Exercise Scientist Critiques the Most Jacked 79-Year-Old (Robby Robinson)

Genetics and Starting Weightlifting Later in Life00:00

Genetics is a big deal. Can you look like Robby Robinson in your 70s? Did you look like Robby Robinson back in 1978? Probably not. There is no age limit to starting to lift weights when older, as long as you follow a few rules. Rule one: being smart in the gym is mandatory.

Hey folks, Dr. Mike here for RP Strength. I am currently 41 years old. There are lifters in their late 70s who are jacked and lean. Nobody is as jacked, lean, strong, and impressive as the Black Prince himself, Robby Robinson, legendary bodybuilder in the 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s, 2010s, and now 2020s. He's still training, healthy, and looks incredible.

Robby Robinson's Impressive Feats and Technique01:30

Late 70s rack deadlift of 550 lbs, really bent over, not from above the knee. Technique never broke; slow ease, total control, stood with weight for seconds afterward. Steady and slow progressions are key for lifting when older. No rush, or you'll end up in the hospital. Start really light, very good technique, big range of motion, build reps, then increase weight over time. Eventually, do a plate or two plates on each side for deadlifts, which inoculates older folks from injury in daily tasks.

I love to train. I love the workout. I'm passionate about it.

To get motivated: do fun effective workouts, go with friends, make habitual, love progress. Fundamentally, like being in the gym. Not about willpower or grit; can't grit 50 years of dedication. Negative mindset crushes you. Love progress, pump, look, culture, effort. Hack for amazing shape in older years: experiment to like going to the gym and training hard, then never let it go.