Fourways strength athlete Jean Paul ‘JP’ van Wyk, 37, has reminded the world that determination, passion, and community can reignite even the deepest sporting dreams.
Recently representing South Africa at the first-ever World Strict Arm and Freestanding Curl Championships, held in Durban on November 3, JP says stepping onto the world stage was ‘an unreal experience’ that marked a powerful milestone in his comeback to competitive sport.
Growing up, JP was always a multisport athlete, earning both sports colours and full colours at school. But like many, life pulled him away from competitive sport for a time. What never faded, however, was his fascination with strength disciplines: strongman, Olympic weightlifting, and powerlifting remained an anchor.
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The spark to return ignited in 2023 at the Arnold Classic in Ruimsig. “Seeing strict curl, arm wrestling, and powerlifting again made me want to start and progress. I have since, and for the past two years, I’ve been competing in local competitions and progressing each time.”
By 2024, JP began to realise his potential stretched beyond participation. “I realised I could break records and I did.”
In his under-90kg weight class, he held both the strict curl and freestanding curl South African records, achievements he describes as both humbling and motivating. Although those records have since been surpassed, JP is far from done.
“My eyes are set on getting my records back and adding more powerlifting records to my name.”
Competing at the inaugural world championships was a defining moment. “It was a massive learning curve and eye opener. If you let your nerves get the better of you, that can make or break your outcome.”
For readers new to the sport, JP breaks down the difference between a strict curl and a simple gym curl. “It’s the strict aspect, no momentum. And because you compete with a jagged bar, you can maximise load and recruit not just the biceps, but also the brachialis. It’s a full, controlled strength movement.”
While the physical challenge is immense, JP emphasises that the community behind strict curl and freestanding curl is what fuels his journey. “We are blessed with an amazing community. We learn from each other and build each other up. To watch and grow with my fellow competitors has been amazing.”
For JP, the sport is far more than numbers on a bar. “This sport not only makes you stronger, but it also allows you to unlock your own potential and see just how strong mentally and physically you can be. It’s self-fulfillment, fun, and safety. You grow as a family, not just an athlete.”
And his message for those thinking of trying strength sports?
“This is not only for the young, but it’s for anyone. Any age. If you want to start, start. Stay humble, stay hungry, and keep progressing.”
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