'I won World's Strongest Woman after having two children'

'I won World's Strongest Woman after having two children'

Donna Moore found herself drawn into the world of Strongwoman events after showcasing her abilities on social media platforms, gaining a small but dedicated following on Facebook groups. Over the years, her passion and dedication have led her to become a three-time world champion in the sport. This weekend, Moore, now 45, will be competing in front of a crowd of 1,400 at the Britain’s Strongest Woman final in York Barbican.

Raised in Colburn, near Catterick in North Yorkshire, Moore did not discover weightlifting until she became a mother of two and sought to improve her fitness levels. Initially hesitant and lacking confidence, she began her fitness journey by attending classes in a normal gym where she eventually transitioned to heavier lifting in a more independent gym setting. Inspired by watching the World’s Strongest Woman competitions on TV, Moore delved into the world of strongwoman events and has been hooked ever since.

The landscape of strongwoman competitions has evolved significantly over the years, moving from car parks and fields to indoor venues such as the sold-out Barbican. Social media has played a crucial role in increasing accessibility and participation in the sport. Moore, who formerly worked for the NHS, has transitioned into a career of coaching other women in addition to her competition pursuits. While strongwomen in the US and Scandinavia may have more opportunities, the UK is witnessing a shift towards greater acceptance and visibility for women in the sport.

With societal norms changing and a greater emphasis on strength over weight loss, the sport of strongwoman is experiencing a surge in popularity among women. Moore attributes this shift to a growing realization of the benefits of weight training, not only in terms of physical changes but also in improved mental well-being. As women embrace the idea of being strong and gaining muscle, the sport continues to grow and gain traction in the UK and beyond.

In the upcoming Britain’s Strongest Woman competition, Moore will face a tough field of competitors, including world record holders Lucy Underdown, Rebecca Roberts, and Andrea Thompson. Despite the challenges ahead, Moore is looking forward to competing in front of her family and the home crowd in York, aiming to put on a great show for spectators and viewers alike

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