I identify as a distance runner, even though today running around the block may earn me a trip to the ER..
I was a very successful distance runner through about 33.. then a foot injury sidelined me, and then the weight and finally the back.. so I cannot handle the impact..
I loved running, with or without competition. The freedom of it, the simplicity. Being hard core ADHD, mentally running helped me shed the bullshit in my head.. left it on the road.. At peak, I could do anything and go anywhere. Unlimited..
Mentally distance running informed virtually all of my significant life / career decisions. Patience, positioning, independence.. these are my watchwords. And the running community is very open. If you finish , that's a win. You encourage every one, and my best friends were the guys I competed against..
So, of course I disagree with the premise..
The thing is that running is not a good sport for everyone. Of my runner friends, only a few can still do it in our 60's.. All of these are guys with relatively small frames.. < 5' 10" < 150 lbs.. you have to maintain flexibility, and take care of your body.. I am more of a 6'3" , 180 frame...
I have migrated to cycling, which is easier on your body.. it has similar freedom if you live in a cycling friendly community. My spouse is also i to it, so we can ride together..
but it requires gear, and maintenance.. it also becomes less viable after 70.. brittle bones and the inevitable fall. I have met an 85 year old , doing a trek from Montreal to Burilington, and hats off to him.. but he was a rarity..
I think golf is a great sport to take up. You can play until you die, and you can play it with your wife, your kids and even your grand kids..
So running is not dumb.. but like Nebraska,
"Honestly, it's not for everyone"