what is the barbell club
The Barbell Club begins with an introductory session that meets twice a week and is open to young women of any fitness level. As our name implies, our goal is for students to become comfortable with barbell training. The majority of our students are beginners to strength training, so we focus on the basics of strength and movement patterns to allow them to move efficiently and safely. During our program, students learn the foundational barbell movements of the squat, deadlift, bench press and overhead press. We supplement these main movements with accessory exercises (e.g. lunges, dumbbell rows, burpees) that complement these main movements and provide a balanced strength and conditioning protocol.
Students also receive free of charge the following items to support their lifting journey and provide a way for them to feel inclusive in the Barbell Club and part of the community.
Lifting journal to goals
Water bottle
BBC branded t-shirt
BBC branded sweatshirt
Healthy snacks during each class (DSM area schools only)
Build Relationships
What sets us apart from traditional strength and conditioning programs is how we incorporate discussions around topics that are relevant to our students. Topics range from self esteem to the importance of healthy relationships, so even as they develop patterns of movement that serve them in the long-term, these young women also develop a pattern of trust and support. In finding strength within themselves, they also find their community.
Hear from one participant on how she found strength from BBC.
Refine Skills
Following the introductory session, lifters can continue refining and building upon the skills learned in the first session for an additional six weeks, with continued instruction on deadlifts, squats, overhead press and bench press, but with heavier weights and different accessory movements. Topical discussions will continue to be a key component of our classes, so students always feel they have the support of their coaches and classmates.
“I have gained confidence and self love and now know how to workout properly without hurting myself.”
— BBC Participant
donate today
As our Barbell Club program continues to evolve, needs for various pieces of equipment are always on the horizon. Every donation helps us reach that goal and enables the Barbell Club girls to get stronger, one lift at a time.
