How I Doubled My Deadlift and Shattered My Limiting Beliefs
The Plateau That Pushed Me to Make a Change
I’d been working out at home for a while, but my progress had stalled. My deadlift had been stuck at 100 lbs for months, and I felt… flat. I craved something different — more challenge, more variety, and a community to push me further.
A close friend had been inviting me to join a local gym, for ages. Each time, I said no. Sometimes my reasons seemed logical:
My schedule was full.
I was already working out at home.
I can’t wake up that early.
But if I’m honest? Deep down, I didn’t believe I could keep up. The people there lifted heavy — really heavy — and I told myself I wasn’t that strong; that I wasn’t good enough; that I wouldn’t fit in.
A Week That Changed Everything
One thing about me is that I’m a sucker for challenges, and a couple of weeks ago, I received a text from a gym staff member dangling a challenge in front or me. After a conversation, we agreed that this challenge wasn’t for me since it was focused around losing weight. Instead of the challenge, I took it as a sign and I finally joined. And it just so happened to be “Test Week” — a time to see what your one-rep max is in a few key exercises.
Monday: Squats (120lbs)
Tuesday: Bench press (85lbs)
Wednesday: Sled push (my first ever - 45yards)
Thursday: Deadlifts (200lbs!!!!)
Friday: I’ll find out tomorrow, lol
Each day, I pushed past my usual numbers. But the biggest breakthrough came today: deadlift day.
At home, my max has consistently been 100 lbs. Surrounded by amazing people I’d known for less than a week and a coach (thank you, Dulce) that I quickly found trust in, I worked my way up… and pulled 200 lbs.
More Than Just a Number on the Bar
I cried (yes, literally). I felt electric. In that moment, I realized something powerful:
I’d been living under a ceiling of my own making — one built from doubt, comparison, and comfort zones.
Driving home, it hit me:
Every time I said no to a friend’s invitation, I wasn’t protecting my schedule. I was protecting my fear.
The Lesson: You Are Stronger Than You Think
Here’s what this experience taught me:
Step into a new space. The energy of a different environment can break mental plateaus. It’s ok to switch things up and still keep your foundation (like the FASTer Way).
Surround yourself with community. Being cheered on matters more than you think.
Challenge your comfort zone. The things you think you “can’t” do often become the things you’re most proud of.
Sometimes, the heaviest weight you lift isn’t on the bar — it’s the belief that you can’t.
Final Takeaway
If you’ve been telling yourself “I could never do that,” I challenge you to prove yourself wrong.
Find a community. Try something new. Push past the number or limitation in your head — in all aspects of your life, not just the gym!
You might just surprise yourself… and rewrite the story you’ve been living.
💬 Your turn: What’s one thing you’ve accomplished recently that you once thought was impossible? Share it in the comments — I’d love to cheer you on!