“Strength Beyond Limits: Redefining Female Powerlifting”
In this exclusive interview, CP Magazine sits down with Ghumasha Al-Mandeel, a remarkable force in the world of weightlifting and powerlifting. As both an accomplished athlete and a dedicated teacher, Ghumasha’s journey into strength sports began in 2021 when she joined Al-Nasr Club and the national weightlifting team under the guidance of coach Youssef Jamal. Her passion for the sport quickly evolved into a professional pursuit, as she worked her way to become one of the leading female athletes in the field.
Ghumasha has made a name for herself with notable achievements, including her proudest moment at the Arab Championships in Erbil, where she firmly etched her name into history. Her journey is not just a testament to physical strength, but to perseverance, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, both in training and competition.
In this interview, Ghumasha shares insights into her inspiration, the challenges of balancing professional sport with her personal life, and her thoughts on the future of female athletes in strength sports. From her favourite lifts to how she celebrates victories, Ghumasha gives us a glimpse into the mindset of a dedicated champion who continues to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of athletes.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in weightlifting and powerlifting?
I am Ghumasha Al-Mandeel, a teacher and a weightlifting and powerlifting athlete. I started weightlifting in 2021 with Al-Nasr Club and the national weightlifting team, and I still continue today with my coach Youssef Jamal, who introduced me to powerlifting. My journey began simply with a love for trying the sport.
What or who inspired you to get into strength sports?
At first, no one inspired me, but after becoming involved in the sport, I aspired to be like Abrar Al-Fahad and my coach, Youssef Jamal.
What is the most challenging part of your training regimen?
Best question… During training, when I see percentages of 90 and 95 percent, I love the challenge of successfully completing the lift. It’s a challenge of perseverance and commitment despite the intensity and difficulty of the circumstances sometimes. In competitions, the challenge comes in the final lifts—squat, bench, deadlift, snatch, and clean & jerk.
What is your favorite exercise or lift, and why?
I love the clean & jerk, squats, and front squats. I enjoy performing them with passion and enthusiasm, making those watching enjoy the performance.
What has been your proudest moment in your weightlifting and powerlifting career so far?
The Arab Championship in Erbil in 2021 and 2022 was the moment I etched my name into history.
Are there any records or personal milestones you are currently aiming to achieve?
Yes, my current weight category and total score.
How do you celebrate your victories, both big and small?
Eating cake and having cheat meals, and of course, breaking championship records again!
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your journey as a female weightlifter and powerlifter?
A great question… Continuing training to beat my competitors in my weight category, doubling the training, and putting in more effort and time for practice.
How do you balance your personal life with the demands of being a professional athlete?
A professional athlete is committed to a regular lifestyle of training, nutrition, sleep, and weekly recovery. On the other hand, there is work and the commitment to preparation and attendance. Thank God, it’s a lifestyle and effort I can handle.
What are some hobbies or interests you have outside of weightlifting and powerlifting?
I love writing, drawing, and listening to music.
Do you follow any nutrition plan to complement your training?
Yes, my diet is organized, precise, and suited to my physical effort, provided by Captain Mohamed Al-Abdullah. Sometimes, due to time constraints, I order ready meals.
Is there a particular mantra or quote that you live by?
If you want things without looking at the price, work without looking at the clock.
What kind of music do you listen to when you train? Do you have a favorite workout song?
I don’t like listening to music during training; I prefer to focus and listen to myself more.
Are there any places you dream of visiting someday?
Absolutely, and I prefer reaching the top gradually, enjoying every moment of success along the way.
What is your favorite food, and do you have a favorite meal you treat yourself to?
Burgers and fries! And I love salads a lot. After every competition, I treat myself to American or Italian food like pasta and pizza.
Is there a book or movie that has had a significant impact on your life or career?
There are many [books], but I can’t recall them at the moment. I read books by Bothayna Al-Essa and Ismail Fahd Ismail, and I love psychology books in general. Currently, I don’t find time to read or go to the cinema. Honestly, I don’t like watching movies.
Your message for us at CP magazine.
Express what you love with boundless passion, and it will show in the beauty you see. Thank you for the opportunity to express myself. Thanks from the bottom of my heart to:
My mother, my sister Shouq, and my family.
My dear coach, Bou Abbas Youssef Jamal
Nutritionist Mohamed Al-Abdullah.
My sister and friend, Mona the champion.
My friends, teammates, and everyone who believes in me and supports me.
