Southampton bodybuilder Marina Cornwall has turned her hand – and her muscle – to power lifting and this week is flying out to the US to take part in a competition.

The personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder decided to take up power lifting last year and has already broken nine British records, including five Commonwealth records.

“I decided to try power lifting because I was always strong for my size,” said Marina.

“I weigh seven stone and I can lift nearly three times my own bodyweight.”

Marina says that it can be difficult to train as both a bodybuilder and a powerlifter as being a power-lifter requires weight whereas bodybuilders have to be lean.

However, she says that because she is naturally lean and has to stay in shape as a personal trainer, it has been relatively easy for her to do both.

“I think it’s benefited my bodybuilding because it’s given me more muscle in my back and shoulders. It’s hard work but I really enjoy the power-lifting.

“I think it’s fairer than bodybuilding because you can lift a weight or you can’t whereas with bodybuilding it’s down to a panel of judges.”

Marina is currently training for the new power lifting season, which starts in January, with help from her new sponsors P.O.S.H restaurant in Southampton.

“I am a natural athlete so I am always drug tested,” she said.

“I have been drug-free all my life. In the States you also have to take a polygraph test before you compete.

It’s very strict, which is good.”