Mick Wadge, an 88-year-old former Rolls-Royce designer, has become an unlikely internet sensation after taking up weightlifting at the age of 81. His weightlifting videos, posted on TikTok by his trainer Ross Starkie, have garnered millions of views and attracted the attention of Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Wadge began his weightlifting journey seven years ago, following the death of his wife, Margaret, shortly after their 60th wedding anniversary. He initially struggled to fill his time but found an outlet by using a broom handle and milk containers filled with water to exercise in his garden. His daughter later gifted him four sessions with Starkie, a friend of his grandson, on his 85th birthday. Since then, Wadge has been training with Starkie, 35, at the Barbell School gym in Burnley.
Starkie began posting videos of Wadge's training sessions on TikTok, highlighting his strength and his engaging personality. Wadge's personal best deadlift is 110kg, nearly twice his current bodyweight of 60kg. He also bench presses 60kg and squats 60kg. The videos quickly went viral, with one deadlift attempt reaching 75kg. Fitness companies have sent him products, and media outlets have requested his appearance on television and radio shows, which he has declined.
Schwarzenegger, who Wadge identifies as his favorite weightlifter, sent a message of encouragement: "Love what you are doing! Keep pumping!" He has also offered to introduce Wadge to two of his coaches in the US who could serve as a resource. Wadge expressed his shock and excitement at the contact, stating he nearly passed out when his daughter informed him.
Wadge, who stands at 5ft 3in, was a semi-professional drummer and worked as a designer for Rolls-Royce before retiring. He also holds a brown belt in judo. He met his wife Margaret at a dance when he was 21. His training regimen now includes sessions with Starkie twice a week, as well as independent workouts at a local leisure center four days a week. He also maintains a healthy diet, including porridge, protein shakes, creatine, and large salads, while still enjoying cake at coffee mornings.
Despite his online fame, Wadge remains grounded, preferring his local routine and friendships. He sees his trainer, Ross Starkie, as having saved him, highlighting their strong bond. While he admits to sometimes feeling his age, particularly in the mornings or when trying to recall names, he generally feels fortunate and content, stating, "I always say I'm the luckiest man on the planet."