Introduction
Q: Tell us a little about yourself
A: My name is Nisha. I completed my MSc in Criminology this year and I am now beginning my DPhil in Criminology. I completed my undergraduate degree at the university of Westminster and although I love Oxford, London is my original home!
Q: How did you find out about powerlifting?
A: I used to do a bit of strength training/powerlifting with a PT at my local gym in London and my deadlift was particularly strong. I began to follow a few powerlifters on Instagram and knew that I wanted to officially begin my powerlifting journey.
OUPLC Life
Q: How did you get involved in OUPLC?
A: Although I wanted to start powerlifting properly, I wasn’t entirely sure how to go about it, so I was very pleased when I saw that the University had a powerlifting club. I was so excited that I basically only went to the fresher’s fair just to find the powerlifting club stand! I then went for the taster session with Amy and Zoe and learnt so much! I then officially joined the club.
Q: What is your fondest memory of OUPLC?
A: I would have to say the Novice mock meet. Not only did I win and get a real confidence boost, I got to see that whilst powerlifting is not technically a team sport, the team spirit at OUPLC pushes you as an individual. Everyone wants everyone to succeed! OUPLC is also the reason that I got to compete officially which is definitely up there as one of the best days of my adult life.
Benefits of Powerlifting
Q: Do you think that powerlifting had an effect on any aspects of your life? If so, how?
A: Yes, definitely. Powerlifting has given me the opportunity to foster my interests outside of academic study at Oxford. Studying at Oxford can be incredibly challenging, and powerlifting has often been my escape from that. I would also say that it has had a positive impact on my general confidence in the gym.
Goals
Q: Do you have any personal goals in the sport?
A: I’m not really someone who sets myself specific goals. I prefer going to the gym and just seeing what I can do but generally speaking, my goal is simply to continue getting stronger.
Closing Message
Q: Do you have a message to anyone considering getting involved in
powerlifting?
A: To the girls/women considering getting involved in powerlifting, please do! Many women and girls think of powerlifting as a male sport, but it most definitely isn’t. Although the men may be lifting a lot more than us, the powerlifting community is one in which I have never felt out of place. Even though everybody lifts different weights, everyone is able to train together. And unlike some other sports, people are just as excited by watching a strong woman as they are a strong man!
Comments