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We chat with Denny Labresh, founder of Valkyrie Strength Team, about thriving in strength sports after 40 and his journey from basketball player to successful strongman competitor and coach.
• Denny shares how he transitioned from basketball to strongman in his late 20s and is now hitting lifetime PRs at age 41
• The evolution of strongman from showcasing athletes from other sports to becoming its own codified discipline with specialized athletes
• Why recovery becomes the most critical factor for masters athletes compared to younger competitors
• Training philosophy changes for masters: intense but less frequent training (3 days/week) versus high volume for younger athletes
• The importance of weighted carries like sandbags and husafell stones for developing functional strength for all masters athletes
• How Valkyrie Strength Club developed from making equipment during the pandemic to providing high-quality, affordable strongman gear
• Denny's coaching approach focuses on teaching independence and progression rather than creating dependency
• Online coaching benefits: more economical, provides accountability while promoting independence
• Key advice for masters athletes: "Enjoy the process" and remember why you fell in love with the sport
Find Denny and Valkyrie Strength at valkyriestrengthclub on Instagram or valkyriestrengthclub.ca online.
@masters_athlete_survival_guide on IG
New episodes come out every other Thursday!