Yes, strength training is extremely safe.
The injury rate in sports such as competitive powerlifting is only a tiny fraction of what it is in sports like soccer, and many of these injuries are relatively minor (Keogh & Winwood, 2016).
Keep in mind, these folks are trying to lift as much weight as humanly possible! For the rest of us, the injury rate is likely to be a lot lower.
Consider this: studies have shown that strength training actually reduces injury risk (Lauersen et al., 2018). (Yes, you read that right! People who lift weights are less likely to get injured than those who don’t.)
While there is no activity that is completely risk-free, strength training under the supervision of a qualified coach is one of the safest and most effective ways to improve your health and fitness.
Strength training is for everyone, even if you’ve never trained before or been inactive for years. (In fact, if you’ve never trained before – we want to work with you!) No matter your starting point, all of the exercises in your program can be modified to meet you where you’re at.
Strength training can be a fantastic adjunct therapy for persistent pain and many chronic health conditions.
I ensure all my members receive medical clearance to begin strength training. If necessary, I’ll work with your healthcare providers to ensure your program is appropriate for your specific condition.
For certain health conditions, the one-on-one attention of Private Coaching is a more suitable option.
Absolutely not! In fact, older adults stand to benefit the most from strength training. Research suggests it is possible to increase strength, muscle mass, and physical function at any age (Hunter et al., 2004).
Coaching memberships start as low as $69 per week. See my Pricing page for more info.
Coaching memberships are billed every 28 days in advance with no minimum commitment which means you can cancel anytime.
I see all of my Private Coaching clients at Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic near Cambie & 8th. The clinic is along the 99 bus route and within walking distance of the Broadway-City Hall and Olympic Village Canada Line stations. Street level and underground parking is also available.
Group Coaching sessions are held at Groundwork Athletics, a private gym in the heart of downtown Vancouver. The gym is located along several major bus routes and across the street from the Vancouver City Centre Canada Line station and Granville Expo Line station. Underground parking is also available.
If you travel frequently, I’d recommend Hybrid Coaching. I’ll work with you to create a program that can be done at home or on the road.