Don't know what happens in the states re blood tests, but here in the UK we'd have to request a cholesterol test from a doc or go private. So yes, I'd guess you'd need to request a full cholsesterol test. Just getting the total is no good. You need a full breakdown.

Luckily for me, my cholesterol is good for my age, so I guess I have a bit of leeway for the last couple of decades of my life

But as I said, who knows, I might just be made like that rather than it being a result of healthy lifestyle. But I look around me at people my age and there aren't many who work out, eat healthily, don't smoke or drink and keep their weight under control. I think I look a lot better and feel a lot healthier and mobile than they are.

I'm always impressed when I see guys your age doing what you do. I know how hard it is to stay motivated, and you've kept at it. I live the iron, I don't ever want to stop.

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I've had periods when I haven't trained. I've slipped a few discs in my back over the years and been away from the gym for six months once, but once it's in your blood it stays there.

I don't know what I'd do if I could never train again. Might as well die I suppose.

It's another reason I don't want to retire any time soon. I work out with younger colleagues at work a lot and that definitely keeps me young - mentally as well as physically. Can't let the cocky bastards out train me

That is awesome. One think I've realized is fitness can make friends out of all types of people who may not otherwise even know each other.

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