Strength and aging

camau71 · 07-20-2005, 09:06 PM

I'm new here, but have been involved in weight training and bodybuilding for over 20 years (I'm 53). I noticed a topic in another area regarding this subject. One thing I didn't hear was the effect of aging on testosterone levels. While I hear loss of mass and function are inevitable, I believe loss of intensity and training frequency are more often to blame. Another factor is an increasing need for supplementation as one ages. The body doesn't seem to be as forgiving or as effecient. Add to this relaxed nutritional standards and unpleasant changes can occur. I work in executive protection so fitness is very important to me. I am currently 5'10, 215, 12%. I train full body 3Xwk high intensity. Opinions?

Mahler · 07-21-2005, 09:59 AM

camau71,
I have to agree with you on a lot of points. I am 56 and am a firm believer that as you get older you can take steps to minimize mass and strength losses. Keeping intensity and frequency high are among them as well as proper supplementation to account for the loss or decrease in substances that occurs with age. I think the biggest mistake older lifters make is in thinking they should go light or take it easy. This should only be a consideration if they have a medical condition (rotator cuff issues as an example) which needs to be addressed.
All other factors being equal, an older lifter should push as hard as anyone at any age.

In Fitness & Friendship,
Mahler

laxcdn · 07-21-2005, 10:23 AM

How did I know that Mahler would post in the aging post

Just keep lifting and enjoy it is the only advice I am qualified to give

camau71 · 07-21-2005, 08:47 PM

Thanks for your post Mahler. Sounds like we're on the same page. I quit expecting the inevitable decline in performance to set in and like you keep being consistent, intense and heavy.

Q. · 07-21-2005, 08:55 PM

camau71,

I saw your post shortly after it showed up and I sent you an email. Perhaps your system sent me straight to the spam file but I, as a 50 + person myself, was interested in your workouts, considering the line of work you are in.

Dr. Casey · 08-02-2005, 08:14 PM

Eh - the 50's still seem rather youthful to me, for what it's worth. The 60's, not so much. =[

Mahler · 08-02-2005, 08:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dr. Casey:
Eh - the 50's still seem rather youthful to me, for what it's worth. The 60's, not so much. =[

Then you work with body, mind and spirit to make them youthful.

Mahler