While most 80-year-olds enjoy retirement, Rafael Vera Diaz took a different route, and it is nothing short of inspiring.

In an Instagram video uploaded on his page, the Spanish bodybuilder and fitness influencer stunned everyone with his dedication to bodybuilding.

The video captioned "This is for those who give up... I'm never giving up!!!" (translated) shows Diaz flexing his toned physique, which is enough to give the youngsters a run for their money. And all this muscle isn't just for show. Diaz is a professional bodybuilder who competes in different bodybuilding shows even at this age.

Starting his fitness career as a gymnastics teacher, his bodybuilding journey began at 35, and he's showing no signs of slowing down. In his long career, he has received several bodybuilding accolades; he is a three-time world champion and has won gold medals at the 2003 Mr. Olympia USA Masters and 2013 Arnold Classic Europa.

At the IFBB Semi PRO World Cup 2025, held in Madrid, Spain, Diaz won a gold medal in the Master's Men Bodybuilding 65 years and above category, proving once again that age is just a number.

Speaking to Healthy Living with Ray about his secret for maintaining a ripped physique for so long, Diaz credits his healthy diet and disciplined workout for helping him achieve this feat. He also never touched alcohol or smoked cigarettes in his life.

“This sport is what makes me feel like a young guy, and age is nothing but just a number.”

But he's not the only senior dominating the bodybuilding world

The most notable among them is centenarian, World War II infantry veteran, and 1977 Senior Mr. America, Andrew Bostinto. A celebrated figure in the world of bodybuilding and the founder of the non-profit organization, the National Gym Association (NGA).

Speaking to Muscle & Fitness, the old-timer said, “I enjoy training, and people ask me when I am going to stop. I tell them I’ll stop when I stop breathing.”

He started training at 12 years old and has enjoyed every minute ever since. He became the oldest bodybuilder in the world after participating in NGA's physical contest in Florida just four months after turning 100 years old. A feat that not many people can claim to reach.

Who inspires you to keep going?

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Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Joyita Das