When Strength Creates Unexpected Reactions
It’s 2017.
I’m pre-menopause, super fit, super strong.
I weigh around 50kg and I’ve just been in the gym deadlifting 100kg.
Something I used to do 2-3 times a week, mainly because it made me feel seriously empowered.
I head down to the changing rooms for a shower.
And a lady approaches me – “are you the tiny girl that was just lifting those huge weights?”
I’m pretty shy, so I make some throwaway comments out of self-consciousness:
“Oh it’s not as hard as I’m making it look”
And then she starts telling me all about her health problems, how stiff and immobile she is and how much she wishes she could do what I do.
So I explain to her that she can.
And mention that I work there, and I have clients who started exactly where she is now – thinking that she’s going to be pretty inspired by these stories.
But instead of being inspired… she can’t get away from me fast enough!
The Real Fears Behind Women’s Strength Training
With hindsight, I realised she thought I was about to launch into the big ‘sales pitch’.
Convince her that she needs a PT.
Tie her into a super expensive longterm contract.
Put her through Bootcamp and shout at her lots.
And if you’re waiting for that too, take a deep breath and… let it go.
It’s not my style.
Breaking Down Barriers to Women’s Strength Training
This encounter perfectly illustrates what I’ve seen countless times since: women who desperately want to get stronger but are held back by misconceptions about what strength training involves and what working with a coach means.
The truth is that strength training:
- Doesn’t require you to be already fit or strong
- Can be modified for any fitness level or mobility limitation
- Doesn’t have to involve intimidating gym environments
- Is especially beneficial during perimenopause and beyond
- Can be approached gradually with proper guidance
Most importantly, the journey to strength isn’t about being shouted at or pushed beyond your limits. It’s about learning proper techniques, building confidence, and progressing at a pace that works for your body.
Finding Your Path to Strength in Midlife
Whether you’re currently dealing with perimenopause symptoms, feeling stiff and immobile like the woman in my story, or simply wanting to build strength to support your lifestyle, there are approaches that can work for you.
If you’re curious about how strength training might help with your specific situation, I offer two approaches:
1:1 Coaching: For those who want personalised guidance, with your full programme tailored to your life and your goals. If you’re based in Sheffield, you’ll have the option of a monthly in-person technique session where we focus on proper form and movements tailored to your body’s needs too. Either way, we’ll chat every week to ensure you’re progressing safely and effectively.
Strength Essentials Programme: If you prefer to start at your own pace, this programme provides all the fundamentals you need to get started (in the gym or at home) and you can try it today with a 7-day free trial. It’s designed specifically for women in midlife who want to build strength without intimidation or confusion.
Taking the First Step
I hope these insights help you – that’s genuinely the real goal of sharing my experiences and knowledge.
And if one day you decide you need a helping hand on your strength journey, I’m here when you’re ready. Unlike that gym encounter years ago, there’s no pressure or intimidation – just practical support when and if you want it.
Feel free to get in touch with me any time, and let’s discuss where you are now, what challenges you’re facing, and how strength training might fit into your life. No heavy pitches. No scary contracts. Just a conversation about possibilities.
Remember: Every strong woman started somewhere, and that “somewhere” wasn’t lifting 100kg. It was making the decision to begin.