Zaid Ibrahiem

IPF Open Equipped Powerlifting World Championship
2025 - 120+kg - 8th
2023 - 120+kg - 7th

Canada Powerlifting Open Equipped National Championship
2026 - 120+kg - Gold
2025 - 120+kg - Gold
2023 - 120+kg - Gold

Best Lifts
Equipped Squat - 415.5kg
Equipped Bench Press - 317.5kg
Equipped Deadlift - 355kg
Equipped Total - 1088kg

Biography
 I am from Calgary, Alberta and moved to Canada in 2017 from the Middle East. At the time, I was playing football (soccer) competitively at the university level. When I came to Canada, I quickly realized that the football culture wasn't nearly as big as what I was used to, so I decided to try something new. I started with bodybuilding, but everything changed the day I saw a guy at my local YMCA squat 600 pounds. I remember thinking it was the coolest thing I had ever seen, and in that moment, I knew that was what I wanted to do.

I entered my first powerlifting competition in May 2019, where I squatted 413 pounds. From there, the numbers kept climbing, 600, then 700, and eventually 750 pounds for multiple reps. Along the way, I also fell in love with equipped powerlifting. It gave me something I didn't realize I had been missing since leaving football: the team aspect. Even though you're the one on the platform, equipped lifting is built around training partners, handlers, and coaches all working together toward one goal.

My biggest accomplishment so far has been breaking the Super Heavyweight Equipped national total record at the 2026 Canada Powerlifting Nationals. That performance also became the biggest total ever recorded in CANPL history, making it a milestone I'll always be proud of.

Outside of powerlifting, I'm a Mechanical Engineer, which keeps me busy throughout the day. That's one of the reasons I trust my coach, Garrett Bentley, with my programming. It lets me switch my brain off in the gym, focus on the work, and execute the plan without overthinking every detail.

When I'm not working or training, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé Kiley and our dog Finny. I also love playing Magic: The Gathering with Garrett and Bryce, even if I end up losing most of the games.

What is your favourite lifting memory?
Making my third squat at Open Worlds 2023 after missing my opener and second.

What is one piece of advice you have for up and coming athletes getting into strength training or strength sport?
Consistency. That really applies to anything you are trying to be good at in life. You can't be defeated if you show up everyday and put in the effort.

What is your favourite lift or event?
Squat.

What is your favourite product and why?
Knee Wraps
I have been using the SBD knee wraps for a year and I have already broken alot of PR's with them. Once they break in, they feel amazing.

What 3 other items are your go to and why?
13mm Belt
Powerlifting Knee Sleeves
Flexible Large Wrist Wraps
The SBD belt is simply the best powerlifting belt on the market. It's incredibly supportive, comfortable, and built to last. The knee sleeves provide the perfect amount of support without being overly tight or uncomfortable, making them ideal for both training and competition. The flexible wrist wraps are also incredibly versatile. You can wrap them tight enough to completely lock your wrists in place or leave them a little looser to allow some wrist movement, which works perfectly for me when I'm squatting.

What colourway is your favourite and why?
Phantom
It works well with the 20 black deathmetal band tee's I have in my wardrobe. 

Why do you believe SBD is the gear all athletes should use?
It's the golden standard. Looks good, feels amazing and lasts long. Why would you wear anything else?

Why do you believe in working with SBD Canada as a Sponsored Athlete?
As an athlete, you always want to be part of the best team. A team that's pushing the sport to new levels while giving back to its athletes in meaningful ways. For me, that team is SBD.