Making her comeback to weightlifting after giving birth to her daughter, Samantha Travis has broken three world records and is now a world champion.

Those that know Sam will be aware of her immense levels of dedication and determination. Juggling raising children, running a business, and helping her husband achieve his goals, she has spent the last year preparing to succeed, for which she has done beautifully.

2 weeks ago, Sam flew to Orlando in preparation for the World Masters Championships.

She arrived with time in her favour, allowing her to shed the last 1kg of weight and experience Christmas on a different continent.

“I’ve never been to America before, so it was amazing to be in Florida, although it was bizarre to see Christmas decorations in warm weather.

“There were people from all different nations across the world competing, so I expected it to be feisty. But everyone was so happy to be there, and it was a lovely relaxed and positive atmosphere,” she said.

However, Sam’s American experience was limited slightly, as she was unable to try the delightful food on offer.

“There was every food you can imagine, and I couldn’t have any of it. I lifted on the last day that we were there, and we flew back home straight after I lifted.

“So, to celebrate we booked an American restaurant in Poynton to enjoy as a family when I got home.”

For this competition, Sam wanted to enter the 45kg group, a new weight class, so had to be strict with her nutrition. On the morning of her lifts, she weighed 43.8kg, proving her hard work had paid off.

“I made sure to train at least five times a week, with sessions that were at least 2 hours long. I also had to reach 15,000 steps a day alongside the strength training.

“It was a big investment and to recover I incorporated lots of stretching and rolling,” she said.

But away from the physical preparation, Sam had to build a solidified mind, using mindfulness techniques to do so.

“My mindset was something that I really had to work on for this competition. I get nervous and to perform well in Olympic weightlifting you must remain composed.

“So, I used lots of meditation, visualisation and I worked on strategies to control my energy levels,” she said.

It’s been a monumental year for both Sam and her husband Adam, who together run Triple X Gym in Stalybridge. With Adam taking on his bodybuilding journey and Sam smashing world records, the pair have had to dedicate time, energy, and effort into their sports.

“It’s been a very challenging journey and I feel quite emotional when I think about it.

“Me and Adam support each other so much, it’s so nice now that we’re both post event and can enjoy each other’s company.

“I set out to win a gold medal and break three world records, and I’ve done just that. They were big goals to set after returning to weightlifting after having a baby, so I’m so happy that I’ve managed to achieve that.

“It still doesn’t feel real, I was straight off the platform and then on the plane home, it still feels like a dream,” she said.

Originally, Sam planned to take a break from the sport if she was to succeed in her 2022 goals. However, these achievements have stoked a fire within her that is still burning bright.

“I think I’ll attend the Europeans and the Worlds next year to try and beat the records that I set this year.

“The competitions are closer to home in 2023 so we’ll have a big squad going, which will be so nice for us all,” Sam said.

Heading into the winter period, Sam believes it is important to keep fitness levels high.

“Cold mornings and dark nights mean people don’t necessarily want to go out for walks, so getting into the gym where it is warm is ideal.

“Even doing your steps on a treadmill and socialising in a warm indoor environment is important.”

Achieving these incredible accolades after putting in hours of intense work, Sam is now looking forward to celebrating the Christmas season with her family.

Heading into 2023 she will take an even deeper dive into her weightlifting career, seeing just how many more goals she can smash.

Do you know an inspirational sporting woman in Tameside or Glossop?

Women in Sport is a weekly column which shares the incredible stories of ladies involved in sport across the area. We are always on the lookout for fresh stories to tell. To nominate someone for the column or get involved yourself, please email Katie on katie.catherall@questmedianetwork.co.uk. 

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