How to get dad to start lifting?
My Dad is 63 years old and is morbidly obese. I'm really concerned about his health. His only real health problem was a stomach ulcer 8 years ago. He doesn't smoke and hardly drinks. He just sits on the couch everyday after work. He is flat out refusing to go to the gym, which I'm putting down to body image issues. I've had a few health related deaths to friends and relatives over the last year which is making this problem even more pressing for me personally.
We have a stationary bike in our house and I've finally got him to use it. He's used it for the past 4 days, which seems like nothing but is a major step for him.
My main question is how do I get him into the gym to start an LP? He thinks lifting is a load of shit and is a waste of time. He hurt his back a few weeks ago which is bothering him and, due to how he describes the pain, I have a good feeling deadlifting will solve it for him. Should I get him to stick with the bike for the next few months (increasing resistance and minutes spent on the bike), cut out junk food, eat healthier with less calories, let his weight come down and then get him to transition to the gym? Would giving him Barbell Prescription now be a good idea? How did your relatives or yourself decide to get to the gym, if you only started lifting after 50?
I am really worried about him due to the 63 years of mistakes that he's shoved down his throat. What annoys me is that he's already pretty strong (grew up on a farm) and I know he'll actually enjoy getting stronger.
Thanks for the responses.