PAUL Newell, 30, is a powerlifter competing at 100 kgs and trains with Salisbury Weightlifting Club.

Unlike weightlifting, powerlifting doesn't involve hoisting dumbbells above the head, but it does involve immense strength and discipline with competitors lifting up to five times their own body weight.

Paul lives in Salisbury, but works in Winchester as a workforce analyst with the NHS.

Q: When did you first take up the sport?
A: I entered my first competition when I was 20.Q: How did you get interested?
A: I was looking for something to replace PE after school and I'd been weight-training for a couple of years. I'd excelled at it and someone suggested I go in for powerlifting. Q: What have you achieved?
A: I was British Junior Champion in 2000, South of Britain Champion in 2007, World silver medallist in 2003, World bronze medallist in 2005 and British record holder twice.Q: What's next?
A: I'm about to start training for the 2008 season, which is the South of Britain Championship, the British Championship and if all goes according to plan the World Championships in November.Q: How many hours training do you do a week?
A: I train for up to two hours three times a week lifting weights and take the dogs out for a brisk walk twice a day for a cardiac workout.Q: How about diet?
A: I try to eat healthily with the emphasis on lean red meat, chicken and oily fish and plenty of fruit and vegetables and I stay away from junk food.Q: What about challenges and rewards?
A: It's not about beating other people, it's about beating yourself. Powerlifting has very definite markers to measure your performance.
I'm always trying to improve and want to keep getting stronger and fulfil my potential.