Elizabeth Smart is embracing a powerful new chapter in her life: bodybuilding.

At 38, Smart — whose abduction story was featured in the 2025 Netflix documentary “Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart” — surprised her followers by sharing a photo on Instagram from a recent competition. In the image, she confidently poses in a bikini and heels, showcasing her toned physique.

Alongside the photo, she shared a deeply empowering message about embracing and celebrating her body in light of everything she has endured.

“When I posted the pictures on my Instagram story of me standing on stage in a bikini, I know it probably shocked many of you — and I understand that. If you had asked me a few years ago if I would ever compete in a bodybuilding show, I would have said, ‘absolutely not — never in a hundred years,’” she wrote.

She explained that the experience has been transformative, both physically and mentally. “This was a big change for me. It was hard, it pushed me, and it challenged me not to give up. I’m so proud of myself for doing this. I’m proud of my body, and I want to celebrate it.”

Smart was just 14 when she was abducted from her bedroom in Salt Lake City in 2002. She endured months of abuse before being rescued by police nine months later. Today, she is a married mother of three and a dedicated advocate for missing persons and survivors of abuse.

According to Smart, bodybuilding has helped her see her body in a new light — as a symbol of strength and resilience. “My body has carried me through my worst days, through unimaginable experiences. It has created and nurtured three beautiful children. It has risen to every challenge life has placed before me, and I refuse to be ashamed of it.”

She admitted she initially hesitated to share her transformation, fearing judgment or that she might not be taken seriously as an advocate. But after recognizing those thoughts as familiar to many survivors, she chose to move forward.

“I refuse to feel embarrassed for trying something new. I’m embracing my chance to live life as fully as I can,” she wrote.

Smart also reflected on the importance of living in the present. “We don’t know what tomorrow brings. I don’t want to look back at the end of my life and feel regret for only living halfway, for not going after the things I wanted to try.”

She concluded by thanking her coach and supporters, expressing hope that others will find the courage to pursue new experiences, grow, and, most importantly, find happiness.

Fans quickly filled the comments with support. “Unexpected, but all I see is a survivor who has taken her power back,” one wrote. Another added, “Now your strength is visible on the outside, too.”