Ethan of We-Do HR, a Sterling Partner and long-standing Networks member, tells us how a serious injury nearly ended his powerlifting journey — but through determination, expert support, and sheer grit, he turned a major setback into a national-level comeback.
After breaking my leg and going through surgery and recovery, returning to powerlifting felt almost impossible. The gym had always been my outlet, but after the injury, every time I squatted or deadlifted, I was gripped by fear. For six months, I doubted whether my body could handle the load. I was terrified of reinjury.
But I didn’t want to be someone defined by a setback. So I made a change I hired a coach. That decision was the turning point.
In September 2024, I competed for the first time since 2022. I surprised myself by not only matching my previous strength but surpassing it with personal bests — and even winning the competition. It was a huge confidence boost, but deep down I knew I could push further.
Together, my coach and I set our sights on a December meet with one goal: qualify for Nationals. Training leading up to it was nearly flawless. I hit new personal bests almost weekly, and come competition day, it all came together. I performed my best yet winning again and smashing the qualifying total for Nationals.
With seven months to prepare, we decided on another competition in April to stay sharp. That decision paid off another win, more personal records, and momentum heading into Nationals.
By July, I had completed the most intense prep of my life. I was exhausted but ready. I tapered properly, allowing my body to recover just in time. On competition day, squats felt amazing, though I knew I was pushing my limits. Bench press moved well, giving me the confidence to attack deadlifts. On my final pull, I surpassed expectations passing competitors and securing a 5th place finish nationally.
From fear of failure to a national level competition, never let your setbacks define you.
