At 90, Toshisuke Kanazawa competes on bodybuilding’s world stage

At 90, Japanese bodybuilder Toshisuke Kanazawa competed on the world stage in Spain alongside athletes decades younger than him. He took part in the 2026 IFBB World Fitness and Bodybuilding Championships in Santa Susanna on October 30, entering the masters category for competitors aged 50 and over.

Backstage, his preparations followed the same pattern as those of younger athletes: warming up with his team and applying spray tan before posing under the lights. His appearance reflected an ambition that reaches beyond any single competition.

Kanazawa says he wants to continue bodybuilding for the rest of his life. He is considering another competitive appearance at 93, after which he thinks he will probably retire from competition. For now, that remains a possibility rather than a firm plan.

He also hopes his example will encourage other older people to remain active. Kanazawa describes determination as central to his approach and wants to be a role model for people pursuing demanding goals as they age. On the Spanish stage, that commitment was visible in practice.