Carrena Watts' journey into powerlifting began with one goal in mind: weight loss. But along the way, she discovered a passion for lifting heavy that she says has positively impacted her life. 

But Carrena isn’t just a powerlifting enthusiast; she’s a wife, a mother to two energetic daughters, Skylar and Nora, and a source of strength and inspiration for her family and community. “When I am not chasing them around or lifting, you can find me reading or trying out new high-protein recipes,” she says.

When she first stepped onto the powerlifting platform in December 2023, that experience changed everything. “Stepping on that platform… that was THE BEST THING I HAVE EVER DONE,” she recalls. Not only did she face the challenge head-on, but she also took home first place in her weight class—a moment of personal pride that she says has fueled her drive to reach even greater heights. “The fire was lit,” she says.

While powerlifting is her first love, she’s the first to admit she’s not a fan of cardio. However, she loves the thrill of hitting a PR, finding that each new lift brings a fresh sense of accomplishment and keeps her motivated. “I am lifting heavier than I ever have, and a year ago, I did not think that was possible.”

Carrena’s journey has had its share of challenges. An inner thigh injury once threatened to hold her back from progressing in her squats. But with the help of Dr. Clayton at Natural Wellness Physiotherapy, she was able to work through her injury both physically and mentally. “I took the homework he gave me and ran with it,” she says, crediting his confidence-building approach with her strong recovery. “My squat is the strongest and best it has been."

She finds immense camaraderie in her powerlifting team, the She Hulks, coached by Madi Jenkins at G&G Training in Derby. “Being a part of this team and community is huge. We share our wins and motivate and inspire each other,” she says. “When competing, we are yelling and cheering every single person on. It’s a beautiful sight to see!”

With her sights set on qualifying for Nationals in 2025, Carrena is more motivated than ever. “I love to compete and just want to see what my body is capable of. I know I am capable of more, and I am ready to set those goals and go for it.”

This commitment reflects her disciplined approach, as well as the peace she finds in her time at the gym. “Exercise is my therapy; it is my calm. When I am in the gym, everything stops… it is my time, and I get lost in it. The gym is truly my playground.”

Carrena emphasizes the importance of patience and dedication, especially when facing an injury. “If you have an injury… give yourself patience and complete the homework that is given to you. The work that you put in will be rewarded in the future. You will come out stronger because of it.”

Though her focus is on reaching new fitness heights, Carrena has one unexpected aspiration: hot air ballooning. “I think it would be so much fun! Just something different and out of the ordinary.” It’s clear that Carrena’s journey, both on and off the platform, is one of courage, persistence, and adventure.

Congratulations, Carrena, on being our October Athlete of the Month! We can’t wait to see all that you achieve.

Want more? Check out:

"Unleash the Power: How Deadlifts Strengthen and Rehab Our Lower Backs" 
"Maximize Your Athletic Potential with Performance Physical therapy"