Rebuilding Mum & Dad

Rebuilding Mum & Dad

When journalist Clare Johnston’s parents, Michael and Rhoda, reached their eighties, they began to feel weaker and less mobile. Determined to prove it wasn’t too late to turn things around, Clare set out to help them reclaim their strength and independence. Rebuilding Mum & Dad follows their uplifting journey as they begin a strength training program with the guidance of Coach Chris. It’s not just a remarkable story of fitness transformation—it’s a celebration of family, resilience, and the science-backed habits that keep us strong and independent as we age.

Share
Rebuilding Mum & Dad
  • NEW | My Parents Try to Get STRONGER in Their 80s! | Ep 1

    Follow my parents' journey as they begin a strength training program in their 80s to combat muscle loss and improve their quality of life. In this first episode, we explore the challenges they face, their goals, and the first steps of their fitness adventure. Join us as we document their progress...

  • NEW | See The Difference 8 Weeks of Strength Training Made in Their 80s | Ep 2

    This episode shows the difference just 8 weeks of strength training can make—even in later life! Follow my parents' journey as they begin a strength training program in their 80s to combat muscle loss and improve their quality of life.

  • NEW | Physical Therapist Answers the Big Questions on How to Age Strong | Ep 3

    In this episode of Rebuilding Mum and Dad, my parents' strength coach and physical therapist, Chris Reis, answers viewer questions around strength training in later life—from safety to why progressive load matters and simple exercises to start with at home!

  • NEW | See Frailty Reversed Through Strength Training | 5-Month Update | Ep 4

    In this episode of Rebuilding Mum and Dad, catch up on my parents’ progress five months after starting weight training in their 80s, as they work to rebuild lost muscle and retain their independence. See my dad grow in confidence as he takes on heavier weights, and watch my mum’s incredible progr...

  • NEW | Setbacks and Big Wins As My Parents Get Stronger in Their 80s | Ep 5

    Find out how, despite illness and injury, my parents are still getting stronger in their 80s! Rebuilding Mum & Dad follows my parents’ strength training journey as they aim to improve their mobility and protect their independence and quality of life. In this episode, there have been setbacks and ...

  • NEW | My Low-Maintenance Exercise Routine | Bonus Ep

    Discover how I went from telling my doctor I was "allergic to exercise" to embracing weight training and the impact it has had on my life.
    I detail the simple, low-maintenance routine that has helped me not only build strength and muscle, but has changed how I feel about aging.

  • NEW | Healthy Aging Diet, Supplements, and Tools My Parents Use | Bonus Ep

    How do you stay strong and healthy in your 80s? In this episode of Rebuilding Mum & Dad, I take you inside my parents’ daily routine — from the Mediterranean-style meals they prepare, to the handful of supplements and lifestyle tools that support their health and energy. You’ll discover: What the...