Elizabeth Smart is known for her strength in more ways than one.
The now 38-year-old was infamously kidnapped from her home in 2002 when she was just 14-years-old. She was held captive for nine months and suffered unimaginable horrors, including repeated sexual assault, at the hands of her captors.
Upon eventually being rescued, Smart went on to become a child safety activist and has been outspoken about issues concerning missing people and sexual abuse victims.
However, when she turned to Instagram on Tuesday, April 21, the photograph and message she shared may have come as a surprise to some. Smart revealed that she has pursued a passion for bodybuilding and explained why this journey has been so empowering for her.
She included a photo of herself posing on stage in a blue bikini and heels while showing off her incredibly toned muscles.
Smart acknowledged that this image of herself may have come as a surprise to some, but she discussed why she decided to pursue bodybuilding in the wake of everything she has been through.
“When I posted the pictures in my story of me standing on stage in a bikini, it probably shocked many of you, and I understand the shock because had you asked me if I would ever compete in a bodybuilding show a couple of years ago I would have said, ‘Absolutely not! Never in 100 years!’, she wrote.
She revealed that this was the fourth bodybuilding competition that she has taken part in, but that she was initially afraid to share any pictures.
"This was a big change for me, it was hard, it pushed me, challenged me not to give up. I am so proud of myself for doing this. I am so proud of my body, and I want to celebrate it," she went on.
Bodybuilding has played an important role in helping Smart truly understand her own strength.
"My body has carried me through every worst day, every hellish, grueling experience, it’s created and nurtured three beautiful children, my body has risen to every single challenge life has presented it with, and carried me through, so I refuse to be ashamed of it," she said.
