Forever Athlete: Faith Ireland

About the Book

Faith’s story is about transformation. Having never truly identified with the term “athlete,” the “old” Faith Ireland wasn’t one for regular physical exercise. Though she had experienced great success in her career, Faith’s body had suffered from a sedentary environment and a string of unfortunate events. She endured physical pain for over fifteen years, until she made a decision—to work through the pain and reclaim her life. Faith’s story embodies the very essence of the human condition. It’s a true tale of tragedy, setbacks, and physical pain, but it’s also a powerful example of courage, perseverance, hope, and ultimately the ways in which an ordinary person can rise above obstacles and find a way to become a healthier and happier person. Along her path, Faith shows us how to set practical goals, take small steps, and avoid unrealistically comparing ourselves to others. She demonstrates how to enjoy the progress along the way and make bargains with ourselves to stay motivated. And most importantly, she shows us how to prevent barriers, including negative aging stereotypes and our fears—of failure, injury, and the unknown—from stopping us in our tracks. Faith’s story is good news for all of us; it offers real evidence that it’s never too late—and that we’re never too busy—to start our own journey.

Praise for Forever Athlete: Faith Ireland “Faith Ireland’s story is compelling to me in that she gave herself a second chance at a high quality, healthy life. The same opportunity anyone can give themselves at any time, regardless of life's many setbacks from aging, injuries and sickness. The love of one’s physical nature and the willingness to improve its ability to stay strong and vibrant will lead anyone to a wonderful life even in the later years. Thank you, Faith, for sharing your spirited story for the many out there that may not believe they can experience being a Forever Athlete and restore their youthfulness.” —Jake Platt, owner of Northwest Crossfit; twenty-plus years in elite fitness coaching; Crossfit Coach and master in Olympic tae kwon do “I tell Faith’s story to my patients over and over again. As a doctor, I want each individual to know the power they possess not only for healing, but for exceeding their own expectations about what they think is possible. I recommend this e-book to anyone who wants the freedom that comes with having a strong body, regardless of age or athletic experience. “Of course, not everyone wants to become a world-champion powerlifter, but who doesn’t want to maintain the ability do simple things—like lifting your grandkids off the floor or swimming in the ocean? Read this book and watch the video. You’ll understand why being a forever athlete isn’t something we have to do—it’s something we get to do.” —Rachel Fischer, MD “I have been hearing about the record-setting accomplishments of this dynamic lady from the northwest, Faith Ireland, for the last few years. “Ms. Ireland does defy the powerlifting stereotype of the giant, young ex-footballer who now pushes around a ton of iron in the gym while roaring and bellowing. I find her story much more typical of both the men and women I see at competitions around the country. She is a determined, sophisticated individual who has decided to take back control of her body from the effects of age, injury, and just living life in our society. “In the process it seems she has discovered the exhilaration of competition and the joy of interacting with her fellow competitors. The greatness of her accomplishments as a lifter is only exceeded by the tremendous inspiration she provides for the rest of us. “Thanks to Forever Athletes for telling the story of Faith Ireland and to others who deliver the important message that it is never too late to enjoy the benefits of exercise and to start having fun.” —Ron Moormeister, Western Regional Chairman of the United States Powerlifting Association

About the Author

Forever Athletes is about you—about putting your life into play. We’re building a community of people—the big, the small, the elite, and the everyday—who overcome the obstacles life puts in front of them and keep on playing. We’re sharing inspirational stories that redefine what an athlete is—stories of “late bloomers” becoming national and world champions in the second half of their lives; stories of healthy lifestyle changes and real weight loss that come from discovering a sport you truly enjoy; stories of parents and grandparents using their own physical skills to rehab themselves so they can play with their children and grandchildren. Regardless of our age or physical condition, Forever Athletes strives to empower each of us to discover—or rediscover—our own inner athlete, and put our lives into play.