A 90-year-old Japanese bodybuilder caused a stir by competing in Spain against younger athletes. He revealed his secret to maintaining muscle with traditional Japanese food and aims to return to the stage at 93.
Despite being 90 years old, Toshitsuke Kanazawa, a Japanese bodybuilder, traveled to Santa Susanna on Spain's Costa del Maresme coast on Friday, 30 Oct 2020 GMT+7 to compete in the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Masters competition, open to athletes aged 50 and above. He faced rivals decades younger than himself.
Before stepping on stage, Kanazawa prepared much like younger athletes by warming up with his team and applying a darker skin tone spray before showcasing his muscles under the stage lights.
Kanazawa said he enjoys trying things no one else has done and intends to bodybuild for life. He cited diet control as a key to keeping fit, having built muscle by eating traditional Japanese foods since age 50, including brown rice, natto (fermented soybeans), and miso soup.
He explained this traditional Japanese diet has been a part of his lifestyle and believes it contributed to his never having been ill throughout his 90 years.
Although Kanazawa did not win a podium prize this time, he remains committed to pushing his limits, planning to return to competition at age 93 before officially considering retirement.
Kanazawa also commented on Japanese societal views that often see wrinkles as undesirable signs of aging. He hopes his efforts will inspire other seniors to exercise and dare to do what many believe exceeds age limits.
He concluded that when someone sets their mind to something, mental strength and determination are essential for success. He hopes to be a role model encouraging others to train diligently and care for themselves, fostering a healthier, dream-pursuing elderly population.
/source: channelnewsasia
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