Powerlifting at the YMCA promotes personal growth (and muscle growth) in Saskatoon

When Bobbi Janzen started power lifting, someone told her she couldn't do it because she is visually impaired, small in stature and female.

They didn't know Janzen very well.

The personal trainer and adult fitness co-ordinator at Saskatoon's YMCA is a powerhouse, and her deadlift proves it. The technical lift is Janzen's favourite, so it's a perfect fit as a challenge for the young people she trains — some of whom will compete in a powerlifting event at the YMCA next month.

"Some of the kids I've worked with, they're the ones that have spurred this on," she said.

"Some of the kids — they're just strong! They have progressed and watching that joy, I figured, let's share the joy and make it for a good cause."

'It feels awesome'

Next month, some of those kids will be part of the YMCA's Liftoff for Strong Kids competition. The June 24 event is a deadlift-only competition designed to give the young powerlifters a chance to show off.

The competition will also raise money for Strong Kids program, which allows young people access to the facility — something many otherwise couldn't afford.

Bailey Holt, 19, walked into the YMCA with her class at the Opening Doors Program and met Janzen recently. The YMCA covered the cost for the youth memberships through the Strong Kids program.

The group saw Janzen lifting heavy weights and asked her to show them how. She's been training them ever since.

You can do it. You might think you can't, but you can.- Bailey Holt

At first, though, Holt was nervous she wouldn't be able to lift heavy weights like Janzen does.

"Being a girl, I never would've thought I could. I started at 80 or 90 pounds, and now I'm almost at 200 pounds," said Holt, referring to her deadlift personal best.

"It feels awesome."

Holt will be one of the competitors in the Liftoff for Strong Kids event.

Inclusive fitness

Entry fees for the competition will be kept as low as possible, in the spirit of inclusion. Volunteers will be officiating, and the local lifting community has been donating the use of fitness equipment for the event.

If an athlete is unable to pay the $60 entry fee, there are opportunities for the community to sponsor them.

"A lot of people don't realize the YMCA is a charity and our mission is to build healthy communities and to give people opportunities to  grow and progress and help families raise their children," said Paul Sinkewicz, the Saskatoon YMCA's marketing and communications director.

The Strong Kids campaign has been operating for decades so more people can access the Y's services, he said.

"We have kids in swimming lessons, kids who go to camp, and we see their progression year after year. It's really gratifying," said Sinkewicz.

As a recipient, Bailey Holt is also grateful. Powerlifting doubles as therapy for her.

"It's cool that you don't have to worry about anything else but lifting what you're lifting," she said.

"It takes your mind off everything and it's a good way to stay happy and healthy."

Holt will be even happier if she is one of the top lifters in her category next month. She favours squats more than deadlifts, but looks forward to showing off her skills.

She also has advice for others who, like her, are nervous to lift heavy weights.

"You can do it. You might think you can't, but you can."

The competition is open to athletes 16 and older. Weigh-ins will be held shortly before the event on June 24.