Shines at Maharashtra Powerlifting Championship
‘Practice makes the man perfect’ – this is the mantra for the 50-year-old Santosh Kale, who won the bronze medal at the Maharashtra Powerlifting Championship in Mumbai held on February 21 and 22.
Following an exercise routine since a very young age, Kale took powerlifting seriously at the age of 45. “I always enjoyed doing exercise, but because of the office hours, I could not get involved in any professional sports. However, one thing that I followed strictly was my exercise routine. I exercised at any cost,” explained Kale, who is the office superintendent at Solapur Forest Division.
Based in Solapur, Kale has spent the majority of his service years at the Pune division forest office till the last year. “Pune, being a developed city, has nice infrastructure for sports. In Solapur, it is still in the process of development. I go to the gym regularly in Solapur, but I miss my routine in Pune. Before the tournament, I trained in Pune,” added Kale, who lifted weights of above 400 kg (combined in squat, bench press and deadlift).
Kale’s podium finish brings pride to the Solapur Forest Division and highlights his strong performance in the state-level event.
“I thank Ashish Thakare, Conservator of Forest, Kulraj Singh, Deputy Conservator of Forest, Solapur Forest, Amol Thorat, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Pune, and Ashutosh Shendge, Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), Pune. Their support played a key role in my success,” added Kale.
Message for youngsters
It is often observed that youngsters who go to the gym attempt to lift more weight, which causes them injuries. “Weight should be increased step by step and under proper guidance. A sudden increase in weight will invite injuries. For example, if you are lifting 5 kg, you must first practice lifting 5 kg regularly, then slowly increase the weight by 1.5 kg and 2.5 kg, respectively,” advised Kale.
Weightlifting and Powerlifting
Powerlifting focuses on maximum strength in the squat, bench press, and deadlift, while weightlifting (Olympic lifting) emphasises explosive speed, technical precision, and overhead mobility through the snatch, clean & jerk. Powerlifters aim for raw strength, often resulting in a larger, bulkier build. Weightlifters are generally leaner, with greater flexibility and agility required to move heavy weights quickly.
