Le Thi Thuong Thuong, who began gym training at 62 and took up running at 65, boasts a remarkable record of more than 30 podium finishes in the over-60 age group at VnExpress Marathon events. The runner from Hue attributes her success to a disciplined combination of running and gym workouts.

Her weekly routine, for the runner born in 1957, is packed with physical activity. Early in the week, she dedicates time to high-intensity gym sessions, including weightlifting, squats, stationary cycling, and shoulder muscle exercises. On tuesday, she runs a moderate distance in the early morning, returning to the gym in the afternoon for lower body and muscle support, combined with deep stretching.

Wednesday is another day for strength training at the gym. Thursday involves a strenuous 15-20 km run over steep inclines to build endurance and leg power, followed by supplementary training in the afternoon. After a light run on friday, she returns to the gym on saturday to focus on muscle strengthening, preparing for her long run on sunday.

Thuong achieved her best 21km time of 2 hours 13 minutes 44 seconds at VnExpress Marathon Hue 2025. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

"This schedule continues consistently every week", the runner states. "I maintain this training plan both before and after each race, because at this age, the body only stays strong with continuous upkeep."

Thuong observes that many amateur runners prioritize running sessions but neglect strength training, muscle building, and joint flexibility. She believes that to sustain participation in running long-term, gym exercises are just as crucial as endurance training on the road.

"Just running is not enough. Without supplementary training, the body can easily become imbalanced, tire quickly, and be prone to injury", she explains. "I consider gym work the foundation to prevent these risks and pursue running for many years."

The 69-year-old runner crosses the finish line at VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang 2025. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Another key to Thuong's success is her preference for cold water baths to aid post-workout recovery. Coupled with thorough stretching, this habit helps her maintain a stable physical foundation for consistent training. "Even when temperatures drop to about 4-5 degrees Celsius, I still take cold baths as part of my regimen", she says.

The runner also credits her upbringing in a military family with instilling discipline. "'Military orders are like mountains' is the principle I set for myself", she shares. "Once it's in the training plan, I stick to it. Once I'm on the racecourse, I'm determined; there's no half-hearted effort."

Her training tenacity has made Thuong an inspiring figure in the Hue running community. Many members of the Hue Runners club affectionately call her "Co Ga Chay Bo" ("Running Hen"). This nickname originated from the image of a nine-spurred chicken she chose as her personal symbol, representing a spirit ready to face challenges and never give up on the track.

Thuong strides on the VnExpress Marathon All-Star 2025 course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

This dedication has enabled Thuong to maintain consistent performance in the VnExpress Marathon series for many years. From 2020 to the present, the runner has achieved more than 30 podium finishes in races across Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Ha Long, Quy Nhon, Hai Phong, and other locations. Her personal best for a half marathon (21km) is 2 hours 13 minutes 44 seconds, set at VnExpress Marathon Hue in 4/2025.

On 19/4, Thuong will again challenge herself in the 21km distance at the marathon in her hometown. Her goal is to finish in the top 3 of the over-60 age group, and further, to achieve a new personal best.

"My desire is not just to stand on the podium, but to live my entire life with sports", the 69-year-old runner expresses. "I will still try my best. But no matter the final result, I will be happy to be running on the track in my homeland."

Hai Long

VnExpress Marathon Hue is currently selling Late stage tickets at prices of: 880,000 VND for 5km, 1,050,000 VND for 10km, and 1,350,000 VND for 21km. Athletes registering in groups will receive additional discounts ranging from 5% to 25% depending on group size. Interested runners can register here.