Originally Posted by
Bill Puckett
So I've been wondering at what point aging overcomes training progress. I doubt that I can keep getting stronger forever, AND, I'm getting older.
Background. Started lifting at age 71, currently 72 1/2. 6' 4" tall, weight 235 lbs. Current programming is a 3 day per week HLM program from Andy Baker that I've been following for about 8 months with success. Overall numbers aren't overwhelming but I'm still pushing weekly PRs. Current Squat is 265 (x3 reps), bench 185 (x5 reps), deadlift 285 (x3 reps). Each weekly "heavy day" I increase by 1 rep from 3 reps up to a max of 5 reps, then add 5 lbs @ 3 reps the next week. Slow but steady progress without getting too beat up. 2-3 back off sets after the heavy work set. OHP is temporarily on hold following medical advice to allow inflammation from a torn labrum to go away (very slowly, I might add).
I've not yet found what my limits on the lifts are, so I'm plugging away, making steady progress. I'm conscious of getting older, not in a worrisome way, but I'm wondering when/if the effects of aging will begin to reduce the capacity for lifting, curious to see when/where I will max out.
Are there studies that address this issue? Dr. Sully?