Lady Lifter Spotlight: Janelle!

While I find my strength primarily with the barbell, there is nothing more impressive to me than women throwing around heavy things. And this week’s spotlight is no exception! I found Janelle’s blog from an article she wrote interviewing a Crossfitter, even though her passion is outside the box. Janelle is an RKC superstar and weighing less than me, the small and spunky, yet super strong Janelle has countless videos on YouTube of her doing kettlebell movements at 20-24kg, including weighted pistols (who does that?!) and even one swinging a KB that almost weighs as much as she does!

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Name: Janelle Pica

Blog: Primal Fitness Pittsburgh
Twitter: @primalburgher
Pinterest: Primal Burgher
Facebook: Primal Fitness Pittsburgh
Instagram: PrimalBurgher
Youtube: Primal Burgher

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

What types physical activity do you enjoy?

Functional Fitness (kettlebell, calisthenics, mobility work)

How did you get started in weight lifting? 

I actually started weight lifting back when I was 22 years old. I picked up a kettlebell after having read about them on a  health blog. I heard that kettlebell training was great for cardiovascular out put and for strength gains all at the same time. Once I ordered my 26 pound weight, I fell in love.  I haven’t looked back since!

Favorite workout or lift?

My favorite lift is the pistol squat. You have to do a squat on one leg while holding a kettlebell. It’s demanding, but incredibly fun!

Current lifting-related goal:

Right now I am working on consistently passing the RKC snatch test using a 16kg kettlebell. I actually meet the mid weight class for our testing standards which requires a 14kg kettlebell, but I want the extra strength and conditioning work just to say that I can test with a 16kg kettlebell. Its a personal challenge for me, and thus a personal goal. I have done it before in my practice runs, but I have not made this test result consistent. It’s a brutal thing to practice, but I’m improving. Once I can nail the volume consistently each week, I’ll be set!

Piece of advice for new lifters or those reluctant to try:

Don’t be intimated by those that are lifting heavier when you start. I started my own path to strength with just a single 26 pound weight. You WILL get stronger over time. Be patient, be consistent, and watch your gains soar!

Eat smart! Train hard! Enjoy your life!

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