I have been a long distance runner for almost 3 Decades. I took up the discipline seriously when I was in my early 30s. I peaked at the age of 47, PB Half Marathons in 1.15 (75 mins at the age of 47). I continued to train, race in half and full Marathons until right hip pain in 2017 restricted my performance however, I continued to train and race. I average 50 to 60 mile per week and race at least once a month. I can manage a sub 1.39 1/2 Marathon but not for much longer due to the severe arthritic right hip. I managed to, eventually, be accepted for a resurfacing (after having refused twice the offer of total hip) on the NHS in Scotland. I am really pleased that the NHS Scotland has offered me this chance to continue running upon recovery as it really is my passion.
There is a lack of hard, scientific factual evidence regarding the return to serious running post resurfacing! I intend to use my case as one example of evidence in relation to such. I am an Honours Graduate in Biomedical Sciences (1987 Edinburgh) so I do have an analytical approach to data and phenomena! Tomorrow I will compete in my final 1/2 Marathon with my natural hips! I will keep the Surface Hippy site updated regarding my subsequent progress/or lack of in the hope of informing long distance runners.