Hannah Johnson

“ What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are small matters compared to what lies within us. And when we bring what is within us out into the world, miracles happen.“ –Henry Stanley Haskins

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I’ve been using Vitargo since way back when I started powerlifting in 2006. It was known even back then as a great carb source that was advantageous before a meet for optimal strength and recovery after weigh-ins.

Once I started running the Firefighter Combat Challenge, I’ve used it as a way to fuel up before, during and after workouts. I usually have a scoop with my preworkout, then a scoop during the workout to help me finish maximum effort sprints. I also loved the info The Company put out on carb loading with Vitargo, and use it before competitions to carb and water load.

I started powerlifting in 2005, ended my equipped career in 2014 with best lifts of a 450 lb squat, 325 lb bench press and 480 lb deadlift. In 2015, I also totaled 1,000 lbs at 146 lb bodyweight with only a belt and knee wraps, which broke me into the top 20 all-time strongest women in the 148 lb weight class.

In 2013, I became a firefighter, and truly found what I would consider to be the best job in the world. Since then I have competed in the Firefighter Combat Challenge and placed as high as third in the world, as well as been a member on the world champion women’s relay team.

What I’ve learned over the years
It took me a long time to get here, but I’ve realized that it’s okay to take some time for yourself. As competitors we tend to push, push, push until we are mentally and physically exhausted.

Over the years I’ve learned that it’s important to prioritize based on where you are in life. Sometimes training has to take a backseat, sometimes family, friends, your own mental health and self-esteem have to be given time to grow and flourish. Don’t put yourself down because you missed a day in the gym. Be fully present in the moment, enjoy every small success that life gives you.

There is no right or wrong time to make the most of your life­—it’s all just time, and it’s running out.