Watching the World’s Oldest Female Bodybuilder May Change Your Life

Have you ever noticed how people tend to have very different experiences with aging? Why is it that some of us stay positive right to the very end, while others become grumpy, cynical and just plain mean?

These are a few of the thoughts that went through my mind as I watched this emotional and uplifting video of Ernestine Shepherd, the world’s oldest female bodybuilder.

It’s not so much Shepherd’s body that I find impressive – although, I would love to have even a fraction of her physical strength. What shines through in this video is Ernestine’s spirit. If there is a “book on aging,” I can guarantee that no-one ever showed it to her. Or, if they did, she probably tore it into pieces and threw it in the fire!

Please take a few minutes to watch Ernestine Shepherd’s story. Then, let’s return to the discussion.

Not everyone is going to react to this story the same way. What thoughts came into your head as you watched the video? Did you find yourself running through excuses for why you couldn’t do the same as Ernestine? Did you feel inspired to take action? Did her story move you to tears, as it did in my case? Most importantly, what does your reaction to this story tell you about your attitude to life?

Not everyone wants to be a bodybuilder. That’s ok. But, we all have potential to be something amazing. What stories like this one remind us is that heroes are not born – they are made. What are you going to make of yourself in the coming years?

What did you think of Ernestine Shepherd’s story? What steps are you taking now to make sure that you continue to stay healthy and happy in your later years? Please join the conversation.