Thread: Training in to 50's and 60's

It's basically the same as training in your 30's. You just have to be really careful. Build a good base before you start doing anything crazy.

I'm still lifting at 53. For me, size gains are next to impossible, but strength gains are still happening.

Originally Posted by Triple Threat

I'm still lifting at 53. For me, size gains are next to impossible, but strength gains are still happening.

What he said.

Both TT and I have been lifting for years though. Someone new to it, that takes it slowly, very possibly will add bone density and muscle mass. I believe there was a study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine that showed previously non-weight trained 80 year olds gaining appreciable mass doing leg extensions 3 times a week.

I'm 53 and didn't begin training until I was almost 50. Gains in both size and strength are possible, but slow. For me, the larger muscle groups, legs and back specifically, are responding best. It helps that I don't have major weaknesses in those areas to work around. With two problem rotator cuffs, chest and shoulder day does not provide a very intense workout. But overall, I am making gains - slowly.

Injury must be prevented at all costs - especially soft tissue injuries. Us geezers don't heal very fast. So I design my workouts with that in mind. For instance, I would never curl a BB, DBs only. I don't even bench BBs. Protecting the knees, shoulders, hips and elbows is paramount to me. I think it is more important with older folks to warm up extremely well and use ice after workouts as needed.

Even with those caveats, I still believe in using the big compound lifts, if physically possible. Deadlifts and squats are my two favorite movements. I also listen to my body when it asks for an extra day or two of rest.

Obviously, the nutrition plan must be spot on if any gains are going to be made at the age of 50 and beyond.

While I haven't gained a lot of muscle from working out, I have transformed my body tremendously by reducing my bodyfat from over 30% to less than 15%. My life has improved in many ways since I started pumping iron. Weight training has truly become a fountain of youth for me. I highly recommend it.

My knowlegdge pales in comparison to most on here, but hopefully this reply will provide some encouragement. Tell him to go for it - he'll be glad he did!

Nice post, Salmon. Welcome aboard

Originally Posted by depaul

Nice post, Salmon. Welcome aboard

I concur. Good first impression.

Nice post Salmon. You should start a journal.

Its good to see you here mate and thank you for taking the time to post on my thread!