These Women Prove Life Gets Insanely Amazing at 50

"I am celebrating leaping in this decade! I actively sought big-time adventure when I turned 50. I gave myself permission to play as a way to learn new things. By now, I know how mistake-making, mess-making, and learning go hand in hand. I have earned the right to go out on a limb and take risks." — Carrie Owerko, 54, Senior Iyengar Yoga Instructor

"Two decades ago, I started a foundation to create a low-cost, high-quality gymnastics program for inner-city youth, and now it's expanding. I also take care of my family and my 92-year-old mother. At 55, I'm more confident asking for what I need. I'm able to handle all of this growth and let go of the little things." — Wendy Hilliard, 55, Hall of Fame Rhythmic Gymnast and Founder of Wendy Hilliard Gymnastics Foundation

"I used to be so judgmental when I fell short, and I overate to stifle those feelings, but at 53 I see where I've excelled in each moment. Being a cheerleader for yourself lets you be that way for others. In my gym, everyone is ageless. We're all trying to find confidence in our journey." — Susan Rappaport, 53, Marathoner and Founder of Boutique Fitness Studio NuYu Revolution

"At this age, I feel confident and unshaken. My body is better than ever thanks to my six-day-a-week field training and running routine, and I surround myself with people who will do anything for me, as I will for them. I'm in the best shape of my life mentally, physically, and emotionally." — Vicki Fox, 56, National Senior Games Gold Medalist

"In my 50s, I am truly self-confident. I've had different careers — in the business world as a lawyer and now at SoulCycle — and I've suffered personal losses, but at this age, I know it's going to be fine. Hard, but fine. I am able to let go of fear and accept what life throws at me, and that's a gift of age." — Mireya D'Angelo, 52, SoulCycle Instructor

"Ten years ago, I might have had 100 reasons not to join a swimming group, and the first 20 might have been fear of failure. Now I don't burn time thinking about what I can't do, I imagine what I can do next. Plus, I can swear like a sailor about things that matter and no one will stop me." — Kate Pennell, 53, Synchronized Swimmer with The Brooklyn Peaches

"I've been skydiving for 40 years. Some people stop jumping as they get older — it's not bowling, things can happen — but I've never considered that. I still do airshows all over the world, and it keeps me young. I trust that my body will tell me when I'm done. But it hasn't yet." — Kay Hoiby, 61, Misty Blues Skydiving Team Member

"People are no longer surprised that I go after what I want — at this age, I'm taken at face value and allowed to pursue my interests uninterrupted. I own my goofs and celebrate my victories. I embrace 'yes' and have the confidence to say 'no'. I'm earning my crinkles and grays." — Lauren Class Schneider, 57, Founder of Broadway Fantasy Camp

"I have adopted a 'No Fear, No Regrets' attitude for this new decade of life because you are never too old to go for a dream. I'm producing a comedic web series about midlife called The Other F Word. Our tagline is 'Why should kids have all the fun?'" — Caytha Jentis, 50, Filmmaker, Director and Producer

"I'm stronger now than ever before. I swim, bike, run and strength train several times a week. I could never have done this earlier in my life when my kids were young. At 54, I can dedicate myself 100% to staying on track. I set ambitious goals and I focus — plus I'm mature enough not to let setbacks deter me." — Hilary Topper, 54, Triathlete who's done 10+ triathlons since turning 50