Okay, okay. You’ve convinced me. The babe is natural.
Folks, remember that Charles wrote in a recent back training article about the Russian woman who did 60 chin-ups in strict form - and comfortably. Quite frankly, that seems more impressive to me than Mariam doing a 250lb, 6" bench press. Also, for those folks who read Charles’ Poliquin Principles book, remember he mentioned strongman and former Mr. America Mike Dayton who often performed 100 consecutive chins to begin his strongman shows. Now THATS impressive.
If you really think about it, 250 is a lot of weight, but it is not that much. SOME women are strong, just like SOME men are weak asses. Get over it and worry about your own progress - It will add years to your life, brothers.
J. Baran, I hope you realize the role genetics plays in any sport. Mariam obviously comes from a superior genetic pool to begin with. Did you not read the part about her father’s powerlifting success? She also had great coaching from day one that saved her alot of time and frustration that many beginners endure. Try picking up a copy of Powerlifting USA and check out the poundages of “assisted” women powerlifters. It sounds to me like you are a little insecure. Is there a limit to the development and strength that a natural powerlifter or bodybuilder can achieve? If so, please give me the exact limit so that I won’t surpass it. Setting such limits on yourself severely disempowers you.