A Journey Back to Fitness
Conquering San Marcos Pass at 64
The Early Days: UCSB and Fitness Fanaticism
This week our little family returned for the 17th year to the UCSB Family Vacation Center (FVC), a cherished respite and touchstone for us and many other families through the years. Established in 1969, the FVC has been providing memorable experiences for generations, hosting over 1,000 guests annually on the picturesque Santa Barbara campus.
When I attended UCSB in the late 1980s, I was a bit of an undisciplined maniac whose cognitive dissonance was offset by the then-popular fitness fanaticism. Working out five hours a day was typical, and the measure of well-being was directly linked to an epic climb up Old San Marcos Road and Painted Cave Road. This route, part of the Santa Ynez Mountains, offers breathtaking views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean, attracting cyclists and hikers for decades.
The Challenge: San Marcos Pass
My unbalanced fitness goals back then had me attempting personal records (PRs) weekly on the over 3,000-foot ascent through eight miles, timing myself with my then-popular Timex Ironman watch. Introduced in 1980's, the Timex Ironman became an icon of sports watches, named after the grueling triathlon event.
Despite having the watch, I never did a triathlon. Running was always difficult with my then unsupported flat feet. And, swimming? Not my thing. I did learn to pronounce the word, triath-lon unlike many who insist its triath-a-lon.
Local Flora and Fauna
The Santa Ynez Mountains, home to San Marcos Pass, boast a diverse ecosystem. The area is known for its chaparral vegetation, including the fragrant California sagebrush and the vibrant California poppy, the state flower. Wildlife in the region includes mule deer, black bears, and the endangered California condor, which has been successfully reintroduced to the area.
Part of what makes this ride so interesting is the stark contrast between the the region's history and beauty (and knowledge of it), my personal history with cycling and the area versus the here and now challenge of having the will and fitness to potentially successfully complete it.
Life Changes and Fitness Decline
Like many, I always harkened back to those salad days of youth, with seemingly limitless future possibilities anchored by the best fitness of my life. UCSB, founded in 1909, has a rich history of fostering both academic and physical excellence, ranking consistently among the top public universities in the United States.
Maturing, my feet eventually retouched ground with resized ambitions as I watched my fitness wane while I got to the more important business of being a husband and dad. The transition from student life to family responsibilities is a common experience, often accompanied by shifts in priorities and lifestyle.
While FVC reinforced the soundness of these moves, seeing other families enjoying the same challenges we were, it was also plaguing me with the ever-present climb up the San Marcos Pass. Would I ever do that again? The San Marcos Pass, also known as State Route 154, has been a vital link between Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley since its completion in 1868, originally as a stagecoach route.
The Wake-Up Call: A Heart Scan and a Mission
Five years ago, I gently eased back into cycling, buying a good bike and riding a modest 20–35 miles a week. While this improved my fitness, I was still much heavier than in those now decades-old UCSB days. This gradual return to cycling aligns with health recommendations for middle-aged adults, suggesting that regular moderate exercise can significantly improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
However, a wake-up call came when, upon a friend’s suggestion, I had a heart scan that revealed a very high calcium score. A subsequent visit to a cardiologist — who used to take my spinning classes — emphasized the urgency of my situation. The good doctor’s guidance was clear: lower my BMI through better diet and more exercise. This seemingly obvious advice kicked off my five-year quest to conquer San Marcos Pass once again.
Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring is a test that detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, potentially indicating an increased risk of heart disease. High scores often prompt lifestyle changes and preventive measures.
Overcoming Obstacles
My journey back to fitness wasn’t without its challenges. Initially, finding the time and motivation to exercise regularly was difficult amidst work and family commitments. There were days when the weather was uninviting, or my body ached from the previous day’s ride.
Also the single mindedness required to achieve these results comes with an unsavory exhaust to those closest to me. At times I’ve been abrupt and not at my best remaining steadfast to these goals and for that I’m sorry.
One significant hurdle was overcoming the mental barrier of comparing my current performance to my college days. Accepting that my body had changed and setting realistic goals was crucial.
Even the great Arnold Schwarzenegger when speaking of aging with Howard Stern said, “I look in the mirror and say, you suck!”
Additionally, changing long-established eating habits proved to be tougher than expected. There were moments of frustration when the scale didn’t budge despite my efforts. Anyone who weighs themselves daily finds out that a 3–5 pound variance is not uncommon, but can be hard on the emotions.
Remember a gallon of water weighs 8.3 pounds!
However, each small victory — be it riding an extra mile or resisting a late-night snack — helped build momentum. The support of my family and the memory of my doctor’s warning kept me going through the tough times.
The Comeback: Cycling and Weight Loss
I’m happy to report that after losing 40 pounds through eating less and increasing my mileage, I twice completed the climb to the top of San Marcos Pass this year while attending the FVC.
My first attempt misjudged the apex, but felt like a huge achievement making it up that first hill on Painted Cave after N San Marcos Drive. Because I had done training, I had to do it again.
While there was no Ironman watch or PR this time, my cyclometer recorded the achievement, marking not just a beautiful ride with glorious vistas, but also a moment of recapturing a bit of my youth at the age of 64.
My weight loss began over a year ago and people ask how I did it. It’s important to note there is no complex or tricky method here to sell here. No secret combination of foods. Nor are there any supplements.
My weight loss is the direct result of three habitual behaviors combined with the compelling motivation that failure to do so, may lead to a much earlier than anticipated death.
The three behaviors:
Morning Weigh In and Tracking
Lower Carbs and More Protein
Longer and more intense daily exercise — no matter what!
More on those in another post! But because this article is about cycling, here is a quick diversion.
Health and Mental Benefits of Cycling (and other exercises)
Regular cycling can have significant health benefits, especially for older adults. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine in 2021, cycling can improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, and enhance cognitive function in older adults. The study found that cyclists aged 55–79 had immune systems of 20-year-olds and body fat and cholesterol levels of 30-year-olds.
A study published in The Lancet Psychiatry in 2018 found that cycling for as little as 20 minutes a day could have a significant positive impact on mental health. Another study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research showed that outdoor cycling had more positive effects on mood and well-being compared to stationary cycling.
Plus, with a bit of experience, some cardiovascular capacity, a good bike, and interesting terrain, being outside and cycling is simply good fun.
These scientific findings resonate deeply with my personal experience. As I increased my cycling frequency and duration, I not only saw improvements in my physical health but also experienced enhanced mental clarity and emotional well-being. The challenges I faced during my rides became metaphors for overcoming obstacles in other areas of life, reinforcing my resilience and determination.
Lessons Learned: The Importance of Fitness at Any Age
This experience underscores an important health message: Life is short, and being fit improves everything. Don’t avoid your health tests, and learn to habitually engage in fitness activities you enjoy. It’s possible at any age to make positive changes.
The benefits of regular exercise for older adults are well-documented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults aged 65 and older can gain substantial health benefits from regular physical activity, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
Conclusion: A Personal Triumph
Thank you for reading this story of personal triumph and renewed health. It serves as a reminder that with determination and the right motivation, we can overcome challenges and reconnect with our younger selves, all while improving our health and quality of life.
And, what really matters in life is what matters to YOU. Health and Fitness matter to me in a very special way given my history and I don’t expect anyone to be as impressed as I was. After all, only I know what it took to do this and what it says about me today.
I write this merely to inspire you to think, “what can I do, that is important to me!” You may find, like it did, that while with aging is a road less traveled, it is also one that isn’t closed.
Call to Action
Do you have a fitness story to share? Did this resonate with you in any way? I would also remind you that one should always seek medical advice before starting a new fitness regime!
