Elizabeth Smart, the prominent advocate for trauma survivors who was kidnapped in 2002, has added a new title to her resume: award-winning bodybuilder. With the help of her trainer Robyn Maher, Smart transformed into what Maher affectionately calls a "Fitness Barbie" and recently took first place in her category at the Wasatch Warrior competition.
Maher shared with Extra TV that Smart initially kept her bodybuilding journey private, competing under her married name in her first three competitions. "She wasn't looking for any attention," Maher explained. "She just wanted to do it for herself and set that goal." But after seeing her progress, Smart felt empowered to share her story.
In an Instagram post on April 21, Smart admitted she had been hesitant to go public, fearing judgment that might undermine her advocacy work. Yet she ultimately decided, "This is something I'm proud of." Maher praised her client's courage, noting that Smart's physical strength is matched by her emotional resilience. "Emotionally and mentally, this woman’s been through everything and come out on top," Maher said.
Smart's training regimen was strict, involving a healthy meal plan and weight training up to six days a week. Her legs are "super strong," Maher added, and she can squat impressive amounts of weight. The win was hard-earned: "She didn't get any top award just because she's Elizabeth Smart. It was fair and square."
Smart's journey to bodybuilding began after she had already overcome unimaginable trauma. Kidnapped at age 14 from her Salt Lake City home, she was held captive for nine months by Brian David Mitchell, who is now serving life in prison. In the years since, she has become a powerful advocate for survivors, authored a memoir, and built a family with husband Matthew Gilmour, with whom she shares three children.
Her trainer believes Smart's story serves as an inspiration: "I keep calling her Fitness Barbie," Maher said. "She’s gorgeous, and she’s proving that survivors can set goals, accomplish amazing things, and be an example to other women."