It is said that just like the ups and downs of life, doing squats will make you stronger.
That’s what many hope to accomplish at this year’s Great Lakes Powerlifting Championships. National and world records were set today as gym-goers celebrated camaraderie.
The Great Lakes Powerlifting Championships feature competitive powerlifters from all over the region. Competitors step up to the plate and perform squats, benches, and deadlifts.
“It’s more personal, so you’re not necessarily competing against anybody, you’re competing to set your own personal record,” said Diane Lewis, tournament director for the Great Lakes Powerlifting Championships.
Lewis said one of the best things is the energy. A local gym, Erie Fitness Academy, had about a dozen members participating in the lifts, and many more joining in to cheer each other on.
Erie Fitness Academy also featured the youngest lifter in the entire competition, 9-year-old Gabriela Persson.
“I don’t care if she wins or loses, I just want her to have fun,” said Brandon Person, Gabriella Person’s father and personal trainer. I’ll take care of it,” he said. , Ellie Fitness Academy. “I think this will help her grow into a strong and healthy young woman in the future.”
Parson said she knew fitness would always be a big part of her family’s life, but she never thought they would end up competing together.
“I understand that it’s scary to involve your children in something, but just know that with the right guidance, support and supervision, they won’t be harmed,” Parson said. said.
One competitor set a goal of breaking one world record, but ended up breaking two.
“I’ve been competing in powerlifting competitions for a while now, and this is actually my second time competing,” said 14-year-old Nena Pfeffer, who holds the powerlifting world record from Erie Fitness Academy. She said, “I go to the gym every day before school and have class at 6 a.m.”
Pfeffer squatted 221 pounds and benched 149 pounds. She said that her previous weight loss made her more motivated and able to lift heavier and achieve her personal goals.
“Whenever you first start, the whole world is against you. But if you keep going a little bit, it’s much harder to live heavier because you’re a girl. So just keep going and never give up. It really helps,” he said. Pfeffer.
The fight continues in the heavyweight division on Sunday at 9 a.m.
