Holly Lasante

IPF Master Classic World Championship
2023 - 63kg - Gold
2022 - 63kg - Gold
2019 - 63kg - 4th
2018 - 63kg - 5th
2017 - 63kg - 7th

CPU Master Classic National Championship
2023 - 69kg - Gold
2022 - 69kg - Gold
2019 - 63kg - Silver
2018 - 63kg - Gold
2017 - 63kg - Gold

Best Lifts
Classic Squat - 141kg
Classic Bench Press - 70kg
Classic Deadlift - 169kg
Classic Total - 377.5kg

Biography
I discovered powerlifting in 2016 during one of the most challenging periods of my life. At the time, I was battling severe depression, and lifting became my way of finding stability. Stepping into the gym allowed me to be fully present, and as I began setting and achieving goals, my confidence and sense of self started to rebuild. Over time, powerlifting became more than a sport—it became a lifeline, helping me manage both depression and anxiety while empowering
me to feel stronger inside and out.

Since then, powerlifting has brought incredible milestones into my life. I’m proud to have won two IPF World Championships (2022 and 2023) and several Canadian National Championships.  My training happens primarily in my home gym, a space my family and I built during the pandemic. It’s my little safe haven, where I can shut out the world and focus on my craft. For the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of being coached by Austyn Ryan, whose unwavering
support and expertise have been vital to my journey.

Powerlifting has given me so much more than medals or records. It’s given me resilience, a sense of purpose, and a reminder of how far I’ve come. Every lift is a testament to the strength I’ve built, both physically and emotionally, and I’m excited to see where the journey continues to take me.

I’m based in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where I balance my training with a fulfilling career as an HR Manager at an engineering firm. Outside the gym, I love spending time with my family and my dogs, who always remind me of the simple joys in life. I’m happiest outdoors—whether I’m hiking, snowshoeing, or just soaking in the natural beauty around me.

What is your favourite lifting memory?
My favourite memory was winning a gold medal for the deadlift in Sweden at IPF Worlds in 2019. It was my first IPF World medal and it is a memory that will stick with me forever.

What is one piece of advice you have for up and coming athletes getting into strength training or strength sport?
Commit to the process and believe in yourself. Powerlifting is a sport that rewards consistent effort and determination—what you put in is what you’ll get out. No one else can do the work for you, but that’s the beauty of it: every step forward is yours to own. Set your goals, trust the journey, and give it everything you’ve got. You’re capable of more than you realize, and with hard work and persistence, you can achieve incredible things.

What is your favourite lift or event?
Squats.  When I started lifting, I had a hard time feeling strong / comfortable with them.  I have had to work hard to feel comfortable with them and now they’re my favourite lift. 

What is your favourite product and why?
Powerlifting Knee Sleeves
SBD knee sleeves are basically magic for me. When I put them on, I literally feel like I can do anything.

What 3 other items are your go to and why?
13mm Belt
Flexible Medium Wrist Wraps
Singlet
Wearing my SBD gear for me means that it is "game time". I immediately feel more powerful and able to take on any challenge.

What colourway is your favourite and why?
Phantom
I love the look of black on black. It makes me feel strong.

Why do you believe SBD is the gear all athletes should use?
The quality of SBD gear is unmatched. Every piece is consistent—I can always trust that what I order will fit perfectly and perform exactly as it should, without any issues like faulty stitching or wear. For me, investing in gear is a big decision, and with SBD, I know my hard-earned money is going toward something reliable and built to last. Plus, their customer service is incredible; they truly stand behind their products and make the whole experience even better.

Why do you believe in working with SBD Canada as a Sponsored Athlete?
To me, SBD represents the pinnacle of excellence in powerlifting—from their top-quality equipment to the values they uphold as a brand. Their commitment to supporting athletes and the sport as a whole aligns with my own dedication to powerlifting. Being able to train and compete with the best gear is a privilege, but being chosen to represent SBD Canada as a Sponsored Athlete is an even greater honour. It feels like a validation of the hard work I’ve put into this sport—a way of saying, “I’ve earned my place among the best.” It’s a surreal and
humbling experience, and I’m incredibly proud to be part of a team that sets the standard for excellence in powerlifting.

Photo Credits: Profile Picture-White Lights Media; Squat - White Lights Media; Bench Press - Nyshe Media