Alex Young
MEL ALLEN
Tell us a bit about you
I'm a 50 year old wife, mum, and soon to be gran. I've been into weight training since I was 19 but only discovered powerlifting age 45. I've always been attracted to the strength aspect of weight training so powerlifting is perfect! I fell in love with it straight away and 5 years later I'm still as passionate about it.
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I love competing in powerlifting and have done 15 comps to date. I am most proud of achieving 3 British Bench records. My goals for the near future are to take all the M2 world records in the -84kg category. I know this is achievable under Char.
WHY DO YOU POWERLIFT?
I chose powerlifting as it suits me. I've never been a cardio bunny and always felt good for lifting weights. Powerlifting encapsulates all the things that I need to stay focused and motivated. I'm stronger at 50 than I have ever been and am still making strength gains!
WHAT HAS POWERLIFTING TAUGHT YOU?
Powerlifting has taught me that I am capable of so much more than I realised! I wouldn't have believed you if you had told me at the start that I would be lifting the numbers I am now! I've learned not to put limits on myself, each day is another opportunity to get better.
WHICH OF OUR core values means the most to you?
I love all the USM core values but the ones that resonate with me most are 'Honesty, Respect and Compassion' and 'Fun'. This sport has the best community and at the heart of it are these values which is what makes it feel like a second home to me.
What one piece of advice would you give the past you when you started powerlifting?
Get a coach! (I left it far too long and had to undo bad habits) To sort out the technicals and make you a much more efficient lifter, not to mention the support and encouragement! I didn't realise until after getting a coach just how important it is, especially for newbies!