I did my first powerlifting meet in 2018. At that time, I was over 30, falling into the “submaster” category. I had only begun my journey into lifting weights about a year prior. Walking into that first meet, I was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. There was so much I didn’t know about the sport, but one thing was clear: lifting felt empowering. Every session in the gym helped me feel stronger, and making steady gains gave me a sense of achievement. Plus, the camaraderie I found among other strong women at the meet was truly uplifting.

Over the past few years, I’ve noticed a heartening trend—the number of women participating in powerlifting has been steadily on the rise. While women like me are increasingly embracing the sport, the presence of women in powerlifting meets is still overshadowed by men. It’s not uncommon to find a male-dominated room when attending these events. Additionally, female coaches remain a rare sight. However, there’s a shift happening. More women are stepping up and taking on roles as meet directors, referees, and filling other crucial positions within the powerlifting community.

To put things into perspective, according to data from USAPL meets between 2012 and 2016, men outnumbered women by nearly three to one. While this statistic might seem daunting, it also underscores the immense potential for growth and inclusivity within the sport for women.

If you’re a woman curious about powerlifting, know that you’re not alone. PPG is here to support you every step of the way. We’ve proudly supported many women athletes on powerlifting platforms ranging from as young as 12 to those in the masters category. 

One of the most wonderful aspects of powerlifting is its approachability. If you can execute the lifts according to competition standards, you’re ready to compete—no minimum requirements or prerequisites needed. Whether you’re lifting for personal growth, competition, or simply the joy of getting stronger, powerlifting welcomes women of all ages and backgrounds to join this empowering community.