What is your name and where are you from?
Jeff Krause, Portage, IN.
When did you start powerlifting and was there a reason for it?
I started lifting in 1997. I’ve done lots of lifting for strength over the years, but didn’t get serious about powerlifting until 18 months ago. I always look for a challenge, so when I started powerlifting, it was like a hand in a glove, and I never looked back.
What are some of your best lifting accomplishments so far?
Just stepping on the platform was an accomplishment for me. I tore my ACL in the fall of 2013, so getting up there was in and of itself a big step for me. Despite that, I know my biggest lifting accomplishments are yet to come.
What are some lifting goals that you have set for the future?
Ultimately, I want to hit a 1900 total as a Masters lifter. I’m a super heavyweight, and I’m a believer that you can do anything you set your mind to, if you believe you can do it. I think to be able to hit a 500 lb bench, and 700 lb squat and 700 lb. deadlift as a lifetime pure lifter over 40 yrs old would be awesome.
What kind of training program do you follow?
I’ve used a few different programs, including Westside and Cube Method. My current training is Cube, with a few tweaks suited to my specific needs.
How long have you been involved with NASA Powerlifting?
One year.
Can you recall your first NASA powerlifting competition?
Indiana State 2015. That was my second overall meet, and first NASA meet. It was a real learning experience for me, but was a great day.
If you could lift against anybody else heads up in NASA who would it be?
Being in the SHW Masters division, I’m always looking for anyone to compete against in my weight class lol. There aren’t many of us around, but it’d be awesome to have a meet where a bunch of us big guys were battling it out like you see in other weight classes. Aside from that, I enjoy lifting with some of the guys in the Midwest here. There are some great people lifting in NASA, and the camaraderie is always something I enjoy.
What are some of your favorite moments from being at NASA meets?
The camaraderie, as mentioned above. Guys encouraging each other and pushing each other to be their best. I’ve never gotten a feeling once that anyone thinks they’re better than everyone else. There’s a lot of humility amongst lifters in NASA.
When can we expect to see you step on the platform again?
Indiana State, March 5, 2016.
Is there anything else you’d like to let the NASA Powerlifting world know?
I appreciate the work everyone puts in to hold meets across the country, and giving lifters a drug free environment to lift in. Keep up the great work!