Laura Hughes first found weightlifting whereas coaching at her native Crossfit health club, making the transition from novice gym-goer to aggressive lifting.
Now a member of the Welsh nationwide weightlifting squad, the 33-year-old holds the Welsh file for each the snatch and the clear and jerk (the 2 official aggressive lifts in weightlifting) and is at the moment third total within the girls’s Welsh rankings. Hughes received bronze at this yr’s Commonwealth Video games in Glasgow, following on from her third place on the 2018 Video games in Australia.
We caught up together with her for our Readers Ask collection, the place trade specialists reply questions from our Telegraph Beneficial Reader Panel.
Who impressed you to get into weightlifting?
Olamilekan, South East
Initially, it was a number of completely different individuals, significantly normal health club goers who have been doing weightlifting at my health club. As I’ve grown as an athlete and turn out to be extra aggressive, I’ve had different inspirations.
Most notably, coming into [the Commonwealth Games], it needs to be Gareth [Evans], our coach. Trying again at his efficiency in 2018 when he received his gold medal is so inspiring. [English lifter] Emily Godley was one other competitor in 2018. She received the gold medal in my class and I simply keep in mind considering that she was on hearth that day.
What are one of the best workouts so that you can construct muscle mass?
Norman, Wales
We spend loads of time doing our major lifts, so snatches, clear and jerks, however we additionally do a number of pulls and squats. I spend loads of time doing accent work to be sure that my physique stays wholesome, particularly being an older athlete. I’ve placed on various muscle on this final block simply from going heavier and pushing my limits with my major lifts.
What recommendation would you give to individuals who need to enhance their power?
David, North West
An important factor is consistency. So long as you’re doing one thing, do it often, even when it’s twice every week. Don’t be afraid of selecting up some dumbbells. In the event you’ve received anyone that may train you carry weights correctly, that’s going to be the most suitable choice. Do it safely, do it constantly, and don’t be afraid to strive new power workouts.
