Elsie Alburquerque, Founder of Own Your Strength, is redefining what it means to be fit, emphasizing that true strength is not just about physical appearance but also mental resilience. With 10 years of experience in coaching and a background in the military, Elsie brings a unique perspective to fitness training that focuses on lasting habits and a mindset that champions persevere.
From the start, Elsie’s story has been one of overcoming obstacles. At the age of 40, she made the bold decision to enlist in the US Army National Guard, ultimately graduating as a Military Police Officer. In what many might have seen as an impossible challenge, Elsie faced a life-changing accident during basic training that left her with a sprained ankle after falling 25 feet from an obstacle course. Although the injury threatened to end her military career, Elsie’s indomitable spirit helped her push through. Just a week before graduating basic training, she completed a 21.5-mile ruck march, carrying equipment heavier than half her body weight. Her grit and determination not only allowed her to graduate but have also set the foundation for the work she does now in her coaching business.
At Own Your Strength, Elsie’s coaching philosophy is built on the idea that true strength is forged from within. She teaches her clients that fitness is not about quick fixes or unrealistic expectations, but about building sustainable habits that integrate seamlessly into daily life. Elsie’s programs are designed to cultivate purpose and mental fortitude, ensuring that participants develop lifelong fitness practices that go beyond just physical appearance.
What sets Elsie apart in a crowded industry is her unique blend of discipline and mindset, honed through her military training and life experiences. As a petite woman standing at just 4 feet 11 inches, Elsie has proven time and again that size is not a limiting factor. Her philosophy is clear: “I don’t have to be the strongest in the room, I only have to be the hardest working one.” This mindset is evident in her coaching, where she emphasizes mental resilience over physical strength alone. Elsie lives by the motto, “Stop when you’re done, not when you’re tired,” instilling in her clients the idea that the true measure of success is persistence, not the absence of fatigue.
Elsie’s success in the military, combined with her dedication to her clients, has made her an influential figure in the fitness industry. Despite the challenges she has faced, both physical and mental, she continues to inspire others to push past their limits. Her story is a testament to the power of mental fortitude and the strength that comes from overcoming adversity.

The foundation of Own Your Strength is rooted in Elsie’s own experiences and her relentless commitment to proving that anyone, no matter their size or background, can achieve their fitness goals. Through tailored programs and one-on-one coaching, she helps individuals realize that they hold the key to unlocking their full potential.
Elsie’s journey as a coach has not been without its obstacles, but it is precisely these challenges that make her approach so powerful. Her message resonates with people of all ages, inspiring them to believe in themselves and their ability to achieve greatness. For Elsie, every victory—whether personal or professional—is a reflection of the power of persistence and mental toughness.
With her unique combination of military discipline and fitness expertise, Elsie Alburquerque is leading a movement that goes beyond physical strength. She is showing the world that true fitness is not about appearance but about the strength within to overcome any challenge. Own Your Strength is more than a fitness brand; it is a philosophy and a lifestyle dedicated to personal growth, resilience, and unwavering determination.
To learn more about Elsie Alburquerque and Own Your Strength, visitOwn Your Strength, where you can also explore client reviews and testimonials. You can also follow Elsie on social media:
- Instagram:@elsiealburquerque
- TikTok: @ownyourstrength