It’s not unusual for men to gawk at women’s chests. But in the case of Jennifer Thompson, they’re gawking out of jealousy. The 5-foot-5, 132-pound 7th-grade math teacher can bench-press a small family.
“Guys clear out when I’m at the gym,” said the 31-year-old North Carolinian, whose top bench press is 315 pounds, making her one of the elite female powerlifters in the world. “They don’t want to be working out next to me. I guess it’s hard lifting next to a girl in a tank top.”
A mane of blond hair falls across Thompson’s 44-inch shoulders, though by looking at her you’d never guess she could kick your patootie–she’s petite, personable and, at the risk of annoying husband Donovan (who benches 405 pounds), downright cute. Male or female, 315 pounds is a lot of weight, so pay attention, guys. Thompson offers these tips for benching like a woman:
– Take off your jewelry, put your hair in a ponytail, and make sure your sports bra coordinates with your shorts.
– Be sure your child is down for his nap.
– Then check how big your butt looks in the mirror.
Interested in being emasculated? See Thompson perform as part of the Bench America powerlifting show at halftime of the Chicago Rush game on Friday. Fellow powerlifter Scott Lade will try to bench 700 pounds. Visit www.chicagorush.com for tickets and information.