Actor Parmeet Sethi, 59, Completes First 5K Run

Parmeet Sethi thought he'd be exhausted after just one kilometer, but the 59-year-old Bollywood actor surprised himself by completing an entire 5K run alongside his younger son, Ayushmaan. After crossing the finish line, while his son panted for breath, Parmeet walked easily and shared his disbelief on their family vlog.

"I thought I would be tired in 1 km," Sethi admitted in Hindi. "But I managed and didn't even feel it."

His achievement is sparking conversations about fitness after 50. Many people assume running long distances becomes impossible as they age, but Sethi's experience proves otherwise.

Dr. Swapnil Zambare, a consultant at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, says age alone doesn't determine who can run 5K. What matters more is joint health, muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, and whether someone trains gradually for the distance.

"Many people in their late 50s and 60s can run 5 km if they follow a structured, progressive routine," Dr. Zambare explained. The key is preparation, not youth.

The common belief that older adults tire quickly often stems from reduced activity levels rather than aging itself. When people resume regular movement and train consistently, endurance improves even later in life.

Dr. Zambare recommends starting with walking, then brisk walking, then short jogging intervals to let joints and muscles adapt. Strength training for legs and core is essential, and rest days should be built into any training plan, not treated as optional breaks.

Why This Inspires

Moderate running doesn't harm healthy joints in older adults. Regular movement actually improves joint lubrication, muscle support, and bone strength, according to Dr. Zambare.

Joint problems typically develop when training is excessive, poorly planned, or continued despite pain. Common issues like knee pain, Achilles tendon strain, and plantar fasciitis usually arise from weak supporting muscles, poor footwear, sudden distance increases, or inadequate recovery.

The doctor emphasizes that speed and distance shouldn't be the only goals. "The real goal is consistency, pain-free movement, and overall fitness," he said.

Completing a 5K is meaningful, but maintaining long-term mobility and joint health matters far more. Sethi's achievement shows that starting a running routine in your late 50s isn't just possible, it's achievable with the right approach.