Angela Fuller is proof that it’s never too late to chase a dream. At 45, she’s a fitness instructor, Zumba enthusiast, American Ninja Warrior competitor, and record-setting adult gymnast. Her journey has been shaped by resilience, from overcoming a life-altering back injury to representing Team USA on the world stage. Whether she’s flipping through the air or inspiring others in the gym, Angela lives by the belief that age is just a number.
Quick Facts
- Name: Angela Fuller
- Age: 45
- Hometown: Colorado, USA
- Occupation: Fitness instructor specializing in Zumba, STRONG Nation HIIT, and strength training
- Sports: Ninja Warrior, Adult Gymnastics, Cheerleading (college)
- Years in Ninja Warrior: 6
- Years in Gymnastics: 10 total (ages 6–14, returned at 41)
- American Ninja Warrior Appearance: Season 15
- Biggest Achievement in Gymnastics: Oldest gymnast to complete a gymnastics Omnithon and 2nd place all-around in men’s events
- Favorite Quote: “There is no expiration date on dreams.”
The Interview
Q: What do you do for a living?
A: I’m a fitness instructor specializing in Zumba dance fitness, STRONG Nation HIIT, and strength training classes.
Q: How long have you been doing Ninja Warrior?
A: I’ve been training for Ninja Warrior for six years and proudly competed on season 15 of American Ninja Warrior.
Q: How long have you been doing gymnastics?
A: I was a gymnast from ages 6 to 14, then took a 27-year break before returning at 41. For the past four years, I’ve been competing through the NAIGC.
Q: How did you get into Ninja Warrior?
A: I initially brought my son to a ninja class, planning on living my Ninja dreams through him. But when the coach invited me to try it myself, I fell in love instantly.
Q: How long have you been doing Zumba?
A: I’ve been teaching Zumba for seven years now.
Q: How did you get into Zumba?
A: After my second son was born, I struggled with postpartum depression. A friend invited me to a Zumba class, and the joy of dancing reignited my sparkle. I loved it so much that after six years of taking classes, I decided to become an instructor.
Q: How did your college cheerleading experience influence your athleticism and mindset?
A: Cheerleading in college was a blast, but it was also intense balancing academics and athletics at a Division 1 school. It taught me resilience and determination, qualities I carry with me every day.
Q: What was your favorite part of being on American Ninja Warrior? And why?
A: The best part was having my best friend and hero, who bravely battled stage 4 breast cancer, cheering me on from the sidelines. Sadly, she passed away eight months after filming. Just stepping onto that stage was a victory after years of hard work and setbacks. Dancing on stage for my entrance was absolutely priceless and a moment I will hold in my heart forever.
Q: Who is your favorite ninja to watch on ANW? And why?
A: Mady Howard is my favorite to watch. Meeting and competing alongside her was incredible. She’s not only an amazing athlete but also incredibly humble.
Q: How important is fitness to you? And why?
A: Fitness is everything to me. After being sidelined for 14 years because of a severe back injury, I treasure every chance I get to move and push my body. Each morning I wake up excited to get to the gym and keep growing stronger.
Q: If you could play only one sport for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
A: Gymnastics without a doubt. I’m addicted to the feeling I get from flipping and flying through the air. It’s a passion that never fades.
Q: What accomplishments are you most proud of in adult gymnastics?
A: I made history as the oldest gymnast to complete a gymnastics Omnithon, which includes 14 events spanning men’s and women’s all-around, trampoline, and tumbling all in a single meet. I even placed second all-around in the men’s events, competing against athletes half my age. Last year, I had the honor of representing the USA at the Masters World Cup. Being featured in Inside Gymnastics magazine, The Associated Press, and other media outlets was an incredible privilege.
Q: Who is your all-time favorite gymnast? And why?
A: Growing up, Dominique Moceanu was my hero. I had her poster on my wall and was thrilled to meet her at NAIGC Nationals this year. She inspired me as a little girl, and now she continues to inspire as a gym owner and promoter of adult gymnastics. Chellsie Memmel is my adult gymnastics hero. Her comeback story as a mother showed me it was possible to return to the sport I love, and that gave me hope.
Q: What do you say to people who say they can’t do something because of their age?
A: Age is just a number. There is no expiration date on dreams. It’s all about mindset. If you can dream it, you can achieve it, no matter how old you are. I’ve overcome enormous challenges and setbacks, yet here I am living proof that it’s possible. Don’t let excuses hold you back.
Q: Which coach has given you the best advice? And what was it?
A: My coach Mike has been incredible and a huge reason I compete as an adult gymnast. Returning for a second time, I focus on purpose over podium. I do everything for the love of the sport. Mike’s best advice is simple: just have fun.
Q: What is your best advice for people chasing their athletic dreams?
A: Go for it. Live without regrets. If there’s a dream that keeps you awake at night, don’t wait. Pursue it with everything you’ve got.
Q: After competing, where do you like to celebrate and what do you order?
A: I love celebrating with pizza or pasta. I eat really healthy during competition, so after a long day, I get excited to enjoy plenty of carbs.
Q: What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
A: I was in a serious car accident right after college and suffered a major back injury. Doctors told me my athletic days were over. I went from spending time on disability 14 years ago to flipping and flying through the air at 45.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: @colofitnesschick
Facebook: Angela Fuller
TikTok: @Happy.Dance.Ninja
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