In this powerful and inspiring episode, we sit down with Robert Linkul, founder of Training the Older Adult (TOA), to talk about what it really means to age strong. With a background rooted in personal experience, injury recovery, and coaching, Robert shares his inspiring journey from aspiring strength coach for youth to building a movement dedicated to helping older adults reclaim their strength, independence, and health.
He shares the deeply moving story of his father, whose transformation from near-death and wheelchair-bound to squatting below parallel and living independently in his late 70s is nothing short of miraculous. We explore the importance of resistance training for longevity, how strength gives people permission to live without fear, and why constructive discomfort is essential for growth at any age. Robert lays out a clear, research-backed case for resistance training at any age. Whether you’re in your 30s or 70s, this conversation will reframe what’s possible for your future self, and the people you love.
If you or someone you love wants to age well, live in your own home and wipe your own butt until you die, if you’ve ever questioned if it’s “too late,” this episode is your reminder: it’s never too late to get strong.
“We're all going to pass at sometime, but how you live and how you die - there are two very different stories to be told there.”
- Robert Linkul
“When the moment comes where you have to act, and your body fails you… that’s the real cost of not getting strong.”
- Robert Linkul
This week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:
- Robert’s personal story of health challenges that gave him empathy and expertise in training older adults
- The incredible transformation of Robert’s dad, from 330 lbs and dialysis to strong, mobile, and joyful in the gym
- What “constructive discomfort” is and how it builds confidence
- How muscle mass and bone density can improve even post-menopause
- What the research shows about sarcopenia and its impact on retirement years
- Why “just walking the dog” isn’t enough, and what to do instead
- How just 90 minutes of resistance training a week can improve bone density, muscle mass, and independence
- The truth about recovery after surgery when you’ve been strength training
- Real stories of clients reversing chronic pain, avoiding surgery, and defying aging stereotypes
- How strength training combats fear, frailty, and the myth that “I’m just old”
Connect with Robert Linkul and Training the Older Adult:
- Robert Linkul on YouTube
- Robert Linkul on Instagram
- Training the Older Adult Website
- Training the Older Adult Instagram
Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck, where we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
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