Encouraging My 55 Yr Old Dad to Lift

Training Over 35 Lifter
1

I’m only 21, and I’ve been lifting for a while.

Recently, my dad’s check-up came in saying he had below average bone density. So the doctor told him to get some Vitamin D supplements. Not to mention, he is also on medication for controlling cholesterol.

Of course, I think that his quality of life would vastly improve if he started lifting. It’s sort of a waste that I bought my set of weights for the home gym and I’m the only person using it.

Do you guys have any ideas for how to encourage someone who doesn’t like exercise to start lifting?

2

There is no better way to improve bone density than weight bearing resistance exercise.

Is your dad on statins for his cholesterol? There is some evidence that statins improve bone mineral density, but looks like that’s not the case with your father.

Tell your dad that the best way to build strong bones is to build strong muscle. The best way to build strong muscle is to lift heavy. Vitamin D can help a little, but it is not as fast or as effective as weightlifting. Doctors never tell you this, because most people would rather take a pill thats partially effective, than put in the effort that will have real, lasting results.

I started lifting about 5 years ago when I turned 50, because I didn’t want to fall into decrepitude by way of osteoporosis and weakness. My recent bone scan (DEXA) said my density put me in the normal range of a 35 year old, thanks to lifting. Not bad for an old lady.

Once you impress the health issues on your dad, ask him to be your lifting partner. Set up your workout sessions to coincide with his free time, so he has no excuses. Write it on a calendar and keep it posted where you both can see it. Get him started on a 5 x 5 program like Rippetoe’s “Starting Strength”. Work through it together, it’s better for motivation and you will be accountable to each other. Set up a measurable goal (ie, lifting X amount of weight on the big lifts). This way, lifting becomes a challenge instead of a chore. Tracking progress and improvement for a new lifter is a great egp boost, because newbies make quick gains.

Good luck, and don’t give up on him. But don’t be a pest if he constantly refuses or makes excuses. Sometimes the best way to lead is by example.

3

I can empathize with your dad, as I hate exercise as well, even while liking the benefits. I hate treadmills, jogging, ab work, etc… Fortunately, I do not consider lifting to be exercise (yes, technically it is). I want to be stronger, first, and bigger, as a side. Lifting is a means to an end. Also, it is a GREAT stress reliever. It also gives me a great sense of achievement, which has obvious benefits.

If you could find a way to get him involved without labeling it strictly as exercise, it might be easier.
Maybe approach it from the angle of creating time for the two of you to do something together. Something that also carries the side benefit of giving you more, and better, years.

Also, go easy into it. No need to jump straight into something that wipes him out and puts out the fire. If he is like most folks, after doing it for a while, it will become habitual. take your time working into something that yields benefits he needs.

Yo Momma has some great ideas…scheduling it around him, and with him, will help keep him at it once on your way. Also, make the goals. It gives a sense of accomplishment and as you work towards your own goals, it gives him an active part, especially if you are able to workout with him. I know that I can’t wait for my kids to get to an age where they can workout with me.

If you need a little more push, you can do what I did with my mom…tell him that it would be nice if, when the time comes, he is healthy and strong enough to be able to pickup and hold his grandkids.