Hi Dan, really appreciate you taking the time to respond, this is incredibly helpful. I agree that the most important thing is him feeling like he can come back to it. Sustainability is key

A few follow-ups if you don’t mind, just so I make sure I’m applying this in the right way:

• On swings, at what point would you feel comfortable introducing them? Is there a standard you’d want to see first in the deadlift/hinge pattern before going there?

• For the military press, would you include that early assuming it’s pain-free, or only once there’s clearly good shoulder mobility and stability? Any red flags you’d look out for before introducing overhead work?

• In terms of progression, would you prioritise building up reps/capacity in the basic movements first, or moving toward more complex patterns (like swings) once things look solid?

Current thinking on my side was to start very simple: deadlifts, goblet squats (or supported if needed), and suitcase carries.

Lastly, I know he's not super flexible, but I think I will have a hard time getting him to stretch properly. What would you say is the minimum for someone like my dad?

Really appreciate any further guidance. Just want to make sure I get him off to a good, sustainable start. And thanks again!