For the second week of our
International Women’s Day series, we are speaking with
Lois Anderton. As an elite national powerlifter under the age of 25 and the Assistant Manager at Welcome Gym Sutton, Lois knows exactly what it takes to balance high-level performance with a busy career.
Lois shares her journey from being a nervous gym starter to a powerhouse on the lifting platform.
Balancing Elite Training with Daily Life "
Balancing training with daily life, work, and trying to enjoy social events can be stressful, especially when you know you have to stick to a strict plan. I keep focused on the end goal and know it is within reach." "I am not leaving any stone unturned in how hard I work or leaving anything on the platform come competition day. It hurts ten times more when you know you could have done more by eating better, training harder, or recovering smarter. My advice is simple: set a plan and stick to it."
From Nervous Starter to Empowered Lifter "
When I first joined a gym, I was super nervous and would not go without my brother. I had no clue what I was doing, but I enjoyed every second of training. As soon as I left a session, I could not wait for the next one." "You cannot beat the feeling of working on yourself and becoming stronger, both physically and mentally. That feeling empowered me to keep showing up, keep learning, and realise I deserved my space in the gym just like everyone else. The nerves soon wore off."
Debunking the "Bulky" Myth "
Too many women tell me they want to strength train but do not want to look "manly." I am always telling women that training hard or eating well, especially high-protein diets, will not make you look that way. The reality is that we simply do not have the same levels of testosterone as men, so we do not build muscle mass in the same way."
The Recovery Routine "
After a heavy competition or a long day at the gym, I take a week off from heavy strength training. I still move my body and do some additional exercises, but I avoid massive loads so my nervous system and muscles have time to reset." "I also focus on the things I can control, such as keeping my diet on track, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and doing mobility work at home with stretches. Recovery does not just happen by itself; it is about how you care for your body outside of the gym too."
The Ultimate Power Meal "
A Katsu Curry!"
Training with Your Cycle "
I pay close attention to how my body feels and adapt my lifting sessions accordingly. Some days I feel strong and can hit heavy lifts, while other days I might scale back the weight, focus on technique, or add an additional warm-up set to ensure I feel good." "It is all about listening to my body rather than forcing an intensity. My advice to members is to plan around your energy, not against it. Track your highs and lows, adjust your training and nutrition, and do not be afraid to dial it back when needed."
Owning Your Strength "
Honestly, I have been really lucky in my fitness journey and have had amazing support. That said, there are always a few people who feel the need to comment on technique or on women doing "manly" things. I do not let that get to me.""I focus on enjoying the process and celebrating the strength I am building. Lifting heavy weights, when done properly, has so many benefits, and too often women miss out on them because of fear or judgement. I want women to feel confident owning their strength because strength is empowering. You should not have to prove yourself to anyone. Do it because you want to, not for anyone else."
A Final Message to Women "
Pick up the weights. You will not regret it. You will feel so strong and empowered, so do not give up. Whether it is a class or a session with your friends, just do it!"
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