1. EachPod

Lean Bulk to Gain Muscle at 68 Despite Shoulder Issues | Ep 329

Author
Philip Pape, Evidence-Based Nutrition Coach & Fat Loss Expert
Published
Mon 02 Jun 2025
Episode Link
https://witsandweights.com/329

Join WWPU (Wits & Weights Physique University) to get a tailored nutrition and training system to lose fat and build muscle (at any age) - first two weeks free:
https://witsandweights.com/physique

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"You're too old to build muscle." 

"With injuries like that, you should stop lifting weights." 

Have you heard these discouraging statements from doctors, trainers, or well-meaning friends, either yourself or older adults in your life?

We are shattering these harmful myths through the journey of my client Beth, who at 68 years old is successfully building muscle despite dealing with a significant shoulder injury.

If you've been told that age means you can't build muscle anymore or that injuries mean you should abandon your fitness goals, this episode will change your perspective.

Beth reveals exactly how she's adapting her training around medical limitations, why prioritizing muscle growth before fat loss has been revolutionary, and the specific techniques allowing her to gain muscle despite challenges that might sideline others.

Main Takeaways:

  • Why building muscle is not only possible but essential after 60
  • How to adapt training around injuries without sacrificing progress
  • The mindset shift needed when transitioning from years of dieting to muscle building
  • Why strength training becomes more important, not less, as we age
  • How to balance strength training with other activities like cycling

Timestamps: 

0:01 - Building muscle after 60 despite shoulder injuries  
4:50 - History with "traditional" dieting (Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem, etc.)
6:53 - How thyroid medication changes affected her metabolism 
15:49 - Dealing with shoulder injuries (SLAP lesion and rotator cuff issues)
19:21 - Training modifications for shoulder limitations 
24:44 - Psychological benefits of being strong at any age 
26:56 - How she gained mostly muscle and dropped body fat without having to lose weight 
31:01 - How strength training enhances her cycling performance 
35:02 - Strategies for balancing strength training, biking, and recovery 
46:54 - Advice for older adults hesitant about strength training 
47:58 - Beth's 94-year-old mother who lifts weights

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