Defeating Paralysis and Life Threatening Accident, Bodybuilder Becomes 5 Times Mr. Olympia Wheelchair Champion

Harold Kelley is a living example of the quote, “Storms make people stronger and never last forever.” After a horrible accident, Harold could have quit bodybuilding but he didn’t. Staying strong, he secured victory in the Wheelchair Olympia 2022. In a frank conversation in 2017, Kelley had once disclosed his approach while facing various struggles. 

In an interview with WFAA, Kelley’s statements show what he focused on after the terrible accident. His words also reflect his mindset after his paralysis. The bodybuilder’s views also shared how competing in a wheelchair is not easy. 

Harold Kelley’s frank admissions about his mental outlook, injuries, and competing in bodybuilding competitions

During the 2017 interview, Kelley revealed a few perks about his mindset. “Don’t worry about what you can’t do. Worry about what you can do. That was the way I lived.” This shows how Kelley focused on the aspects he could control instead of thinking about what was not possible. 

Further, the bodybuilding legend remarked how he was grateful that he could compete in the Mr. Olympia Wheelchair category. “I’m trying to show people that even if you fell you can get back up and still excel…”  This shows Kelley’s positive stance and his undying spirit towards life and his sport. 

In another interview showcased as a YouTube video by Generation Iron Fitness & Bodybuilding Network, Kelley also expressed that he will compete in bodybuilding competitions as long as his body permits.  The bodybuilding champion also mentioned that he has been working out every day for almost 30 years now and how consistency has eventually raised the bar for him.

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Upon elaboration, he explained, “

I wasn’t that type guy to be like, ‘I want to be Mr. Olympia Wheelchair,’ you see what I’m saying. When you do something consistent, it comes. You don’t have to wish, pray, and you don’t have to do that. If you do it consistent enough, you’re going to be successful.” Despite the many injuries that he incurred in his life, the one thing that has been a constant in his life is working out every day.

Harold Kelley is a true sportsperson! 

In a 2022 interview, the bodybuilding legend spoke about how he appreciates his contemporaries even when he ends up on the losing side of things. He talks about how training hard for several months is going to help him in the long run even if he came second in the competition. This again circles back to the point where Kelly prioritizes consistency more than anything else!

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Harold Kelley’s successful journey proves that nothing is impossible if one works hard to achieve their goals.  The bodybuilding champion’s fight against adversities will always inspire fans. How can you relate to Harold Kelley’s successful journey and difficulties? Let us know in the comments below.