The Bench Press Boys: Redefining Strength in Oklahoma City
Table of Contents
- 1. The Bench Press Boys: Redefining Strength in Oklahoma City
- 2. Teh Bench Press Boys: Defying Age in Oklahoma City
- 3. An Interview with John Groth, Dwight Stafford, and Gary Brooks
- 4. Age Doesn’t Slow You Down: Conquering Strength Training Milestones
- 5. Do you have any inspiring stories about overcoming age-related challenges or finding personal strength? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
- 6. What keeps The Bench Press Boys motivated to stay so dedicated to strength training?
- 7. The Bench Press Boys: Defying Age in Oklahoma City
- 8. An Interview with John Groth, Dwight stafford, adn Gary Brooks
- 9. Age Doesn’t Slow You Down: Conquering Strength Training Milestones
- 10. Do you have any inspiring stories about overcoming age-related challenges or finding personal strength? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Inside the OKC MAPS 3 Health and Wellness center, a group of senior men are rewriting the rules of aging.These aren’t your typical retirees – they’re “The Bench Press Boys,” a resolute group proving that strength and dedication have no expiration date.
john Groth, who joined the group when the center opened in 2018, embodies this spirit. “I thought I knew how to bench press,” he admits with a chuckle, “until I found out I didn’t know how to bench press.” His journey hasn’t been without obstacles – a recent bicep injury and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have thrown him off course, but Groth remains undeterred. Turning 75 this year, he’s entering a new weight class, and his goal is clear: to set a record. “I’m the fat boy in my weight class,” he laughs good-naturedly,but adds with a glint in his eye,”But I can set a record for 75-year-olds,and I’m looking forward to doing just that.”
Dwight Stafford, at 77, credits his strength to his younger years spent working tirelessly on his father’s farm. “Dad worked me realy hard,” he recalls with a grin. Stafford participates in both bench press and deadlift competitions, aiming for a combined total of 500 pounds.
Gary Brooks, another member of the group, is already a nationally ranked bench presser.Turning 75 this year, he’s setting his sights on nothing less than dominance in his weight class. “The American record is only 269 pounds,” he states confidently, “I’m already benching a little over 300 pounds.”
These men, bound by their shared passion for strength training, push each other to their absolute limits, defying expectations and proving that aging doesn’t have to translate to a decline in physical ability. They challenge our perception of aging gracefully, embodying resilience, unwavering dedication, and a relentless pursuit of personal best, one rep at a time.
For more data on the MAPS 3 Health and Wellness Center, click here.
Teh Bench Press Boys: Defying Age in Oklahoma City
An Interview with John Groth, Dwight Stafford, and Gary Brooks
In a corner of the OKC MAPS 3 Health and Wellness Center, a group of senior men are rewriting the narrative surrounding aging. These aren’t your typical retirees; they’re “The Bench Press boys,” a dedicated crew proving that strength and dedication transcend age limits. We sat down with three members of this inspiring group to learn more about their journey.
Archyde: John, you’ve been with the Bench Press Boys since the center opened. What brought you here, and how has it changed your outlook on aging?
John Groth: Well, I thought I knew how to bench press, until I found out I didn’t! These guys showed me the proper techniques, and I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s amazing how much stronger I feel, both physically and mentally. It wholly changed my viewpoint on aging. It’s not about slowing down; it’s about finding new challenges and pushing yourself.
Archyde: Dwight, at 77, you’re a veteran in this group. What would you say to others who might think it’s too late to start lifting weights?
Dwight Stafford: Never too late, that’s what I say! I credit my strength to working hard on my father’s farm when I was younger. But lifting weights is a habit you can start at any age. It’s all about consistency and finding what works for your body. Don’t let age define you; define your age!
Archyde: Gary, you’re already a nationally ranked bench presser. What are your goals for the year ahead?
Gary Brooks: I’m turning 75 this year, and my goal is to dominate my weight class.The American record is only 269 pounds, and I’m already benching a little over 300. I’m feeling strong, and 2023 is going to be a big year for me.
Archyde: You guys seem to have an incredible support system here. How vital is that bond for each of you?
John: This is like our family. We push each other, encourage each other, and celebrate each other’s victories. We’re all in this together, and it makes the journey so much more rewarding.
Archyde: What message do you want to leave with others who might be hesitant to embrace strength training?
Age Doesn’t Slow You Down: Conquering Strength Training Milestones
Strength training isn’t just for the young. It’s a powerful tool for everyone, especially as we navigate the journey of aging. It’s about so much more than lifting heavy weights; it’s about building a stronger, healthier you, both physically and mentally.
“Embrace the challenge!” says Dwight, a seasoned fitness enthusiast. “Strength training isn’t just about lifting heavy; it’s about building a better version of yourself. It’s about pushing your limits, challenging your mindset, and showing the world that age is just a number. You can do anything you set your mind to.”
While it’s natural to experience plateaus as we age, remember that these are temporary hurdles, not roadblocks. Consistency is key. Keep a training log and track your progress over time.Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. These tangible reminders of your dedication will fuel your motivation and keep you moving forward.
Strength training as you age offers a wealth of benefits, from improved bone density to increased muscle mass and enhanced mobility. it can boost your confidence, empower you to lead an active lifestyle, and even contribute to a positive mental outlook.
Do you have any inspiring stories about overcoming age-related challenges or finding personal strength? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What keeps The Bench Press Boys motivated to stay so dedicated to strength training?
The Bench Press Boys: Defying Age in Oklahoma City
An Interview with John Groth, Dwight stafford, adn Gary Brooks
In a corner of the OKC MAPS 3 Health and Wellness Center, a group of senior men are rewriting the narrative surrounding aging. These aren’t your typical retirees; they’re “The Bench Press boys,” a dedicated crew proving that strength and dedication transcend age limits. we sat down with three members of this inspiring group to learn more about their journey.
Archyde: John, you’ve been with the Bench Press Boys as the center opened. What brought you here, and how has it changed your outlook on aging?
John Groth: Well, I thought I knew how to bench press, until I found out I didn’t! These guys showed me the proper techniques, and I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s amazing how much stronger I feel,both physically and mentally. It wholly changed my viewpoint on aging.It’s not about slowing down; it’s about finding new challenges and pushing yourself.
Archyde: Dwight, at 77, you’re a veteran in this group. What would you say to others who might think it’s too late to start lifting weights?
Dwight Stafford: Never too late,that’s what I say! I credit my strength to working hard on my father’s farm when I was younger. But lifting weights is a habit you can start at any age. It’s all about consistency and finding what works for your body.Don’t let age define you; define your age!
Archyde: Gary, you’re already a nationally ranked bench presser. What are your goals for the year ahead?
Gary Brooks: I’m turning 75 this year, and my goal is to dominate my weight class.The American record is only 269 pounds, and I’m already benching a little over 300. I’m feeling strong, and 2023 is going to be a big year for me.
Archyde: You guys seem to have an incredible support system here. How vital is that bond for each of you?
John: This is like our family. We push each other, encourage each other, and celebrate each other’s victories. We’re all in this together, and it makes the journey so much more rewarding.
Archyde: What message do you want to leave with others who might be hesitant to embrace strength training?
Age Doesn’t Slow You Down: Conquering Strength Training Milestones
Strength training isn’t just for the young. It’s a powerful tool for everyone, especially as we navigate the journey of aging. It’s about so much more than lifting heavy weights; it’s about building a stronger, healthier you, both physically and mentally.
“Embrace the challenge!” says Dwight, a seasoned fitness enthusiast. “Strength training isn’t just about lifting heavy; it’s about building a better version of yourself. It’s about pushing your limits, challenging your mindset, and showing the world that age is just a number.You can do anything you set your mind to.”
while it’s natural to experience plateaus as we age, remember that these are temporary hurdles, not roadblocks. Consistency is key. Keep a training log and track your progress over time.Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. These tangible reminders of your dedication will fuel your motivation and keep you moving forward.
Strength training as you age offers a wealth of benefits, from improved bone density to increased muscle mass and enhanced mobility. it can boost your confidence,empower you to lead an active lifestyle,and even contribute to a positive mental outlook.