James Cooke, 57, Boston Symphony Orchestra violinist
What’s your workout regimen?
It varies with the season, but I particularly like trail running. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve been going to a gym more, using the elliptical. This winter I’m trying to work out five or six days a week, maybe four of them running. With the snowy weather, that’s been tough.
How far do you typically run?
I like exploring new trails. Near where I live [Newton-Auburndale], there are a tremendous number of them. Generally, I’ll run 5-6 miles, sometimes by myself but often with one or two friends.
You cofounded the Run to Tanglewood relay race and have run several Boston Marathons. Do you train differently for these events?
For the last marathon I ran, in 2008, I trained with my friend [BSO bassist] Todd Seeber, doing 18- to 19-mile trail runs once a week. Having had some back and hip issues recently, I’ve also realized you can’t catch up with your younger self.
Were you an athletic kid?
I’ve been running since my freshman year in high school: cross-country and track. I certainly wasn’t a star athlete, though. However, unlike many, I’ve always enjoyed the training process. As musicians, we have to be fairly disciplined in our lives — to imagine being in the moment and creating something, yet putting in a lot of practice time too.
How do you find the time to work out regularly?
My wife and I are empty-nesters, so that’s been easier lately. Like most musicians, though, I’m not an early-morning person. I tend to exercise in the afternoon, between rehearsals and concerts. I’ll also run at night. You put on the headlamp, get on Comm. Ave., and you’re good to go.
Interview was condensed and edited. Joseph P. Kahn can be reached at josephpkahn@gmail.com.