Women’s History Month is an annual celebration in March that highlights the contributions of women to events in history, as well as their outstanding landmark achievements.
We’ve spoken to some of these women about their records and their lives, to help celebrate their achievements and inspire others.
We continue the series with Wendy Ida, a woman who is pushing her limits to prove age really is just a number.
Who is Wendy Ida?
Wendy Ida is a fitness trainer from California, USA, and the 65-year-old holds the Oldest active fitness instructor (multiple disciplines) and Most burpees in one minute (female).
While Wendy’s physique and stamina are certainly impressive, her story shows that human strength first comes from within.
Leaving her home state of New Jersey due to an abusive relationship, the now-certified master trainer had to lose everything before rediscovering herself through fitness.
After losing 80 pounds, becoming a bodybuilding champion, pilates instructor, nutritionist and motivational speaker, she currently lives with a positive outlook on life, determined to better herself and inspire other women who require the encouragement she once needed.
On becoming a female record holder
“I was over the moon when I achieved my first Guinness World Records title! It was at the top of my bucket list.
“I’m more confident and I feel so proud of myself. Accomplishing this goal has confirmed that I can do anything I set my mind to. In fact, it was so much fun the first time around I set second record.
“Now as a two-time Guinness World Records holder, I’m working on a third.”
“When you go above and beyond and prove what is possible regardless of age, where you come from or what you’ve been through, there can be no excuses left for anyone to use.
“It’s important that women see that and they know it must be possible for them too.
“The journey however is not always easy. I’ve had my own challenges. I am a domestic violence survivor and was a victim in that marriage for more than 13 years.
“On several occasions I almost lost my life. I felt trapped and was a prisoner in my own home along with my two babies.
“But by the grace of God I pushed through. On my third attempted escape, I ran across the country with my babies and only the clothes on our backs and started a new life.
“Now I am living my truth, following my heart and helping other women reinvent their lives.
“My biggest accomplishment to date is the fact that I found me.
“Through my journey from despair to triumph – I found the courage to live the life I deserve, go after what I want and trust my instincts. With that I can do anything! And I am. Everyday is a party!”
