IFBB Pro Returns to Powerlifting
IFBB Pro Maddy Forberg completed her first powerlifting meet in 6 years at 121.7 lbs bodyweight, hitting a PR squat of 363.7 lbs (165 kg) and PR deadlift. She went 8/9 on attempts for her best total ever after returning from injury and bodybuilding competition.
- Before her recent return to powerlifting, Maddy Forberg competed as an IFBB Pro in the Wellness division, earning her pro card at the 2024 North Americans. Her shift to bodybuilding was prompted by a serious injury and burnout from powerlifting. - Forberg's last powerlifting competitions were between 2016 and 2019, during which she competed in 10 meets. Her best lifts at that time, competing at a bodyweight of around 125 to 135 pounds, included a 330-pound squat, a 209-pound bench press, and a 350-pound deadlift. - The "Belle of the Bar" meet, where Forberg made her comeback, was an all-women's event sanctioned by Powerlifting United in Kenilworth, NJ. - In addition to her 363.7 lb squat, Forberg reportedly achieved a new personal record in the deadlift at 190 kg (418.8 lbs) and her best-ever total of 452.5 kg. - Forberg competed at a lighter bodyweight of 121.7 lbs (55.2 kg), placing her in the 56 kg weight class. For context, the raw world record total in the 56 kg class is held by Marianna Gasparyan with a monumental 612.5 kg. - Forberg is also the owner of a coaching service called Strong for Life Company and has a background in nursing. She has been open about her past struggles with an eating disorder and depression, citing powerlifting as a crucial part of her recovery.
