World's Oldest Bodybuilder Still Trains at 93
The world's oldest competitive bodybuilder still trains three days per week at age 93. His three simple rules for longevity and strength: train consistently, focus on compound lifts, and prioritize recovery. His story demonstrates that age is not a barrier to strength and physical vitality.
- Jim Arrington, born September 1, 1932, was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest bodybuilder in 2015 and has continued to compete and hold the title. He began lifting weights at age 15 in 1947 to overcome childhood illnesses, including asthma, after being born six weeks premature. - Over his career, Arrington has competed in more than 60 bodybuilding contests, winning 16 of them. In a recent competition, he placed third in the over-70 category and won the over-80 category. - His training schedule consists of two-hour sessions at Gold's Gym three times a week. A trainer at his gym noted that Arrington "does more than a good 60% of my clients or anybody that comes into this gym." - Arrington has significantly adapted his diet over the years, moving away from a high-inflammation diet of milk and beef. His current diet includes olive oil, mushrooms, and other fresh produce to reduce inflammation. - He was a great-grandfather and retired sales professional before earning his pro card in bodybuilding at the age of 83. - Inspired by superheroes as a child, Arrington's initial motivation for weightlifting was to build strength after being nicknamed "Skinny Bones." He says what inspires him now are the people who tell him that he inspires them.
