A Legacy of Ambition: Fueling a New Passion
Amrita Panda, a 20-year-old student pursuing banking and IT at the University of Bath, discovered a profound sense of direction through powerlifting, a journey ignited by the untimely passing of a close friend. In 2023, after her friend’s battle with cancer, Amrita felt compelled to honor his aspirations by stepping into the world of competitive lifting.
Transforming Grief into Determination
Reflecting on her friend’s dream to compete, Amrita shared, “He had this incredible ambition to qualify for the British Universities and Colleges Sport Powerlifting Championships, and it was heartbreaking to see it unfulfilled. I realized that I had the opportunity to try, and that motivated me immensely.”
Breaking Personal Records
Since embracing powerlifting, Amrita has participated in three competitions, achieving remarkable personal bests: a 65kg bench press, a 140kg deadlift, and a 105kg squat. Her dedication was rewarded in February when she claimed her first medal at a regional meet, a significant milestone in her burgeoning athletic career.
From Global Citizen to Local Champion
Originally from New Delhi, India, Amrita’s journey has taken her through Mumbai and Hong Kong before settling in Bath for her studies. It was during the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in 2021 that she first stepped into a gym, initially out of curiosity, but soon discovering a passion that would change her life.
Empowering Women Through Strength Training
Amrita is also an advocate for female empowerment in sports, aiming to inspire more women to engage in powerlifting. She expressed, “Many women enter the gym with the sole intention of achieving a particular aesthetic. But strength training offers a different kind of confidence—being fit and healthy is so much more empowering than merely focusing on appearance.”
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Amrita has her sights set on national competitions scheduled for 2026, eager to continue her growth and share her journey with others. She believes in the potential of lifting to transform lives, stating, “Every training session is an opportunity to improve, and it has truly given me a sense of purpose.”
A Call to Action
In the spirit of her friend’s legacy and her newfound passion, Amrita encourages others to explore their strengths and consider the benefits of powerlifting. “There’s a community waiting to welcome you, and so many resources available. If I can do it, so can you!”
