The Power of Weightlifting: My Personal Journey to Strength and Health

For numerous years, there have been misconceptions and myths surrounding women’s weightlifting. The fear of appearing ‘bulky’ from weightlifting was widespread, and the predominance of male-centric weightlifting spaces in gyms only augmented the intimidation felt by women. I, too, succumbed to these beliefs.

Between the ages of 18 and around 23, I seldom engaged in weightlifting. My fitness regimen primarily consisted of running and occasional HIIT workouts. However, as I approached 29, I began to recognise that societal stereotypes should not dictate my exercise routine. The increasing acceptance of weightlifting for women played a role in challenging my habits, but my desire for the multitude of benefits that weightlifting offers ultimately motivated me to make a change.

I undertook a six-week weightlifting challenge under the guidance of Loui Fazakerley, a Personal Trainer at Third Space Soho. I committed to two weightlifting sessions per week, in addition to reformer Pilates and yoga. During the personal training sessions, my focus was on strengthening my lower body, which was my weakest area.

The six-week period presented various challenges and realisations. I underwent body composition scans and engaged in numerous exercises to enhance strength, form, and technique. Throughout this journey, I discovered the transformative effects of weightlifting on both my physical and mental well-being.

I encountered both highs and lows throughout the weeks, experiencing moments of strength and weakness. By the end of the six weeks, I observed significant changes in my confidence, sleep quality, posture, and overall well-being. Remarkably, I did not experience any injuries or discomfort during this period, a notable achievement for someone prone to injury.

My experience with weightlifting has been an enlightening and empowering journey, leading me to newfound strength and vitality. The benefits have been extensive, impacting various aspects of my life. As a result, I am determined to continue my weightlifting journey with newfound knowledge and confidence.

Overall, this six-week challenge has been an invaluable experience, and I hope that my journey inspires others to explore the transformative power of weightlifting. If you are considering weightlifting, I encourage you to do so under the guidance of a knowledgeable trainer and with a commitment to your personal well-being.