At the All India Police Weightlifting Cluster 2025-26 event held on October 17 in Andhra Pradesh, Delhi Police constable Sonika Yadav, 31, impressed the sporting community by lifting a total of 145 kg in the 84-kg category while being seven months pregnant.
Her lifts included 125 kg in squats, 80 kg in bench press, and an astounding 145 kg in deadlift, earning her a bronze medal. The feat left spectators and fellow officers awe-inspired, especially when her pregnancy was revealed only after her final lift.
Officials confirmed that she trained under strict medical supervision and had consulted experts to ensure both her and her unborn child’s safety. Her achievement has sparked conversations about the possibilities for pregnant women in professional sports and law enforcement.
Defying Odds: The Power of a Pregnant Police Officer
At the All India Police Weightlifting Cluster 2025-26, Sonika Yadav’s story quickly became the highlight of the event. Competing among India’s top police athletes, she concealed her pregnancy under loose-fitting clothes and focused on her lifts with unwavering determination.
Spectators initially thought she had moved to a heavier weight category due to the weight she hoisted. The crowd was left speechless when she revealed that she was seven months pregnant after executing a 145 kg deadlift – a combined total of 350 kg lifted across the rounds.
Additional Commissioner of Police Vikram Singh praised Sonika’s courage and focus, stating, “Her performance is a testament to the strength and spirit of women officers. She inspires us all.” The event organisers and medical officials ensured that every precaution was taken before and during the competition.
The Delhi Police shared through their official channels that Sonika remained under continuous medical supervision, regularly consulting her doctor and pregnancy specialists to confirm that her training was safe. The Delhi Police Commissioner also congratulated her, calling the achievement a proud moment for the force.
Sonika’s Journey of Perseverance
Sonika Yadav’s journey to this historic moment traces back to her early sports involvement. Before joining Delhi Police in 2014, she played kabaddi and later switched to powerlifting, where she won a gold medal at the 2023 Delhi State Powerlifting Championship. When she discovered her pregnancy in May 2025, many advised her to pause training, but Sonika was determined to continue, driven by her passion for the sport and her commitment to fitness.
Her husband, Ankur Bana, initially thought she might take a break but supported her decision after understanding the care she was taking. Sonika reached out online to Lucy Martins, an international pregnant powerlifter, who provided valuable advice and motivation.
“Pregnancy should not be treated like a disease,” Sonika told reporters. She followed a tailored routine adjusted to her condition, consulting doctors and avoiding anything that could risk her or the baby’s health.
Previously stationed as a beat officer in Majnu Ka Tila, Sonika actively contributed to anti-drug awareness campaigns and is currently serving in the Community Policing Cell. Her dedication to both duty and sport has earned her recognition from multiple quarters, including felicitation by the Delhi Police Commissioner and appreciation from Union Minister Smriti Irani on Women’s Day 2025.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Sonika Yadav’s inspiring performance breaks stereotypes around pregnancy and women’s capabilities, highlighting that with appropriate medical guidance and caution, motherhood need not be a barrier to pursuing ambitions in demanding fields like sports and law enforcement. Her story urges society to challenge outdated norms and support women’s choices regarding their bodies and careers.
However, while celebrating this breakthrough, it is vital to underscore the importance of medical safety. Heavy lifting during pregnancy can pose risks such as injury, loss of balance, or compromised fetal blood flow if not managed carefully.
Another significant concern during heavy lifting is the potential strain on the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the uterus, bladder, and bowel, and excessive strain can increase the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction, which may lead to urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse later in life. Furthermore, improper lifting technique, overexertion, or lifting weights that are too heavy can result in discomfort, muscle pulls, or even complications such as abdominal pain or preterm labor.
There is also a subtle risk of compromised fetal blood flow during intense exertion, which necessitates prudent monitoring by healthcare professionals.
To mitigate these risks, pregnant women engaging in strength training or weightlifting should do so only under strict medical supervision and with guidance from experts experienced in prenatal fitness. It is essential to use lighter weights with higher repetitions, maintain impeccable form, and avoid exercises that strain the back, abdomen, or pelvic area excessively.
Activities such as lifting heavy barbells overhead, deep squats without support, or exercises performed while lying flat on the back beyond the first trimester are generally discouraged.
Monitoring for warning signs is crucial; symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, or intense abdominal or pelvic pain should prompt immediate cessation of exercise and medical consultation. When done correctly, strength training can help maintain muscle tone, support mental wellbeing, and contribute to a healthy pregnancy, but it should always be tailored to the individual’s medical condition and stage of pregnancy.
This measured approach is exemplified by Constable Sonika Yadav, who balanced her training with rigorous medical oversight, demonstrating that with proper care, pregnant women can safely pursue athletic ambitions while prioritising health and safety.
This explanation is informed by medical guidelines and expert advice on exercise during pregnancy, highlighting both the rewards and risks of weightlifting while pregnant.
