Athlete Bio – Linda Franklin

Linda Franklin medals

Name

Linda Franklin

Age
63
Weight Class
148
Squat PR:
259lbs
Bench PR
148lbs
Deadlift PR
325lbs
Years powerlifting?
2.5 years
How did you come to powerlifting?
After having a successful go at CrossFit, I was facing surgeries that ended many repetitive movements that go along with it. Not wanting to give up lifting weights, powerlifting seemed a possibility once I recovered from 4 hand surgeries and shoulder/bicep surgery. A dear friend of mine, and powerlifting coach, reached out to me and that’s where it began.
Do you have any previous athletic or lifting experience?
I dabbled in bodybuilding in my early twenties. Soccer became a huge part of my life beginning in my forties. My women’s soccer team won the Gold Medal in the first National Senior Olympics and I was the leading goal scorer. We went on to win State championships several times after. In 2012, I fell in love with CrossFit, placing 40th worldwide in the 2014 CrossFit Open, Masters women age 55-59.
Do you compete? Why or why not? If you compete, what do you like most about the competitions?
Absolutely! My goal is to test my strength, dedication and motivation to become a better version of ‘me’. And what better way than to surround myself with like-minded individuals who are striving for the same thing. I love the powerlifting community!
Equipped or Raw?
Raw
Do you have a coach or trainer? In person or online? How did you find your trainer/program? Do you have any advice for women looking for a trainer?
I have an online coach. We became friends when on admin for the Facebook group ‘Type 1 Diabetic Athletes Group’. We are both Type 1 Diabetic so he understands my needs and has an extensive background in powerlifting, bodybuilding and strongman. My advice for finding a trainer would be to sit down, Skype or whatever works and interview each other to make sure you’re on the same page.
Where do you train? Gym, garage?
I train at an ‘old school’ powerlifting gym.
What is the hardest part about beginning lifting as an older woman?
For me it is mobility. I devote more time than the average person to stretching and trying to improve my range of motion before and after training. It has been key to avoiding injury.
How has lifting affected your health?
I have had Type 1 Diabetes for almost 40 years, wear an insulin pump and Continuous Glucose Monitor, so the short and long term benefits of better blood glucose control have been exponential. I also have bone spurs on my lower spine which have caused back spasms in the past. Building better musculature around my weaknesses has alleviated lots of pain.
What would you tell women just beginning this journey?
Don’t let anyone tell you that you shouldn’t do it. I’ve heard so many excuses why and just ignored them, ha! Be patient, consistent, and enjoy the feeling of getting stronger!