TMGP Ep 42 with the African Powerlifting champion Haroun Pietersen - a world-class athlete lifting South Africa to New Heights
Update: 2025-06-12
Description
Haroun Pietersen: From Mitchells Plain to Powerlifting Glory
Hailing from Mitchells Plain in Cape Town, Haroun Pietersen has quickly emerged as a standout figure in South African powerlifting. Despite only beginning his competitive journey in 2023, he has already earned major accolades, including the titles of 2024 African Powerlifting Champion and Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion. His meteoric rise in the sport is a powerful testament to his discipline, focus, and passion.
At 37 years old and weighing around 104 kg, Haroun competes in the 105 kg weight class and has posted some awe-inspiring numbers: a 322.5 kg squat, a 217.5 kg bench press, and a 285 kg deadlift. At the 2024 World Classic Championships, he totaled 707.5 kg, setting new personal records and demonstrating not only his raw strength but also a well-thought-out, strategic approach to competition.
Beyond his own accomplishments, Haroun is passionate about community upliftment and using his story to inspire others. Through his Instagram, @harounliftssa, he regularly shares training insights, motivation, and glimpses into his life as a competitive powerlifter. He is a strong advocate for showing that it's never too late to start something new or reach new heights.
Adding to his impressive list of achievements, Haroun has been nominated for the 2025 World Games in China, a competition often referred to as the Olympics of powerlifting. This prestigious nomination confirms his place on the world stage and marks another exciting chapter in his journey.
In today’s episode, we cover a wide range of topics, including:
The difference between raw vs equipped lifting
A full rundown of lifting equipment
Haroun’s favourite accessory lifts
A story about leg press fun with every plate in the gym
Tips for powerlifting coaches and those wanting to get into the sport
The importance of longevity in powerlifting
How people can still improve as they age
The health benefits of strength training later in life
An overview of the South African powerlifting scene
Financial challenges in powerlifting and barriers to entry
…and so much more.
Get ready for an inspiring and educational conversation with one of South Africa’s fastest-rising powerlifting stars!
Hailing from Mitchells Plain in Cape Town, Haroun Pietersen has quickly emerged as a standout figure in South African powerlifting. Despite only beginning his competitive journey in 2023, he has already earned major accolades, including the titles of 2024 African Powerlifting Champion and Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion. His meteoric rise in the sport is a powerful testament to his discipline, focus, and passion.
At 37 years old and weighing around 104 kg, Haroun competes in the 105 kg weight class and has posted some awe-inspiring numbers: a 322.5 kg squat, a 217.5 kg bench press, and a 285 kg deadlift. At the 2024 World Classic Championships, he totaled 707.5 kg, setting new personal records and demonstrating not only his raw strength but also a well-thought-out, strategic approach to competition.
Beyond his own accomplishments, Haroun is passionate about community upliftment and using his story to inspire others. Through his Instagram, @harounliftssa, he regularly shares training insights, motivation, and glimpses into his life as a competitive powerlifter. He is a strong advocate for showing that it's never too late to start something new or reach new heights.
Adding to his impressive list of achievements, Haroun has been nominated for the 2025 World Games in China, a competition often referred to as the Olympics of powerlifting. This prestigious nomination confirms his place on the world stage and marks another exciting chapter in his journey.
In today’s episode, we cover a wide range of topics, including:
The difference between raw vs equipped lifting
A full rundown of lifting equipment
Haroun’s favourite accessory lifts
A story about leg press fun with every plate in the gym
Tips for powerlifting coaches and those wanting to get into the sport
The importance of longevity in powerlifting
How people can still improve as they age
The health benefits of strength training later in life
An overview of the South African powerlifting scene
Financial challenges in powerlifting and barriers to entry
…and so much more.
Get ready for an inspiring and educational conversation with one of South Africa’s fastest-rising powerlifting stars!
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