A Lesson in Building Muscle at Any Age

Published on May 13th, 2025

Phil Shipp isn’t your typical 90-year-old. Earlier this summer, he won six gold medals at a Masters track and field competition. Even more remarkable, he added muscle mass during his training, proof that it’s never too late to get stronger.
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Phil had been competing for years, but in the weeks leading up to nationals, he focused more on resistance training. He hit the weights hard and worked steadily to increase his lifts.
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By meet time, he had gained muscle and felt stronger than ever.
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“I had built muscle mass at 90 years old,” he said, still a bit surprised himself.
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​Why This Matters for Everyone​
Phil’s story proves a powerful point that many people don’t realize. We can build strength and improve quality of life at any age.
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So, no, you are NOT too old to start working out with us!
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Here’s some of what the research says:

• Muscle responds to training at every age. Even adults in their 70s, 80s, and 90s can add lean mass through resistance training.
• Strength supports independence. More muscle means better balance, fewer falls, and the ability to keep doing everyday activities like carrying groceries or climbing stairs.
• Confidence grows with strength. Many older adults say the biggest change from exercise is the boost in confidence and control over their own lives.

The Opportunity for You​
Most people over 50 don’t realize they can gain muscle. They think weakness and frailty are inevitable. Phil shows otherwise.
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Humans do lose muscle mass naturally, starting in their 30s. It’s called sarcopenia. You can fight back by lifting weights or practicing other forms of resistance training.
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The simple fact is: You need muscle to stand up off the toilet. Muscle isn’t just bulging biceps. It’s necessary for basic living – not to mention better living.
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Strength training is the miracle anti-aging drug everyone’s looking for, and it’s available to everyone.
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Can you imagine yourself a year from now being stronger, more capable and more confident? We can help you with all of that, even if you don’t want to compete in track meets!
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Phil told the Sedona Red Rock News that his training regimen has evolved with age. He does heavy weightlifting twice a week, light weightlifting with pulleys and bands, speed walking and box jumps to maintain strength for jumping events. He stopped running long distances, focusing on conditioning and mobility.
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“The biggest benefactor is my health, because I’m able to still do quite a few things that most 90-year-olds can’t do,” he says. “Chores around the house, simple things like that, and no pains.”
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Sounds good! Give us a call and let’s get you stronger.