Powerlifting is more than just moving weight. It’s a sport that challenges your body and mind, demanding focus, discipline and the ability to keep showing up, week after week, even when it gets hard.

If you’ve decided to take your squat, bench press and deadlift seriously, investing in coaching services could be one of the best moves you make for your lifting future. But with so many coaches, clubs and online programs floating around, how do you find a good coach who will guide your progress, keep you injury-free and help you perform at your best?

Having spent years coaching powerlifters of all levels, from beginners stepping onto the platform for the first time to those preparing for national competitions, I’ve seen first-hand what sets a great powerlifting coach apart. Let’s break it down so you can find the right fit for your goals and your body.

Why invest in a powerlifting coach?

Powerlifting might look simple on the surface. You lift as much weight as you can in the squat, bench press and deadlift. But under the surface, there’s a complex blend of technique, programming, attempt selection, nutrition and recovery that can either set you up for steady progress or leave you spinning your wheels.

Here’s why working with a powerlifting coach benefits lifters at any level:

Technique: A good coach can spot small details in your squat, bench and deadlift, adjusting your setup, bar path, bracing and positioning to keep you safe and efficient.
Programming: Coaches tailor your training program to your ability, lifestyle and goals, balancing volume, intensity and recovery.
Expert guidance: They can explain why you’re doing what you’re doing so you’re not just guessing each session.
Accountability: Regular check-ins and feedback keep you focused and consistent, even when life gets busy.
Injury reduction: By developing your technique and managing load, a coach can help you avoid common lifting injuries.
Competition prep: From attempt selection to mindset on the day, a coach can guide you through how to train for a powerlifting competition.

What to look for in a powerlifting coach

1. Experience and credentials

It’s not just about how much your coach can lift, although it’s a bonus if they are actively competing or have competed in the past. You’ll want a coach who understands the sport deeply, has experience with a variety of lifters and stays updated with current best practices in strength training and coaching.

Questions to ask:

Do they hold relevant coaching qualifications?
Have they coached athletes who compete nationally or at your level?
Are they involved with a club or team?

2. Coaching style

Some coaches are very hands-on, while others give you autonomy within your program. Some will attend your sessions in person, while others offer online coaching. Consider:

Do you want regular face-to-face sessions, or are you confident with online coaching and sending videos for feedback?
Do you prefer a coach who explains the reasoning behind each aspect of your program?
Do they support you with nutrition, mental preparation and lifestyle guidance alongside your lifting program?

3. Communication and support

You’ll spend a lot of time communicating with your coach, so you should feel confident asking questions and discussing challenges openly. Good coaches are clear, patient and adaptable in their communication.

Consider:

How quickly do they respond to messages?
Do they encourage feedback between sessions?
Do they explain adjustments in your program clearly?

4. Programming approach

A powerlifting program should be tailored to you, not just a generic spreadsheet. A good coach will adjust volume, intensity, frequency and exercise selection based on your current ability, recovery, lifestyle and goals.

Ask:

How do they plan progression within a program?
Do they adjust the program based on your feedback?
How do they handle block reviews and forward planning?

5. Gym environment and equipment

If you’re planning to train with your coach in person, check the environment of their gym. A powerlifting-friendly gym will have:

Quality equipment like calibrated plates, competition-standard benches, squat racks, deadlift platforms and specialty bars.
A supportive club or team culture that helps you feel confident and motivated.
Enough space and setup for you to practise the lifts safely.

6. Cost and value

You’ll probably want to know how much does powerlifting coaching cost? Powerlifting coaching is an investment. Prices vary depending on location, level of service, and the coach’s experience. While you shouldn’t pick a coach solely on price, it’s worth considering:

What’s included in their coaching services? (e.g. programming, video feedback, in-person sessions, comp handling)
Is there a clear structure to how the service works?
Do they offer consultation calls to discuss expectations before you commit?

Key questions to ask a potential powerlifting coach

When you’ve shortlisted a few coaches, consider booking a consultation call or trial session. Here are some helpful questions to guide the conversation:

What does a typical week of training look like for your clients?
How do you monitor and adjust training?
How do you help clients with competition preparation and attempt selection?
What’s your coaching philosophy?
How do you support clients in preventing or managing injuries?
Can you share examples of athletes you have worked with?
What do you expect from your athletes?

A good coach will be transparent and clear in their answers. It’s a two-way relationship, so you should also be ready to communicate openly about your goals, your training history and any limitations you may have.

Red flags to watch out for

While most coaches in the powerlifting world are passionate and dedicated, it’s worth watching out for:

Cookie-cutter programs: If your program looks exactly the same as every other client’s, it may not be tailored to you.
Lack of communication: A coach who is hard to reach or dismisses your concerns can leave you feeling unsupported.
Overly rigid approach: A coach who refuses to adjust the plan based on your feedback may not have your best interests at heart.
Pushing too hard, too soon: Progress is important, but so is longevity in the sport. A coach should balance performance goals with your long-term development.

How to find a powerlifting coach in London

If you’re based in London, there are several options:

Powerlifting-focused gyms like Strength Ambassadors, where you can access expert guidance and a supportive community.
Online coaching with video reviews and remote programming if travel is an issue.
Local powerlifting clubs where you can meet coaches and lifters, and get involved with the community.

Attending local competitions or powerlifting meets can also help you connect with coaches and see their coaching style in action.

Making the most of your coaching relationship

Once you’ve chosen a coach, you can get the most out of your coaching by:

Communicating openly: Share how your body is feeling, any injuries or niggles, and any life changes that may affect training.
Tracking your training: Use a log to note your reps, weights and how each session felt. This helps your coach adjust your program effectively.
Being consistent: Progress comes from showing up week after week, following the program and trusting the process.
Asking questions: Understanding why you’re doing something helps you learn and feel confident in your training.
Getting involved: If your coach’s team attends competitions, consider attending even if you’re not competing to learn, support others and build confidence for when you do compete.

Benefits beyond the platform

A good powerlifting coach doesn’t just help you lift more weight; they help you develop confidence, discipline and focus that carries into other parts of your life. Powerlifting teaches you to set goals, build resilience and celebrate progress, no matter how small.

If you’re ready to get into powerlifting, you’ll learn how to lead yourself forward, how to listen to your body, and how to work towards your potential with the support of someone who has your back.

Final thoughts

Finding a powerlifting coach is a big step in your lifting journey, whether you want to compete, hit a personal milestone or simply become stronger and more confident in your body. Take the time to research, ask questions and find someone who aligns with your goals and values.

Remember, the coach-athlete relationship is a partnership. You bring your commitment, consistency and willingness to learn. Your coach brings the knowledge, structure and expert guidance to help you succeed.

When you find the right coach, you’ll not only lift more weight but also find yourself enjoying the sport, feeling part of a community and building a stronger, more resilient version of yourself for the future.

Try a powerlifting class at our strength gym in London or speak to a powerlifting coach about your first steps. Let’s see what you can lift.

Book a class today!

FAQs

How often should I train with a powerlifting coach?

Most lifters benefit from seeing their coach once a week or fortnightly, depending on your goals, budget, and ability to train alone. Weekly sessions help you refine technique, manage attempt selection, and keep progress moving forward.

Can beginners benefit from powerlifting coaching?

Yes, beginners often see the biggest benefit from expert guidance early on, learning correct squat, bench press and deadlift technique, developing confidence and preventing injury as you build strength safely.

Do I need special equipment before starting with a coach?

You don’t need expensive kit to start. A good coach will explain what you need based on your program and current ability, but a solid pair of shoes, a belt and access to a powerlifting-friendly gym are a good starting point.

How To Find a Powerlifting Coach