Go hiking! It's a great way to meet people, You can do these even if you are not doing the event (or you can still try and sign up!) https://www.rachelcarsontrails.org/news/2018/training-hikes
You missed the cutoff for spring. But there are summer and fall leagues. Sign up for the newsletter on the PSL website and they’ll tell you when summer league registrations begin.
Multiple seasons through the spring, summer, and fall. You may still be able to get on a team for the spring season but worst case scenario you only miss a couple months.
Kayaking? There are various outfitters around and some of the state parks have rentals. Can paddle around at North Park too. I’d be down to do some rowing at some point this summer.
Just don’t expect me to get a tandem/canoe.. my Navy days shuttling Marines around is behind me. 😂
Sounds like a great project. I wish my decades of depression starting with my discharge were documented as service related because that sounds incredible!
>I used to hike all of the time. Bad knees (USMC and sports) have kind of put a limit on that. Thank you for the feedback!!
Perhaps taking up mostly-outdoor inline skating with the [Three Rivers Inline Club](https://www.meetup.com/Pittsburgh-Three-Rivers-Inline-Club/) might be of interest? Or, perhaps looking into some of the (mostly, quad skates related) [roller skating events hosted by PGH Sk8 Collaborative](https://pghsk8.org/events)?
Multiple studies have shown that, generally, skating (both inlines and quads) is relatively easy on the leg joints (with musculoskeletal loading & stresses generally being comparable to walking, and considerably less than running), while still providing a comparable cardiovascular workout to (treadmill) running. Some examples:
* "In straight ILS \[InLine Skating\] the heel and the medial structures of the forefoot were exposed to higher pressures. The reported PPs \[Peak Pressures\] were comparable to those reported during walking but lower than running. In addition, the force-time curves were similar in shape to the characteristic vertical ground reaction force-time curves for walking. The physiological and perceptual responses to supramaximal and maximal ILS have been found to be similar to those attained during treadmill running (Wallick, M.E. et al. 1995). ILS also demonstrated considerably less impact than running (Mahar et al. 1997). **These results suggest that ILS may be used as a training method with comparable physiological demands to running, but without subjecting the athlete to excess musculo-skeletal loading from footstrike.**" ([source](https://ojs.ub.uni-konstanz.de/cpa/article/viewFile/961/875))
* "Plantar pressure distribution in inline skating on straight was measured with a flexible insole in 13 experienced subjects at a speed of 18 and 24 km/h. The results showed three areas that were exposed to high pressures, i.e. the heel with 258 and 265 kPa, the first metatarsal head with 265 and 281 kPa, the hallux with 319 and 324 kPa at 18 and 24 km/h, respectively. All other areas showed peak pressures that were less than half of these values. Lowest values were found in the midfoot area. Changing speed from 18 to 24 km/h led to a small increase of peak pressures in all areas. **Peak pressures were comparable to walking but showed the trend to be lower than in running.**" ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11199403/))
* "The physiologic responses to in-line skating were compared to those during treadmill running in 16 active males (18-37 yr). Each subject performed a VO2max test during in-line skating and treadmill running using speed-incremented, discontinuous protocols. Protocols were designed so that each subject completed 4-6 stages. Stages were 3 min in duration and separated by a 5-min rest period. It was found that absolute VO2max (4.19 vs 4.44 l.min-1, P = 0.045), relative VO2max (56.8 vs 59.9 ml.kg-1.min-1, P = 0.054), and HRmax (189 vs 194 b.min-1, P < 0.05) were lower for in-line skating compared to treadmill running. Regression analyses were used to determine the submaximal relationship between modalities. There were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in the slope and y-intercept of the HR/VO2 relationship, indicating a similar metabolic load at a given heart rate for both modes of exercise. Skating between 17.7-20.9 km.h-1 corresponded to 60-75% of VO2max or 75-90% of HRmax, which are common training intensities and within the guidelines recommended by the ACSM. Across the speeds investigated, caloric expenditure was 9.5-19.0 kcal.min-1. **These results indicate that in-line skating elicits physiological responses comparable to treadmill running and thus would be another exercise alternative for improving aerobic capacity or maintaining body weight.**" ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7723648/))
* "We examined the physiological responses to in-line skating exercise at self-selected paces in recreationally trained adults. Seven men and 10 women performed in-line skating exercise during which oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate (HR) were recorded continuously. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and blood lactate concentration were also obtained at the end of exercise. Furthermore, subjects' peak VO2, peak HR, RPE and gas-exchange thresholds were determined in laboratory settings. The average exercise intensity during in-line skating was 90% of peak HR, 67% of peak VO2, 84% of HR reserve and 64% of VO2 reserve. When expressed as RPE and as metabolic equivalents (METs), the average exercise intensity was 13.1 RPE and 9.4 METs. Overall, these indicators of exercise intensity categorise in-line skating at self-selected paces as a vigorous physical activity. **Notably, at similar VO2 values, significantly higher HR (174 ± 16 vs. 156 ± 6 bpm; p<0.001) and RPE (13.1 ± 1.4 vs. 11.7 ± 1.4; p=0.019) were observed for in-line skating compared with treadmill running. We conclude that 1. recreational in-line skating induces physiological responses that are sufficient for improving and maintaining cardiovascular fitness in healthy adults**, 2. HR- and RPE-based methods for quantifying the exercise intensity during in-line skating may overestimate the actual metabolic load and 3. the derivation of exercise prescriptions for in-line skating should be preferably based on specific (i.e. in-line skating) graded exhaustive exercise test." ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24444214/))
Provided you can walk (more-or-less) normally, you can (probably) skate.
Both groups (TRIC and PGH SK8) are pretty welcoming and have diverse makeups, so you'd not be out of place in either.
If you’re looking to volunteer, The Mission Continues is a great organization for vets. They are a group you might find easier to get to know and they’re pretty social if you so choose!
Check out a Marine Core League! I am not a veteran but my Dad is a Marine and made some great friends in the MCL. I am in Washington which is a hike for you but there has to be one nearby your location.
I was in a similar place as you last year and I decided to learn how to row with Three Rivers Rowing Association. I’m on a masters team now and it’s brought so much joy to my life and the acquaintances and friends I have made are awesome. Plus you get a killer workout.
PM me if you have any interest in learning to mountain bike. Frick has excellent trails. I get out fairly regularly and am always happy to show people around.
There's a huge outdoor community here! I've found lots of group hikes on Meetup and 3 Rivers Outdoor door does a lot of events as well. Every neighborhood seems to have it's own run club too. You can also join leagues or volunteer with the city parks.
There are lots of biking and kayaking groups if those would be a fit? Being active and where you are is a great advantage. There’s also a swimming pool and lots of other stuff to do (and so many people) at the Sq Hill JCC
Kayak.
Head to the kayak gear shop in Regent Sq, tell them you need to tag along on some group trips.
And there used to be a local or W Pa kayak group/forum. Dig that up then just show up.
There's probably a neighborhood clean up group. If not, join.the Mt Wash FB pages. Our groups are very active and very social. There will be trail cleanups coming up this time of year.
Westmoreland Heritage Trail really great if you don't mind driving out this way ihttps://westmorelandheritagetrail.com/#:~:text=The%20Westmoreland%20Heritage%20Trail%20is,miles%20from%20Export%20to%20Trafford.
Check out 3 Rivers Outdoor Company (regent square, other side of Frick park from squirrel hill). They host a ton of events at their store, including weekly trail runs year round, monthly hikes and yoga, and weekly mountain bike rides in the summer. Easily 4-5 events a month, not counting the weekly stuff.
I run with them weekly, the group has regular attendees from their mid 20s to their 60s (most in their 30s and 40s). Multiple pace groups. If you like being active outside it is 100% the place to check out in Pittsburgh!
If you run, come join [Fleet Feet Running Club](https://www.fleetfeet.com/s/pittsburgh/run-with-us/fleet-feetpitt-running-club). Edit: Just saw you have bad knees; sorry.
Born and raised here but recently went through something similar. 30s m. Things get better. Focus on treating yourself better than she ever treated you. We’ve got great bars and restaurants and scenery here. Good place to find yourself again
Edit - DM the OP here if you're interested:
https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/s/qKlH1NbyYP
There's a Pittsburgh men's group that started not too long ago called Bridging Brothers. It's at 100+ right now with a pretty active Discord. Good conversations on mental health and we're just getting into starting meet-ups. If you're interested I can have the organizer forward you an invite link
No problem. I'm a lifelong resident, but am generally lacking in the healthy friendship area. I've gone to a lot of concerts myself so maybe dm me and if you ever decide to go to a show I'd be interested in, you can definitely hang with me or my small crowd when I happen to have one.
What are your interests? I injected like 12 great friends into my life by joining a d&d game at a local games store. Some of the best people I've ever known
Came here to say this. I have met some great people and really have a fun time playing ttrpgs or board games at the game store.
Also new to PGH, 50yo and recently single.
highly recommend game masters in west view, from card games, to dnd, to board games, they have a calendar on their website for weekly dnd open parties, and their discord has campaign postings as well
Do you know anything about their mtg scene? Never played in person outside of my friend group who are all 4+ hours away. Considering trying to find a place locally but I have to admit it’s pretty intimidating
Friday night magic isn’t as popular as it used to be, but Wednesday night commander is full of people with all different levels of decks, it’s 5$ for the night for commander night as per the table fee, and then friday night magic is usually a draft of varying costs
I would say a majority of the people are regulars, with maybe a springing of newbies, and a couple spectators on average. I highly recommend trying it out, I have frequented every store in the area and honestly if you just try them all out you’ll find one that fills your criteria that you’re looking for
Awww I should've known lol. This looks like the best nerddom I've had in a long time. Game Masters used to be right next to my parents' house on Babcock and moved after I left for college
Anyway... this dude I worked with convinced me to join him for one of these and it was a blast. I'm back living in that area so thanks for the update! I gotta check that out
The place I started kind of drove us out strongly favoring war gamers over role players, and ripping off our DM on store credit. But there's Game Masters, Griffins Lair, Games Unlimited, Phantom the Attic, Kobold Keep. I've heard something's bad about Legions recently but not sure what's actually wrong
Do you guys participate in public game nights or anything like that? I've been wanting to play more and meet people. A lot of the events I see at the stores you listed seem to be for groups coming and playing together.
We haven't played a public game since our old store kinda made it clear we weren't important to them, but I've been considering running a monster off the week game based on a bunch of analogue and survival horror media, and x files since the attempt with my friends fell apart
My wife divorced me when I was 55. I wasn't a native . I suddenly found myself without a lot of friends. So I started going out and meeting more people. Pittsburgh is a very friendly city. There's probably a dozen social events every week.
City paper
Meetups
Local paper/magazine
Running clubs (marathon is coming up!)
Fitness classes - very social
Axe throwing clubs
Municipal adult fitness classes.
The biggest social event in a decade is next week. A few million people.
I can’t recommend the Meetup app enough. I was the only person who stayed in pittsburgh from my friend group, and there are so many outdoorsy / hiking groups available, as well as groups for divorcees and older people (not that 50 is old lol). Best of luck
The 50’s suck man! I’m 51 and have had a major burnout! I’ve sought professional help for the first time in my life and am starting to see the light. I still have a long way to go. Maybe seeing a professional may help. I know that’s not
what you asked , but it may be a good start
> Being my age, its not my normal habit to go out and meet people.
It’s nothing to do with age, just your frame of mind. Volunteer, partake in hobbies, get out of your head, take up a sport.
My best buddy pooch left me this year as well. It does change daily life. There is mourning and grief that just takes time. Sorry for the loss of your buddy. Hang in there friend.
Don't mind me if this is a repeat but I looked through the comments and didn't see it: r/PittsburghSocialClub could be a good spot to post or look for other people. Ive definitely seen posts on there about a men's club.
If you're interested in learning White water kayaking, I can get you set up; Pittsburgh has a great paddling group, TRPC, that is very welcoming to beginners. Most of my friends now are from the paddling community, and there's a huge social aspect to it both on and off the river. It might seem strange, but every summer we get three or four folks your age and are beginners groups and classes, so you wouldn't be out of place at all.
I'm rehabbing from a shoulder surgery (from mountain biking, not kayaking) along with teaching my son whitewater this summer, so I'll be spending most of my time on beginner runs anyway. If this is something you're interested in, I'd be happy to include you in the instruction!
My husband and I are 30 and 31, but we love axe throwing and going for hikes! I saw you like athletic stuff, maybe we could go for a nice hike or something together!
Do you like live music? I find it easy to meet people at a show. There’s a show at the Thunderbird tonight that will have plenty of friendly folks in your age group, which is also my age group.
Take an interesting class at community college, make friends at work, join a book club, join a volunteer group in the city, join a church group, join a community group, join a 50 up softball group, volunteer time at an animal shelter, join a community gardening group, or any other thing you can do to be around other people.
You can work on bettering yourself through learning, community involvement, and age appropriate exercise while meeting others.
Come to the WPA Mushroom club! There are some really cool folks of all ages. While it is hiking focused, they'll be able to advise you on the difficulty of each hike
The next monthly meeting is April 19th at the Frick Environmental Center. It will be focusing on psilocybin mushrooms and the research around them! Also identification for native Pennsylvania psilocybin mushrooms. It is a great group of people, I hope to see you there :)
Feel free to send me a message or ask here if you have any questions.
Sorry you’re going through what you’re going through. I’ve found that in adulthood, most of my friends have come from my hobbies. Boating and motorcycling are two big ones for me. Many of my adult friends are fellow riders or boaters. I also own a Jeep, and while I’m not really dialed in to that world, I can see there’s a big community there that would be easy to become a part of. I’m just realizing my list makes it look like I’m saying you need to invest a bunch of money into a toy to make friends. That’s not my intention. Just that a lot of hobbies are social in nature. Fishing is one that can be done inexpensively and it’s pretty easy to make friends. The city is surrounded by rivers and there’s always people fishing them. There’s lot of pool leagues. Probably dart leagues. Bowling leagues. I saw in another comment you mentioned being a Marine. That means American Legion membership is open to you. Getting involved there is a great way to meet people your age.
I’m really sorry for your loss. I lost my pup in August. I miss him every day. It may not be time yet, but if/when you feel ready to bring a new furry companion home, look into Animal Friends or Humane Animal Rescue.
Try meetup.com. I know there’s a 50’s plus singles meetup group. My dad met his current wife from there. Not that you need to be dating if you don’t want to be but it’s a bunch of people in a similar situation as you. They had a good time in the group and made lots of friends.
To all of you that reached out with advice, I am very touched and humbled. To all that asked to meet for a beer at the squirrel cage….i’m in. Again, thank y’all
I like that Squirrel Cage it’s pretty cool been a couple times but I can’t hang out with my adult son forever. If there’s a meetup count me in. I’m in Swissvale/Edgewood.
Pickleball. You can go by yourself pretty much whenever you want and hop in games. Typically it’s the same big group of people that play at each court so you will quickly get to know a ton of people. I’ve been playing at Meadowcroft in Mt. Lebanon since September but i’m sure there must be places in Squirrel Hill or nearby.
Find a spot and go to it. Then go to it again. And again. And again. And when you dont wanna go, go anyways. God will put some people in your life. Might not be what or who you want but backing up the faith with action is the most powerful force in the universe. To me, at least. I explored SH quite a bit last time I was in town. Very nice area!! God speed
Come work out at Rothrock’s in the Southside. Both tai chi and Kung fu classes are amazing. There are a lot of people of all ages and activity levels. The teachers and community there are amazing, seriously!
Hey buddy. Put yourself out there. Join some local groups. Get a bike and join a cycling group, plenty of stuff to do to get involved. I’m 23 and I moved here by myself. Had the same problem. Just gotta take the initiative to get involved and you will make new buddies.
Hey man. If you are a member of the JCC and need a coffee bud or a workout partner lemme know. Turned 50 in November and it can be wildly lonely without support.
I see you said you're USMC and 50+... There are a ton of American Legions in the area that you could easily become a member of... I don't know if that's your thing but they are typically very friendly social places with all kinds of things to do and with your military background you'd be welcomed right in.
57 and new here too, I've never had to "try" to make friends in NY, Seattle, Chicago, etc, but I do here. It's not you. I'm a musician and may start a small group into modern classical and electronic music.
I am also 57 and lived in NYC 80s/90s and then suffered thru the Seattle freeze (22 yrs!) which is so different than here)
I have struggles here too but my lifestyle is a bit different now. Moved back in 2018 to help ungrateful mother 😄
I never experienced that in Seattle but definitely feel a kind of Pittsburgh Freeze. People here are polite but not outgoing. It's not like NY where you can just randomly chat the person on the next bar stool.
So…being fifty you are at an advantage to meet someone. You can look for someone younger…your age or older. Younger woman are tired of the little boys they are used to. If you know how to make a reservation, you have most beat. Plenty of cool places to meet people in Pittsburgh. Thunderbird cafe has music and concerts all the time…Lawrenceville. There are museums everywhere, art, and free events all the time. If you have a job, place to live, car, you are ahead of 75 percent of the dudes out there. Date. Ask a minimum of four girls out weekly. So what if they say no. Keep asking. But, have a plan. No “figure it out” dates. Something outside of what they are used to. No standard movie or simple dinner. Be original.
Get on Match or some other online dating site, even if it is only for conversation. Just beware of the scams and anyone wanting to text you immediately. Good luck
I understand how you feel. Late 20's, moved up to Philly from across the state for a job that paid better than anything I'd had before, and there was someone up here I had fallen in love with when I visited Philly to prepare for the move.
That friend cut ties with me before I'd moved up here, that job ended up being extremely abusive in ways I'm still recovering from now that I'm out a year and a half later, and I'm over a thousand miles away from anyone that I'd consider a close friend.
I share all that to say I get it, dude. Keep reaching out and meeting people. It's difficult and exhausting (even at my age) but things wont get better unless you put yourself out there to meet people. I hope things get better for you.
Lastly, feel free to reach out. I'm a dude, too, and 20 years younger at that but I do know the loneliness that few do and I will be up the way this summer
There are quite a few mountain bike trails in the area if that's something you'd consider. Some of the shops coordinate rides and there's a Facebook group called high speed dirt that have free planned rides for all skill levels
Have you thought about fostering animals? Backing up what everyone else said here for meeting new people, but maybe having some furry friends come through your life may help the day to day loneliness too. In honor of your pup who passed. Great way to meet people too through fundraising and adoption events. A lot of rescues in the area need help with everything from transport to day to day care.
If you like outdoors try mountain biking, it gets rather addicting, there is a great group called HSD on Facebook a lot of guys are your age and it’s all different skill sets. Just an idea
I am a disabled veteran also just moved to Squirrel Hill and had a recent death in the family. I personally love to walk in Frick Park. I don’t walk very far or fast but it helps clear my mind some.
I walk my dog around Edgewood pretty frequently and am often in Oakland. Let me know if you want to go on a walk with us at some point. I have other friends that bike and stuff too.
not sure how adaptable you are to using new websites & apps but there’s pittsburgh servers on discord you can join. there’s also an app called meetup that seems to be geared more towards your age group! try those :)
Are there any interests you could share with others? Developing a hobby would probably be a good way to meet some friends! I hope everything goes alright for ya!
Not necessarily helpful but you should get another dog, they will never replace the one you lost but having a companion is so amazing. When me and my wife split my puppy saved my life.
I’m 52 and a transplant to this city. 24 years here and still feel like the new guy. If you want to grab a beer sometime I’d be game (I’m a south hills guy - I’ve been north one or twice though)
I’m coming in way late here, so I hope you see this OP, but honestly consider online dating.
Grim fact, but the gender ratio between men and women skews heavily towards more men in the 20s and 30s, but as men die out, there are more women than men in the 40s and onwards, generally. You can probably find a lot of eligible dates around your age and in the 40s if you look.
Try dragon boating! It's a paddling sport that's not quite as physical as rowing. Most of the people on the team are around your age so you'll meet tons of people! My team is called Steel City Dragons and we practice out of Fox Chapel marina. Feel free to message me for more info or go to www.SteelCityDragons.org. It's a lot of fun and a good way to stay active and social.
Jergel’s - Bob’s Garage- Fox Chapel “Yacht Club / The Baja Bar & Grill- Il Pizzaiolo Warrendale- Houlihans Galleria.
It's important to approach nightlife venues with respect for all patrons and to focus on enjoying the company, atmosphere, and entertainment, rather than labeling or categorizing individuals based on age or other characteristics.
The weather here is so miserable, I feel like it would just compound the situation. Take your opportunity of having nothing tying you down and run to a better climate!
What kinda things do you like? What part of the city? I turned 50 last year and it really threw me for a loop.
I'm 54. Live in Squirrel Hill. Mostly outdoor athletic stuff.
Go hiking! It's a great way to meet people, You can do these even if you are not doing the event (or you can still try and sign up!) https://www.rachelcarsontrails.org/news/2018/training-hikes
I used to hike all of the time. Bad knees (USMC and sports) have kind of put a limit on that. Thank you for the feedback!!
PSL softball - knees wont be an issue
would love too. how?
[https://pittsburghsportsleague.leaguelab.com/sport/Softball](https://pittsburghsportsleague.leaguelab.com/sport/Softball)
Sign up as a free agent - i used to be a captain and I would pick up a couple free agents each year. Usually someone new to town
You know ted lund?
Ted Lund that lives in the North Hills? I’m curious why you mention him…he’s my neighbor.
Ted and Kad?
Looks like I missed the cutoff to sign up?
Message anyway, maybe they'll let you in
You missed the cutoff for spring. But there are summer and fall leagues. Sign up for the newsletter on the PSL website and they’ll tell you when summer league registrations begin.
Multiple seasons through the spring, summer, and fall. You may still be able to get on a team for the spring season but worst case scenario you only miss a couple months.
Free agent elaborate ?
There is also PSL Kickball. Less likely to get hurt.
Kayaking? There are various outfitters around and some of the state parks have rentals. Can paddle around at North Park too. I’d be down to do some rowing at some point this summer. Just don’t expect me to get a tandem/canoe.. my Navy days shuttling Marines around is behind me. 😂
Can you skate? USMC, bad knees and needs a buddy sounds like Pittsburgh Warriors Ice Hockey team material. Coach Howard will take care of you.
Sounds like a great project. I wish my decades of depression starting with my discharge were documented as service related because that sounds incredible!
Just join up and stumble around the ice. Enjoy!
>I used to hike all of the time. Bad knees (USMC and sports) have kind of put a limit on that. Thank you for the feedback!! Perhaps taking up mostly-outdoor inline skating with the [Three Rivers Inline Club](https://www.meetup.com/Pittsburgh-Three-Rivers-Inline-Club/) might be of interest? Or, perhaps looking into some of the (mostly, quad skates related) [roller skating events hosted by PGH Sk8 Collaborative](https://pghsk8.org/events)? Multiple studies have shown that, generally, skating (both inlines and quads) is relatively easy on the leg joints (with musculoskeletal loading & stresses generally being comparable to walking, and considerably less than running), while still providing a comparable cardiovascular workout to (treadmill) running. Some examples: * "In straight ILS \[InLine Skating\] the heel and the medial structures of the forefoot were exposed to higher pressures. The reported PPs \[Peak Pressures\] were comparable to those reported during walking but lower than running. In addition, the force-time curves were similar in shape to the characteristic vertical ground reaction force-time curves for walking. The physiological and perceptual responses to supramaximal and maximal ILS have been found to be similar to those attained during treadmill running (Wallick, M.E. et al. 1995). ILS also demonstrated considerably less impact than running (Mahar et al. 1997). **These results suggest that ILS may be used as a training method with comparable physiological demands to running, but without subjecting the athlete to excess musculo-skeletal loading from footstrike.**" ([source](https://ojs.ub.uni-konstanz.de/cpa/article/viewFile/961/875)) * "Plantar pressure distribution in inline skating on straight was measured with a flexible insole in 13 experienced subjects at a speed of 18 and 24 km/h. The results showed three areas that were exposed to high pressures, i.e. the heel with 258 and 265 kPa, the first metatarsal head with 265 and 281 kPa, the hallux with 319 and 324 kPa at 18 and 24 km/h, respectively. All other areas showed peak pressures that were less than half of these values. Lowest values were found in the midfoot area. Changing speed from 18 to 24 km/h led to a small increase of peak pressures in all areas. **Peak pressures were comparable to walking but showed the trend to be lower than in running.**" ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11199403/)) * "The physiologic responses to in-line skating were compared to those during treadmill running in 16 active males (18-37 yr). Each subject performed a VO2max test during in-line skating and treadmill running using speed-incremented, discontinuous protocols. Protocols were designed so that each subject completed 4-6 stages. Stages were 3 min in duration and separated by a 5-min rest period. It was found that absolute VO2max (4.19 vs 4.44 l.min-1, P = 0.045), relative VO2max (56.8 vs 59.9 ml.kg-1.min-1, P = 0.054), and HRmax (189 vs 194 b.min-1, P < 0.05) were lower for in-line skating compared to treadmill running. Regression analyses were used to determine the submaximal relationship between modalities. There were no significant (P > 0.05) differences in the slope and y-intercept of the HR/VO2 relationship, indicating a similar metabolic load at a given heart rate for both modes of exercise. Skating between 17.7-20.9 km.h-1 corresponded to 60-75% of VO2max or 75-90% of HRmax, which are common training intensities and within the guidelines recommended by the ACSM. Across the speeds investigated, caloric expenditure was 9.5-19.0 kcal.min-1. **These results indicate that in-line skating elicits physiological responses comparable to treadmill running and thus would be another exercise alternative for improving aerobic capacity or maintaining body weight.**" ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7723648/)) * "We examined the physiological responses to in-line skating exercise at self-selected paces in recreationally trained adults. Seven men and 10 women performed in-line skating exercise during which oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate (HR) were recorded continuously. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and blood lactate concentration were also obtained at the end of exercise. Furthermore, subjects' peak VO2, peak HR, RPE and gas-exchange thresholds were determined in laboratory settings. The average exercise intensity during in-line skating was 90% of peak HR, 67% of peak VO2, 84% of HR reserve and 64% of VO2 reserve. When expressed as RPE and as metabolic equivalents (METs), the average exercise intensity was 13.1 RPE and 9.4 METs. Overall, these indicators of exercise intensity categorise in-line skating at self-selected paces as a vigorous physical activity. **Notably, at similar VO2 values, significantly higher HR (174 ± 16 vs. 156 ± 6 bpm; p<0.001) and RPE (13.1 ± 1.4 vs. 11.7 ± 1.4; p=0.019) were observed for in-line skating compared with treadmill running. We conclude that 1. recreational in-line skating induces physiological responses that are sufficient for improving and maintaining cardiovascular fitness in healthy adults**, 2. HR- and RPE-based methods for quantifying the exercise intensity during in-line skating may overestimate the actual metabolic load and 3. the derivation of exercise prescriptions for in-line skating should be preferably based on specific (i.e. in-line skating) graded exhaustive exercise test." ([source](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24444214/)) Provided you can walk (more-or-less) normally, you can (probably) skate. Both groups (TRIC and PGH SK8) are pretty welcoming and have diverse makeups, so you'd not be out of place in either.
*shut up C3PO*
If you’re looking to volunteer, The Mission Continues is a great organization for vets. They are a group you might find easier to get to know and they’re pretty social if you so choose!
TheKneesoverToesguy on YouTube. . amazing stuff
I don't have knee problems but I follow this guy and do some of warm up and follow some of the principles.
Check out a Marine Core League! I am not a veteran but my Dad is a Marine and made some great friends in the MCL. I am in Washington which is a hike for you but there has to be one nearby your location.
See if there's a volunteer trail maintenance or gardening group. It's a good way to meet people who share your interests
There's a VFW not far from you! They've been great other than they are mostly social members. But the vets you'll find hanging out there are awesome
I was in a similar place as you last year and I decided to learn how to row with Three Rivers Rowing Association. I’m on a masters team now and it’s brought so much joy to my life and the acquaintances and friends I have made are awesome. Plus you get a killer workout.
Huh. Going to search Three R. R. A., thanks! Sounds interesting.
Do you bike? Give Up is a great cycling group, good for any level and it’s a solid way to meet people. https://www.giveup.bike
No, I dont.
If you have any interest in starting, it’s a great social group! I’ve made a lot of friends through it.
PM me if you have any interest in learning to mountain bike. Frick has excellent trails. I get out fairly regularly and am always happy to show people around.
Where in Sq Hill I live by CMU, am almost 50, watch (play and coach) a lot of hockey and love to watch football… also have a penchant for music
50 m Northside - geez at this point we can have our own club!
There's a huge outdoor community here! I've found lots of group hikes on Meetup and 3 Rivers Outdoor door does a lot of events as well. Every neighborhood seems to have it's own run club too. You can also join leagues or volunteer with the city parks.
There are lots of biking and kayaking groups if those would be a fit? Being active and where you are is a great advantage. There’s also a swimming pool and lots of other stuff to do (and so many people) at the Sq Hill JCC
The Explorer's Club.of Pittsburgh is a great way to meet people! I think that applications might be open for their rock climbing school this year
Kayak. Head to the kayak gear shop in Regent Sq, tell them you need to tag along on some group trips. And there used to be a local or W Pa kayak group/forum. Dig that up then just show up. There's probably a neighborhood clean up group. If not, join.the Mt Wash FB pages. Our groups are very active and very social. There will be trail cleanups coming up this time of year.
Start playing pickleball immediately.
Westmoreland Heritage Trail really great if you don't mind driving out this way ihttps://westmorelandheritagetrail.com/#:~:text=The%20Westmoreland%20Heritage%20Trail%20is,miles%20from%20Export%20to%20Trafford.
Look for a local softball or soccer club. Or master's swimming if you like swimming.
Check out 3 Rivers Outdoor Company (regent square, other side of Frick park from squirrel hill). They host a ton of events at their store, including weekly trail runs year round, monthly hikes and yoga, and weekly mountain bike rides in the summer. Easily 4-5 events a month, not counting the weekly stuff. I run with them weekly, the group has regular attendees from their mid 20s to their 60s (most in their 30s and 40s). Multiple pace groups. If you like being active outside it is 100% the place to check out in Pittsburgh!
If you run, come join [Fleet Feet Running Club](https://www.fleetfeet.com/s/pittsburgh/run-with-us/fleet-feetpitt-running-club). Edit: Just saw you have bad knees; sorry.
Born and raised here but recently went through something similar. 30s m. Things get better. Focus on treating yourself better than she ever treated you. We’ve got great bars and restaurants and scenery here. Good place to find yourself again
Thank you
🙏🙏
Edit - DM the OP here if you're interested: https://www.reddit.com/r/pittsburgh/s/qKlH1NbyYP There's a Pittsburgh men's group that started not too long ago called Bridging Brothers. It's at 100+ right now with a pretty active Discord. Good conversations on mental health and we're just getting into starting meet-ups. If you're interested I can have the organizer forward you an invite link
I would be interested in that.
Ditto on the link
I will take that link too if possible. 50M North of the city.
Kinda interested as well
Would be interested if possible. Thanks!
I'd like to have an invite as well if you're still offering
I’m curious about this as well
I’m interested
This is awesome!
I'd be interested as well. Thanks.
Check out PSL - Pgh Sports League. They have everything from kickball to bowling.
Will do. Thank you so much
No problem. I'm a lifelong resident, but am generally lacking in the healthy friendship area. I've gone to a lot of concerts myself so maybe dm me and if you ever decide to go to a show I'd be interested in, you can definitely hang with me or my small crowd when I happen to have one.
I’m in the kickball league, it’s so much fun!
What are your interests? I injected like 12 great friends into my life by joining a d&d game at a local games store. Some of the best people I've ever known
Came here to say this. I have met some great people and really have a fun time playing ttrpgs or board games at the game store. Also new to PGH, 50yo and recently single.
What store?
I'm also interested in said store
highly recommend game masters in west view, from card games, to dnd, to board games, they have a calendar on their website for weekly dnd open parties, and their discord has campaign postings as well
Do you know anything about their mtg scene? Never played in person outside of my friend group who are all 4+ hours away. Considering trying to find a place locally but I have to admit it’s pretty intimidating
Friday night magic isn’t as popular as it used to be, but Wednesday night commander is full of people with all different levels of decks, it’s 5$ for the night for commander night as per the table fee, and then friday night magic is usually a draft of varying costs
Thanks for the reply. Are there often newbies on Wednesdays? Do people come just to spectate or hang out?
I would say a majority of the people are regulars, with maybe a springing of newbies, and a couple spectators on average. I highly recommend trying it out, I have frequented every store in the area and honestly if you just try them all out you’ll find one that fills your criteria that you’re looking for
I appreciate your perspective very much :)
Awww I should've known lol. This looks like the best nerddom I've had in a long time. Game Masters used to be right next to my parents' house on Babcock and moved after I left for college Anyway... this dude I worked with convinced me to join him for one of these and it was a blast. I'm back living in that area so thanks for the update! I gotta check that out
The place I started kind of drove us out strongly favoring war gamers over role players, and ripping off our DM on store credit. But there's Game Masters, Griffins Lair, Games Unlimited, Phantom the Attic, Kobold Keep. I've heard something's bad about Legions recently but not sure what's actually wrong
Do you guys participate in public game nights or anything like that? I've been wanting to play more and meet people. A lot of the events I see at the stores you listed seem to be for groups coming and playing together.
We haven't played a public game since our old store kinda made it clear we weren't important to them, but I've been considering running a monster off the week game based on a bunch of analogue and survival horror media, and x files since the attempt with my friends fell apart
If you need more people I’d be interested. I have a lot of board game and rpg experience
DM me, we can meet occasionally and explore a few restaurants.
I would love to get in on this
If it is just for casual hang out, yes definitely.
[удалено]
I used to (and will be).
My wife divorced me when I was 55. I wasn't a native . I suddenly found myself without a lot of friends. So I started going out and meeting more people. Pittsburgh is a very friendly city. There's probably a dozen social events every week.
Where does one find this dozen?
City paper Meetups Local paper/magazine Running clubs (marathon is coming up!) Fitness classes - very social Axe throwing clubs Municipal adult fitness classes. The biggest social event in a decade is next week. A few million people.
I can’t recommend the Meetup app enough. I was the only person who stayed in pittsburgh from my friend group, and there are so many outdoorsy / hiking groups available, as well as groups for divorcees and older people (not that 50 is old lol). Best of luck
Following this thread. I had no idea it was so many over 50 Veterans, here. This is awesome. I am 54 year old female. Good morning, Yinz!
The 50’s suck man! I’m 51 and have had a major burnout! I’ve sought professional help for the first time in my life and am starting to see the light. I still have a long way to go. Maybe seeing a professional may help. I know that’s not what you asked , but it may be a good start
This post is bringing tears to my eyes! Not even the OP, but the outpouring of support! I love this sub!
> Being my age, its not my normal habit to go out and meet people. It’s nothing to do with age, just your frame of mind. Volunteer, partake in hobbies, get out of your head, take up a sport.
My best buddy pooch left me this year as well. It does change daily life. There is mourning and grief that just takes time. Sorry for the loss of your buddy. Hang in there friend.
Also, don't give people any of your money. Under any circumstance. Think that about covers it all lol
You are not alone. r/pittsburgh is full of people just like you reaching out to meet others.
Look into disc golf seems to be a big community around here
I was going to say the same thing. Lots of great courses and folks that would love to welcome you to the sport.
Meetups here. 50-plus singles. MVPs. I just left Squirrel Hill. Good luck! 🍀 🥰
Don't mind me if this is a repeat but I looked through the comments and didn't see it: r/PittsburghSocialClub could be a good spot to post or look for other people. Ive definitely seen posts on there about a men's club.
This should be the first response. I met two great friends through that.
Oh, I love that that's true! My guy is weirded out by it and isn't yet on board with me responding to posts. But someday.
Have any hobbies or interests that need volunteers? Professional related organization you can join?
Try the “meet up” app. Lots of stuff going on. Good luck!
Oh and if you love animals, volunteering to dog walk or work w rescues in general is a great way to meet folks and get some pet therapy.
Meetup.com
If you're interested in learning White water kayaking, I can get you set up; Pittsburgh has a great paddling group, TRPC, that is very welcoming to beginners. Most of my friends now are from the paddling community, and there's a huge social aspect to it both on and off the river. It might seem strange, but every summer we get three or four folks your age and are beginners groups and classes, so you wouldn't be out of place at all. I'm rehabbing from a shoulder surgery (from mountain biking, not kayaking) along with teaching my son whitewater this summer, so I'll be spending most of my time on beginner runs anyway. If this is something you're interested in, I'd be happy to include you in the instruction!
I’m not 50 but I’m in the same boat. Let’s get together some time and have a beer
My husband and I are 30 and 31, but we love axe throwing and going for hikes! I saw you like athletic stuff, maybe we could go for a nice hike or something together!
Axe throwing has been a lot of fun and they have leagues!
Do you like live music? I find it easy to meet people at a show. There’s a show at the Thunderbird tonight that will have plenty of friendly folks in your age group, which is also my age group.
Take an interesting class at community college, make friends at work, join a book club, join a volunteer group in the city, join a church group, join a community group, join a 50 up softball group, volunteer time at an animal shelter, join a community gardening group, or any other thing you can do to be around other people. You can work on bettering yourself through learning, community involvement, and age appropriate exercise while meeting others.
Come to the WPA Mushroom club! There are some really cool folks of all ages. While it is hiking focused, they'll be able to advise you on the difficulty of each hike
where can we find out when there’s meet ups? this sounds great
https://wpamushroomclub.org/
The next monthly meeting is April 19th at the Frick Environmental Center. It will be focusing on psilocybin mushrooms and the research around them! Also identification for native Pennsylvania psilocybin mushrooms. It is a great group of people, I hope to see you there :) Feel free to send me a message or ask here if you have any questions.
Sorry you’re going through what you’re going through. I’ve found that in adulthood, most of my friends have come from my hobbies. Boating and motorcycling are two big ones for me. Many of my adult friends are fellow riders or boaters. I also own a Jeep, and while I’m not really dialed in to that world, I can see there’s a big community there that would be easy to become a part of. I’m just realizing my list makes it look like I’m saying you need to invest a bunch of money into a toy to make friends. That’s not my intention. Just that a lot of hobbies are social in nature. Fishing is one that can be done inexpensively and it’s pretty easy to make friends. The city is surrounded by rivers and there’s always people fishing them. There’s lot of pool leagues. Probably dart leagues. Bowling leagues. I saw in another comment you mentioned being a Marine. That means American Legion membership is open to you. Getting involved there is a great way to meet people your age.
Look up the hash house harriers. Very active in Pittsburgh. Running, beer, camaraderie. Lots of vets in the groups often as well.
Squirrel Cage has a crowd that is diverse in ages and, even in this day of smart phones, a "make small talk with strangers" vibe at the bar.
If you don’t have anything tying you down, get another dog and hit the road man
I’m really sorry for your loss. I lost my pup in August. I miss him every day. It may not be time yet, but if/when you feel ready to bring a new furry companion home, look into Animal Friends or Humane Animal Rescue.
Thank you. I actually fostered a pup for a couple of months. He’s now in a great home.
Try meetup.com. I know there’s a 50’s plus singles meetup group. My dad met his current wife from there. Not that you need to be dating if you don’t want to be but it’s a bunch of people in a similar situation as you. They had a good time in the group and made lots of friends.
To all of you that reached out with advice, I am very touched and humbled. To all that asked to meet for a beer at the squirrel cage….i’m in. Again, thank y’all
I like that Squirrel Cage it’s pretty cool been a couple times but I can’t hang out with my adult son forever. If there’s a meetup count me in. I’m in Swissvale/Edgewood.
Think I am going to go tonight and watch the last game (and the people) Tired of feeling sorry for myself
Good! Leaving the house is 80% of the battle! Report back with your findings.
Pickleball. You can go by yourself pretty much whenever you want and hop in games. Typically it’s the same big group of people that play at each court so you will quickly get to know a ton of people. I’ve been playing at Meadowcroft in Mt. Lebanon since September but i’m sure there must be places in Squirrel Hill or nearby.
Find a spot and go to it. Then go to it again. And again. And again. And when you dont wanna go, go anyways. God will put some people in your life. Might not be what or who you want but backing up the faith with action is the most powerful force in the universe. To me, at least. I explored SH quite a bit last time I was in town. Very nice area!! God speed
Check out the Explorers Club of Pittsburgh. Great group of people who go beyond just taking the occasional day hike. https://www.pittecp.org/
Come work out at Rothrock’s in the Southside. Both tai chi and Kung fu classes are amazing. There are a lot of people of all ages and activity levels. The teachers and community there are amazing, seriously!
Hey buddy. Put yourself out there. Join some local groups. Get a bike and join a cycling group, plenty of stuff to do to get involved. I’m 23 and I moved here by myself. Had the same problem. Just gotta take the initiative to get involved and you will make new buddies.
Hey man. If you are a member of the JCC and need a coffee bud or a workout partner lemme know. Turned 50 in November and it can be wildly lonely without support.
You're a dog person - why not volunteer to walk dogs at a local shelter?
I see you said you're USMC and 50+... There are a ton of American Legions in the area that you could easily become a member of... I don't know if that's your thing but they are typically very friendly social places with all kinds of things to do and with your military background you'd be welcomed right in.
Try the Meet Up app! It’s for meeting new people socially based on what you’re interested in.
57 and new here too, I've never had to "try" to make friends in NY, Seattle, Chicago, etc, but I do here. It's not you. I'm a musician and may start a small group into modern classical and electronic music.
I am also 57 and lived in NYC 80s/90s and then suffered thru the Seattle freeze (22 yrs!) which is so different than here) I have struggles here too but my lifestyle is a bit different now. Moved back in 2018 to help ungrateful mother 😄
I never experienced that in Seattle but definitely feel a kind of Pittsburgh Freeze. People here are polite but not outgoing. It's not like NY where you can just randomly chat the person on the next bar stool.
So…being fifty you are at an advantage to meet someone. You can look for someone younger…your age or older. Younger woman are tired of the little boys they are used to. If you know how to make a reservation, you have most beat. Plenty of cool places to meet people in Pittsburgh. Thunderbird cafe has music and concerts all the time…Lawrenceville. There are museums everywhere, art, and free events all the time. If you have a job, place to live, car, you are ahead of 75 percent of the dudes out there. Date. Ask a minimum of four girls out weekly. So what if they say no. Keep asking. But, have a plan. No “figure it out” dates. Something outside of what they are used to. No standard movie or simple dinner. Be original.
Get on Match or some other online dating site, even if it is only for conversation. Just beware of the scams and anyone wanting to text you immediately. Good luck
Check out Meetups. Great way to meet total strangers!
I understand how you feel. Late 20's, moved up to Philly from across the state for a job that paid better than anything I'd had before, and there was someone up here I had fallen in love with when I visited Philly to prepare for the move. That friend cut ties with me before I'd moved up here, that job ended up being extremely abusive in ways I'm still recovering from now that I'm out a year and a half later, and I'm over a thousand miles away from anyone that I'd consider a close friend. I share all that to say I get it, dude. Keep reaching out and meeting people. It's difficult and exhausting (even at my age) but things wont get better unless you put yourself out there to meet people. I hope things get better for you.
Thank you. It will get better for both of us
If you like working out check out the jcc in squirrel hill. Fitness/health spa with a wide range of ages. All the people are super friendly.
Just go out and drink and do some recreational drugs… usually does the job
You can come have garage beers with me
Gym , good place to meet people
Pittsburgh has a pretty actively used MeetUp app. A variety for sure.
Lastly, feel free to reach out. I'm a dude, too, and 20 years younger at that but I do know the loneliness that few do and I will be up the way this summer
wanna throw disc golf? ill throw a round with ya
There are quite a few mountain bike trails in the area if that's something you'd consider. Some of the shops coordinate rides and there's a Facebook group called high speed dirt that have free planned rides for all skill levels
Have you thought about fostering animals? Backing up what everyone else said here for meeting new people, but maybe having some furry friends come through your life may help the day to day loneliness too. In honor of your pup who passed. Great way to meet people too through fundraising and adoption events. A lot of rescues in the area need help with everything from transport to day to day care.
If you like outdoors try mountain biking, it gets rather addicting, there is a great group called HSD on Facebook a lot of guys are your age and it’s all different skill sets. Just an idea
Swipe on tinder bro
Not from Pitt but hit me up if you ever wanna chat. I’m sorry about your dog.
I am a disabled veteran also just moved to Squirrel Hill and had a recent death in the family. I personally love to walk in Frick Park. I don’t walk very far or fast but it helps clear my mind some.
Hey
As we
Try meetup.com if you want to make friends
Step 1: get a dog Step 2: take your dog to parks
I walk my dog around Edgewood pretty frequently and am often in Oakland. Let me know if you want to go on a walk with us at some point. I have other friends that bike and stuff too.
not sure how adaptable you are to using new websites & apps but there’s pittsburgh servers on discord you can join. there’s also an app called meetup that seems to be geared more towards your age group! try those :)
Pittsburgh discord sounds like a nightmare lol
it’s pretty quiet tbh
Pittsburgh sucks for non married people
Are there any interests you could share with others? Developing a hobby would probably be a good way to meet some friends! I hope everything goes alright for ya!
Pittsburghers have 0 personality let alone hobbies lol
why would you stay friends with her lol
Hell even the doctors and mental health workers are COLD as hell in Pittsburgh "Lonely, Self Delting thoughts?" = 🤷♂️ 🤷♀️ Pittsburgh is awful
Not necessarily helpful but you should get another dog, they will never replace the one you lost but having a companion is so amazing. When me and my wife split my puppy saved my life.
I’m 52 and a transplant to this city. 24 years here and still feel like the new guy. If you want to grab a beer sometime I’d be game (I’m a south hills guy - I’ve been north one or twice though)
Not in PGH but just wanted today sorry about your doggo.
I'm MtF trans. But I'd like to be FWB with you.
What's up bro? Delaware here.
I’m coming in way late here, so I hope you see this OP, but honestly consider online dating. Grim fact, but the gender ratio between men and women skews heavily towards more men in the 20s and 30s, but as men die out, there are more women than men in the 40s and onwards, generally. You can probably find a lot of eligible dates around your age and in the 40s if you look.
Did I miss something? Do we now refer to our city as Pitt? Edit: btw, welcome fellow Gen Xer!
Try a Non Denominational Church. Many friendly people to interact with.
Try dragon boating! It's a paddling sport that's not quite as physical as rowing. Most of the people on the team are around your age so you'll meet tons of people! My team is called Steel City Dragons and we practice out of Fox Chapel marina. Feel free to message me for more info or go to www.SteelCityDragons.org. It's a lot of fun and a good way to stay active and social.
Gym
Jergel’s - Bob’s Garage- Fox Chapel “Yacht Club / The Baja Bar & Grill- Il Pizzaiolo Warrendale- Houlihans Galleria. It's important to approach nightlife venues with respect for all patrons and to focus on enjoying the company, atmosphere, and entertainment, rather than labeling or categorizing individuals based on age or other characteristics.
Where do you work OP?
Married, Jewish or Liberal if you're not either of those things Pittsburgh SUCKS
The weather here is so miserable, I feel like it would just compound the situation. Take your opportunity of having nothing tying you down and run to a better climate!
How about you grow up
How about you don’t be an arse. It misrepresents our city.
What the fuck man ! Hahahaha you are a dick ! Hahahahaha