Student wins three bodybuilding titles after taking up sport at university

A Keele University student has won three bodybuilding titles in her first seven competitions while studying for her degree.

Freya Edwards, 20, recently secured first place in her category at the UK Ultimate Physiques (UKUP) North West Open Championships, continuing an impressive start to her competitive career.

Since making her competitive debut in April, Freya has competed in seven events and won three category titles, while balancing a demanding training regime with her studies for a degree in Rehabilitation and Exercise Science.

This Sunday, Freya will compete at the PCA Naturals Championships at the Telford International Centre, where she hopes to continue her impressive run of results against some of the UK's leading natural bodybuilding athletes.

Freya's sporting journey began in gymnastics, but after visiting a gym with her sister, she developed a passion for fitness and weight training.

After enrolling at Keele University in 2024, Freya, from Wolverhampton, became a regular at the campus gym and, during her second year, decided to pursue bodybuilding competitively. Now preparing to enter her third year, she has also secured a part-time job at the university gym, combining her studies, work and competitive ambitions.

Freya, who also works as a qualified personal trainer, said: "I've always loved sport. Gymnastics helped build my strength, but when I visited a gym with my sister, I discovered a real passion for fitness and weight training.

"I knew I wasn't going to be a professional gymnast and eventually found myself enjoying the gym more.

"Coming to Keele gave me the opportunity to focus on improving. The gym staff have been incredibly supportive, especially while living away from home for the first time.

"During my second year, I decided to see what I could achieve in bodybuilding. Winning my category at only my second competition was something I'll never forget."

Medals and trophies won by Freya so far in bodybuilding competitions

After her early success, Freya has set her sights on earning a professional bodybuilding card, which would allow her to compete at the highest level of the sport. With the support and guidance of her coach, she is now focused on continuing her development and reaching the sport's professional ranks.

While studying at Keele, she has balanced lectures, coursework and assessments with the demands of competition preparation, including early-morning training sessions and a strict nutrition plan.

Freya said balancing bodybuilding with university life requires discipline and sacrifice.

"Preparing for competitions means sticking to a strict meal plan and there are times when I can't join friends and family for meals out," she said.

"I turned 20 in May during competition season, so instead of a birthday cake I celebrated with a watermelon cake.

"Most mornings I'm in the gym by 7.30am for cardio before my lectures. There are sacrifices involved, but I enjoy the routine and I'm focused on my goal of earning a pro card. I'm still young and have a lot to learn, but I'm excited to see how far I can go."