Aileen Bishop wears many hats. She’s a national-level powerlifter, a former provincial squat record holder, a dance studio co-owner and, our personal favourite, team manager at Alberta Blue Cross®.
With personal bests like a 512.5 lb squat, 264.5 lb bench press and 507 lb deadlift, Aileen’s achievements in the gym speak for themselves. But it’s the lessons she’s learned along the way about resilience, courage and self-care that make her even more inspiring. So is the discipline and mindset she carries over from powerlifting into other areas of her life, especially in her leadership role.
There’s a lot to unpack in this conversation. But if you’re looking to learn the secrets behind Aileen’s success and how group benefits help women athletes, the read is worth it.
The start of Aileen’s powerlifting journey
Q: Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to start powerlifting?
I grew up more as a music kid. However, I participated in track and field, and my mom always made sure I stayed physically active. She worked at a school, and I learned how to lift weights there early on. During my time at the University of Alberta, a friend introduced me to the powerlifting room. I’ll never forget walking into that space—there were concrete walls, no windows and metal music playing out of it. The moment I started lifting, I felt a surge of strength and I realized I’m strong. The endorphin rush hit me fast, and I was hooked. From there on, I knew this was going to be my thing. I remember thinking this is exactly what I want to be doing.
Q: What were some of your first experiences in the sport?
My first competition was in 2015, during a tough time. I was going through some personal transitions and had just lost a close friend. I was cutting weight, and mentally, I wasn’t in the best place. But I still competed, and to my surprise, I qualified for regionals. I felt a massive wave of support from the lifting community. People that I never met before were cheering for me. That experience helped me start to heal, and I knew this sport was something I wanted to stick with.
“I realized I’m strong… that release of endorphins from lifting so much weight… this is exactly what I want to be doing.”
– Aileen Bishop
Q: What does a typical training week look like for you?
I train about 3 to 4 times a week in the gym. My workouts primarily focus on powerlifting exercises, including squats, deadlifts and the bench press. I break up my training into lower-body and upper-body days. I also perform aerobic and balance work to help maintain muscle and prevent injuries. Outside the gym, I get my cardio in through dance. I also make time for recovery. Walking, flexibility exercises and mobility work are all key to staying strong.
Building strength inside and out
Q: What keeps you motivated to train and compete at a high level, especially when challenges arise?
I’ve always been driven by personal growth. When life gets hard, I try to turn that stress into motivation. I think of each challenge like a weight I can lift. Powerlifting helps me process my emotions and makes me stronger mentally and physically. I don’t just want to be a better athlete; I want to be a better version of myself.
Q: How do you take care of your body and mind outside the gym?
Movement plays a significant role in my recharge process, whether it’s walking, stretching or dancing. I also take aerial classes, which keep things fun. I also check in regularly with a psychologist and collaborate with other professionals, such as nutritionists, to maintain a balanced approach. Good nutrition, adequate sleep and staying connected to a supportive network are all essential for overall wellbeing. But the most important thing? Listening to my body and knowing when to push and when to rest.
Q: Are there any mantras or philosophies you live by when it comes to training and competition?
My main mantra is: “Work hard, lift heavy.” But to me, that applies to everything, not just the gym. It’s about being brave, taking action and always trying to grow. I ask for help when I need it and focus on doing better than I did yesterday. Whether I’m working out, working at Alberta Blue Cross® or simply living life, I’m always striving to move forward.
“Work hard, lift heavy things and at the end, it’s so much better.”
– Aileen Bishop
Professional growth through sport
Q: How do you balance your career at Alberta Blue Cross® with your training and competition schedule?
It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned to focus on what I can control. I try to manage outside pressure and give myself space when I need it. If I’m low on energy, I adjust my workouts instead of forcing myself to continue. On some days, that means shorter sessions or changing the intensity. I also try to find joy in both parts of my life—lifting and work. Being kind to myself, staying flexible and asking for support when needed are essential to my balance
Q: How do you set goals for yourself in both your athletic and professional life? I keep my goals flexible. In lifting, I’ll set short-term or fun goals like hitting a personal best in one of my lifts. Since things change constantly, I focus on what’s realistic at the moment. At work, I use objectives and key results (OKRs). I break down goals into small, manageable steps and check in frequently to adjust as needed. That helps me stay focused without being too hard on myself.
Q: Have any skills or lessons from powerlifting helped you in your role at Alberta Blue Cross®?Absolutely. Lifting has taught me patience and resilience, especially as an athlete and referee. I’ve learned that not every day is perfect, and that’s okay. It’s also helped me become a better communicator. In powerlifting, you have to explain complex things in simple ways. That skill translates well to my role here. I’ve gained the courage to take on challenging projects and developed a mindset that enables me to learn and continually improve.
How benefits help women athletes
Q: Which Alberta Blue Cross® benefits have been most helpful in your health and training?
Many of them have made a significant difference. I had a partial tear in my meniscus, which was a tough injury. My Alberta Blue Cross® benefits were a huge help in getting me back on my feet. I used my coverage to work with a physiotherapist who specialized in preventing future injuries. I’ve also relied on psychological benefits to support my mental health, and I’ve worked with a dietitian to make sure I’m fuelling my body right. My Health Spending Account helps cover medical expenses, and the Wellness Spending Account supports items such as sports equipment and massage therapy. It’s a complete package that helps me stay on track in and out of the gym.
“I’ve been lucky to have such a wonderful plan with Alberta Blue Cross®. I have a great circle of multidisciplinary practitioners that I visit. If I’m injured or not feeling great, I know I can rely on my plan—I’m going to my psychologist, I’m going to physio, I’m getting a massage. It’s a lot of relief on my end that I don’t have to worry and think about one more thing.”
– Aileen Bishop
Lifting others: support, mentorship and inspiration
Q: Who are your biggest supporters, and how have they helped along the way?
I have to give my husband his roses. He’s taken the time to understand the sport, he knows my gear, supports me at meets and asks about my training. He knows more about my lifts than I do sometimes, and he follows the competition closely, so I always know what I am up against. He’s been there through the tough cycles and the personal bests. My family’s also been amazing—my parents, in-laws and close friends are always in my corner. Their support means everything.
Q: Have you mentored or inspired others through your story?
I’ve been lucky to mentor others in lots of ways like at competitions, as a referee and on social media. I’m certified as an national referee, and I love helping new athletes and referees learn the ropes. I try to be honest about my journey, both the hard parts and the wins. My goal is to demonstrate that this sport is accessible to everyone. You don’t need to be a pro to start. You just need to show up.
Q: What advice would you give to someone thinking about trying powerlifting or another strength sport?
Be brave and give it an honest try. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends for encouragement or to lean on your community. You don’t have to be perfect or feel ready. You just have to start and see where it takes you.
Q: How do you hope your story inspires others at work, in sport or their own wellness journey?
I want people to know that there’s hope. You can go through tough things and still come out stronger. Mental health challenges don’t define your limits. You’re more resilient than you think. Whether it’s in the gym, at work or in life, you can keep going. With courage and support, you can surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
Explore how Alberta Blue Cross® supports women’s health
Whether you’re lifting weights, chasing goals or simply trying to feel better day to day, your health benefits can help you thrive. Visit our women’s health page for practical support for your health and wellbeing. Explore evidence-based information on menopause, reproductive care, chronic conditions and mental health and learn more about the coverage available to you.
