To stay healthy, try powerlifting

Powerlifter Joe Drake chatted to the Boksburg Advertiser about the health benefits of the sport.

The Vosloorus athlete said powerlifting strengthened bones, boosted testosterone and kept the heart healthy.

“My bodybuilding journey began in 2013,” he said.

“I ventured into the sport because I could not play soccer anymore. I played for Scaw Metals FC but left the club because I could not afford to travel to Germiston. That’s when I decided to join the Power House bodybuilding gym in Vosloorus.

“I have not looked back.”

Drake said another motivation to join the gym was to avoid becoming part of the social ills in the area.

“Most young people do drugs, and I wanted to avoid that. At first, I did bodybuilding, then shifted to powerlifting, which I enjoy now.

“I like testing my power and lifting heavy weights. My first powerlifting competition was in 2017 – the Iron Man. I finished sixth.

“After that, I competed in the Rhino Powerlifting Federation competition and took second place in the under 105kg category,” he explained.

Drake bagged another silver medal in the same competition last year.

“I joined the Brotherhood Strong Man group in Alberton. We run charity drives and are trying to introduce powerlifting to young people. Being part of this group has extended my knowledge of the sport”.

Drake said his coach helped him with his diet and preparations for competitions.

“My role models in the sport are Ronnie Coleman, Eddie Hall and CT Fletcher. I would like to make the sport more known in Vosloorus and other township areas. It can change so many lives for the better.

“It’s a sport that builds character and confidence. When it comes to powerlifting, everything starts in the mind. If you believe and think you can lift heavy weights, you will eventually do it,” Drake said.

He thanked his family, coach and friends for being a support structure to him.

Also Read: Bodybuilder outshines the best

Also Read: Bodybuilder’s legacy lives on