65-Year-Old Grandmother Becomes Three-Time World Powerlifting Champion

A 65-year-old grandmother from England has become a three-time world powerlifting champion after taking up the sport less than three years ago.

Martine Barons, from Stratford-upon-Avon, began lifting weights during lockdown after attending a seminar that encouraged women going through menopause to focus more on strength training.

A colleague at the University of Warwick, who is also a personal trainer, later taught Barons how to deadlift and helped her discover her potential in the sport.

From a New Hobby to World Titles

Barons initially entered competitions simply for fun. But her results quickly improved, and she began competing at national and international events.

In September 2026, she won her age category at the AWPC World Powerlifting Championships, adding another world title to her record.

According to competition records, Barons has also won titles at British and European championships during her powerlifting career.

In just 28 months, she had competed in 16 powerlifting competitions, turning what began as a new hobby into a remarkable sporting journey.

More Than Competition

Barons says powerlifting has changed more than her performance in the gym. She has noticed improvements in her everyday physical abilities and confidence.

She says she can now handle tasks such as moving furniture and playing actively with her grandchildren more easily.

The sport has also introduced her to people from around the world and given her opportunities she never expected when she first picked up a barbell.

A New Beginning at 65

Barons has encouraged people who feel uncomfortable about going to a gym to begin gradually at home, including with resistance bands and a suitable training programme.

Her own experience shows how a new activity can develop into something much bigger later in life.

At 65, Barons is continuing to compete, train and discover what she can achieve — proving that starting something new does not have to come with an age limit.

Sources

• BBC News — “The Deadlifting Grandma: ‘I’m a world champion’”
• OpenPowerlifting — Martine Barons competition records
• People — coverage of Barons’ third world championship title