A WEIGHTLIFTING champion is preparing to defend his European and British titles ahead of this year’s contests.

Brett Paisley, 47, from Laindon is a drug-free powerlifter who is bidding to defend his world, European and British titles in the coming months.

First up is the British Drug-Free Powerlifting Association title – and he is already in training for the big day next March.

He works out four days every week at easyGym in Basildon, as well as putting himself through a gruelling one-day-a-week training session at the Bionic Branch Barbell Club under coach Glenn Branch in Billericay.

Brett said he follows a planned training programme.

The cycle changes every three to four weeks and builds up to the next competition.

He said: “I would peak for a competition then lower the programmes slightly after the event and then start to rebuild again.

“EasyGym is the perfect place for me and my changing training routine as they have some of the best equipment available.

“Also, I love working with Glenn Branch, who is one of the most experienced coaches in the business.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without him.

“I first started competitive powerlifting in 2014 when I joined the British Drug-Free Powerlifting Association and I have been totally hooked on it ever since.”

He said powerlifting is a strength sport which involves three exercises or movements – squat, bench-press and deadlift.

He said there are competitions which involve all three lifts or single lift competitions, where an individual can choose his or her best lift and take on other single lift competitors.

Mr Paisley added: “I mostly compete in the single lift with the deadlift as I find it to be my strongest discipline.

“But I also enjoy full power events due to the extra excitement of having three lifts. I have also lifted in international events organised by the World Drug-Free Powerlifting Federation. Since 2014, I have won three national single events, two worlds and one European single event. I have also won one national full power.

“Since June 2018, when I won the worlds in Malta, I have been unbeaten in my Deadlift event. I became British champion in February this year and European champion in September.”