Feel the Power!

It’s taken me longer than usual to figure out how I feel, and what I want to say about an event I was part of yesterday.

Some of you know I was competing in a powerlifting competition. Many people said, “What?!?!?” when they found out.

It’s true that this was something way outside my norm, and WAAAAYYYYY outside my comfort zone.

I thought it was so coincidental and appropriate when the first picture popped up as my memory from one year ago. I was three weeks away from my due date and obviously copping an attitude about something… I don’t remember what.

This was also the perfect excuse for not competing in this event last year. At the time I opened my big mouth and said to Annie Brees, Personal Trainer, “I would love to do it, but obviously I can’t when I’m nine months pregnant. If you do it again, I’ll sign up. I promise!”

Famous last words.

When Annie and Abbie announced they were holding the meet again this year I thought, “Oh crap.” I knew a number of people would be expecting me to sign up, because I said I would. I was excited about trying a totally different type of training, but terrified by the event itself.

The Women's Barbell Classic is like nothing I’ve ever seen before, and definitely like nothing I’ve ever done before.

In fact, I’ve never done any sort of individual athletic competition. Team sports were always my thing, and truth be told - I’m not a very good athlete - but I loved playing. Putting myself out there all by myself- not so much. In fact , it scared the hell out of me. The entire day I had that nervous feeling that makes me think I might throw up or pee my pants.

Experiencing that discomfort was worth it, because Saturday was amazing. I’m in awe of some of the women I witnessed lifting incredible amounts of weight. I’m in love with the supportive volunteers and spectators. I’m inspired by everyone who stepped onto these platforms.

To be honest, I feel “meh” about my own performance. My bench press was abysmal and I underestimated myself on deadlift.

But ya know what?

I showed up. And it was awesome. I met some cool women, cheered on friends and total strangers, and can’t wait to do it again next year!