When it comes to sheer strength, female athletes have shattered stereotypes and redefined what is possible in the world of weightlifting. The bench press—a classic measure of upper body power—has become a battleground where these Iron Queens display their incredible might. Here are 20 female athletes whose monstrous bench presses inspire awe and admiration.
1. Juliana Malacarne
A four-time Ms. Bikini Olympia champion, Juliana boasts a bench press max of 315 pounds (143 kg). Her combination of muscle definition and raw strength makes her a force to be reckoned with.
2. Stefi Cohen
Standing at just 5’2”, Venezuelan powerlifter Stefi Cohen holds multiple world records, including an astonishing 336-pound (152.5 kg) bench press at a bodyweight of only 123 pounds (56 kg).
3. Becca Swanson
Known as one of the strongest women in history, Becca has benched 370 pounds (168 kg) in competition. Her dominance across all lifts places her among the legends of strength sports.
4. Kim Walford
An 11-time IPF World Champion, Kim has achieved a massive 308-pound (140 kg) bench press. She’s also a coach who empowers other women to reach their potential.
5. Jennifer Thompson
Jennifer stunned the powerlifting community by benching 335 pounds (152 kg) in the 132-pound weight class. Her technical precision sets her apart.
6. Andrea Thompson
This British powerhouse broke the world record for the heaviest bench press by a woman, lifting 345.6 pounds (156.8 kg) in 2023.
7. Ray Williams
While primarily known for her squatting prowess, Ray can bench 300 pounds (136 kg) effortlessly, proving her versatility on the platform.
8. Laura Phelps
Laura’s career highlights include a jaw-dropping 341-pound (155 kg) bench press, making her one of the strongest female lifters ever.
9. Meg Squats
Meg not only excels in squats but also benches up to 300 pounds (136 kg), inspiring thousands through her YouTube channel dedicated to strength training.
10. Sarah “Squiggly” Hopping
Sarah balances being a competitive powerlifter and a social media influencer while maintaining a 315-pound (143 kg) bench press.
11. Marissa Inda
Marissa combines beauty pageants with powerlifting, benching 285 pounds (130 kg) and proving that femininity and strength coexist beautifully.
12. Jessica Buettner
Jessica made waves in 2022 when she benched 320 pounds (145 kg) in the 148-pound category, further cementing her status as a rising star.
13. Tatiana Sartori
Hailing from Brazil, Tatiana holds the South American record with a 319-pound (145 kg) bench press.
14. Samantha Calhoun
Samantha defies expectations with her 325-pound (147.5 kg) bench press, serving as a role model for young women entering strength sports.
15. Leah Kaleck
Leah’s 303-pound (137.5 kg) bench press showcases her dedication to pushing past perceived limits.
16. Amanda Lawrence
Amanda balances motherhood and powerlifting, achieving a 310-pound (140.5 kg) bench press despite juggling responsibilities.
17. Marie-Lyne Grenier
Marie-Lyne uses her platform to advocate for mental health awareness while crushing a 305-pound (138.5 kg) bench press.
18. Shannon Rhoten
Shannon’s 320-pound (145 kg) bench press proves that age is no barrier to building extraordinary strength.
19. Kaci Clark
Kaci’s journey from collegiate athlete to elite powerlifter includes a personal best of 315 pounds (143 kg).
20. Brittany Williams
Brittany rounds out our list with a 300-pound (136 kg) bench press, demonstrating consistency and resilience in every competition.
Conclusion
These Iron Queens remind us that strength knows no bounds. Through grit, determination, and unwavering focus, they’ve proven that women belong at the forefront of strength sports. Their achievements inspire future generations to embrace their own power, both inside and outside the gym.
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