'Adapt But Never Stop': How This 74YO Runner Transformed Her Retirement Story

When Daksha Dilip Kanavia first put on her running shoes at 63, the intention wasn't to win a race or people's admiration; it was to assert her right to move. After battling bone and joint issues for many years, exercise became her ticket to freedom.

Now 74, this Mumbai-based long-distance runner has become a symbol of strength and discipline, proving that age or injury are not finish lines, but starting points for reinvention.

Recently, she participated in the Mumbai Pinkathon 2025 as the mascot for the 50k category. It is an all-women running event to raise awareness about women's health.

For Kanavia, this purpose is deeply personal. It is her stage to represent not just endurance, but the belief that movement, solidarity, and self-acceptance can redefine what ageing looks like.

A foundation of discipline

Long before fitness entered her life, Kanavia was familiar with discipline and hard work. During her school years, she was actively involved in sports competitions.

However, financial responsibilities came early. Immediately after school, she joined the workforce while attending college classes in the mornings.

She handled multiple responsibilities: academics, work, and later, marriage and motherhood. "I think this is a part and parcel of life for every woman," Kanavia expressed, speaking to SheThePeople.

Amid this hustle, physical fitness took a back seat. But the resilience and endurance she built during this phase would shape her future as a marathon runner.

Daksha Kanavia's tryst with running

Kanavia's journey into marathons was anything but conventional. After retirement, she was diagnosed with osteoporosis, which made even walking difficult. 

Medical professionals advised her to start swimming and physiotherapy, and eventually simple walks. No training plans, no timelines. Just the determination to regain mobility.

"I was not even aware of any marathon. I only knew that I wanted to walk without pain." -Daksha Dilip Kanavia. 

During one such walk, in 2015, she encountered the Pinkathon community. Encouraged by the women around her, Kanavia joined the group, which became a turning point in her life.

Over the years, Kanavia has completed multiple runs spanning hundreds of kilometres: Mumbai to Pune, Amritsar to Wagah Border, Gwalior to Delhi, and many more. 

Training and motivation

Kanavia's training is rooted in consistency and care, rather than intensity. She follows a disciplined routine of daily yoga and long walks or runs, aiming to cover close to 10 kilometres a day.

Setbacks have been part of the process. Sciatica and spinal issues once left her bedridden for two months. But she took one step at a time, prioritised rest and recovery, and never stopped.

"When I couldn’t do 100 kilometres, I did 50. When I couldn’t do 21, I did 10," she said. "You will grow old, and your body will ache. You have to accept it and adapt. But don't stop taking care of your health."

At 74, Daksha Kanavia continues to run. Not away from ageing, but towards embracing it. Her motto is simple yet powerful: Listen to your body and accept change, but never stop moving.