Key Takeaways
- Bodybuilding and powerlifting are not just sports, but a lifestyle for many enthusiasts
- A recent powerlifting competition at G.I. Joe’s Gym in Moss Bluff, Louisiana, saw participants lifting heavy weights, with the highest bench press of the day being over 500 pounds
- The competition was part of a weekend of weightlifting events aimed at bringing the community together and promoting a healthy lifestyle
- The winner of the competition received a $500 cash prize, while the top three placements received a $50 gift card to Evans Corner Store
- Participants in the competition came from various backgrounds, including former D1 athletes and individuals who have been involved in weightlifting for several years
Introduction to the World of Powerlifting
Bodybuilding and powerlifting are not just sports, but a way of life for many enthusiasts. For individuals like Jerry Mason, a powerlifter who placed third in a recent competition, weightlifting is a passion that requires dedication and hard work. Mason, who works in Augusta, Georgia, and only gets to come home once a month, made sure to schedule his visit to coincide with the competition so he could participate and spend time with his family. With a bench press of 450 pounds at a body weight of 217 pounds, Mason’s performance was impressive, and he credited his success to his years of experience in weightlifting.
The Competition Heats Up
The powerlifting competition, held at G.I. Joe’s Gym in Moss Bluff, Louisiana, saw some incredible lifts, with the highest bench press of the day being over 500 pounds. Spencer Payne, a former D1 athlete, placed runner-up in the competition and was thrilled with his performance. Payne, who has been involved in weightlifting for several years, started with powerlifting and then transitioned to bodybuilding about two years ago. He decided to participate in the competition to have fun and test his limits, and was happy with his result, achieving a 530-pound bench press.
The Reasons Behind the Passion
For many participants, the passion for weightlifting started at a young age. Payne, for example, gained his passion for weightlifting in high school, where he was a D1 athlete. After several years of powerlifting, he transitioned to bodybuilding, but still enjoys participating in powerlifting competitions for the fun and camaraderie. Mason, on the other hand, started weightlifting several years ago and has been hooked ever since. Despite not doing much powerlifting, he enjoys participating in competitions like the one at G.I. Joe’s Gym to challenge himself and have a good time.
The Event and Its Impact
The powerlifting competition was part of a weekend of weightlifting events held at G.I. Joe’s Gym, aimed at bringing the community together and promoting a healthy lifestyle. According to Assistant Manager Derick Franus, the event was a huge success, with many participants achieving impressive lifts and having a great time. The competition was sanctioned, and the winner received a $500 cash prize, while the top three placements received a $50 gift card to Evans Corner Store. The event was seen as a way to promote fitness and health in the community, and the gym hopes to host more events like this in the future.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
In conclusion, the powerlifting competition at G.I. Joe’s Gym was a resounding success, with many participants achieving impressive lifts and having a great time. The event was a testament to the passion and dedication of weightlifting enthusiasts, who see the sport as a way of life rather than just a hobby. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, it is likely that we will see more events like this in the future, promoting fitness, health, and community engagement. With the support of gyms like G.I. Joe’s and the enthusiasm of participants like Mason and Payne, the world of powerlifting and bodybuilding is sure to continue thriving.


