Rufe Bynum

What is your Weightlifting story?

I was introduced to weightlifting about 6 years ago. I had no idea what it was. My coach then showed me some Youtube videos and I said to myself 'I think I could do that'. I committed to 6 weeks of training and I was instantly hooked. Weightlifting is the most difficult training I have ever done and I love it. There is just something about the discipline of the sport that makes it so fun. There are many ups and downs in training but then you have days when everything grooves and you remember why you do this day in and day out. I have had the opportunity to compete at a few national meets like the American Open and Nationals. I never would have thought when I started how far I could go. Weightlifting continues to challenge and push me and that's why I love it. This sport has changed my life for the better.

What is your favorite part about coaching?

It's like being a chemist working on the proper mixture. When that mixture comes together something amazing happens. Seeing others' progress just makes it all worth while. I love getting to see people achieve their goals and push themselves even further than they would have thought possible.

What's your favorite movement?

Snatch

What's your favorite quote?

"I'll show you how great I am." - Muhammad Ali

Any advice for beginners?

Never limit yourself. Always believe in yourself. I tell that to my lifters everyday. Believe in yourself and you can do anything.