problem 10-15 years ago now they will start hurting after 1/4th of that and till feel sore the days after...
My dad who is over 70 now is a better hiker than me now!
We have the same age and I think about my past last 20 years 😂 It was great 😂😂😂
Me too!! Although my mind still tells me my body is 18 years old... until I use it!
Same m8 im 62 now thinking the same ,i have since given up smoking so my lungs are there now and some omega 3 supplement capsules to keep those old legs and arm joints working well..😄
40 is good! I am a 74 yr old female and still hiking up mountains with my camera bag albeit at my own pace. Just do 20 lunges on each leg every day and it really works!
Thomas, I just turned 70! Sure, you'll slow down a bit, you'll notice aches and pains that you never had before, but you still have PLENTY of years ahead of you to be active and productive. For me, the best therapy is getting out, moving, and appreciating the outdoors with my camera in hand. I've slowed down a little, but the joy of being outdoors is my medicine.
I turned 75 in March and agree 100%. A change in diet - more veggies - and stay away from the fried foods helps.
Aches and pains are just constant background noise now 😊
@@johnjtoth7633and keep moving
71. I still love photography as much as ever. As well as getting out in the mountains. I'm slowing down, but I still try to take a photo trip somewhere amazing every year.
Will turn 70 in less than 2 months, but still get out as often as possible. Keep moving is the best medicine.
One thing to add- the negative self talk on the trail contributes to the issue. Body follows mind. 🧠💪💪
EXACTLY!
Well said!
Absolutely ❤ Yes, it applies to any physical issue. Keep good mind ❤❤❤
I feel like 28 but am 48. I remember that turning 40 somewhat was a thing. But all I want to say is: embrace life for it’s a real gift. Embrace all ages and all different aspects of life. Thomas you’re a great photographer indifferent of your age! At your age I had barely begun a photographic adventure and had yet to become a father. Cheers to your 40th!
Take heart, at 63 I climbed Mt Teide (3718 Mtrs) and again at 64 and slept the night there near the summit. I'm now 81 and just done a 9 mile hike in the Scottish Highlands.
Hondo, you are much man. I know because I'm 82 and I know what it feels like.
That's impressive. There is hope for me yet 😅
@@ThomasHeatonPhoto 4 Years ago it was a different story, I had cancer, polymyalgia and other health problems,.
After a lot of pain I did a lot of research into the food I was eating. Out went sugar, vegetable oils (seed oils) and ultra-processed food.
In came natural food and olive oil and a few more things.
I've never looked back
@@alangardner8596 you’re inspiring!
Make the most of it, mate. In 15 years you’ll marvel at how young you are right now. True story.
You’re good. 40 is the new 39.5.
I like it.
hahahaha
22yrs past 18 sounds better😂
😂😂😂😂😂
I turned 60 years ago. I've been active all of my live and photographed since my teens. I've experienced the same. As I get older, I pack less gear, traded my heavier gear for lighter gear and pack my photo gear more mindfully. From decades of shooting, I think my vision has deepened. I shoot less and make my shots count. The good thing about me staying active all my adult life is what I call "putting money in the bank". I'm lucky enough to belong to a swim club with members that swam into their 90's. They inspire me. With all your hiking, I don't think you'll be in a rocking chair in your 50's. Friends and family were shocked when I had a heart attack at age 56. I thought my photography, hiking, swimming and hot yoga days were over. I worked my way back through rehab and I've returned to everything that I was doing before my health scare. No matter what you do, stay active, take care of your body and have a positive mindset. Live long and prosper!
Hi Tom, 40 - You're young! I'm young as well at 68. I am sure its best not to think about it, get fit again and enjoy yourself, the 40 thing will soon be forgotten.
Ian
Well said!
When I turned 40, my Aunt wrote in a card, "Remember 40 isn't fatal." Stay active, stay hydrated, and modify as needed.
I'm 72 and still thinking I was invincible when I had a heart attack 2 weeks ago. Went in on Sunday, had 4 stents placed Monday, was back home on Tuesday, and immediately back to doing all the things I had done before with no problem. The key is to stay in shape. Walking, running, lifting weights, etc. Don't stop Tom.
Keep on keeping on!
absolutely, am a little younger but have lived my life using this philosophy.
Blimey . . . I hope you're doing okay! Only a week or so after climbing with my daughter in Vancouver's Coastal Mountains, I had the attack last Thursday . . . at 77 . . . only needed one stent and they kicked me out on Saturday. My GP and the specialist tell me that it was only my good level of fitness that stopped it from being worse and that I'd be able to resume hill walking in six weeks. Sadly, that's too late to save a planned climbing week in my native Sutherland at the end of next month but I'll be back there in April. As you've said to Tom . . . don't stop . . . ever.
I turn 75 in a week, have just driven upto Cairns Queensland and back 4000klms in search of photos, and i try and surf everyday so don't say your old yet mate. You just have to keep active and appreciate every day. Have been watching your videos since the days with Nick Page and the other mad Pom. Keep up the good work.
Welcome! I'm going on 81 and still moving. I can go almost anywhere and do most things I did 20 years ago except that it takes longer to do it and longer to recover. One learns to compensate. The hiking intervals are shorter and slower. The trails are less intense or less sketchy than they used to be. The views are less back-country wild. There are definitely fewer shots from ground level. Also, one needs more anti-inflammatory foods in the diet. But finding glorious views and photographic beauty all around is every bit as energizing as before.
Like you said, just "... be more considerate going forward." Falling out of shape happens more quickly, and getting back in shape requires more time and deliberateness. Good luck with that knee.
I changed my life at 40 and became an outdoor instructor, it gave me new purpose and worked in some amazing places, it definitely is a mindset, in my 50’s I became a personal trainer! Accept that you’re going to get old and control the controllables age is just a number. Embrace the suck, get to the gym and do the work (strength training) you are obviously self aware just remember to recover hard as well!
Chin up Tom, wait till you get to 55, a successful day for me is managing to put my boxers on in a morning without falling over!
😁😁😆😆
The older we get the better we were.
Hahahaha
I'm "only" 68 this month - 40 is still very young. The key is to try to not overdo things, with moderation in terms of levels of excercise, hiking, etc. As the years add up you can fully understand the advantage of hiking with lighter gear, smaller cameras and lenses, tripod, etc. No more tent camping for me, just day hiking and sleeping in hotels at night. Take precautions and you can still enjoy the outdoors and make wonderful photos.
I'm 87 but if you lean against a wall it helps to stay upright!
I just turned 60 Thomas . You have many many years ahead , just keep your fitness up , yes there will be aches and pains coming and maybe a few little operations but I was hiking in the welsh mountains 2 years ago , yes I felt it but keeping fit and eating well will help I promise . loved the video ...
I got in shape for a Torres del Paine trip in my late 40s that never happened, but I did have a couple hiking adventures with low 30's people who, like you, thought they were in shape. I left them in the dust. Its a great feeling. You're not dead yet!
I saw an interview with Ansel Adams’ grandson. He was asked why did his grandfather’s work seem to go downhill after 30yrs or so. The answer: his best work required him to climb into the mountains…many times through deep snow, carrying a ton of equipment. Then he would get under a tarp and lay in the snow studying the light FOR DAYS. When you get to your mid-50s, you reach the afternoon and you just want to go home and take a nap.
My dad is 77, and today he sendt me videos and pictures of him hauling a newly delivered lathe, weighing a tonne, into his workshop. Alone.
I'm just 43 years young.
dumb!!! asking for trouble . not something to proud about .. if I was you I would be around there helping him or at least , being on his ass , about doing that for too dumb stuff at 77 .. to late when he is hurt , lying alone son floor dying because of something that is preventable ...
I'm 57 and I learned the lesson the hard way. Spent 10 years seated and working remotely most of the day. All my 20's prowess vanished like a sand castle. I'm regaining fitness for the last three years and it is being hard. The worse is that I want to do things, but I can't. I have to prepare, take days off, condition. That drives me nuts, because back in the days it was like you said, you wake up, see the weather through the window and go. Not now. But the good thing is that instead of getting up and going, you start learning about your body, about the exercises you need, the results of certain habits, drinking, eating, sleeping patterns, etc. You become the master of your own body. And our body is our temple. If you get to the other side, you will have spent the last decades of your life with a good control of your body. The years of youthful irresponsibility are gone. You are starting to live the years of intelligence. There is nothing better than getting conditioned for a hike and simply sending the route because you were 100% focused on it. It is priceless, because you become a well oiled machine, sometimes much better than your younger version.
Getting older is better than the alternative!
that's what my granddad used to tell me! I'm trying to remember it now with health problems already at 40 :P
In the mountains, I tend to meet much older folks (60+) young in spirit who constantly remind me, that were not old, but maybe just a bit unfit while they hike much faster than me :D
I literally feel your pain, Tom. I didn't even start a TH-cam channel until I was 66. Now I'm almost 71. I've worked out my whole life and by most people's standards, I'm in outstanding shape. But gym shape isn't hiking shape. I made some climbs and hikes six years ago that I won't even contemplate now. I'm doing more bird photography than landscapes lately, in part because I just can't handle some of the hiking. The struggle is real. I hope you feel better. You've got decades ahead of you before you get where I am!
From France, 40 is the greatest age, experience and hope! I'm 78 and I walk 8/10kms every day, sometimes 20! You have to overcome this bad patch, take care of your knee and continue to delight us with your experience of analyzing landscape shots. Keep going!
Hey Junior ! 40? ... you're just getting started. Always remember, there is a much worse alternative than getting older year by year!!
Great video as always. I turned 46 this year, so I know exactly what you're talking about. I often carry a backpack weighing over 20kg to camp on mountain peaks and take photographs. Every year, I need to prepare more for such trips and exercise more. Fortunately, I feel like a twenty-year-old inside, and that gives me strength and hope.
I'm happy to hear that your long hiking days are not over. You are absolutely right about the need to be in shape for long hikes. I did the full Tour du Mont Blanc trek in July 2022 (100+ miles, up 2,000 - 3,000 feet, followed by down 2,000 - 3,000 feet - everyday for 11 days straight) and I was 62 years old at the time! I trained for 6 months to complete that trek. Also, your Nepal trip, which you referenced, inspired me to go there, and I successfully completed the 80 mile roundtrip trek to Everest Base Camp in 2021 at age 61 - again after 6 months of training. And last year, I successfully completed the full Cordillera Huayhuash trek (another 3,000 feet up and 3,000 feet down "everyday trek" that covered 100 miles and lasted 10 days) at age 63. I did these treks (and others, like the "O Circuit") after suffering a torn ACL in my late 30's. If you can successfully rehab your knee issue and make your training regiment part of your everyday lifestyle, I am confident that we will see many more Thomas Heaton mountain videos! That would be awesome!
Wow. That's seriously impressive, well done!!. What an inspiring comment.
Me 2. Doing the 3 passes trek (Everest region) in November. Did EBC last year. As you said, daily training is essential prep.
@chrisvanmarter: Me too. Did EBC last year & doing the 3 Passes Trek in November. K2 Base Camp next June. Daily training year round essential.. Age 63
The Three Passes trek should be epic. You'll have three back-to-back-to-back huge days - that is if your trek includes a detour to EBC. Over the Kongma La Pass to Lobuche, the next day to EBC, then up to Kala Patthar the following day. Three huge, huge days of distance and elevation gain, at altitude! But, if you skip EBC and go from Lobuche up and over the Cho La Pass to Gyoko (maybe with an extra acclimatization day in Lobuche) it might be slightly less strenuous. Regardless, it will be challenging but epic. Hopefully, you will get clear skies when you get up to Gyoko Ri. Good luck to you!
2 words. Physical therapy. It's amazing how much it can help to know, and do, targeted exercises.
Just wait until you're 50. ;) Seriously though, I've learned from experience how important it is to take extended breaks and focus my time and energy when it matters most. Whenever I try and do too much, I pay for it the next day with a migraine or lack of creative energy. Cause you're absolutely right, when you feel bad physically, it's hard to feel inspired and creative.
This video was both very depressing for me as well as also very encouraging. I've turned 41 this year and have spent much time recently pondering over the effects of getting older and what that means for my future plans. I put my dreams on hold when I was much younger, so that I could be here for my wife and kids and while my passion remains photography, I spend most days working a desk job to pay the bills, with the idea that one day, when the kids were old enough (which isn't far off now) that I'd then have the time and money to be able to see the wild places of the world and photograph them to my hearts content. Recently I've had health issues and I've been slowly sinking into a kind of depression and thinking that after all this time I won't be physically capable of making that dream a reality. Don't get me wrong. I don't regret my choice. I've watched my kids grow up and spent years being here for them and doing things with them and I'm happily married to a great woman. I wouldn't wish any of that to be different... but listening to your commentary in this video, alongside my own feelings lately did really bring my down. It's also encouraged me though, as has reading through the comments here, that it's not all doom and gloom and there is still a chance to make those dreams of mine come true. SO... thank you. Thanks for your honesty and bravery. Thanks for sharing this experience, which could have just as easily been destined for the bin. I have hope.
I love that you're willing to make these videos that show the not-so-glamourous side of photography and youtube. I really relate to this video, as a man in his 40s. It's easy to fall down the rabbit hole of worrying about age because every day we wake up, we're the oldest we've ever been. But think how lucky you are with this passion/career: the life of hiking and photography will keep you young.
I'm hitting 70 next year, bad knees(the pain is excruciating definitely), back, neck and a pacemaker. Ditched my heavy gear and have gone M4/3. Brilliant! That and making sure I walk and swim as much as possible. Just chill out, we all enjoy your stuff, don't push too hard you'll only regret it. 😉
I've experienced that same very knee issue, a good 20 years ago, and had to be carried out from a 20 mile hike.....in my early 40's. I thought the same as you - my hiking days were numbered. The body is an amazing machine....it heals itself with time, rest and then exercise and strength training. I am now in my mid-60's and still get out and hike when my work schedule allows (the Blue Ridge on NC).
Don't let age get you down. I always try to remember this one thing - be grateful for getting old....many others were never given that opportunity!!
That IT lap band injury is serious. My wife has it and can manage any uphill but downhills kill her. It has all but eliminated our ability to hike in the mountains. She uses sleeves on her knees and hiking poles and that can help over short downhills or on longer hikes but it is a bandaid not a cure. She trains to strengthen and stretch the ligament and that helps some but is hasn't been a cure. We are both around 60 so it is a limitation we now live with and she willingly stays behind on some of the more extreme hikes that I still undertake.
40? Great age! Enjoy it! You're so young! I have 62 and I'm feeling (almost) quite young! I had for sever times that kind of pain in the knee, and the pain is almost imberable! It is necessary to eat well, avoid exertion when you are in crisis do physiotherapy to recover and before exercice to do some stretches. I wish you a speedy recovery!
Gosh, we could feel the pain in your voice and see it on your face. And the anxiety because of where you were.
But you are definitely at your prime in terms of age. Hopefully, you have another 40-50 years to go. 😊
But you absolutely nailed it, back from 3 weeks of junk food, and the inflammatory food from the trip in America would have triggered injuries and completely make you flat in terms of energy. You have basically slowly poisoned your body.
Just one thing, on ligaments injury, if you do a cold therapy (with ice) to reduce thr swelling, you also need to do a hot therapy (like hot towel on it) 😊
Not sure where you are at with your knee right now, but for a couple of months if you can, try not to eat any man made food (flour/bread, pasta, bad oil etc. ), it will definitely help the body to recover and reduce inflammations everywhere.
This is a really good point. It’s probably detox from American food.
I developed a painful knee while on mountain named Arkle in the northwest Highlands of Scotland. I had severe difficulty walking down the mountain. I tried walking straight, then sideways but the pain persisted. A companion asked if I had had any pain on the way up. I didn't. He suggested that I try to walk backwards, which I did. I had no pain whatsoever. It took a long time to get down to level ground. Turns out it was an inflammation similar to what you endured in the Alps. An outcome of the incident was my climbing pals starting to call me Elkra (Arkle backwards). Don't give up your adventures, but don't forget to take a packet of painkillers.
I'm 65, in my head I'm 19. My knees are shot my eyes are dimming, I'm almost deaf and my back is twisted. Every day I overreach. But I have a pension, so no work except what I choose... Which is less and less each day! So now I've left landscape photog behind and have taken up macro of robber-flies, love it
As someone having joint issues - kinesio tapes!
It's always descent, not ascent. And always on uneven terrain (going downstairs is just fine). The reason is when descending your feet take much more load to stabilize the weight. When you're going up, there is much less load. And this is where knees are struggling more. Also, when going down it's mostly back side of thigh that works and when going up it's the front side. Apparently, front side of thigh is regularly much more trained than the back side.
There is a set of exercises (very gentle ones not harming joints) to train back side of the thigh. These exercises also overall help improve joints conditions across the whole body.
P.S. 40 a week ago.
You're going down the same road I went down a few years ago. I'm 48 now, and I felt the same decline. I'm more active than the average dude, but by no means an athlete. Your closing thoughts carry the exact same tone as the ones I reached. In my younger days, working out meant lifting more, more reps, faster times, looking bulkier. As I'm aging, my priorities are shifting toward maintaining mobility, flexibility, and endurance, so that I can continue to be out in the field. Without health, I have nothing. So that has been my motivating factor when I feel the need to log some time in the gym. I have no doubt you'll be back to yourself in no time. I think I can speak for most of your true fans when I say we care more about you and your journey, more than the actual photographs. Take care, Thomas!
Man o man, I could feel your pain. I’m 66, but 13 years ago my bone on bone knees started complaining, and I described the pain in them as a very bad toothache. Last summer while visiting my daughter in Alaska, and planning trips that did not include much walking, I realized I needed a drastic change. I was not able to enjoy life or photography anymore. Medical Technology had caught up and I had my left knee done in January, my right in April, I was walking the same day as the surgeries. The difference is amazing. I have energy and am eager to get back out in the woods. You are very wise to eat right and exercise. My surgeon said my good recovery was because of my positive mindset and being fit. I’ve gone from only watching others have adventures to planning my own. Your videos always inspire me. Thank you and good luck on your new lifestyle👍
"In life, we choose our regrets." Christopher Hitchens
Hi Thomas,having a chuckle at the comments, being the wrong side of 68 and still love photography and the mountains.I’ve never been allowed to pull the age card with friends.😀You’ll look back at your great landscape pictures.keep smiling.
I feel your pain… as a fellow Whitley bay resident when I was mid thirties I was a powerlifting champion … now at the age of 54 I’m happy to get of the toilet without pain 😂😂
Lay off the vindaloo
Thomas! I’m about to turn 73, I practice Jiu Jitsu on a regular basis and I love outdoors with my camera ( and paint set). Many good years left for you! Treat yourself properly.
I'm very nearly twice your age and still enjoy a day's walking in the hills. Keep moving. Eat well. Get enough rest. Accept you will slowdown.
You did very well to still make a video out of this. I’ve got a few years experience of being in my forties now, and my days of playing team sports haunt me. The cross trainer on a very hard level is my training tool of choice. It’s a good simulation for what we do and will hopefully provide longevity.
You’re bang on about needing to have your head in a creative space……. mind and body need to be in sync. My wife keeps telling me to not be so hard on myself, so I guess I’ll pass that on. It’s a very lonely pursuit creating content like this, but you’re doing tremendous work. Cheers mate. 💪
I figured you'd get a bunch of blow back from us senior citizens, still hiking, cycling, and enjoying life. If you decide to give up photography, well, your real talent is in videography! So teach us some of that!
Don't fully blame IT band issues on your age. I developed these issues in my mid 20s when I was fit played football several times a week. I pretty much had to skip, one-legged, down a mountain once!
You can avoid these issues by strengthening your abs and butt. Maybe you've done too much desk work recently as that weakens those muscles.
Now I haven't had IT band issues in years (and I'm 36 now), but of course it's easy to relapse if you don't stay on top of it.
Micro four thirds is the answer. I'm 66 and loving it.
I agree on the micro 4/3. I'm 75 and there is much less weight to carry on a hike.
He's already moved down from digital MF to full frame and now to APS-C ... not sure if he could handle a further drop in sensor sizes ;)
@@ronalderb9692absolutely agree. I use a micro 4/3 on long distance hikes, why beat yourself up?
@@davidausterberry3297 What is Micro 4/3?
@@tantonr42take a look at OM System camera website. It is a micro 4/3 system - means it has a smaller sensor and comparatively smaller and therefore lighter lenses = lighter kit
I had severe IT band pain for a while, it would always hit me right around mile 3 of whatever I was doing. It feels like someone is stabbing a knife into the outside of your knee. There are a couple of very easy stretches you can do every day (the one that works best for me is basically hugging my knee across my chest) that are extremely effective at mitigating this. The stretch feels like it's in your hip but everything is connected, and it helps the whole IT band. 40's not so old, Thomas...stay active!
I'm 69 and have slowed sown a little so just joined a gym. Best of luck mate.
Every time you say "I wish I was 5 years younger", remember in five years you'll be wishing you were the age you are today! Make the most of this year, and then next year make the most of that one too!
thats a good point.
Oh, get over it! You are still a pup! At 67 I am hauling scuba gear around and doing underwater imaging…. Get an Olympus and trek on! Lol
I'm 75 and use Olympus cameras. I love it. Lighter gear to carry around. Plus good quality.
Haha. I love that advice. I'll show it my wife next time I want a new camera 😅
71 and diving every weeek, with a big Nikon rig.
I’m in my late 70s and must admit this is the worst decade I’ve had, so far. I wish I was 40 again! Just enjoy life as it comes - and get that knee seen to before it really becomes a problem!
I feel you, knee pain is no joke especially when hauling gear half way up a mountain!! Best of luck with your new healthy regime 👍🏻
Oh man, Tom..... Same, dude. I'm 42 and I've been struggling with my knees for about a decade now. Extract same issue as you--IT band. Hiking with bilateral knee braces has helped a TON (but is a PITA, of course). Still, it's enabled me to keep going with just a little care and mindfulness to not push the knees to hard.
I live 30 minutes from Chamonix , am OVER 60 and frequently in the mountains, that I consider the most beautiful place on this planet. I think you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the visit to the US may be the root cause , lack of exercise , bad food and you can add that you may not have recovered from jetlag. If you want to try the Alps again you're welcome here !
Thomas, I loved the video. I understand what you feel. I am 59, played high school sports and college football. Later in life I was a trainer and then bodybuilding for thirty-plus years 5/6 days a week. I picked up landscape photography 2+ years ago. Since then I hit a few state parks in Ohio hiking up and down enough to feel it. Last October I spent 1 1/2 weeks in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado; full pack, hiking up and down 10,000 - 13,000 +/- feet in elevation, elevation sickness, full pack, etc... my knees were not happy. My body changed somewhere between 53 and 55. It takes longer to recover and I am not able to just pop out of bed in the morning and go, with a cup of coffee or espresso. Everyone ages differently, and subjective to DNA and our lifestyle. You are spot on about having to prepare ahead of time and allow time to recover after. I spent 3 straight days hiking and taking pictures in the Rockies, and then one full day of rest, and recovery. As we get older the body wears and the joints, aches, and pains become a part of daily life. It took me a while to mentally accept this, and after a few years, I am now starting to adjust. I was/am a health nut and gym rat for 30+ years and like you was convinced it was not going to happen to me, and thought I was immortal too. As the saying goes, "Youth is wasted on the Young." Life is a series of cycles, as we age we go through each one. The trick is how to go from your old normal to your new normal with each cycle. With age, comes wisdom. It takes time to adjust and we find that new normal and fulfillment and happiness in each cycle.
Happy birthday. I turned 60 this year. Knees have been replaced for me now. Yup, downhill is the worst. Hiking for me these days involves short trips with bathroom breaks :).... But I still get after it as best I can....
Ha! I turn 70 yo in October, I can identify your concern about turning 40!! At 40…. i went to university & complete a bachelor of Nursing degree…. then worked my way to being a Nursing Educator in Pediatric Intensive Care!! YOU CAN DO IT👍🏻
As a photographer, yes it got harder physically. I just returned from a solo photography trip to New Zealand. YES, it was hard, but the alternative is just sit & watch TH-cam 😂…NO THANKS
I’ve watched you for the whole 10 years… you inspire people like me to get out and photograph the world 👍🏻😎👍🏻
Sounds like a familiar feeling to navigate. It shouldn't stop you, but it makes you stop and think about your body in ways you maybe didnt have to before. I also had a knee issue a couple years back from a lot of walking, and it's not really ever fully recovered. Not doing any crazy alpine stuff despite my desires to, but it just becomes something you can no longer take for granted
44 y/o here. Struggling with IT band issues since my late 20s. Know exactly how it feels: could hike uphill forever but I'm dying on the way down. Consistent exercise seems to help a little, though. Thanks for reminding me to get back at it!
For me, I hit a wall at 35, but since then I've felt exactly the same. Learning my new limitations and finding work arounds keeps me able to do the activities I love.
Hi Thomas,
I have turned 70 and thankfully very fit.
Well you have a few years to go to catch up.
Well done for persevering through the pain and cracking on.
Hope you are feeling better now and i look forward to the next video.
I work at a camera store where my boss is almost 70 and has the energy of a 20 year old. He goes on safari and many other intense photo trips every year, for the past 50 years. It's to the point that when he is stressed, he gets more powerful. But he is the type to do photography for the sake of just taking photos for fun. He doesn't care too much about the artsy stuff, and instead adventures around.
Sounds like your body just sent you a reminder of what is important. You summed it up great in the end. Eat right, exercise and stay active. It will take you a long way. I´m 55 and still hike a lot in the mountains. It´s not as easy as it was when I was younger, but I feel I enjoy it and appreciate it more now than I did then. Will keep doing it as long as I can.
when I was 40 I was 20kg over weight and barely able to hike up 100 meters in a steep climb. Now in my mid 50's after more than a decade of hiking and exercise I am much lighter and fit. Your injuries will heal and you will be back at it again. Your explanation of being stuck in a car and eating gas station food for three weeks explains a lot. Preservatives will greatly.. greatly affect your inflammations for the worse and it will also dramatically reduce your metabolism beyond causing cancer etc... you are what you eat so be much more careful next time. Nice video BTW.. I really enjoyed it and thanks for sharing your struggles with us. You are an inspiration.
I totally get it! After trekking countless miles in the Colorado Rockies, I’ve found that the descents really take a toll. Thankfully, hiking poles have been a lifesaver for my knees. Loved this video-keep up the incredible adventures!
Hey man don't worry - I'm 68 and had a doble knee replacement 3 years ago. Last year I did the 5 lakes hike with my sons at Zermatt and missed the last gondola down the mountain which meant an additional 3 hour hike back to Zermatt, in the dark through the forest. I was worried whether I could hike at all that morning but, after a 9 hour hike my knees were absulutey fine and I joked with my 20 year old sons that I had the youngest knees amongst us. I had suffered pain for 15 years before getting them done but could have salvaged those years by getting them done earlier. Back to hiking the mountains at 68 and planning on returning to skiing this winter ! Keep going , love your videos and dont worry about your knees - we have the technology !
As a person who is just about to turn 74, has hiked the depths of the Grand Canyon, to the top of Half Dome and a few fourteeners, I can assure you that “future you” will look back at this video and shake your head in disbelief as to how you could have been so silly to worry about becoming old at 40!
I absolutely feel ya buddy. I’m 46 and used to hike and rock climb and even did downhill longboarding at 39. But I have a knee issue too and you have inspired me to eat better and exercise more. And pursue my photography skills a lot more. My age has held me back lately too. Screw that. Let’s do this together!!! Good luck and keep it up!!! Thanks!!!
Thomas, I remember when my body stopped cooperating with me, and yes, it is depressing. But I had to do what you are now doing. Taking better care of yourself through diet and specific strengthening exercises is important and I’m glad to see you doing that. Good luck with the knee. Your video was fabulous.
I'm glad to hear your conclusions at the end because as a 48 year old TH-camr that changed from landscape photography to astrophotography I'm still a 30 years old man that can hike any mountain. But just as you said - self care and mindful of diet and training is the way forward for chaps like us.
With that said, welcome to the age of 40-ish! :-) It's a great time to be that age!
I'm 55, and at 38, I felt my body tell me to slow down. So I did, and that was the biggest mistake I made. The truth was that my body was telling me my nutrition had been off for the past 38 years, and now I'm on strike until you fix this. So, slowing down did nothing but make things worse. Then, at 45, I made a big change to my diet, like only raw foods; I also changed all my hiking and running foods to dried fruit and animal proteins, which reset me. Now it's just stupid injuries because my mind thinks I'm still 20, which is causing me problems.
You are all good; keep going.
Good on you Thomas. I'm 55, still hiking and carrying a heap of camera gear. Keeping fit and watching what you eat, certainly help. Love your content! Go well!
My mother and her friends agree, it all goes downhill when you turn 80. Halfway there buddy. :)
40! You are still a bloody youngster Thomas. I am 60 and still like a gazelle. Get over it man!!🤣👍📸
Good video. I am 71. My career was a wildland firefighter and was in great shape but about five years ago I began having a series of health issues and accidents. Some weight gain and issues have slowed me down but I keep getting out to photograph, just a bit slower; maybe not so many long backcountry trips though. You have many good years ahead. It is about attitude more than fitness.
Hey old man … welcome to the club. I hurt my knees like you. Today, after 6 years only to be bothered with five years of cancer surgeries and chemotherapy, I was able to get up and hike 1150 meters up and down. Do not remind yourself how old you are just concentrate on what you can do. there is much more there for you even in old age. Age is not a hinderance it teaches you how to circumvent the problems. i got the 100-400 and 24-70 with the z6iii oh I alway bring my profoto a10 with a trigger. My knees managed and I felt as good as I was when I turned 40 ;).
😁
I blew my entire knee out, tore my ACL in two, my MCL and my Meniscus. Since then I have found that going downhill can be very difficult. I have found that walking sideways, with your good knee headed down first leading the way, makes the trek down easier. If you experience that issue again, you might give that a try. I’m also way older than you so just to cheer you up a little, you have a lot of life and photography years ahead of you!!
I feel your pain and this video couldn't have come at a better time. I have always considered myself as someone who can concur anything with my photography travels. But recently my feet have been giving me problems to the point I feel the same as you did in this video, better to just stay and rest instead of venture outdoors. Right after this video I called my doctor to look at my feet and get to the root of my problems. Thanks for the nudge to get better control on my aches and pains. Keep up the great videos and photography as your videos are truly a highlight to my week. BTW....I am 64 and am looking forward to another 15 to 20 years of outdoor photography. Thanks again.
I'm 65 and am battling to get out of the car and walk very far at all due to arthritis issues. I've found that I've had to learn to find places where I can stay close to my car. I still get inspired but have learned the beauty of a 100-400 lens 😄 My biggest regret is not doing more in my 30s an 40s when I had little pain to deal with. But I manage to stay inspired with photography which I've been doing since the age of 13. I'm glad you have done so much in your younger years
Hi Thomas, I’m an Italian follower of yours. I can say with certainty that you are one of my mentors, and you have greatly inspired the way I make photographic videos that I publish on my channel. I just want to tell you that I suffered from the same problem at 25, so age doesn't really matter. It's just about being out of shape or having made an uncontrolled effort at a certain point that messed up your entire journey. Now I'm 45, and I do much more complex and difficult hikes without suffering from these problems anymore, and without doing training or preparation beforehand. However, I did do one thing... I lightened my backpack; now I carry much lighter loads. In the Italian Alps and Dolomites, this is perhaps the most crucial factor that many underestimate.
I'm also currently 40, but by 38 I had a medical issue that limits my hiking duration, so consider yourself lucky to have made it to 40 before you got limited!
I'm 46 , did 2 attempts on Everest in 2021 and 2022 .I was in pain , but pain last only for a little. Had little to none of training , seen my death 6-7 times in 2021 and 3 times in 2022. Deffinetly I would not climb , but trekking ...hell yeaaah. Its really worth it all the way. About your knee , go and see an orthopedic doc , probably some dryness in the synovial capsule of your knee that can be solved with some intrarticular injections and some conditioning of your upper muscles of your leg. Other than that , keep on walking and enjoy the life up there in the mountains
Being someone who has had their knee reconstructed after a sking incident, I get this. I took up photography late on (during lockdown) and still get out even if my knee is an issue. The days it locks out you have to grin and bear it and carry on through... this is from someone who is now 40+ and a chef.
For what it is worth, I think you hit the nail on the head with your thinking that your US trip had a lot to do with it. Particularly as you age, consistency is key. I (a few years north of 40 btw), have had a great exercise routine for a few years that I got away from during some travel and then let it fall off for a couple months. I also had been eating a bit more junk and drinking a few more beers. A couple weeks ago I told me wife that I felt like I had aged 10 years over the summer. Now a couple weeks back in the routine and eating a bit healthier, I am starting to feel better again. Keep up the training and keep making great content.
Your story really resonates with me at the moment. I tore 2 tendons in my foot a couple of weeks ago playing golf. Luckily the emergency room was only 5 minutes away. I’m 2 days from surgery, recovering at home.
Than God you made it out safely. Thank you for sharing!
Happy Birthday Kid, I'm 72 and my problem is the weight of my kit bag, I just gotta take less stuff. So I got a gilet of pockets, much better distributing gear all around than all in a heavy backpack. All the best Tom :)
Hi Thomas, I have the identical problem and I'm only 30. On my last hike the pain going downhill was so bad, felt like a nail was pushed in my knee. Uphill was no problem.
I can only recommend stretching, ibuprofen in the morning and evening to help with the inflammation, a knee bandage (and actually wear it, I FORGOT), walking smaller, careful steps downhill, never fully extending the leg on impact. Using sticks and lighter kit also helps. And working out the legs and stability of them.
I'm getting close to 70. Just came back from a weeklong shoot on the US West coast. It took me a few days to recover and get some energy back. It took me longer for my knees to recover. But it won't stop me from continuing to go out and shoot!
I've had chronic health problems since my early twenties, so I couldn't do much hiking even when I was younger. You get used to the idea of not being at your best physically and adjust accordingly. If I'm careful I can still do minor hikes - hills, not mountains -, but I don't even want to go on a hike as difficult as the one you attempted! And it definitely shouldn't affect your ego because it's not your fault that we're frail creatures. It happens to all of us sooner or later. I was just unlucky that it happened decades before anyone else gets wake up calls like these. You were lucky so far with your health, best take care of it better now and don't take it for granted anymore.
I'm 62 and doing a little 4 week camper drive from Darwin to Cairns. Don't quit!!
It sounds like you need a 2 week break and don't do ANY photography for 2 weeks. Go the beach or somewhere and do zilch. I was told once by a trainer (and I beleive it works, I do it), it takes 2 weeks to get it out of the system and 2 weeks to get back into the system.
In the second 2 week period, just slowly get back into and by the end of that period you should by back at full speed and new enthusiasm to continue. At least try it once or twice; if you do it I'll keep watching your fantastic vids
Welcome to the ageing process Tom, I'm turning 70 next week and up to about 5 years ago I would have been able to hike to most places, favourite being in the Dolomites plus the Lake District but the Knees are buggered now, keyhole surgery helped but didn't fix the problem.
All you have to do is be mindful of the limitations, I can still do a 8 mile hike but suffer the next day, keeping active is the key and photography is my excuse to get out, otherwise I would sit all day watching TH-cam and getting frustrated.
I'm lucky that I travel a lot which means I have thousands of images to look at when the weather turns and I can't get out, but when the weather is good nothing stops me getting out and taking photos.
Hope your fitness/lifestyle changes mean you will continue making great content, thanks for sharing your pain on this vlog 👍
40 is the old age of youth, 50 is the youth of old age. Happy birthday
For me, its the recovery time that has changed the most. What used to take a day now takes 2-3 days. And I totally have to force myself to eat and hydrate on a schedule even when the appetite isn't there. It really makes you change how you plan trips.
You'll bounce back Tom. I personally think so many back to back trips eventually take its toll. As we get older, our fitness levels can remain constant, but I think it's our recovery times that increase. I'm a couple of years older than you, and I've noticed where I'd take only hours to recover from a long hike, I now need a little more time before I'm back on form.
I can totally relate! I recently discovered that I've reached the age where I actually need the amount of time listed on the trail signs for mountain hikes. Not a pleasant realization... but what can you do! The camera will still drive me out into nature, to remote places, and I'll enjoy it. WE will enjoy it! 😜
I turned 40 this year too and the aches have started to come. Before I was able to jump into anything and now I think before about the consequences 😅 The thing about not rushing to get the pictures is that you are more experienced now and know when it's worthy...
I'm 60 in 2 weeks time...I'm wandering along the Kerry Way at the moment and my Rucksack weighs 25 kilo..admittedly I some times wish it didn't..but it's just the way it is..keep smiling..and keep doing what you do!!
I remember worrying about getting old. Like 40 yrs. old. When forty came along I found myself jumping out of bed and excited about what the day would hold. All the way to sixty five I felt like it was the best time of my life. I am lucky, at 73 I still never have had knee problems. I am bony and weaker now and the hiking is a maybe.
I made some solid changes to diet, exercise, sleep patterns when I realised I'm going grey in weird places and my knees were starting to whine. It's been great. Effected a career change and back in study (have my own channel now too - study with me!). Ran the longest I ever have in my life yesterday. Mindset matters, Thomas, but also set yourself up for success in whatever you want rot achieve next. We feel old in our 40s, but can't imagine 60s. Well it looks like we do now for the 60+ in the comments, so live life to the fullest. More practically, get down the gym and do some leg work with machines and weights - a useful tip from a PT and helped me considerably. So..you have it spot on!