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89-Year-Old Man Deadlifts 405lbs And Proves Age Is Just A Number

89-Year-Old Man Deadlifts 405lbs And Proves Age Is Just A Number

Even in retirement Joe won't slow down or stop lifting

Rachael Grealish

Rachael Grealish

They say age is just a number - it certainly is for one pensioner who took on the challenge of deadlifting 405lbs (183kg) reps.

Deadlifting has become increasingly popular among those who've traded in their average time in the gym for the CrossFit trend - and 89-year-old Joe Stockinger decided lifting wasn't just for youngsters.

The video, which has gone viral, shows Joe prepping, taking his spot then proceeding to lift 405lbs reps.

The weight he hammers in the video would put most 20-year-old lifters to shame, but Joe just goes with it.

Joe Stockinger/Youtube

In defence of the 20-somethings who are now running to the gym to work on their technique and lifting ability, Joe is no newcomer to the game - he's a veteran in more ways than one.

In 2015, he set three world records at the 100% Raw Powerlifting Western Canadian Championships, then went on to break two of his own records the following year.

Joe actually started out competing in the Olympic lifting in Germany, before making a move to Canada in 1954 - the same year he started powerlifting.

Joe Stockinger/Youtube

He continues to keep up his impressive hobby despite his advancing years.

Joe does what is known as raw powerlifting - this is where athletes do not use equipment or special clothing, such as squat suits, for support.

Joe stopped competing in 2016 but still trains three times a week, spending a few hours in the gym each session.

Joe isn't the only OAP to decide knitting wouldn't be their retirement activity.

Edith Traina is 97 years old and lifts weights in the gym three times a week - talk about #GirlsWhoLift.

Joe Stockinger/Youtube

The amazing lady, from Tampa, Florida, now has a competition named in her honour - the 2018 Edith Traina Inspirational Open

In the competition, that took place earlier this year, people of all ages 13 and up could compete.

The former line-dance instructor now has the ambition to complete a 200lb (90kg) deadlift by her 100th birthday - you go Edith.

Joe Stockinger/Youtube

Being able to weight train is brilliant at any age - but as you age it is said to have real health benefits.

Experts say weight training stops your muscles from wasting (atrophy), improves strength for day to day tasks, boosts bone density, helps joint and arthritis pains and generally reduces the physical effects of ageing.

Featured Image Credit: Joe Stockinger/Youtube

Topics: Weightlifting, News, Inspirational, Canada, Inspiration, Health