We Were Wrong About Weights (And You Probably Are Too) - Ep 022

🎙️ Episode 22: "I thought weights were for men."

That's what Linda believed her entire life. With both knees replaced, both shoulders replaced, and her spine fused from T11 down, she'd never considered herself a "gym person."

Her friend Mary, also a retired nurse, felt the same way. After surviving breast cancer, open heart surgery, and a carotid artery procedure all within nine months, exercise was the last thing on her mind.

But three years ago, everything changed...

After Mary had a fall that left her with staples in her head, they reluctantly agreed to try a new exercise class "just a couple of times" to help with balance.

Today? Linda deadlifts 80 pounds and squats 90 pounds. Mary walks up stairs without holding the rail for the first time in six years. Both have gained muscle mass and say they feel stronger than they have in decades.

In this incredible conversation, you'll discover:

✓ How they went from barely lifting 5 pounds to their impressive strength today 
✓ The specific adaptations that made strength training possible with their limitations
✓ Real-life benefits they never expected (from vacuuming to lifting husbands!) ✓ Why the class environment was crucial to their success 
✓ What their families thought about their transformation 
✓ Their advice for anyone who thinks they're "too old" or "not a gym person"

This isn't just a fitness success story - it's proof that your limiting beliefs about age, health conditions, and what's possible for your body might be completely wrong.

If you've ever thought "I'm too old," "I have too many health problems," or "I'm just not cut out for this" - Linda and Mary's story will change your mind.

You don't need to be a "gym person" to benefit from strength training 
Starting small with proper adaptations is the key to success 
Community and support make all the difference 
Age and health challenges don't disqualify you from getting stronger 
It's never too late to start, but starting sooner is always better

Remember: You're never too old to lift.

For the full show notes page, and for all the resources mentioned in the episode, go to:
https://nevertoooldtolift.com/podcast022/

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Interview with Betsy:
Mary and Linda are part of Betsy's amazing over-55 strength class. I had the chance to interview their trainer, Betsy, about what makes a strengthening program truly effective and how anyone can get started, regardless of their fitness background.
You can find the full episode with Betsy here: https://nevertoooldtolift.com/podcast018/

🔗 Free Strength Training Masterclass: https://nevertoooldtolift.com/masterclass
📘 Free Never Too Old to Lift eBook:
https://nevertoooldtolift.com/ebook
🏋🏾‍♀️ List of recommended gym equipment and books
https://nevertoooldtolift.com/resources
📖 Paperback version of Never Too Old to Lift from Amazon - https://geni.us/ntotlbook
👥 Stronger for Life - Online Course and Community
https://nevertoooldtolift.com/course
🏋️‍♀️ See me for an in-person physiotherapy appointment
https://christileyphysiotherapy.com/