Becoming the Vegan Powerifter - Athlete's Life Story. Upbringing, Childhood, College
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In this exclusive interview, Katya Gorbacheva, a renowned vegan powerlifter and coach, shares her journey into powerlifting, her coaching philosophy, and how she empowers women in sports. Known for her exceptional lifts and dedication to breaking stereotypes, Katya opens up about her life, challenges, and triumphs.
Megan: Katya, can you share how you initially got into powerlifting? What inspired this journey?
Katya Gorbacheva: My journey into powerlifting was unexpected. I started with bodybuilding, competing in bikini and figure categories, but I never felt fully comfortable in that world. The hyper-focus on aesthetics and constant body scrutiny took a toll on me. I realized I needed a shift—something that prioritized strength over appearance. That’s when I discovered powerlifting. The idea of setting goals like squatting or deadlifting a certain weight felt empowering. It was a way to redefine my relationship with fitness and my body.
Megan: As a vegan athlete, do you face unique challenges in powerlifting?
Katya Gorbacheva: Absolutely, but I view those challenges as opportunities to educate and inspire. There’s a common misconception that vegan athletes can’t perform at the same level as others, especially in strength sports. I aim to debunk that myth. Competing as part of the PlantBuilt VeganStrong team has been incredible because it’s a platform to show what’s possible on a plant-based diet. The key is proper nutrition and training. I ensure my macronutrient intake supports my performance and recovery. It’s not just about being vegan; it’s about being smart with your approach.
Megan: You’ve achieved so much in your career. What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Katya Gorbacheva: That’s a tough question because there have been so many rewarding moments. One highlight was when I totaled 465 kg at a competition, hitting a 180 kg squat, 95 kg bench press, and 190 kg deadlift. But honestly, my proudest moments often involve my clients. Seeing them overcome their own hurdles—whether it’s lifting a weight they never thought possible or feeling confident in their skin—those victories mean the world to me.
Megan: Speaking of clients, you’re also a coach. How do you approach coaching, especially for women new to powerlifting?
Katya Gorbacheva: Coaching is deeply personal for me. I’ve been through the struggles of body dysmorphia and eating disorders, so I understand the mental challenges that come with fitness. My coaching focuses on shifting the mindset from aesthetics to performance. I want my clients to feel empowered by what their bodies can do, not just how they look. For women, especially, this can be transformative. Strength training has a way of building not just physical power but also mental resilience. My goal is to create a supportive environment where they feel strong, capable, and unstoppable.
Megan: You’ve mentioned body dysmorphia and eating disorders. How has powerlifting helped you personally in dealing with those struggles?
Katya Gorbacheva: Powerlifting gave me a new lens through which to view my body. Instead of obsessing over numbers on a scale or in a mirror, I started focusing on numbers in the gym. How much could I squat? How many kilos could I deadlift? This shift was liberating. It’s not a cure-all, of course, but it’s a powerful tool for reclaiming your narrative. It taught me to appreciate my body for what it can do rather than how it looks.
Megan: What role does community play in your journey as a powerlifter and coach?
Katya Gorbacheva: Community is everything. Powerlifting can be a solitary sport in some ways—you’re the one under the bar, lifting the weight—but the support of a team or community makes a huge difference. Being part of the vegan lifting community and coaching my clients connects me to a bigger purpose. It’s not just about individual achievements; it’s about lifting each other up, figuratively and literally. When one of us succeeds, we all succeed.
Megan: What advice would you give to women who are hesitant to try powerlifting?
Katya Gorbacheva: My advice is simple: just start. Don’t worry about being perfect or lifting a certain amount right away. Powerlifting is a journey, and every small step is progress. Find a coach or community that supports you, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, strength training is for everyone. It’s not about fitting into a specific mold; it’s about discovering your own potential.
Megan: Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future?
Katya Gorbacheva: I have so many aspirations! As an athlete, I want to continue pushing my limits and competing at higher levels. As a coach, I aim to reach more women and show them the life-changing power of strength training. I’m also expanding my efforts to teach English to powerlifters internationally—it’s an exciting way to bridge gaps and connect with more people. Ultimately, I want to leave a legacy that empowers others to pursue their passions unapologetically.
Megan: Finally, how do you balance it all—training, coaching, and your other projects?
Katya Gorbacheva: It’s definitely a juggling act! But I believe in prioritizing what matters most and setting boundaries. I schedule my day carefully, making sure there’s time for my training, my clients, and my personal growth. Self-care is crucial, too. If I’m not taking care of myself, I can’t give my best to others. It’s all about finding harmony in the chaos.
Katya Gorbacheva continues to inspire and challenge the norms, proving that strength—both physical and mental—can break barriers and change lives. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and a passion for growth.
Questions, footage, lighting and sound by: Megan Hollenbeck
Editing: Oleg Stepanov