At 65, Nora Langdon struggled to climb stairs, but now at 81 she is one of the best senior powerlifters in the world.
She has shattered records and proved that age is no barrier to strength.
Langdon’s inspiring journey began when she realized her strength was fading and decided to take control of her health. Today, her story is one of grit, resilience, and defying expectations.
Langdon, a former realtor with no athletic background, turned to powerlifting after meeting trainer Art Little at a birthday party.
At the time, Langdon’s strength had dwindled to the point where climbing stairs felt like a challenge. Determined not to let her health decline further, she sought Little’s guidance, who initially believed she just wanted to lose weight and regain some basic fitness.
However, Langdon’s dedication transformed her into a powerlifting phenomenon.
Her journey wasn’t easy at first. “I was aching from the top of my head to the soles of my feet,” Langdon recalls from her first few sessions.
Although she almost gave up, a strong inner voice urged her to continue. With perseverance, she began training harder, eventually entering her first state powerlifting meet.
Despite doubts from onlookers, Langdon effortlessly broke records in her age and weight class, setting national and world records in the squat, bench press, deadlift, and total lifts at her first competition.
Langdon’s success has made her a global inspiration.
“Young boys came in when I was training and they couldn’t believe what I was doing,” Langdon said in an interview. “They got up and left, saying, ‘There’s no way I’m going to compete with a grandma.’”
Despite some family members suggesting she retire, Langdon remains passionate about her powerlifting journey and encourages others to stay active, no matter their age.
“If you don’t want to power lift, fine. Walk. Do something, but keep that body moving until the Lord calls you home,” she advises.
Now, with 16 years of powerlifting under her belt, Langdon continues to defy expectations. Her story reminds us that it’s never too late to start anew and discover your inner strength.
