Navy powerlifter pumps iron at the North Pole

Navy powerlifter Wesley McGuinness embarked on an extraordinary training regimen at the North Pole, where he performed barbell squats on the icy terrain in bone-chilling temperatures of -37°C.

The submariner undertook the gruelling workout after surfacing through the ice at the northernmost location ever achieved by a British submarine.

In a post on LinkedIn, the Team GB athlete said: "I am so grateful to the Royal Navy for offering opportunities like this."

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The petty officer told his followers on social media to make the most of every training opportunity – even if the situation isn't ideal.

"One of the most important messages I try to get across to the PH1 and 2 trainees across the country is to have the courage to step up and make the most out of every opportunity that comes your way!" Westley said.

Having started his powerlifting journey in 2011, Wesley is dedicated to elevating the visibility of powerlifting and Royal Navy sport.

He achieves this by delivering presentations to junior ratings across the country – the UK that is, not the North Pole.