An intensive care nurse is aiming to become powerlifting world champion after being selected to represent Great Britain at the 2024 IPF World Championships in Austin, Texas.
Siobhan Taylor began powerlifting six years ago, when a back injury meant she feared she would have to give up her job as a nurse at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. A physiotherapist recommended she learn how to lift weights and strengthen her core. What started as a hobby, has now taken her all over the world.
Siobhan said:
I’m thrilled to represent Great Britain and to make my debut at the World Championships. I currently hold the titles of Commonwealth Champion and All England Champion for power lifting, and British Champion and European Champion on the equipped bench, so the only title missing is World Champion.
Siobhan Taylor
The 45-year-old, who lives in Haverhill in Suffolk says powerlifting helps her stay mentally and physically strong.
Siobhan said:
For me, powerlifting is a form of meditation. It makes me feel empowered, resilient and gives me such a sense of achievement. Lifting weights is so inclusive, it’s something anyone can do, whatever your age. If I can start powerlifting at the age of 39, anyone can.
Siobhan Taylor
Siobhan, who has worked at Addenbrooke’s since she was 18, carefully plans her training around her full-time role as an intensive care unit nurse. “I feel so supported by the ITU team and they help structure my shifts so that I can train. I wouldn’t have been able to get to the level I’m at without the support of the intensive care unit team. They’re always there to cheer me on.”
In 2022, Siobhan travelled to New Zealand to represent England at the Commonwealth Championships and returned as Commonwealth Champion. In 2023, Siobhan took up Equipped Bench and became British Champion. She was selected to join Team GB for the European Championship and won that title too.
Powerlifting differs to weightlifting, where athletes lift weights above their head. Unlike weightlifting, powerlifting is not yet an Olympic discipline. It is also a self-funded sport, so Siobhan has started a fundraising page and posts updates on her Instagram page @totallyawesometaylor.
The ITU nurse will join athletes from more than 60 countries when she competes in the IPF World Championships in Austin, Texas between 21 May and 1 June.
Top picture: by Glorious Sport