Amsterdam Celebrates Its 5th Annual Rollator Race

One of the benefits of using a rollator rather than a traditional walker is that they allow you to move quicker-- which is especially important when you’re racing!

A bunch of seniors racing each other using their mobility aids may sound silly, and perhaps it is. But it’s also a lot of fun and great exercise. Just ask the hundreds of Amsterdam residents who get together every year for the Rollator Loop-- one of the most unique and slowest paced sporting events on the planet.

To be clear, the participants aren’t running with their rollator (which is a bad idea. Please don’t try it at home). At most, the participants walk briskly. But there are still winners and even groups who train for the event throughout the year.

The Rollator Loop encourages exercise and fitness among the elderly. It also brings awareness to important social issues, such as public facilities being adapted to meet the needs of the aging. Since its start in 2000, the Rollator Loop has grown quickly. Last year 150 participants completed the race, making it past the finish line. This year, on September 17, the Rollator Loop will be held at Amsterdam’s Olympic Stadium.

Good luck to all the participants! And for those of you unable to make the event in person, here’s a video of the 2010 Rollator Loop.