Kashmir’s First woman power-lifter: Saima Ubaid

Saima Ubaid is Kashmir’s first woman power–lifter who secured a gold medal in a power lifting competition in Srinagar in 2020.

Saima currently trains other women to stay fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle. As a mother herself she understands the health needs of women who are married and is trying to change the common perceptions of the society.

Her own journey started when she had her own weight gain issues. Later she joined the gym to help her situation. Eventually her husband Ubaid Hafiz, a fitness trainer himself helped her lose excess weight. He trained her and lead her to the path of becoming a power-lifter.

Her husband encouraged and supported her realizing her natural strength to lift weights that is essential for powerlifting. He proposed the idea to train and compete for power-lifting and she duly agreed. This set her on way to achieve her milestones.

Jammu and Kashmir Powerlifting Association organized the 4th Kashmir Powerlifting, Benchpress, and Deadlift Championship, exclusively for women for the very first time in 2020. Saima won a gold medal as she was able to lift 255 kg. 

Initially she drew a lot of flak for being a power lifter and fitness trainer. However, in an ironic twist the very people who criticized her sought her assistance in developing a healthy lifestyle. She has won our people and credits her husband for his support throughout her journey.

Women fitness is not given much priority in our society. Saima Ubaid is not only challenging that notion but helping others make a positive change in their lives. She is training a lot of women and helps them with issues that effect their health.

Due to her help in fitness and diet and further training many women who had issues after marriage regarding their health and weight, women trained by Saima cite as her as inspiration and a real difference in their lives.

It is remarkable that even after marriage and having a child she has continued the sport of power lifting, showing others they can achieve whatever they dream if they are dedicated. Her accomplishments motivate her further to pursue power lifting as a career. Along with her journey Saima also continues to make a difference for other women around her.