71-Year-Old Oakland Grandma Shines in National Fitness Contest

On Mar 19, 2026

71-Year-Old Bodybuilder Inspires Health and Fitness

You might think that bodybuilding is a young person’s game, but 71-year-old Bette Vargas from Oakland is defying age expectations. Bette proves that it’s never too late to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. She is currently a leading participant in the national Ms. Health & Fitness competition.

With just hours to the end of voting for the quarter-finals, Bette was in 6th place. The winner of the contest will score a cover photo on Muscle & Fitness HERS magazine and a prize of $20,000.

Bette’s Journey to Fitness

Bette embarked on her fitness journey later in life, after raising her four children. While always valuing fitness and activity, she initially directed her energy towards her family.

“I was discovered as a bodybuilder when I was in the gym,” Bette shares. “But at that time, my focus was on getting my children into college.” Bette truly entered the world of competitive fitness in her late 30s and early 40s. She became a race-walk champion and has remained dedicated to fitness ever since.

Award-Winning Bodybuilder

When presented with the opportunity to compete in the bodybuilding arena, she entered with a ‘give-it-a-shot’ attitude and ended up winning medals. “I won the USA and I won the world,” Bette proudly shares. In 2024, she competed in both national and global Natural Bodybuilding contests, clinching the bikini championship in her age category.

Exercise and Nutrition

Bette’s workout routine is consistent and varied, focusing on both upper and lower body exercises, active cardio, and stretching. She also maintains a disciplined vegan diet, demonstrating the role of nutrition in fitness.

Sharing Fitness Knowledge and Inspiring Others

Committed to helping others achieve their fitness goals, Bette works as a wellness consultant, a holistic health coach, and a personal trainer. She’s also in the process of obtaining certification as a yoga instructor.

Besides, Bette is a content creator, looking to share her knowledge widely. She hosts the Crazy, Sexy Menopause YouTube channel and plans to launch a community-based membership group called “Crazy Sexy Circle” that focuses on helping and supporting women in midlife.

Age is Just a Number

While adopting a healthy and active lifestyle is perhaps easier when starting younger, Bette emphasizes that it’s never too late. “It doesn’t matter what age you are. You can reverse many of the maladies that we have,” she advises.

To vote for Bette in the Ms. Health & Fitness competition, click here.