Peak Performance

I heard a discussion on NPR about peak performance – have we reached it?  It got me thinking about the concept.  As a baby boomer, I have believed in my endless youth.  I now realize that my youth is over.  And in fact, for many of the activities I do, I am past peak performance.  It doesn’t make the activity less enjoyable, just I am not as good as I once was.  I am slower and more cautious.  For most athletic activities, youth is needed for peak performance.

Then I saw an article in the Parade magazine in the newspaper about Olga Katelko, a super senior.  At 77 she took up track and field for master’s level.   She brook 20 records at 85 and at 90 is still competing in long jump and high jumping.  Whew, you go girl.  One of the interesting facts is that she rarely sits still, constantly jumping up and doing stuff.  It got me moving too.

But there are other activities that youth isn’t the key factor.  I read more now and read a wider variety of books and think my comprehension is better.  I tried to be a good mother and was the best for my ability, but probably wasn’t the best.  Now I have a chance to be a great grandmother.  I am sure there are many other activities that aren’t reliant upon youth.  I am just pleased that I still ride my bike, walk, cross -country ski, track with my dog, and am half of my dog’s agility team.  Maybe peak performance isn’t important.