How I began Weightlifting

Introduction:

Growing up, I tried a variety of school sports including athletics, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, and even dancing. However, my poor physique often held me back and I was rejected from certain teams. It wasn’t until 1996 when I was introduced to weightlifting by two friends from my neighborhood that I found my true passion in sports.

Discovering a Love for Weightlifting:

My brother and I had always played with these two friends after school, but one day they stopped showing up. When we asked where they had been, they told us about their new hobby: weightlifting. They offered us the chance to join them at the gym, and it was there that I realized weightlifting was the sport for me. The experienced lifters at the gym were lifting impressive amounts of weight, and I was determined to one day be able to do the same.

Training in Cluj Napoca:

I trained at a gym in my hometown of Cluj Napoca for three years until 1999, when my club was dissolved. That’s when my coach, Stefan Tasnadi (a silver medalist at the 1984 Sydney Olympics), transferred us to CSM Bistrita. The transition was a major shock as the training there was much more intense than what I was used to. The workouts followed the Bulgarian style, which is known for its high repetition and demanding nature. We did nine sessions of squats per week, and the Romanian training system is heavily influenced by the Bulgarian system.

Joining the Junior National Team:

I trained at CSM Bistrita from 1999 to 2006, when I was invited to join the junior national team in Pitesti. This was a significant milestone in my weightlifting career, and I was excited for the opportunity to compete at a higher level.

Conclusion:

My journey into weightlifting has been filled with challenges and hard work, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. The sport has become a true passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has presented me with.