Record-breaking powerlifter hopes to inspire others as she joins cast of Gladiators

A Guinness World Records title holder is putting her strength to the test on the new series of TV show Gladiators.

But Karenjeet Bains (UK) isn’t going to be a contestant on the BBC show… she’s one of the Gladiators!

The 26-year-old took to her social media today to announce that she’s been cast as Athena, named after the Greek Goddess of War.

A year on from breaking the record for most times to squat lift own bodyweight in one minute (female) with an impressive count of 42, she’s preparing to take on challengers on the iconic TV show that first aired in the 1990s.

She excitedly posted on Instagram: “I've been waiting a very long time to announce to you all that I AM A GLADIATOR!!

“I AM ATHENA...the Greek Goddess of War! 

“What a journey it has been to get to this point... I will never forget my humble beginnings as a school girl tearing up the Athletics track, to breaking down barriers by winning and representing Great Britain in Powerlifting and NOW to become a Gladiator! Just WOW!”

She added: “I hope that Athena will inspire you all to dream big, stay positive, work hard, and enjoy the journey... 

“That she can be a role model who shows the levels a female can achieve, if she is given the opportunity to follow her passion and be given the wings to fly!

“See you in the Arena!! GLADIATORS READY!!”

Karenjeet has an impressive following of 19.7k fans on Instagram.

She’s also a Commonwealth champion and is Britain’s first female Sikh powerlifter.

She was the first British Sikh woman to represent Team GB in powerlifting, and now, she’s on a mission to help women get strong and healthy.

Super fit Karenjeet regularly shares work out tips and advice on eating healthy alongside images and videos of herself achieving amazing physical feats.

Gladiators is coming soon to BBC in the UK.

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