62-Year-Old Athlete Sets New World Weightlifting Record
Boise resident Michelle Galloway, who began training in her 50s, now holds three world titles after her recent win in Athens.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Body Building
Live Poll
Is it realistic for adults to expect to achieve elite physical goals starting later in life?
Boise resident Michelle Galloway, 62, set a new world weightlifting record at the IMWA World Masters Weightlifting Championships in Athens on September 29, 2026. Galloway, who now holds three world titles, achieved the record by lifting 55 kilograms.
Why it matters
Galloway’s achievement highlights the potential for physical recovery and athletic performance in older adults, even after significant health setbacks. Her journey from being bedridden to breaking records illustrates the benefits of consistent, progressive strength training.
At the IMWA World Masters Weightlifting Championships, Galloway successfully lifted 55 kilograms to set a new world record in her age division. She currently maintains three world records, though the exact margin of the latest record-breaking lift over previous benchmarks remains specific to the Masters category data.
The players
Michelle Galloway
A 62-year-old weightlifter, Meridian YMCA instructor, and holder of three world weightlifting records.
The details
Galloway trained for her competition at an Olympic weightlifting gym in Boise after initially building foundational strength through a local kettlebell class. After spending seven years bedridden with an undiagnosed illness, she began weightlifting in her 50s. Her preparation included refining technical performance skills and developing mental resilience required to compete successfully in front of crowds.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: Galloway broke the world record in Athens.
2026: Galloway competed in a weightlifting event in Las Vegas.
Health Landscape
Galloway's success follows the broader trend of increased competitive participation among athletes over the age of 60 in Olympic weightlifting. Her performance serves as an example of the shift toward prioritizing strength training as a primary component of healthy aging.
If you are considering starting a new exercise regimen later in life, it is worth discussing appropriate load-bearing activities with your physician. Developing foundational strength, as seen in Galloway’s transition from a kettlebell class to Olympic lifting, can be a sustainable path for improving fitness.
The takeaway
Galloway’s achievement underscores that it is never too late to begin building physical capacity through structured training. Consult with a sports medicine specialist or a certified trainer if you are interested in exploring how progressive strength training might safely support your personal fitness goals.
Further reading
For more on strength training for longevity, visit our Body Building section.
Live Poll
Is it realistic for adults to expect to achieve elite physical goals starting later in life?
