When Rachelle Steyn from Randridge picked up a dumbbell for the first time, she fell in love with weights training.

The 27-year-old former Hoërskool Jan Viljoen learner said she decided to take up bodybuilding after her love for hockey started fading seven years ago.

I needed to find a new love and I started to train at home with a small gym. I instantly fell in love with the well-toned look,” Rachelle said.

Rachelle is proof that women too can play that game although bodybuilding is perceived to be a sport mostly for men.

In fact, she has earned a lot of respect from them and said it keeps her motivated and boosts her confidence.

Although nobody has ever mistreated or discriminated against her, Rachelle said it is important for women of any sporting code to be given the respect they deserve.

“Competition is quite fierce out there. I had to push hard and I always strive to be the best I can be,” she said.

Asked what her dreams and aspirations are, Rachelle would like to inspire other women, especially those who are downtrodden.

Women must be entitled to do whatever sport they like. I dream that the female bodybuilding fraternity grows and becomes a huge success. Women out there must not be afraid or feel intimidated. You can achieve anything if you motivate yourself and put your mind to it.

“All women are beautiful and they never deserve to be abused. They should know that they need to stand up for themselves and whatever obstacle they meet, they will overcome it,” Rachelle said.