Women urged to try powerlifting by British champion

Elaine Jackson wants to see women over 40 take up strength training

A 54-year-old powerlifting champion is urging other women to try the sport.

Elaine Jackson, from Camberwell, south-east London, won a gold medal at the British National Powerlifting championships in June.

"Honestly try strength training," she said. "I competed the first time at the age of 51 and now, aged 54, I'm an international medallist for GB and England.

"This really is for you."

Ms Jackson says the maximum weight she can bench press is 90kg

Ms Jackson said she had started strength training at 30, after she was diagnosed with cancer, and asked her doctor about the best exercises to do.

"What I really love about powerlifting is you really notice, really quickly, you can build this goal," she said.

"My back squat is 155kg (24st 4lb), my bench press is 90kg (14st 1lb) and my deadlift is 190kg (29st 9lb).

"I want to keep on improving and keep on medalling for my country."

Ms Jackson said she spends three hours in the gym four or five times a week after her "busy day job".

Ms Jackson says being a successful powerlifter is about "committing to yourself"

"It's not just about losing weight or gaining weight to go to the gym," she said.

"It's about the community, it's about the mental health aspect and how your body feels.

"I want to encourage other women who are like me, other women that are over 40 and sitting on the couch thinking, 'Oh, I only did that at school' or 'that's for other people'.

"This really is for you. Just find the right exercise for you."