Ellen Ector, Women’s Empowerment Leader and Domestic Violence Advocate
In the heart of Atlanta’s vibrant Camp Creek community, Ellen Ector, at 71, stands tall as a beacon of vitality and empowerment. With a mantra echoing, “Life’s challenges are just stepping stones to greatness,” Ector, the driving force behind Gymnetics Fitness, isn’t merely shaping bodies; she’s shaping legacies. Through her boundless energy in road races and her unwavering commitment to fostering a community of empowered women at her gym, she exemplifies resilience and strength.
What is the key to staying young at heart?
My trick to staying young at heart is surrounding myself with inspiring, motivational people, especially those from younger generations. I believe in staying current and on-trend, so keeping up with things like current events, social media and fashion is what keeps me young.
How do you give back to your community?
I’m passionate about family and domestic violence advocacy. So many women come into my gym with experiences in relationships that turned violent. I’ve experienced that and it can be debilitating and take years to overcome. But when you use that energy to conquer your wildest dreams, even if these dreams are just physical, it’s the most freeing feeling in the world!
What wellness things do you wish you would’ve started sooner?
I definitely lived a life! Instead of knowledge about the risk of smoking, we had actual commercials that would promote cigarette and alcohol use. I definitely feel that I now eat and drink healthier. I also work out more than I did back then. I didn’t start until I was 40 years old. I think 71-year-old Ellen could beat 30-year-old Ellen,
any day!
What is the best part of being in your 60s and 70s?
The best part is when you can get to the point when you can accept and love being an empty nester! I have raised five children and 12 grandchildren. To see the younger generation receive the baton as I pass it is one of my life’s greatest treasures.
What’s the greatest life lesson you’ve learned?
I’ve learned to create daily habits that help me become the person I want to be. I also write down ideas as soon as they pop into my head because some days you just can’t remember where you put those keys!
