Most people slow down with age—but not Jacinto Bonilla.
The 90-something fitness dynamo isn’t just staying active—he’s dominating one of the most challenging workouts out there: CrossFit.
In an age group where many people accept a sedentary lifestyle, Bonilla is defying expectations with record-breaking strength and an unwavering mindset.
But what motivates him? What’s behind his decades-long commitment to health, strength, and resilience?
His answers may surprise and inspire anyone looking to age well—or anyone convinced it’s “too late” to get started.
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Meet Jacinto Bonilla: A Life of Strength and Purpose
Born in Puerto Rico and raised in New York City’s Spanish Harlem, Bonilla’s fitness journey began early—with homemade soup-can weights in his teenage years.
By 14, he was lifting regularly and played basketball and boxed with friends. Over the years, his passion evolved into track, karate, marathons, and eventually, bodybuilding.
But it wasn’t until age 67 that he discovered CrossFit—a notoriously intense and full-body training system that changed his life.
Since stepping into his first box (CrossFit gym) in 2006, Bonilla hasn’t looked back. In fact, he created his own WOD (Workout of the Day), the “Jasinto Storm,” on his 69th birthday.
Each year, more CrossFitters join him to complete this challenging set:
- 80 squats
- 80 push-ups
- 80 pull-ups
- 80 wall ball throws
- 80 kettlebell swings
- 80 standing pulls
Strength That Stuns: Jacinto’s Physical Feats
Bonilla can deadlift 325 pounds, squat 250 pounds, and crank out 20 pull-ups without resting.
“Any kind of exercise you could think of, I could do,” he told Chris Casey of ABC’s Localish, who once attempted one of Bonilla’s HIIT sets—only to be wiped out after 7 minutes.
Bonilla’s consistency and dedication have made him the oldest competitor ever to participate in the CrossFit Games—three times.
What’s more impressive? He didn’t just survive prostate cancer at 83—he came back to compete again.
“I Don’t Want to Be Dependent on Anyone”
Bonilla’s motivation isn’t medals or fame—it’s independence.
“No matter what age I reach, I want to reach that age in shape,” he says. “I don’t want to be dependent on anyone.”
For him, aging is not a reason for decline. “If you don’t use your joints and muscles, you’re going to have problems. If you just sit there and watch TV, you’re going to get rusty.”
Bonilla’s Secrets to Aging Well
His lifestyle—and success—are built on five foundational habits anyone can emulate.
1. Protect Your Skin
Your skin reflects and protects your overall health. Bonilla emphasizes gentle care:
- Use sunscreen daily
- Wear protective clothing outdoors
- Get annual skin cancer screenings
- Stay hydrated
- Use non-irritating skincare products
Healthy skin supports bodily functions and can age more gracefully with consistent care.
2. Move Every Day
Exercise isn’t optional as you age—it’s essential.
According to the CDC, regular physical activity reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
Movement also benefits the brain—lowering stress, improving sleep, and lifting your mood. Bonilla proves that building strength at any age is possible.
3. Fuel Your Body Right
Nutrition plays a critical role in longevity. Bonilla’s advice:
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Choose healthy fats like olive and avocado oil
- Limit processed foods and added sugar
- Watch sodium intake to manage blood pressure
These small choices add up to big outcomes over time.
4. Prioritize Mental Health
Bonilla advocates for strong relationships and a positive outlook.
“Being happy and keeping your stress down goes a long way in helping you live and age well,” he notes.
Reach out to loved ones, maintain a social circle, and consider the emotional benefits of keeping a pet.
Studies show pets can boost mood, reduce loneliness, and even lower blood pressure.
5. Embrace Active Living
Bonilla shows that staying active isn’t just about workouts—it’s about lifestyle.
He recommends experiences like hiking, skiing vacations, or joining group classes to stay engaged.
“Competitions give me something to look forward to,” says Bonilla. “Even when I don’t feel like training, knowing a contest is coming up motivates me.”
This is a critical insight—stay curious, set goals, and keep moving.
What It Means to Truly Age Well
Bonilla doesn’t play favorites. “I don’t have a favorite workout… I know I’m good at bodyweight movements like air squats, push-ups, pull-ups, but I wouldn’t say they are my favorites,” he shared.
His least favorite? The snatch—he says it aggravates a lingering shoulder issue.
But that’s the point. He doesn’t skip workouts he dislikes—he adapts and keeps going.
His story defies the stereotype of what aging looks like. Created from grit, years of consistency, and infectious optimism, Bonilla is a reminder that you don’t have to accept decline with age.
Lessons from a Legend
Yes, Bonilla has rare strength. But his real superpowers? Discipline, purpose, and lifelong curiosity.
“Most people my age can hardly walk unassisted, never mind workout,” he says. “People think that being old means you’re out of shape and overweight, but I disagree. You can be fit at my age.”
Whether it’s pulling a barbell off the ground or completing 80 pull-ups, Jacinto Bonilla shows us what’s possible with courage and consistency.
Start now. Commit to daily movement. Eat well. Stay strong.
Because, as Bonilla proves, it’s never too late to push limits.
