I Turned 40 & I Don't Think I Can Continue. A Hike & Photo Trip Gone Wrong.

[@rontopp]

I remember when I thought forty was old. Now I’m looking down the barrel of 60 wondering where the last 20 years went. 😂

[@GlobalThirtyseven]

Me too. And I am still the one who gets to tear the roof off. This one will be good for 40 though.

[@1337Jogi]

Well it also has alot to do with genetical disposition. I was hiking long tours with lots of height gain in my 20s. But shortly after turning 30 my knees got worse. Just bad luck in the gene department. I still hike but when I could make 2000m+ up and down and 30km+ in 1 day no problem 10-15 years ago now they will start hurting after 1/4th of that and till feel sore the days after... My dad who is over 70 now is a better hiker than me now!

[@turaniatok]

We have the same age and I think about my past last 20 years 😂 It was great 😂😂😂

[@AndrewSmith-ff2pu]

Me too!! Although my mind still tells me my body is 18 years old... until I use it!

[@francisschweitzer8431]

Past the 60 wondering where the last 30 went my self

[@helenpothecary1078]

40 is good! I am a 74 yr old female and still hiking up mountains with my camera bag albeit at my own pace. Just do 20 lunges on each leg every day and it really works!

[@jimcastanzo8736]

Thomas, I just turned 70! Sure, you'll slow down a bit, you'll notice aches and pains that you never had before, but you still have PLENTY of years ahead of you to be active and productive. For me, the best therapy is getting out, moving, and appreciating the outdoors with my camera in hand. I've slowed down a little, but the joy of being outdoors is my medicine.

[@johnjtoth7633]

I turned 75 in March and agree 100%. A change in diet - more veggies - and stay away from the fried foods helps.

[@wildbillgreen]

Aches and pains are just constant background noise now 😊

[@wildbillgreen]

@@johnjtoth7633and keep moving

[@PhotoTrekr]

71. I still love photography as much as ever. As well as getting out in the mountains. I'm slowing down, but I still try to take a photo trip somewhere amazing every year.

[@RobertTucker-c7d]

Will turn 70 in less than 2 months, but still get out as often as possible. Keep moving is the best medicine.

[@markpalmer9844]

Make the most of it, mate. In 15 years you’ll marvel at how young you are right now. True story.

[@alangardner8596]

Take heart, at 63 I climbed Mt Teide (3718 Mtrs) and again at 64 and slept the night there near the summit. I'm now 81 and just done a 9 mile hike in the Scottish Highlands.

[@cliftonwhittaker260]

Hondo, you are much man. I know because I'm 82 and I know what it feels like.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

That's impressive. There is hope for me yet 😅

[@alangardner8596]

@@ThomasHeatonPhoto 4 Years ago it was a different story, I had cancer, polymyalgia and other health problems,. After a lot of pain I did a lot of research into the food I was eating. Out went sugar, vegetable oils (seed oils) and ultra-processed food. In came natural food and olive oil and a few more things. I've never looked back

[@donyee8970]

@@alangardner8596 you’re inspiring!

[@donyee8970]

I turned 60 years ago. I've been active all of my live and photographed since my teens. I've experienced the same. As I get older, I pack less gear, traded my heavier gear for lighter gear and pack my photo gear more mindfully. From decades of shooting, I think my vision has deepened. I shoot less and make my shots count. The good thing about me staying active all my adult life is what I call "putting money in the bank". I'm lucky enough to belong to a swim club with members that swam into their 90's. They inspire me. With all your hiking, I don't think you'll be in a rocking chair in your 50's. Friends and family were shocked when I had a heart attack at age 56. I thought my photography, hiking, swimming and hot yoga days were over. I worked my way back through rehab and I've returned to everything that I was doing before my health scare. No matter what you do, stay active, take care of your body and have a positive mindset. Live long and prosper!

[@ianmcdiarmid4563]

Hi Tom, 40 - You're young! I'm young as well at 68. I am sure its best not to think about it, get fit again and enjoy yourself, the 40 thing will soon be forgotten. Ian

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Well said!

[@ewanmackenzie6777]

Yes, you dodged a bullet there, but apart from missing a days photography and I felt sorry for your companion, but this is a kick up the backside and hopefully the motivation to get fitter and keep fit and mobile in the future. You are still a young lad! Keep up the great photography content!

[@MichaelSeneschal]

You’re good. 40 is the new 39.5.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

I like it.

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

hahahaha

[@junxia8119]

22yrs past 18 sounds better😂

[@gudgengrebe]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@LfunkeyA]

it really doesn't

[@margot6041]

When I turned 40, my Aunt wrote in a card, "Remember 40 isn't fatal." Stay active, stay hydrated, and modify as needed.

[@vinlandviking]

I'm 72 and still thinking I was invincible when I had a heart attack 2 weeks ago. Went in on Sunday, had 4 stents placed Monday, was back home on Tuesday, and immediately back to doing all the things I had done before with no problem. The key is to stay in shape. Walking, running, lifting weights, etc. Don't stop Tom.

[@tomtrevatt3286]

Keep on keeping on!

[@babetopaz]

absolutely, am a little younger but have lived my life using this philosophy.

[@rogerwatt8491]

Blimey . . . I hope you're doing okay! Only a week or so after climbing with my daughter in Vancouver's Coastal Mountains, I had the attack last Thursday . . . at 77 . . . only needed one stent and they kicked me out on Saturday. My GP and the specialist tell me that it was only my good level of fitness that stopped it from being worse and that I'd be able to resume hill walking in six weeks. Sadly, that's too late to save a planned climbing week in my native Sutherland at the end of next month but I'll be back there in April. As you've said to Tom . . . don't stop . . . ever.

[@c1rcama707]

One thing to add- the negative self talk on the trail contributes to the issue. Body follows mind. 🧠💪💪

[@ScottFountain-zf6fq]

EXACTLY! Well said!

[@sariaava7177]

Absolutely ❤ Yes, it applies to any physical issue. Keep good mind ❤❤❤

[@DoedeBoomsma]

I feel like 28 but am 48. I remember that turning 40 somewhat was a thing. But all I want to say is: embrace life for it’s a real gift. Embrace all ages and all different aspects of life. Thomas you’re a great photographer indifferent of your age! At your age I had barely begun a photographic adventure and had yet to become a father. Cheers to your 40th!

[@horstrj]

I got in shape for a Torres del Paine trip in my late 40s that never happened, but I did have a couple hiking adventures with low 30's people who, like you, thought they were in shape. I left them in the dust. Its a great feeling. You're not dead yet!

[@rorc2498]

I turn 75 in a week, have just driven upto Cairns Queensland and back 4000klms in search of photos, and i try and surf everyday so don't say your old yet mate. You just have to keep active and appreciate every day. Have been watching your videos since the days with Nick Page and the other mad Pom. Keep up the good work.

[@DougHamiltonArt]

Welcome! I'm going on 81 and still moving. I can go almost anywhere and do most things I did 20 years ago except that it takes longer to do it and longer to recover. One learns to compensate. The hiking intervals are shorter and slower. The trails are less intense or less sketchy than they used to be. The views are less back-country wild. There are definitely fewer shots from ground level. Also, one needs more anti-inflammatory foods in the diet. But finding glorious views and photographic beauty all around is every bit as energizing as before. Like you said, just "... be more considerate going forward." Falling out of shape happens more quickly, and getting back in shape requires more time and deliberateness. Good luck with that knee.

[@chrismeakin7830]

Wow, I loved 40. Felt young and thought I had loads of time on my side. 60 has now arrived and I can’t get my head round, how this 20yrs has passed so quickly. I love photography now more than I ever have, and feel I have to get out at every opportunity. Had a lot go wrong physically over the last 18 months, but simply refuse to stop.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

I literally feel your pain, Tom. I didn't even start a KZbin channel until I was 66. Now I'm almost 71. I've worked out my whole life and by most people's standards, I'm in outstanding shape. But gym shape isn't hiking shape. I made some climbs and hikes six years ago that I won't even contemplate now. I'm doing more bird photography than landscapes lately, in part because I just can't handle some of the hiking. The struggle is real. I hope you feel better. You've got decades ahead of you before you get where I am!

[@christopherharrison3597]

I just turned 60 Thomas . You have many many years ahead , just keep your fitness up , yes there will be aches and pains coming and maybe a few little operations but I was hiking in the welsh mountains 2 years ago , yes I felt it but keeping fit and eating well will help I promise . loved the video ...

[@metrostills]

I love that you're willing to make these videos that show the not-so-glamourous side of photography and youtube. I really relate to this video, as a man in his 40s. It's easy to fall down the rabbit hole of worrying about age because every day we wake up, we're the oldest we've ever been. But think how lucky you are with this passion/career: the life of hiking and photography will keep you young.

[@theoutdoorpt7267]

I changed my life at 40 and became an outdoor instructor, it gave me new purpose and worked in some amazing places, it definitely is a mindset, in my 50’s I became a personal trainer! Accept that you’re going to get old and control the controllables age is just a number. Embrace the suck, get to the gym and do the work (strength training) you are obviously self aware just remember to recover hard as well!

[@johndagricola]

I saw an interview with Ansel Adams’ grandson. He was asked why did his grandfather’s work seem to go downhill after 30yrs or so. The answer: his best work required him to climb into the mountains…many times through deep snow, carrying a ton of equipment. Then he would get under a tarp and lay in the snow studying the light FOR DAYS. When you get to your mid-50s, you reach the afternoon and you just want to go home and take a nap.

[@TradeguruApi]

From France, 40 is the greatest age, experience and hope! I'm 78 and I walk 8/10kms every day, sometimes 20! You have to overcome this bad patch, take care of your knee and continue to delight us with your experience of analyzing landscape shots. Keep going!

[@dominey]

Just wait until you're 50. ;) Seriously though, I've learned from experience how important it is to take extended breaks and focus my time and energy when it matters most. Whenever I try and do too much, I pay for it the next day with a migraine or lack of creative energy. Cause you're absolutely right, when you feel bad physically, it's hard to feel inspired and creative.

[@rossk7927]

2 words. Physical therapy. It's amazing how much it can help to know, and do, targeted exercises.

[@trainsforbrains]

Getting older is better than the alternative!

[@busydadscooking001]

that's what my granddad used to tell me! I'm trying to remember it now with health problems already at 40 :P

[@lisatalley296]

Man o man, I could feel your pain. I’m 66, but 13 years ago my bone on bone knees started complaining, and I described the pain in them as a very bad toothache. Last summer while visiting my daughter in Alaska, and planning trips that did not include much walking, I realized I needed a drastic change. I was not able to enjoy life or photography anymore. Medical Technology had caught up and I had my left knee done in January, my right in April, I was walking the same day as the surgeries. The difference is amazing. I have energy and am eager to get back out in the woods. You are very wise to eat right and exercise. My surgeon said my good recovery was because of my positive mindset and being fit. I’ve gone from only watching others have adventures to planning my own. Your videos always inspire me. Thank you and good luck on your new lifestyle👍

[@paulcollingridge8387]

I'm 65, in my head I'm 19. My knees are shot my eyes are dimming, I'm almost deaf and my back is twisted. Every day I overreach. But I have a pension, so no work except what I choose... Which is less and less each day! So now I've left landscape photog behind and have taken up macro of robber-flies, love it

[@TimWells745]

This video was both very depressing for me as well as also very encouraging. I've turned 41 this year and have spent much time recently pondering over the effects of getting older and what that means for my future plans. I put my dreams on hold when I was much younger, so that I could be here for my wife and kids and while my passion remains photography, I spend most days working a desk job to pay the bills, with the idea that one day, when the kids were old enough (which isn't far off now) that I'd then have the time and money to be able to see the wild places of the world and photograph them to my hearts content. Recently I've had health issues and I've been slowly sinking into a kind of depression and thinking that after all this time I won't be physically capable of making that dream a reality. Don't get me wrong. I don't regret my choice. I've watched my kids grow up and spent years being here for them and doing things with them and I'm happily married to a great woman. I wouldn't wish any of that to be different... but listening to your commentary in this video, alongside my own feelings lately did really bring my down. It's also encouraged me though, as has reading through the comments here, that it's not all doom and gloom and there is still a chance to make those dreams of mine come true. SO... thank you. Thanks for your honesty and bravery. Thanks for sharing this experience, which could have just as easily been destined for the bin. I have hope.

[@cgan2013]

I've experienced that same very knee issue, a good 20 years ago, and had to be carried out from a 20 mile hike.....in my early 40's. I thought the same as you - my hiking days were numbered. The body is an amazing machine....it heals itself with time, rest and then exercise and strength training. I am now in my mid-60's and still get out and hike when my work schedule allows (the Blue Ridge on NC). Don't let age get you down. I always try to remember this one thing - be grateful for getting old....many others were never given that opportunity!!

[@bobhathaway529]

That IT lap band injury is serious. My wife has it and can manage any uphill but downhills kill her. It has all but eliminated our ability to hike in the mountains. She uses sleeves on her knees and hiking poles and that can help over short downhills or on longer hikes but it is a bandaid not a cure. She trains to strengthen and stretch the ligament and that helps some but is hasn't been a cure. We are both around 60 so it is a limitation we now live with and she willingly stays behind on some of the more extreme hikes that I still undertake.

[@paveltvrdy5030]

In the mountains, I tend to meet much older folks (60+) young in spirit who constantly remind me, that were not old, but maybe just a bit unfit while they hike much faster than me :D

[@SivertAlmvik]

My dad is 77, and today he sendt me videos and pictures of him hauling a newly delivered lathe, weighing a tonne, into his workshop. Alone. I'm just 43 years young.

[@ulyssesnathanialowen3831]

dumb!!! asking for trouble . not something to proud about .. if I was you I would be around there helping him or at least , being on his ass , about doing that for too dumb stuff at 77 .. to late when he is hurt , lying alone son floor dying because of something that is preventable ...

[@albertotafuro6112]

This means that you are a human being like us, and for this reason we will follow you even more in your fantastic photographic journeys!...thanks Heaton

[@ryant1090]

You're going down the same road I went down a few years ago. I'm 48 now, and I felt the same decline. I'm more active than the average dude, but by no means an athlete. Your closing thoughts carry the exact same tone as the ones I reached. In my younger days, working out meant lifting more, more reps, faster times, looking bulkier. As I'm aging, my priorities are shifting toward maintaining mobility, flexibility, and endurance, so that I can continue to be out in the field. Without health, I have nothing. So that has been my motivating factor when I feel the need to log some time in the gym. I have no doubt you'll be back to yourself in no time. I think I can speak for most of your true fans when I say we care more about you and your journey, more than the actual photographs. Take care, Thomas!

[@mountainman8211]

I developed a painful knee while on mountain named Arkle in the northwest Highlands of Scotland. I had severe difficulty walking down the mountain. I tried walking straight, then sideways but the pain persisted. A companion asked if I had had any pain on the way up. I didn't. He suggested that I try to walk backwards, which I did. I had no pain whatsoever. It took a long time to get down to level ground. Turns out it was an inflammation similar to what you endured in the Alps. An outcome of the incident was my climbing pals starting to call me Elkra (Arkle backwards). Don't give up your adventures, but don't forget to take a packet of painkillers.

[@DanDare-i2z]

I'm very nearly twice your age and still enjoy a day's walking in the hills. Keep moving. Eat well. Get enough rest. Accept you will slowdown.

[@richards3192]

I'm 60+ and until relatively recently was doing the R3H HH Hash in Saudi Arabia. Climbing the escarpment in 40+C. Now it's going south. Enjoy the next 20 years

[@andrewowen-price4496]

Hey Junior ! 40? ... you're just getting started. Always remember, there is a much worse alternative than getting older year by year!!

[@joseguimaraes1094]

40? Great age! Enjoy it! You're so young! I have 62 and I'm feeling (almost) quite young! I had for sever times that kind of pain in the knee, and the pain is almost imberable! It is necessary to eat well, avoid exertion when you are in crisis do physiotherapy to recover and before exercice to do some stretches. I wish you a speedy recovery!

[@dinnae]

Don't fully blame IT band issues on your age. I developed these issues in my mid 20s when I was fit played football several times a week. I pretty much had to skip, one-legged, down a mountain once! You can avoid these issues by strengthening your abs and butt. Maybe you've done too much desk work recently as that weakens those muscles. Now I haven't had IT band issues in years (and I'm 36 now), but of course it's easy to relapse if you don't stay on top of it.

[@franzanth]

I used to hike for macro photos-not as extreme as you landscape folks do but sometimes the cliffs are steeper. Then the sedentary weeks of early lockdown lowered my guard and I injured my spine when I was 31, never fully recovering. I really appreciate you discussing the health/fitness aspect of photography. I've been watching your vids sporadically but it'd be interesting to hear future updates about your situation every now and then!

[@paradanglers]

Chin up Tom, wait till you get to 55, a successful day for me is managing to put my boxers on in a morning without falling over!

[@MichaelFrederickPhoto]

The older we get the better we were.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Hahahaha

[@rayl801]

I'm "only" 68 this month - 40 is still very young. The key is to try to not overdo things, with moderation in terms of levels of excercise, hiking, etc. As the years add up you can fully understand the advantage of hiking with lighter gear, smaller cameras and lenses, tripod, etc. No more tent camping for me, just day hiking and sleeping in hotels at night. Take precautions and you can still enjoy the outdoors and make wonderful photos.

[@anthonykent8139]

I'm 87 but if you lean against a wall it helps to stay upright!

[@stigfloberghagenphotography]

😲😅

[@rj66600]

I absolutely feel ya buddy. I’m 46 and used to hike and rock climb and even did downhill longboarding at 39. But I have a knee issue too and you have inspired me to eat better and exercise more. And pursue my photography skills a lot more. My age has held me back lately too. Screw that. Let’s do this together!!! Good luck and keep it up!!! Thanks!!!

[@FromShetoMe]

I figured you'd get a bunch of blow back from us senior citizens, still hiking, cycling, and enjoying life. If you decide to give up photography, well, your real talent is in videography! So teach us some of that!

[@zpeckler]

Oh man, Tom..... Same, dude. I'm 42 and I've been struggling with my knees for about a decade now. Extract same issue as you--IT band. Hiking with bilateral knee braces has helped a TON (but is a PITA, of course). Still, it's enabled me to keep going with just a little care and mindfulness to not push the knees to hard.

[@untouchable360x]

"In life, we choose our regrets." Christopher Hitchens

[@Firstmanphotography]

You did very well to still make a video out of this. I’ve got a few years experience of being in my forties now, and my days of playing team sports haunt me. The cross trainer on a very hard level is my training tool of choice. It’s a good simulation for what we do and will hopefully provide longevity. You’re bang on about needing to have your head in a creative space……. mind and body need to be in sync. My wife keeps telling me to not be so hard on myself, so I guess I’ll pass that on. It’s a very lonely pursuit creating content like this, but you’re doing tremendous work. Cheers mate. 💪

[@LauMagroTheFrenchKOInection]

Gosh, we could feel the pain in your voice and see it on your face. And the anxiety because of where you were. But you are definitely at your prime in terms of age. Hopefully, you have another 40-50 years to go. 😊 But you absolutely nailed it, back from 3 weeks of junk food, and the inflammatory food from the trip in America would have triggered injuries and completely make you flat in terms of energy. You have basically slowly poisoned your body. Just one thing, on ligaments injury, if you do a cold therapy (with ice) to reduce thr swelling, you also need to do a hot therapy (like hot towel on it) 😊 Not sure where you are at with your knee right now, but for a couple of months if you can, try not to eat any man made food (flour/bread, pasta, bad oil etc. ), it will definitely help the body to recover and reduce inflammations everywhere.

[@ErinSotoPhotography]

This is a really good point. It’s probably detox from American food.

[@archi-mendel]

As someone having joint issues - kinesio tapes! It's always descent, not ascent. And always on uneven terrain (going downstairs is just fine). The reason is when descending your feet take much more load to stabilize the weight. When you're going up, there is much less load. And this is where knees are struggling more. Also, when going down it's mostly back side of thigh that works and when going up it's the front side. Apparently, front side of thigh is regularly much more trained than the back side. There is a set of exercises (very gentle ones not harming joints) to train back side of the thigh. These exercises also overall help improve joints conditions across the whole body. P.S. 40 a week ago.

[@dwightjones3305]

Micro four thirds is the answer. I'm 66 and loving it.

[@ronalderb9692]

I agree on the micro 4/3. I'm 75 and there is much less weight to carry on a hike.

[@daniel.lopresti]

He's already moved down from digital MF to full frame and now to APS-C ... not sure if he could handle a further drop in sensor sizes ;)

[@davidausterberry3297]

@@ronalderb9692absolutely agree. I use a micro 4/3 on long distance hikes, why beat yourself up?

[@tantonr42]

@@davidausterberry3297 What is Micro 4/3?

[@pamgeiger3594]

@@tantonr42take a look at OM System camera website. It is a micro 4/3 system - means it has a smaller sensor and comparatively smaller and therefore lighter lenses = lighter kit

[@leinsters]

I’m 54 and just completed the TMB in 6 nights and 7 days. I’ve been hiking my whole life and never felt better as a hiker. The key is maintaining fitness, eating well, and sleeping well. That’s it. On the TMB I was passed by locals on day hikes that were at least 20 years older than me. Stay in shape and you’ll be good to go for most of your life.

[@bigmickphotography]

I feel your pain… as a fellow Whitley bay resident when I was mid thirties I was a powerlifting champion … now at the age of 54 I’m happy to get of the toilet without pain 😂😂

[@robmcd]

Lay off the vindaloo

[@SammySantiagoIrizarry]

Iam with Jim and Don. I turned 70 and I feel like I just started! So much to do and continue!!! God bless you Thomas.

[@Badger220455]

I'm 69 and have slowed sown a little so just joined a gym. Best of luck mate.

[@Shutternutteruk]

The most important thing Tom is to keep going…that first glimmer of ‘old age’ scares the life out of you, but I’m sure you’ll bounce back and actually you’ll probably end up fitter than ever. I’ve always enjoyed your videos…you take us on a rollercoaster ride of life’s ups and down every week - this is what makes your videos so compelling! Keep going and keep creating…but (and this is the key) do it on your terms!

[@GPYCROFT]

I live 30 minutes from Chamonix , am OVER 60 and frequently in the mountains, that I consider the most beautiful place on this planet. I think you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned the visit to the US may be the root cause , lack of exercise , bad food and you can add that you may not have recovered from jetlag. If you want to try the Alps again you're welcome here !

[@slowikinspiruje]

Great video as always. I turned 46 this year, so I know exactly what you're talking about. I often carry a backpack weighing over 20kg to camp on mountain peaks and take photographs. Every year, I need to prepare more for such trips and exercise more. Fortunately, I feel like a twenty-year-old inside, and that gives me strength and hope.

[@jamescall9674]

Oh, get over it! You are still a pup! At 67 I am hauling scuba gear around and doing underwater imaging…. Get an Olympus and trek on! Lol

[@ronalderb9692]

I'm 75 and use Olympus cameras. I love it. Lighter gear to carry around. Plus good quality.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Haha. I love that advice. I'll show it my wife next time I want a new camera 😅

[@rogerbotting3459]

71 and diving every weeek, with a big Nikon rig.

[@trishf29]

I’m in my late 70s and must admit this is the worst decade I’ve had, so far. I wish I was 40 again! Just enjoy life as it comes - and get that knee seen to before it really becomes a problem!

[@Mark-pk1fm]

I feel you, knee pain is no joke especially when hauling gear half way up a mountain!! Best of luck with your new healthy regime 👍🏻

[@iangorner]

Thomas! I’m about to turn 73, I practice Jiu Jitsu on a regular basis and I love outdoors with my camera ( and paint set). Many good years left for you! Treat yourself properly.

[@rbct]

I'm 57 and I learned the lesson the hard way. Spent 10 years seated and working remotely most of the day. All my 20's prowess vanished like a sand castle. I'm regaining fitness for the last three years and it is being hard. The worse is that I want to do things, but I can't. I have to prepare, take days off, condition. That drives me nuts, because back in the days it was like you said, you wake up, see the weather through the window and go. Not now. But the good thing is that instead of getting up and going, you start learning about your body, about the exercises you need, the results of certain habits, drinking, eating, sleeping patterns, etc. You become the master of your own body. And our body is our temple. If you get to the other side, you will have spent the last decades of your life with a good control of your body. The years of youthful irresponsibility are gone. You are starting to live the years of intelligence. There is nothing better than getting conditioned for a hike and simply sending the route because you were 100% focused on it. It is priceless, because you become a well oiled machine, sometimes much better than your younger version.

[@TimHodgesofEdinburgh]

Had the same ITB pain as you in my 40s. You'll be getting to know your physio very well over the next few decades. I'm sure your positivity will win through. You've inspired so many others to get out there so don't be depressed. You've clearly understood why things went wrong on this trip so you're already half way to sorting it out.

[@stefanmollmann8788]

44 y/o here. Struggling with IT band issues since my late 20s. Know exactly how it feels: could hike uphill forever but I'm dying on the way down. Consistent exercise seems to help a little, though. Thanks for reminding me to get back at it!

[@jeffrollinger]

I’m not that far ahead of you at 48 this year. Don’t give up on yourself yet mate. I have done some of the most intense hiking and created some of my best landscape photographs during my 40’s. I have my issues with a bum knee too myself and a 48 year old back. It really is a mindset far more than a physicality…at least at our age. Keep at it my friend. Your videos are always an inspiration!

[@marksymonds8477]

Hi Thomas,having a chuckle at the comments, being the wrong side of 68 and still love photography and the mountains.I’ve never been allowed to pull the age card with friends.😀You’ll look back at your great landscape pictures.keep smiling.

[@rattlhed1]

As a runner and a hiker that recently turned 53, pain and injury is just part of normal life. It will come at you with no rhyme or reason. Best you can do is stay as fit as you can and listen to your body and don’t push beyond. I feel bad for your trip but glad you made it safely out of the mountains. I’ve dealt with knee pain and it’s no joke. I felt for you!

[@GralphW]

Having been an active sportsman over the years I have always been conscious of my knees and worked on low impact exercise - rowing, bike riding and low weight reps in the gym. Now at 70 my golfing buddies are getting knee replacements but I have zero. Just off on a 45km gentle ride which I thoroughly recommend - you'll be running up those mountains 😂 Love your insights as much as you gorgeous photos Thomas.

[@andrewlloyd-seetim1271]

One of your best Thomas. My fitness took a major hit 4 years ago, but at that time (54) I was probably fitter than I had been for many years. Back on the route to fitness and have discovered yoga. Have noticed major improvements in the last year as a result.

[@I3lueworks]

For me, I hit a wall at 35, but since then I've felt exactly the same. Learning my new limitations and finding work arounds keeps me able to do the activities I love.

[@4hotographix]

Turning 40 didnt really worry me but turning 50 freaked me out a bit....but i still have the energy to get out but my bones ache a bit more after a hike...!

[@trugate]

I just turned 40 back in May, and it's had me re-evaluating things like my physical fitness. I go on local photography adventures with a friend of mine who is going to be 50 in a couple years, and he can easily leave me in the dust. It's a wake up call for us both! Best of luck Tom.

[@peterdeboer8924]

I'm 65 and can do almost everything I want to, just at a different pace. Walking biking family and performing music are my life and it is good.

[@carlarivas1238]

Thomas, I remember when my body stopped cooperating with me, and yes, it is depressing. But I had to do what you are now doing. Taking better care of yourself through diet and specific strengthening exercises is important and I’m glad to see you doing that. Good luck with the knee. Your video was fabulous.

[@jurgenseibertz4531]

Thanks

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Thank you so much for this donation. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@jwheaps2212]

For me, its the recovery time that has changed the most. What used to take a day now takes 2-3 days. And I totally have to force myself to eat and hydrate on a schedule even when the appetite isn't there. It really makes you change how you plan trips.

[@samiam1025]

Love this! And I love MPB btw. Very relatable for this 62 year old who has been sidelined from time to time with IT issues.

[@BenjaminCutting]

Appreciate this SO much! I’m grateful for the honesty and reflection. 35 so 40’s is just around the corner 🎉 onwards!

[@nickimcguire374]

Hey Thomas! I had a VERY similar experience when I turned 50 a couple years ago. I'm not a professional landscape photographer, but I found myself on a photography trip to Scotland not long ago with extreme knee pain. It was soul crushing. I came home from what felt like was surely my last landscape trip and I went through a bit of a depression. But like you I picked myself up (after a couple of mopey months) and decided it was time to do the work because I still have a lot to accomplish. All of this is to say I so appreciated this honest video. It inspired me to keep moving forward. Landscape photography is so much more than just getting the beautiful shots and you reminded me it's worth the work. Thanks so much for sharing this experience. I'm heading out in 2 weeks for my first photography trip in almost 2 years and I couldn't be more excited. Thanks for being transparent! You got this and I know your best is yet to come!

[@philmead2209]

Being someone who has had their knee reconstructed after a sking incident, I get this. I took up photography late on (during lockdown) and still get out even if my knee is an issue. The days it locks out you have to grin and bear it and carry on through... this is from someone who is now 40+ and a chef.

[@Gary-LX58UDV]

Thankyou for showing this video. Its not your age that matters, your message towards the end of your video, its lifestyle, a balanced diet and sensible exercise is the key to feeling good. ☝

[@JamesLanePhoto]

You made what could’ve been a very depressing video into a really hopeful and inspirational message. I’m 3 years behind you and really need to start getting ready for middle age. You’ll be fine. You have bouncebackability!

[@KonstantinGabriel1978]

I'm 46 , did 2 attempts on Everest in 2021 and 2022 .I was in pain , but pain last only for a little. Had little to none of training , seen my death 6-7 times in 2021 and 3 times in 2022. Deffinetly I would not climb , but trekking ...hell yeaaah. Its really worth it all the way. About your knee , go and see an orthopedic doc , probably some dryness in the synovial capsule of your knee that can be solved with some intrarticular injections and some conditioning of your upper muscles of your leg. Other than that , keep on walking and enjoy the life up there in the mountains

[@tdrageland1868]

It's okay to take an L on the day, but never let it defeat you. The moment you start feeling sorry for yourself, it's over, and you start accepting decline. I'm 45 now, and in much better shape than when I was 40. Started eating healthier and exercising more, and generally try to enjoy life more. And it does wonders! Keep at it 💪

[@stephanadelwolmarans7533]

Hi Tom, you are now in the Prime of your life. Enjoy every moment of life, doing what you love. Live your passion.😎📸

[@JacquelineCounter]

Yep. 40’s nothing. Enjoy while you can. I had milestone 60th and boy do I feel it. I Appreciate your willingness to share the joys and frustrations of your photography journey. That takes guts.

[@Trish12303]

I blew my entire knee out, tore my ACL in two, my MCL and my Meniscus. Since then I have found that going downhill can be very difficult. I have found that walking sideways, with your good knee headed down first leading the way, makes the trek down easier. If you experience that issue again, you might give that a try. I’m also way older than you so just to cheer you up a little, you have a lot of life and photography years ahead of you!!

[@eatenbyopium]

you're a legend Tom we are all rooting for you my brother.

[@juliog69]

I'm 55, and at 38, I felt my body tell me to slow down. So I did, and that was the biggest mistake I made. The truth was that my body was telling me my nutrition had been off for the past 38 years, and now I'm on strike until you fix this. So, slowing down did nothing but make things worse. Then, at 45, I made a big change to my diet, like only raw foods; I also changed all my hiking and running foods to dried fruit and animal proteins, which reset me. Now it's just stupid injuries because my mind thinks I'm still 20, which is causing me problems. You are all good; keep going.

[@SamClarkPhotographerAdventurer]

Good on you Thomas. I'm 55, still hiking and carrying a heap of camera gear. Keeping fit and watching what you eat, certainly help. Love your content! Go well!

[@timrosenburgh8597]

Hi Thomas, I have turned 70 and thankfully very fit. Well you have a few years to go to catch up. Well done for persevering through the pain and cracking on. Hope you are feeling better now and i look forward to the next video.

[@williamstanford1934]

Thank you Thomas for all your videos they have been an inspiration and a reason to just get out and go for a walk no matter what photo's I get, I just learned of your up coming visit to Dublin Ireland, I have been watching your videos since you started recording on your iPhone and would have loved to attend your conference in Dublin but sadly I am in England with my daughter getting her settled into student accommodation, good luck in Dublin and hopefully you will visit us again, Will.

[@hasanabamor3016]

Very solution-oriented view of real-life problems. Keep enjoying your landscape journey!

[@derekwillson2538]

Hi Tom, welcome to the club, there will be good and bad days, but you will continue to be driven uphill and down dale by your passion, I am about to hit 61 and have slowed down considerably but I absolutely will not stop!

[@jerrya5171]

Thomas, I loved the video. I understand what you feel. I am 59, played high school sports and college football. Later in life I was a trainer and then bodybuilding for thirty-plus years 5/6 days a week. I picked up landscape photography 2+ years ago. Since then I hit a few state parks in Ohio hiking up and down enough to feel it. Last October I spent 1 1/2 weeks in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado; full pack, hiking up and down 10,000 - 13,000 +/- feet in elevation, elevation sickness, full pack, etc... my knees were not happy. My body changed somewhere between 53 and 55. It takes longer to recover and I am not able to just pop out of bed in the morning and go, with a cup of coffee or espresso. Everyone ages differently, and subjective to DNA and our lifestyle. You are spot on about having to prepare ahead of time and allow time to recover after. I spent 3 straight days hiking and taking pictures in the Rockies, and then one full day of rest, and recovery. As we get older the body wears and the joints, aches, and pains become a part of daily life. It took me a while to mentally accept this, and after a few years, I am now starting to adjust. I was/am a health nut and gym rat for 30+ years and like you was convinced it was not going to happen to me, and thought I was immortal too. As the saying goes, "Youth is wasted on the Young." Life is a series of cycles, as we age we go through each one. The trick is how to go from your old normal to your new normal with each cycle. With age, comes wisdom. It takes time to adjust and we find that new normal and fulfillment and happiness in each cycle.

[@AndrewVaughan]

I had severe IT band pain for a while, it would always hit me right around mile 3 of whatever I was doing. It feels like someone is stabbing a knife into the outside of your knee. There are a couple of very easy stretches you can do every day (the one that works best for me is basically hugging my knee across my chest) that are extremely effective at mitigating this. The stretch feels like it's in your hip but everything is connected, and it helps the whole IT band. 40's not so old, Thomas...stay active!

[@andyrcampbell]

Hey man don't worry - I'm 68 and had a doble knee replacement 3 years ago. Last year I did the 5 lakes hike with my sons at Zermatt and missed the last gondola down the mountain which meant an additional 3 hour hike back to Zermatt, in the dark through the forest. I was worried whether I could hike at all that morning but, after a 9 hour hike my knees were absulutey fine and I joked with my 20 year old sons that I had the youngest knees amongst us. I had suffered pain for 15 years before getting them done but could have salvaged those years by getting them done earlier. Back to hiking the mountains at 68 and planning on returning to skiing this winter ! Keep going , love your videos and dont worry about your knees - we have the technology !

[@rlfisher]

Your videos are always entertaining and educational. I will be 70 in October and, putting off a knee replacement, it is increasingly difficult for me to hike, especially downhill and down stairs. Definitely trying to exercise more consistently. Be stronger than my excuses! Hoping for eventual relief so that I can continue my landscape photography adventures. Hang in there!

[@fepeerreview3150]

Been there quite a long while back. Don't worry. Yes, you'll change, just as you changed from 0 to 20 and from 20 to 40. But you'll continue growing into your best possible self if you choose to. Do what you love. Love your family. Be kind to the people and animals around you. Take care of your body. Regardless of your religions beliefs or lack of them it's a good idea to think of the body as the temple of the soul. Respect it and keep it in clean, working order.

[@kpov44]

I feel your pain and this video couldn't have come at a better time. I have always considered myself as someone who can concur anything with my photography travels. But recently my feet have been giving me problems to the point I feel the same as you did in this video, better to just stay and rest instead of venture outdoors. Right after this video I called my doctor to look at my feet and get to the root of my problems. Thanks for the nudge to get better control on my aches and pains. Keep up the great videos and photography as your videos are truly a highlight to my week. BTW....I am 64 and am looking forward to another 15 to 20 years of outdoor photography. Thanks again.

[@MarkusSenior]

It would be nice to be 40 again... Now 55 and huffing and puffing ;-) Cheers from LA.

[@iwnicholson]

For what it is worth, I think you hit the nail on the head with your thinking that your US trip had a lot to do with it. Particularly as you age, consistency is key. I (a few years north of 40 btw), have had a great exercise routine for a few years that I got away from during some travel and then let it fall off for a couple months. I also had been eating a bit more junk and drinking a few more beers. A couple weeks ago I told me wife that I felt like I had aged 10 years over the summer. Now a couple weeks back in the routine and eating a bit healthier, I am starting to feel better again. Keep up the training and keep making great content.

[@davidknight6981]

Thomas, great video. Listen, we all go through these problems as we grow older; just wait until you're 68, as am I, boy oh boy. Hey, as you pointed out though, pay attention to your diet; especially, tune your diet to support the activity that you are about to undertake, slow it down a taste, and shoot, you can go until who knows how long. You'll be okay.