Sport: Powerlifting

Level: Regional/National

“The strength community helped me learn that I’m not the only woman with my body type: not an hourglass but not a rectangle. I know it’s cliche, but it really helped me build confidence in myself. I was admiring strong quads and developed bench form, not flawless skin and legs with no celluLITe. I accepted myself more. And then I found a whole community of women that have had similar issues, I found athletes who had been raped and used PL as a way to help, I met many many others who also were recovering from eating disorders. We chose a sport that made me you strong in all capacities, one that came with its own support group. It’s absolutely beautiful. Sarcastic, determined, burger loving females that actually want everyone on top. It’s something that felt natural to support.”

Sport: Spartan Races

“I began to put a focus on my fitness and overall health 3 years ago. I began to use Instagram to follow an array of woman in the strength community. I focused on those that were encouraging and uplifting to other woman trying to do the same. This is how I originally came to know of Bad Gals Barbell Club and immediately supported your efforts. The woman I follow in the strength community callenge and inspire me without even knowing it. They have truly changed my life for the better.”

Sport: Olympic Weightlifting

Level: National

“There is a reason the strongest people I know are women... because we a have a passion, a determination, and a will to succeed like no other. The women in my community have pushed me both mentally and physically. For instance, my nutrition coach has helped me change my outlook on body image. Additionally, my fellow female athletes and friends continue to support me through my fitness journey. Without all these role models, I wouldn’t be the athlete or the woman I am today.”

Sport: Powerlifting/Strongman

Level: National

“My why is to find the purpose and plan God has for me each day and follow through with that. I feel most fulfilled when helping other women feel empowered and truly love themselves as they are and as they were created to be.”

Sport: Olympic Weightlifting

Level: National

“The ladies in my community have impressed me beyond belief. Everyone has had a day when nothing seems to go right in life or training or both. It’s at these times when you are at the end of your rope that someone will offer some kind words or encouragement or they will just be there so you know you aren’t alone. We push each other to always be better. We cheer each other on. We inspire each other to be better versions of ourselves.”

Sport: Powerlifting

Level: National/State

“In life my why is to encourage and uplift. In sport my why is to show others that my self worth is not dependent on how I perform on the platform. I want to be a positive influence with anyone I encounter.”