Latest news with #ArnoldClassic
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
73-Year-Old Bodybuilder Renee Landers Proves Age Is Not a Cage
When I first spoke with Renee Landers, I knew I was talking to a woman who doesn't just reject ageist stereotypes; she crushes them with every rep at the gym. At 73 at the time of this writing, Renee is not only a competitive bodybuilder but also a vibrant example of how aging can be a gateway to reinvention, strength, and unapologetic joy. Her story isn't secondhand inspiration. It's a first-person, lived experience, and I was honored she shared it with me. Renee didn't start lifting weights until after 60. Back then, she was recovering from lumbar fusion surgery due to spondylolisthesis, a condition that caused intense back pain. 'I had to do something,' she told me. 'I didn't want to live the rest of my life in a recliner.' With the help of a trainer who specialized in injury recovery, Renee started strength training. What began as rehab quickly turned into a revelation. At 69, she entered her first bodybuilding competition. 'I was nervous about walking on stage in a bikini,' she laughed during our chat, 'but I figured if I could recover from spinal surgery, I could do this too.' And she did, winning trophies, earning her GBO pro card, and competing in over a dozen shows, including the Arnold Classic. During our interview, Renee was candid about what helps her stay energized. She follows a pescatarian diet, prioritizes daily movement, and says hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which she began at 60, has made a meaningful difference in how she feels. Her daily routine includes 45 minutes of weight training followed by 45 minutes of cardio. That's six days a week. 'It's a choice,' she told me. 'I choose to feel strong.' One of my favorite parts of our conversation was hearing about how she merges her lifestyle with travel. Renee's Instagram is full of snapshots from cruises, girls' trips, and solo adventures (like her recent visit to Sicily). And yes, she keeps up with her fitness on the road. She also dances, dates, and defies every outdated notion of what women 'should' be doing in their 70s. 'People ask if I'm a cougar,' she said with a smile, 'but I don't see age when I connect with someone. I see energy, joy, and character.' Renee's message is clear and empowering: 'Age is not a cage,' she said firmly. 'Don't let the calendar dictate what you can or can't do.' She shares this mantra regularly on her Instagram @reneefitat70, YouTube, and through community talks. She doesn't sugarcoat her journey, it's taken discipline, consistency, and a willingness to start over. But her results speak volumes. Renee is living proof that our later years can be our most dynamic. In our conversation, she reminded me that aging is not a decline—it's a decision. A decision to show up, stay curious, and keep pushing boundaries. Whether you're 43 or 73, Renee's story invites us all to ask: what else is possible?
Associated Press
24-02-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
Mad Max Metzgar Signs Official MMA Sponsored Athlete Contract with XSport Mouthguards
Rising MMA Star Mad Max Metzgar Partners with XSport Mouthguards to Elevate Athlete Safety and Performance Through Innovative Mouthguard Technology 'I'm thrilled to partner with XSport Mouthguards. Together, we can continue to promote a culture where the longevity of an athlete's career is regarded as important as their skills.' — 'Mad' Max Metzgar COLUMBUS, OH, UNITED STATES, February 24, 2025 / / -- XSport Mouthguards, the premier provider of custom mouthguards for mixed martial arts, is proud to announce the signing of mixed martial artist Mad Max Metzgar as an official sponsored athlete for the 2025 season. This partnership marks a significant step in Metzgar's career as he prepares for a headline fight at the Arnold Classic with Ohio Combat League 36 at Kemba Live. Meet 'Mad' Max Metzgar Mad Max Metzgar, a rising star in the MMA world, has built an impressive undefeated amateur and pro career, showcasing his skills across various promotions nationwide. Known for his striking power and offensive grappling, it is easy to see why Metzgar has become a fan favorite. He has never lost a round. In his progression as an MMA professional, Max has built his own team, now mentoring and training over a dozen aspiring mixed martial artists. As he gears up for the 36th annual Arnold Classic, Metzgar is set to face off against a seasoned MMA veteran, which promises to be an electrifying fight. 'I'm incredibly excited to headline The Arnold Classic in Columbus, OH.' said Metzgar. 'This is the first of many main events you'll see me headline as I progress towards the UFC.' Mad Max had this to say about his partnership with XSport Mouthguards, 'I'm thrilled to partner with XSport Mouthguards because of their commitment to athlete safety in contact sports. Every time we step into the cage, we're putting our bodies on the line, and knowing that I have the best protection possible for my brain puts my mind at ease. Together, we can continue to promote a culture where the longevity of an athlete's career is regarded as important as their skills.' The Partnership with XSport Mouthguards XSport Mouthguards is proud to partner with Metzgar, who shares the company's commitment to safety and performance in combat sports. XSport's mouthguards, engineered with carbon fiber and precision 3D printing technology, offer a perfect fit with three layers of absorption to reduce concussion risks. 'I'm thrilled to partner with XSport for their dedication to athlete safety,' said Metzgar. 'Knowing I have top-level protection lets me focus on my performance while prioritizing my health.' What XSport Mouthguards Offers 'Max's dedication to MMA and his students aligns perfectly with our mission,' said Aaron Boggs, CEO of XSport Mouthguards. 'We believe in providing athletes with the best protection so they can perform at their highest level. Max represents our values of elite performance and safety.' XSport will also collaborate with Metzgar's team to test sensor technology for tracking biometrics, including heart rate, impact intensity, and more. Troy Speakman, Owner of Ohio Combat League, added, 'Max embodies the spirit of MMA, and with XSport's backing, we're emphasizing both athlete safety and performance. Together, we aim to create a competitive environment where athletes can thrive.' Join Us at the Arnold Classic As Metzgar prepares for OCL36 at the Arnold Classic, the partnership with XSport Mouthguards ensures he has the support he needs to make an impact in MMA. Tickets for OCL36 are available at or This year, you can also meet UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones at the Arnold Classic. XSport is also sponsoring the Youth Martial Arts competition at the Columbus Expo Center. Stop by and see us! About XSport Mouthguards XSport Mouthguards is a leader in designing high-performance mouthguards for MMA and other contact sports. With cutting-edge carbon fiber technology, our mouthguards provide a precise fit and maximum protection to reduce concussion and dental injuries. Recently, we've expanded with NFL legend Tiki Barber as our spokesman and partnered with Cal Dental to provide XSport 3D printed mouthguards. At CES 2025, we unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with Dianyx Technologies, integrating sensors to track real-time biometrics and enhance player safety. XSport remains committed to protecting athletes and improving performance through innovation. James Clifford +1 530-412-2166 X LinkedIn Instagram YouTube TikTok Other Legal Disclaimer:
