Alma Kimura Started Powerlifting At Age 58 and Now Holds Multiple Records

Alma Kimura didn’t have your typical powerlifting beginning, as in she didn’t actually start competing, or even lifting like a powerlifter until 58 years old. Now 63, Kimura is a weathered powerlifting veteran, a holder of multiples American records, and a prime example of how age is just a number.

Kimura’s career and life revolves around working as a successful lawyer, taking part in book clubs, and playing tennis. Until the summer of 2013, this was the norm for Kimura’s day-to-day routine. It was at this pivotal moment when one of her friends recommended trying a new sport, which led her to powerlifting.

[Interested in starting powerlifting? It’s never too late, check out our definitive guide on how to start powerlifting after the age of 40.]

Her first day at the powerlifting gym began like many other athletes who step into this style gym for the first time. She recites in her KUOW news story that when she first began training it took her almost 2-weeks to gain the flexibility to hit proper depth in the squat. After learning the movements, beginning to train more, and falling in love with the gym’s atmosphere, Kimura found herself hooked and prepping for her first meet.

In KUOW’s story Kimura talks about the gym’s environment and says, “Whenever somebody is doing a heavy lift, everyone stops and watches that person and encourages the person. It’s just an unbelievable atmosphere.” Kimura’s first meet was in 2015 at the Washington State Powerlifting Championships, and keep in mind this meet was only 7-months after she started powerlifting.

A lot of powerlifting athletes treat their first meet as a way to go 9-for-9 and gain confidence on the platform, but not Kimura. She ended up setting three American Records, which included a 242 lb squat, 294 lb deadlift, and a 662 lb total. Check them out below.

Kimura lifts out of Seattle Strength and Power in downtown Seattle, Washington. She holds multiple state and American records, and continues to push the envelope for her masters class.

Kimura is a great example of why it’s never too late to start in strength sports. Only 7-months after learning how to squat, she was hitting 242 lbs, and setting a new American record.

Feature image screenshot from George Marts YouTube channel.  

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