Question: Why do we get slower as we get older? (In running)

Camille Parsons answered on 20 Jun 2018:

We get slower as we get older as when we age we become more frail. Frailty is when multiple body systems gradually lose their in-built reserves. This includes our musculoskeletal system as when get older are muscle bulk and strength decreases (this is called sarcopenia) and as we use our muscles to move we therefore slow down. The mechanisms our body uses to stop us falling over and remain balanced also become less effective. This is why older people are more likely to fall. As walking and running require good balance this is another reason why we slow down as we get older.