International Women’s Day: Emily Muskett Q&A

Today is International Women’s Day so we caught up with Commonwealth Champion and World Championship Clean & Jerk Bronze Medallist Emily Muskett.

How is your training going at the moment in Australia? 

I moved back to the UK in July last year. It's been a very crazy time not only because of coronavirus but also because I'm managing a knee injury. Luckily BWL and my coach have been very helpful, and I'm able to access a gym during lockdown - I'm extremely grateful for their support.

With all the uncertainty in the world, how are you managing to stay focussed and motivated? 

I must admit it has been very difficult at times. Training on your own is a real challenge, especially as you approach a competition and those bigger numbers come into play. But, I have set my goals and I know I just need to get my head down and keep chipping away. I have to prepare for my next competition (European Seniors) as best as I can. I'm not able to control anything else!

What are your thoughts ahead of Tokyo 2020?  

At the moment I can only focus on the European Seniors. It is the last qualification event for the Tokyo Olympics and so my focus is getting there in one piece and performing to the best of my ability.

When international competitions do resume, how do you plan on building upon on your previous Commonwealth and World Champs success to hit the ground running again? 

My circumstances have changed quite a bit since my last international competitions so although I had a great year in 2019 - I'm now focussed on getting myself back to full fitness and producing a consistent performance. No one cares about previous results when you get on the platform!

In the past weightlifting has sometimes been seen as a male dominated sport, so how do you think these outdated stereotypes can be challenged today?  

I think it's fair to say that Weightlifting is now a sport very much equally enjoyed by both males and females. It has been so great to see a rise in the number of young females taking part in the sport, and I think women in general are realising the physical benefits the sport can bring. 

When it comes to life who is your biggest inspiration?

My mum. She passed away in December after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease a year earlier. Seeing her suffer but still putting on a brave face every single day showed how courageous she was. I take strength from her and remind myself to never give up - I'm very lucky to have the opportunities that come my way.

And finally, what advice would you give to someone who was new to weightlifting and just starting out? 

Focus on technique first and foremost. It takes years and years to become efficient in the Olympic lifts, and so you really can't do enough technical work when you're just starting out. Don't be in a hurry to load up the bar - work hard, be patient and persevere.