Pull up a seat at the Smoothie bar – this time we’re catching up with Lois Anderton, a personal trainer and Great Britain powerlifter who’s already making waves on the world stage.
At just eighteen, she became World Champion in the 69kg class at the 2023 World Sub-Junior Classic Powerlifting Championships.
Her story is one of determination, discipline and proving that strength knows no gender!
Q: Lois, powerlifting isn’t always the sport people expect a young woman to take up. What drew you to it?
I’ve always been into sport, so when I started going to the gym at sixteen, people kept saying how strong I was and that I should try powerlifting. I gave it a go and just loved it. There’s nothing better than hitting lifts you once thought you couldn’t and proving to yourself what you’re capable of.
Q: You made your international debut and won gold in the same year. How did that feel?
It still hasn’t really sunk in. The competition was such a tight fight, neck and neck the whole way, and honestly, the stress of it all made me lose track of what I’d just done. But when it was over, it hit me – this surreal feeling of I actually did that. Standing on the podium, representing Team GB and hearing the national anthem was incredible. The support around me made it even more special. I’ll never forget that feeling.
Q: What challenges have you faced as a young woman in a strength sport that’s still seen as male-dominated?
One of the biggest challenges has been dealing with stereotypes. A lot of men, especially those who don’t understand powerlifting, have told me things like, you shouldn’t lift that, you’ll hurt yourself, as if I’m not capable or don’t belong.
Sometimes it feels like women have to prove themselves twice as much just to be seen as worthy. But that’s also what drives me – proving people wrong and showing that strength has no gender.
Q: What does a day of training look like for you?
A typical training day starts with fuelling my body properly. I’ll plan out my weights so I know what I’m working towards, get the music going, start with mobility and warm-ups, then focus on each set with real intent. Every session has a purpose, and I make sure I show up ready to push myself.
Q: Diet is key for staying strong. How do you fuel your body for training and competition?
In the off-season, I keep things more relaxed – I fuel my body with foods I enjoy and don’t set heavy restrictions. As long as I’m hitting my macros and feeling strong, that’s what matters.
During comp season, I usually cut 1–3kg to make weight, so about a month out I’ll reduce carbs and fats slightly and scale back portions.
I add incline walks on rest days to help burn into fat stores. I’ve never had issues with food because I give myself enough time and do it in a sensible, sustainable way.
Q: What advice would you give to girls and women who might be curious about lifting but intimidated to start?
Just do it – you won’t regret it. Whether it’s powerlifting or general strength training, there’s such a buzz that comes from lifting weights and seeing what you’re capable of.
It doesn’t have to be about big numbers; it’s about feeling strong, proud and knowing you’re not reliant on anyone else. Lifting gives you confidence and it carries into everyday life more than you’d think. It’s not just for men – it’s for us too.
Q: Alongside competing, you also work as a personal trainer at Welcom Gym. How does your experience as a powerlifter influence the way you train and motivate your clients?
My experience as a powerlifter definitely shapes how I train others. Strength training shouldn’t be something people shy away from. There are a lot of misconceptions, like lifting weights being unsafe or unhealthy, but that’s just not true when done properly.
“Lifting gives you confidence and carries over into everyday life more than you’d think.”
I’ve seen clients fall in love with the process, transform their bodies and feel proud of what they achieve. It’s not just about strength or looks – it’s about real-world benefits. When clients tell me they can finally carry their kids or take the shopping in without struggling, that’s the best feeling.
My goal is to make everyone feel comfortable in the gym and love what they’re doing, with a realistic approach that keeps them progressing.
Q: What’s next for you – big goals or personal milestones?
Getting back to the international platform would be amazing, and I’ve got my eyes set on hitting some exciting new numbers soon.
Get in Touch with Lois:
If you would like to connect with Lois regarding training with her or simply to learn more about her story, you can reach out to her here.
