Sharla Peterson

Biography

Sharla Peterson of the USA is a longtime fitness competitor whose journey in bodybuilding took an unexpected turn following a life-changing spinal cord injury. In 2022, Sharla competed in five NPC Bikini competitions as a Masters athlete, establishing herself as a dedicated competitor with a passion for fitness and bodybuilding.

In 2023, Sharla was preparing to compete at the Ben Weider All Natural 2023 when her life changed on July 13, 2023. While vacationing in Utah and visiting her daughter, the two went to a new gym to train together. During her fourth set of back squats on a Smith Machine, Sharla suffered an L1 burst fracture. Half of the fractured vertebral bone entered her spinal cord, causing instant paralysis from the waist down and resulting in an L1 incomplete spinal cord injury.

Despite experiencing such a dramatic change in her life, Sharla’s passion for fitness and bodybuilding remained. Her return to the bodybuilding stage as a Guest Poser represents far more than a physical accomplishment—it is a continuation of the competitive journey she began before her injury. Sharla’s story demonstrates resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for bodybuilding, proving that while her circumstances changed, her drive to pursue the sport she loves did not.

Contest history