Most people would probably give up lifting in their 60s, especially after going through something as serious as cancer surgery. But 60-year-old Tang Yu-chen, aka 'Powerful Mom,' clearly had other plans.

A few weeks ago, the Squat University Instagram handle shared the story of Tang, who, despite undergoing brainstem cancer surgery, lifted 70 kg in the hexagonal bar deadlift at the 5th Annual ‘Healthy Santa Claus Deadlift Competition.’

Weighing around 63.6 kg, she competed in the 60–69 kg category and, despite battling cancer, has been participating for the past five years. LKK Wellness also shared the same reel and shared Tang's motive, stating, “To show everyone the resilience and brilliance of life and encourage more people to take the first step in training.”

Her son, who is also her coach, spoke to LKK Wellness and revealed that the hex bar deadlift was more difficult for her, as it required greater body balance. In the past, they mostly trained using conventional barbell deadlifts, so switching to the hex bar wasn’t easy, but then, it wasn’t impossible either.

Her story certainly reached the right audience, as netizens couldn’t stop themselves from appreciating her resilience.

Fans Stunned as 60-Year-Old Tang Deadlifts 154 Lbs

The comment section was filled with nothing but appreciation for Tang. One netizen highlighted, “This is what true strength looks like.”

Furthermore, another fan noted how clean the reps looked and suggested she could add two more plates to the barbell. “She’s still hungry, give her two more plates,” he stated.

Even professional chef Dean Allen Sheremet highlighted how Tang's deadlift gave him a new zeal. He mentioned, “What’s your excuse? this gives me life.”

However, the chef wasn’t the only distinguished personality in the comments section. Even IFBB pro Katie Lee commented on the post, “Incredible!!! May the Lord bless you.”

Tang Yu-chen might participate this year as well to prove that what’s holding us back is our mind, and nothing else.

So, are you thinking of approaching your next challenge with resilience like Tang?

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Written by

Suryakant Das

Edited by

Souvik Roy