When do you train?
We train all year round, on Wednesday evenings (19:15-22:30) and Saturday mornings (09:30-12:30) at the Linacre College gym.
Who can join?
On Wednesdays and Saturdays: We welcome Linacre CR members, including current students, social and introduced members, JRFs, Fellows, and professional staff, as well as their spouses and partners.
On Saturdays: Students, academics and professional staff from the wider University of Oxford community can take any available places.
How do I join?
We welcome new members throughout the year. Your first session is free, just fill in this short form to express interest. We’ll put you on our mailing list and send you more information about signing up for sessions.
There is a weekly sign-up system, with priority for Linacre members. You don’t have to attend sessions regularly (although this is the best way to get results!).
How do training sessions work?
You will lift at a rack with up to 4 other lifters. Our coach Shez Naqvi will give you an individualised programme at each session. You and your rack mates will take turns to work on squat, then either press or bench press, and then deadlift. You will work as a team, helping each other as each person lifts. The session will last 2 to 3 hours, depending on your skill level and how quickly the lifters on your rack complete their workout (including how much you chat!).
What if I have never lifted before?
No problem. You will have an individualised programme for each session, whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before. For many members, LLtL is their first experience of lifting.
At your first lesson, you will be one of only a few new members, and our coach Shez will give you an induction suited to your ability and experience.
After that, Shez will personalise your workouts, monitor your progress, and coach you from lesson to lesson.
What should I wear for training sessions?
You don’t need special clothing; ordinary gym kit is fine.
We’ve got sports hijabs to lend as well.
Suppose I want to compete?
- There are annual strengthlifting competitions between three College powerlifting clubs.
- You can enter the annual Uni powerlifting cuppers for your College.
- You can compete regionally, nationally and internationally as members of the British Drug Free Powerlifting Association (BDFPA). As an LLtL member, you can join the BDFPA at a reduced rate.
See our Competitions page for some past competition results.
