Motivation can sometimes wane, but discipline emerges as a powerful ally when those moments hit.

Robin Ray, the 2019 IPF World Champion in the 57kg Masters-1 Class, opens up about the importance of accountability and pushing oneself, even when the going gets tough.

“You have to turn to your discipline,” she explains. “I gotta put my head down and do the work whether I want to or not, because the weights don’t lie.”

The Key to Success in Powerlifting

For Robin, the most crucial quality for success in powerlifting is the relentless desire to improve. “Just wanting to be better than you were yesterday,” she states. Whether it’s pushing through an additional rep or increasing weights, that mindset drives her training. She emphasizes the significance of having a coach who holds you accountable while ensuring safety during workouts. “If I feel like I can do one more rep,” she admits, “I’ll push myself to a nine or nine-and-a-half RPE and log it and move on.”

Upcoming Goals and Milestones

Robin is gearing up for nationals in Salt Lake City, just under seven weeks away. “I have a couple of newer lifters that are going to prove tough,” she shares. This competition also holds a special significance, as she will be reuniting with her best friend, Cheryl Stewart, on the platform. “It’s been probably a year since I’ve got to see her,” Robin reflects, highlighting both the competitive and personal aspects of her journey.

Follow Robin

You can follow Robin on Instagram at @Tuffie7, where she posts training videos and personal moments alike. She invites anyone who may need support or encouragement to reach out: “I’m more than happy to be anybody's sounding board and just see how far you can go.” You can also find Robin's track record in powerlifting here.

In our interview, Robins refers her coach to new and novice lifters who want to learn or improve their technique and add to their total. His name is Justin Anderson, and you can find him at [email protected]. Just mention this blog article about Robin at womenofpowerlifting.com.

In addition to powerlifting, Robin enjoys time with her dogs and her husband. She believes in finding balance in life and making time for things that bring joy and relaxation.

Words of Encouragement for New Lifters

For those new to the sport, Robin offers a heartfelt reminder: “If you're not enjoying it, rediscover your ‘why’. Only you can answer that.” She reassures lifters that there’s no shame in reassessing whether powerlifting is the right fit for them if they find themselves unfulfilled. Establishing a strong support system is vital, and she encourages everyone to lean on their community for motivation.

In closing, Robin's insights serve as a powerful reminder that strength training is not just about physical prowess; it's about finding joy, connecting with others, and continually striving to be better than you were yesterday.

Thank you for tuning in to the Women of Powerlifting podcast. If you found inspiration in today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe and join us for more engaging discussions with luminaries in the world of powerlifting. Keep lifting, stay strong, and aim to dominate—for yourself, not the world!