A lot expected from young powerlifting sensation
"He is a name that we are going to look out for and keep an eye on, and we expect great things from him.”
Physical strength constitutes one of the few and most significant differences between men and women. It’s the fundamental factor as to whether a man can hold his own in a fight – whether he can push back when pushed.
The 16-year-old Matthew Germanus recently took part in the World Powerlifting Congress – SA competition that was held in Welkom.
The King’s School West Rand Grade 10 learner was second to none and achieved the South African squat record at 180kg, deadlift at 210kg, and bench press at 110kg, with all the weights totalling 500kg.
According to Trish Armstrong from World Powerlifting Congress – SA, these records will be confirmed at nationals on October 8 and 9.
When asked what got him interested in powerlifting, Matthew revealed to the Northsider that he views the sport as a gateway to the World’s Strongest Man competition.
He trains for two to three hours five times a week at Planet Fitness in Ruimsig and displays a great sense of discipline and maturity for his tender age.
“Always get your form right, never go heavy with bad form, stay consistent and be disciplined,” said Matthew.
Matthew dedicates his success to his trainer and friend, John Erington who got him into the sport of powerlifting.
The World Powerlifting Congress consists of 46 countries across the world and prescribes rules and regulations for members to comply with.
“We constantly have been delivering very strong international lifters of which quite a few are holding world records. This young man, Matthew is making South Africa extremely proud in his attempts and what he is currently doing. He is a name that we are going to look out for and keep an eye on, and we expect great things from him,” said Trish.
