9Q’s with Idabel’s Andre Golston

VYPE: How did you get started in powerlifting?
 Andre Golston: I didn’t find powerlifting; it found me when I had nothing else. I needed a way to turn all that noise and frustration into something solid. The first time a weight that was supposed to crush me moved, I knew I didn’t have to stay where I was. I could build my way out.

VYPE: What does your training routine look like?
 AG: I’m in the gym five days a week, usually late at night when everything is quiet. I focus on the big three lifts and then hit accessories to fix my weaknesses. It’s high volume, heavy weight and zero excuses.

VYPE: What makes the squat so important to you?
 AG: The squat is the ultimate test. There’s nothing more humbling than having that weight on your back. It mirrors my life. No matter how heavy it gets or how low I go, I’m getting back up every single time.

VYPE: What has been your biggest challenge?
 AG: Learning to be okay with being uncomfortable. I used to quit when things got hard. Powerlifting taught me the pain is part of the process.

VYPE: What do people not see about the sport?
 AG: They don’t see the exhaustion. They see a five-second clip of a lift, but not the early mornings, the soreness or the meals you force down when you’re tired. Most of the time it’s just you, your music and a lot of self-doubt you have to fight every day.

VYPE: How do you lock in mentally before a lift?
 AG: I zone everything out and let the music take over. I need that energy to drown out the doubt. Once I step under the bar, it’s tunnel vision.

VYPE: How do you handle setbacks?
 AG: I don’t back off. I adjust and keep working. Failure isn’t a wall. It’s a test to see how bad you want it.

VYPE: How do you balance school and lifting?
 AG: There really isn’t balance. I just make it happen. I take care of school, then I’m in the gym. I don’t waste time. If you want something, you have to sacrifice.

VYPE: What’s next for you?
 AG: I’m chasing records. I want to dominate my weight class and leave a mark. I came from nothing, so I’m coming for everything.