IPL Pro Teresa Moss & Her Life of Adventure
From Bodybuilding to Outdoor Expeditions
Teresa Moss, a name synonymous with strength, adventure, and resilience, has carved out a remarkable journey. At 51 years old, standing at 5’4” and hailing from Alaska, Teresa’s story is one of unyielding passion for fitness, exploration, and entrepreneurship. But as she reflects on her multifaceted life, one thing remains clear: she’s living her life with no regrets, embracing every challenge along the way.
PHOTOS BY BEN YOSEF
"I don't want to look back and wish I’d done more. Every day is an opportunity to push myself further, whether it’s in the gym or the wild outdoors."
A Life Unscripted: Fitness & Adventure
Known for her impressive status in the International Physique League (IPL), Teresa is no stranger to the competition stage. With multiple Pro Cards, including wins in the Bodybuilding Open and Masters Figure, she has earned her place among the league’s best. But Teresa is far more than just a competitor. When she’s not flexing on stage, she’s likely climbing mountains, paddle boarding in Alaska’s crystal-clear waters, or guiding outdoor excursions. “Living a life of adventure is my motto,” says Teresa. “I don’t want to look back and wish I’d done more. Every day is an opportunity to push myself further, whether it’s in the gym or the wild outdoors.”
Her love for the great outdoors isn’t just a hobby—it’s a business. As the founder of Alaska Mountain Gypsy Tours, Teresa leads outdoor enthusiasts on breathtaking adventures through the wilds of Alaska. From ice climbing on Matanuska Glacier to hiking the rugged trails of Pioneer Peak, Teresa’s tours offer a chance for others to experience the rush she thrives on. “The outdoors is healing, and I just want to share that with my favorite ingredient—adrenaline,” she shares.
"The older I get, the harder it is, but I stay focused. My lifestyle is all about balance, knowing when to push and when to pull back."
The Balance of Business & Adventure
While fitness and adventure take center stage, Teresa is a true entrepreneur. She has built a diverse portfolio of ventures, from her fitness coaching business and cake-making enterprise to selling items on Poshmark and running guided tours. “Job security, I suppose,” she laughs when speaking about her dual role as a fitness professional and cake maker. “A fitness coach who bakes wedding cakes. It works for me!”
Her latest ambition is growing her outdoor guiding business, which reflects her deep love for nature and her desire to help others reconnect with the earth in a safe, challenging environment. “I want to create experiences that people will remember for the rest of their lives,” Teresa explains, describing her signature summer solstice tour where clients summit a mountain at midnight. “It’s the longest day of the year, and standing on top of a mountain as the sun never sets—that’s the kind of adventure I want to share.”
The Art of Perseverance
Teresa’s journey has been far from smooth, and she’s faced her fair share of physical and emotional obstacles. Most recently, she suffered a devastating injury while skiing—rupturing her ACL during a backcountry jump. Despite this setback, Teresa’s resilience shines through. “I was devastated to pull out of the IPL Arizona Championship, but I knew my body needed time to heal,” she says. “I’m already 13 weeks ahead of schedule in my recovery, and that’s thanks to the strength and discipline I’ve built over the years.”
It’s this very discipline that has enabled her to juggle multiple businesses and maintain her competitive edge. “Fitness isn’t just about looking good—it’s about being prepared for whatever life throws at you,” she reflects. “The older I get, the harder it is, but I stay focused. My lifestyle is all about balance, knowing when to push and when to pull back.”
Embracing Versatility: A Jack of All Trades
What makes Teresa truly unique is her versatility. She’s a competitive athlete, a fitness coach, a cake maker, a businesswoman, and a guide. But she’s also a passionate adventurer and a spontaneous spirit. “I love to just jump in and give it my all,” she says. “Whether it’s singing, scuba diving, or driving a dump truck in the winter, I don’t hold back. Life is about trying new things, exploring new opportunities, and growing through each experience.”
Teresa’s “no limits” mentality has led her to some impressive feats: from being the first female to swing off the Kuskalana Bridge in Chitna, Alaska, to earning scuba certifications and completing her ice diving certification. “People are always asking, ‘Is there anything you don’t do?’ And my response is, ‘Fly!'” she jokes.
"Every day is a chance to live the life you’ve always dreamed of…Don’t wait. Take the leap. Travel. Hike. Compete. Enjoy your journey."
A Journey Without Regrets
At the core of Teresa’s philosophy is the idea of living without regrets. “Every day is a chance to live the life you’ve always dreamed of,” she says. “Don’t wait. Take the leap. Travel. Hike. Compete. Enjoy your journey.“ Her journey continues to evolve, with plans to expand her coaching business, continue competing in the IPL, and grow her outdoor guiding company. “I’ll be hitting the stage in Destin, Florida soon, and I’m pushing my clients to beat me. I want them to surpass me,” she shares, exuding the same passion for coaching as she does for her own growth. “Life is all about pushing boundaries—whether it’s for yourself or those you mentor.“
And when asked about the future, Teresa remains ever-focused on the present. “I’m all about living the dream, but also embracing the moment,” she says. “I have so many dreams I want to make a reality, and I plan to keep going after them, one adventure at a time.” For Teresa Moss, the adventure never ends.
Whether it’s climbing a peak, competing on stage, or building her businesses, her motto remains unchanged: Live a life of adventure, with no regrets. And with the endless possibilities ahead, it’s clear she’s only just begun. SEAM
More Teresa Moss
INSPIRE Magazine: Teresa Moss – How This IPL Pro Champion Triumphed Through Challenge
“We are all capable of extraordinary transformation. Sometimes, all it takes is one person to show us the way. If I can be that person for someone, I’ll know I’ve made an impact.”
SEAM Magazine: IPL Pro Teresa Moss & Her Life of Adventure – From Bodybuilding to Outdoor Expeditions
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Athlete Entrepreneur Magazine Cover Story – IPL Pro Champion Teresa Moss Is Her Own Boss
“Embrace challenges as opportunities to innovate and grow. And remember that the journey is just as important as the destination.”
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“I do love to get dressed up and put on that little black dress and heels from time to time…But I love big hoodies, pajama pants and Carhartt bibs.”
IPL Pro Champion Teresa Moss Lands Cover Of Athlete Entrepreneur Magazine
“Dreams into reality! Complete elation overtook me when I was told I made the cover. Two of my passions colliding…fitness and entrepreneurship. It is a true honor and I hope this inspires others to go after your dreams and turn them into your reality.”
VIGOROUS Magazine – IPL Pro Teresa Moss
“I am extremely spontaneous and love just doing things without a plan. I have so many dreams to make a reality!”
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