The video below was sent to me by a proud daughter.  Within the clip, you’ll see her parents (who are also grandparents) training for the Tough Mudder obstacle course.

In the words of their daughter,

“One of the things I like the best is they do a lot of training together (even though they are very different sizes), and always have a fun and playful attitude. My mom just took her first parkour class a few weeks ago, and they are constantly looking for new challenges. They are great parents, grandparents, and role models.”

This brief compilation video is awesome on so many levels.  Not only are these grandparents in excellent shape, but it is also obvious that they have a great time together (while tackling difficult challenges).  I certainly hope to follow their example later in life.

Thanks to Kami for passing this video along, and thanks to Mark and Cathy for the inspiration.

Tyler Carron became a double amputee after a tragic car accident on January 15th, 2007. He and his best friend, Nikko Landeros, were struck from behind while changing a tire on the side of the road. Fortunately, these young men refused to give up on life after the tragic accident.  Both were recently named to the 2010-11 U.S. National Sled Hockey Team.

Tyler also recently took part in his first ever bodybuilding competition.  A related story can be found at the link below:

Ft. Collins bodybuilder without legs an inspiration

An accompanying video can also be seen:

I’ve never had any interest in bodybuilding, but I certainly tip my hat to Tyler for getting up on stage and competing.  While some people complain about how their feet hurt or that their legs are tired, Tyler gets by without either.  He’s gone on with life and has inspired many.

Thanks to Brian for passing along the story.

Below is a neat video that I came across on Youtube. Within the clip, you’ll hear what has become a well known speech from the most recent Rocky movie. I actually posted the original scene to the blog a few years ago, but this display of kinetic typography is worth a look as well.

“We acquire the strength we have overcome.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

On an early February morning in 2009, Australian Navy Diver Paul de Gelder was mauled by a bull shark while performing a training exercise near the Australian naval base at Garden Island. The brutal attack nearly cost Paul his life.  Both his right hand and leg were amputated.

Yet despite such terrible circumstances, Paul refused to give up. In an interview shortly after the attack, he made the following statement:

I just try to go about my normal life. Training a lot is what I do, and I’m not going to let this get in the way of what I did before. You gotta look at the good things in your life and hold them close to your heart.

The video below highlights Paul’s progress just 12 months after the attack.  The words Never Ever Give Up appear in the final scene.  I couldn’t think of a better way to describe Paul’s resiliency.  His ability to bounce is beyond amazing.

It has been a week since Jack Denness finished his 12th Badwater ultramarathon.  His ability to complete this grueling race at age 75 is beyond incredible.  Jack isn’t alone however when it comes to older athletes who have defied the odds.

Below is a video that tells the story of two grandmothers who double as ultramarathon runners.  Barb Macklow (age 76) and Vicki Griffiths (age 67) have both completed 100 mile endurance runs.

Take a look as both women share some of their experiences and philosophies.

Thanks to Andy for sharing the video