80+ Powerlifters Defy Age, Prove Strength Knows No Number

0:00Two octogenarians in Saskatoon are gearing up for a powerlifting meet this weekend. Proving age is just a number when it comes to getting strong. 89-year-old Joyce Hansen and 80-year-old Barry Gay are training at Mackie Physiotherapy for this non-sanctioned event open to all ages. They'll compete in squats, bench presses, and deadlifts focusing on personal bests over records. Hansen discovered powerlifting 12 years ago, inspired by her daughter and granddaughter. She's built serious strength, boosting her mobility, flexibility, and bone density enough to ditch osteoporosis meds. For her, it's all about staying independent and dodging the nursing home life. Meanwhile, Gay jumped in last year to rehab a shoulder injury. He started barely handling a 45-pound bar, but quickly added weight and turned it into a fun challenge. Both say the gems become a tight support crew, pushing them to live longer and better. Their coach, Kelsey Goodmanson, notes powerlifting's boom among folks over 40, especially seniors.

1:04You don't age out. People keep gaining strength well into their 70s and 80s. For older athletes, it's huge for muscle, confidence, and feeling alive. These stories hit home, no pain, no gain rings true, at any age, and they're out here showing seniors everywhere that can lift their way to a sharper, stronger lighting. That's your update from Canada News Today, powered by AI.