Weights and wisdom

70-year-old grandma Susan Dunn has transformed her life during retirement through an unexpected passion: powerlifting.

"I was just fascinated watching these young women lifting weights," she said, recalling the moment her passion ignited. "I thought, why not give it a go?"

Three days a week, Susan walks ten minutes from her home at Oakridge Villas in Kerikeri to her local community gym, where she partakes in powerlifting.

"I started with bench press, and now I'm also doing squats and deadlifts," she explained. "I’m currently bench pressing 40kg. I also have records for my age and weight in squatting (68kg) and deadlifting (110kg). My favourite has been deadlifts."

However, the transition into a new sport at her age wasn't without some challenges.

"Some days, I can bench press 40 kgs and other days, I struggle. It's frustrating, but it's also a test of determination," she shared. "My biggest challenge is my mindset; just pressing myself to give it a go".

Now, two years into the new sport, her commitment has paid off. Susan recently competed in three competitions (Northland, North Island and Nationals Championships) winning medals in her age and weight class and even breaking three New Zealand records. "It's incredible to achieve so much at this stage of my life," she beamed.

But she claims the most rewarding part of her fitness journey isn’t the recognition, it’s meeting people at the gym—"it's where I do most of my socialising."

Despite the physical demands, Susan has found her mental well-being has improved. "Lifting has definitely improved my mental state. I think clearer now."

Outside of training, Susan enjoys the simple pleasures of life, from gardening to music. "I love playing the harp too, it doesn't matter if you play a wrong note (with the harp); it all sounds so beautiful,” she laughs.

Her zest for life comes from her family and friends' motivation. "My daughters are really proud of me," she said. I don't think they can quite believe what I'm doing at my age. It's lovely to have that support; it keeps me motivated."

Susan believes it's important to stay active regardless of your age. "Keep your bones strong and stay mentally active. Give weight training a try, even if it's just small dumbbells. You might surprise yourself!"

Her journey shows it's never too late to lift, learn, and thrive.