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Olympic Weightlifting Classes London: Olympic Lifting for Beginners

“I was buzzing after the course yesterday. I love learning new stuff and expanding my training options, and as I said the course exceeded my expectations in every way!”

Olympic Weightlifting Class TIMES

SATURDAYS, 10.30am-12pm. MONDAYS 7.15pm-8.15pm. WEDNESDAYS, 6.30pm-7.30pm. All classes run at our weightlifting club in West Ham, East London, and every session is led by a qualified coach.

Getting started with Olympic Weightlifting in London

Learn Olympic weightlifting technique from experienced Olympic lifting coaches. Complete beginners are very welcome. You can start with a free taster class, our 2-hour Olympic lifting workshop or our 6-session Olympic lifting course, then move into regular classes when you feel ready.

Olympic weightlifting is a fun and absorbing activity that will challenge you both physically and mentally. You’ll move better, become stronger, and feel amazing! It is an Olympic sport built on two lifts: the snatch, where you lift the barbell from the floor to overhead in one movement, and the clean and jerk, where you bring the bar to your shoulders and then drive it overhead. Both lifts demand speed, power and mobility as well as strength, which is why so many athletes use them to improve athletic performance.

We offer group training classes in Olympic Weightlifting, held in our London weightlifting gym several times a week. Our classes are suitable for those completely new to the Olympic lifts, as well as those with some experience who wish to improve. London has a thriving Olympic weightlifting scene, and our club is a friendly community for lifters of every level. The difference from general strength training is that strength training builds muscle with squats, deadlifts and presses, while Olympic lifting adds speed, timing and technique.

Want to try a class for FREE? Click here to get your free taster class pass.

We also have two beginner-only options available:

1. Olympic Weightlifting Beginners Course: 6 sessions + 1:1 PT

2. Intro to Olympic Weightlifting: taster workshop (2 hours)

Intro to Olympic Weightlifting: 2-Hour Olympic Lifting Taster Workshop

The Intro to Olympic Weightlifting workshop is a 2-hour, £60 Olympic lifting workshop that teaches complete beginners the snatch and the clean and jerk. Our Intro workshops are ideal if you are curious about olympic weightlifting and want to give it a try. You don’t need any experience, and we love having newcomers trying the lifts. Many London clubs ask beginners to complete an introduction course before joining regular classes, and this workshop is our introduction to the fundamentals.

The Intro workshop is also a great choice if you have done some olympic weightlifting before but need a refresher before joining classes.

Over 2 hours, we’ll run you through the two olympic lifts, the snatch and the clean & jerk, and give you a feel for what this exciting sport is all about. Beginners usually practise each lift with an empty bar or a light technique bar first, so the focus stays on positions and timing before any weights are added.

Once you have completed our Intro workshop, you have the choice of moving on to our 6-session Olympic Weightlifting Beginners Course, or joining our classes straight away.

The cost of the 2-hour workshop is £60.

Click on the dates below to see more information and make a booking.

Dates TBC

Olympic Weightlifting Beginners Course (incl PT session)

This is our ultimate beginners package for learning the olympic lifts! This beginners course gives you structured progression and expert guidance, and includes:

6 x 1-hour small group classes over 3 weeks (Wed 7.30pm & Sat 1pm)
1-hour private PT session with a senior weightlifting coach
Feedback on your lifts and personalised advice to help you get the best from the course
Your first regular class is included

What To Expect at Beginners Olympic Weightlifting Classes

In this beginners course, we cover technique for the snatch and clean & jerk. Each session we break down the movement and show you how to perform the lifts efficiently. By the end of the course, you will be confidently performing the snatch and the clean and jerk. Sessions build from the fundamentals, such as squats, pulling positions and overhead stability, so you develop good habits from the start.

You’ll be working in a small group with a senior weightlifting coach, and you’ll even get a private 1-2-1 session with the coach to work on your own specific issues. Our patient, experienced coaches give you the support and knowledge to lift with confidence.

Once you’ve completed the course, you are invited to attend a class (included in the price) to experience regular weightlifting training sessions.

This course is suitable for complete beginners, or those who have tried the olympic lifts and want to learn correct technique in a supportive environment.

Course days and times: Wednesdays 7.30pm-8.30pm and Saturdays 1pm-2pm

Price: £275, includes 6-session course, PT session and your first class

Why Choose Strength Ambassadors?

Multi-Discipline Expertise: Specialised coaching in Olympic lifting, powerlifting, strongman, and general strength training and weight training, so your Olympic lifting supports wider strength and conditioning goals.
Beginner to Advanced: Comprehensive programmes for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced athletes.
Flexible Training Options: In-person sessions in London and online coaching.
Expert Coaching Team: Qualified professionals with proven records in lifting technique and injury prevention, and a real passion for helping people get strong.
Specialised Facility: Dedicated space with professional equipment for Olympic lifting and strength training.
Progressive Programming: Structured for measurable strength gains and long-term progress in performance.

Kickstart Your Fitness Journey with Our Foundation Personal Training Package

Location

Strength Ambassadors
71 Holland Road
West Ham
London E15 3BP

The gym is a 5 minute walk from West Ham station. Free car parking is also available. West Ham is on Jubilee, District, Hammersmith & City, DLR and national rail, so our weightlifting club is easy to access from across London.

What Our Members Say

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 58 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Paul 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went there for a private small group intro to strongman events with coach Ben, what a blast! Very friendly atmosphere, quality gear and professional coaching accounting for the different levels of strength in our group. Thanks to the whole team for welcoming us, highly recommend 👍
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Natalie Rodriguez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Strength Ambassadors is one of the most welcoming and friendly gyms I have been to. Sally and her team have created a space that welcomes diversity and supports people at all levels. Plus great coaching and community vibes.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mari 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic introduction to the world of powerlifting! I attended weekly women’s classes and my confidence grew massively in lifting, particularly as I required multiple adjustments in technique. I hope to be able to return to these classes in the future as it was a lovely community
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rosie Raven 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had two classes there now - loved both. Really nice bunch of people and friendly staff. I will be returning!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Federica Pescini 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Attended the intro course to weightlifting. Such an encouraging environment, Chris was a great coach, and though I can’t continue to attend the classes because I’m not based in London at the moment, I would recommend this gym to anyone who wants to give weightlifting a go.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sophie Edwards 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really enjoyed the introduction to Olympic weight lifting with Chris. He broke down all of the moves into manageable chunks and we were given time to practice each bit. Chris is very knowledgeable and passionate about olympic lifting which really helps! Would definitely recommend if you’re curious and keen to have a go at olympic weight lifting.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Melissa Cabecinha 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such a great gym with excellent coaches and a nice and encouraging community of lifters. I've taken the ladies who lift beginners course for powerlifting, intro to strongman/strongwoman, and the intro to Olympic lifting course. Everything is broken down and made really accessible, with a focus on technique.

I was really nervous about doing any strength training at first, but the coaches are so friendly and approachable. Now I absolutely love it and come to classes regularly.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ge Sta 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This gym has such a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. So far I’ve attended a powerlifting workshop and class led by the knowledgable, patient and supportive coach Sally. Such a great place to learn how to lift.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   D Z 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really enjoyed the PT session with Ben the strongman coach, as well as the strongman group class, learned tonnes!

What our members say

Holly - Olympic Lifting

“It just feels brilliant, it feels really good!”

Laura - Strongman/Strongwoman

“I would highly recommend it to anyone who’s curious but worried they’re not ‘strong’ enough – that was me! Everything is at a pace that’s suitable for you, and even if you’re not looking to compete, it’s really just a lot of fun and great training.”

Melanie - Personal Training

“Everything in my life is easier for being stronger!”

Rob - Olympic Lifting

“The beginner course was definitely the right thing to do and the best decision I’ve made for a long, long time. The club is also really so welcoming – I’m really glad I found it.”

Pippa - Ladies Who Lift

“The process has been really fun, I’ve enjoyed pushing it a little bit more every week”

Lizzie - Ladies Who Lift

“I first came to Strength Ambassadors two years ago totally new to weight training and it is one of the best things I have ever done. You won’t find a more positive, friendly and supportive gym, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced lifter you will find a home here. All the coaches are amazing and meet you wherever you’re at, helping you get stronger with zero judgement. Equipment is plentiful and really good quality!”

Olympic Lifting Classes for Beginners FAQs

What should I bring to class?

Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. We provide all necessary equipment. Flat, stable trainers are fine for your first session.

Do I need prior experience?

You do not need to be an experienced lifter. Our classes are designed for those at a basic level and beyond. Anybody can learn Olympic weightlifting with good coaching, and most beginners start with our workshop or beginners course.

How can I ensure I lift safely?

Our expert coaches focus on proper technique and injury prevention, ensuring you lift safely and effectively. Olympic lifts require good mobility and speed, so coaches build these alongside your technique, and weights only increase once your form is consistent.

Can I progress to advanced classes?

Yes! After completing our beginners’ programmes, you can advance to higher-level strength training classes and continue to develop your skills. A membership gives you access to regular classes and ongoing coaching as you progress.