Elizabeth Smart has revealed that she has taken up bodybuilding, sharing details of her new pursuit alongside a competition photograph.

The 38-year-old advocate, widely known for her work supporting trauma survivors, posted an image from a recent competition held on April 18 in Salt Lake City.

The event marked her fourth appearance in bodybuilding contests, although she noted that she had previously hesitated to share this aspect of her life publicly.

“I understand the shock,” she wrote on Instagram, adding that she would have once dismissed the idea of competing, stating, “absolutely not! Never in 100 years!” She explained that concerns about judgement and perceptions had initially prevented her from speaking openly about her involvement in the sport.

“Worried that I would be judged, not taken seriously, somehow perceived as less than or now unworthy to continue work as an advocate for all survivors,” she said, reflecting on the reasons behind her earlier reluctance. She added that these feelings mirrored challenges faced by many survivors, influencing her decision to share her experience.

Smart described bodybuilding as a demanding but rewarding change, emphasising the importance of embracing new opportunities. “This was a big change for me, it was hard, it pushed me, challenged me not to give up,” she said. “I am so proud of myself for doing this. I am so proud of my body, and I want to celebrate it.”

Her coach, Robyn Maher, also commented on her progress, stating that she “killed it” during the competition and indicating that further goals and events are planned.

Smart has previously spoken about her experiences following her 2002 abduction, explaining her decision to share her story publicly in order to give it meaning and purpose.