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January 6, 2026 54 mins

Is it really never too late to start strength training – even if you're in your 80s and you've never touched a barbell? You'll hear from journalist Clare Johnston of the "Rebuilding Mum and Dad" project, about what happens when older adults begin true progressive strength training from scratch – and why the results can feel straight-up miraculous (without being magic).

Clare shares how her parents started lifting in their 80s after years of mobility decline, osteoporosis concerns, and "we've tried everything" frustration. Together, they built a simple garage setup, worked with a coach remotely, and documented the entire journey. If you've ever wondered whether muscle, bone density, balance, and independence can improve later in life, this conversation is for you.

What you'll learn in this episode:

  • What actually happens when someone starts strength training for the first time in their 80s

  • Why muscle keeps showing up in every serious conversation about aging well

  • What surprised Clare the most once her parents started lifting regularly

  • How slow progression and coaching changed what seemed "impossible" at first

  • What this journey reveals about fear, confidence, and who strength training is really for

Enjoyed this episode and want more? 

If you want a lifting program that tells you exactly what to do, try 7 days of Strong with Steph here >> https://stephgaudreau.com/workout

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