Thanks to funding from Sportscotland and the donation of legacy para powerlifting equipment from British Weight Lifting (BWL), three clubs across Scotland are now better equipped to provide accessible para powerlifting opportunities within their local communities.
For the first time, three community clubs across the east, west and central regions of Scotland now have access to dedicated accessible para powerlifting equipment and coaching support, creating new opportunities for people to get involved in strength training and para powerlifting closer to home.
The project has supported:
- Aeternum Strength
- Marvellous Fitness
- Paisley Barbell
Each club has received specialist para powerlifting equipment, including accessible benches, helping to establish local hubs where disabled people can explore resistance training, develop strength and begin their para powerlifting journey.
The project has been delivered through collaboration between British Weight Lifting, Sportscotland, Scottish Disability Sport and Dwarf Sports Scotland, demonstrating a shared commitment to creating more inclusive opportunities within strength sports.
Building More Than Equipment
Alongside the equipment investment, work has already begun on coach education to ensure club coaches have the knowledge, skills and confidence to support participants of all backgrounds and abilities.
The aim is to create welcoming environments where individuals can discover the benefits of strength training, improve confidence and wellbeing, and pursue para powerlifting if they wish.
Whether someone is looking to compete nationally, develop physical strength or simply become more active, the project is designed to create meaningful opportunities for people to find their strong.
Creating a Sustainable Pathway
The introduction of dedicated para powerlifting hubs represents an important step in the development of the sport in Scotland.
By establishing accessible facilities in multiple locations, more people can now access specialist equipment and knowledgeable coaches without having to travel long distances. The hubs also provide a foundation for future talent development, supporting athletes from their first experience of strength training through to competitive para powerlifting.
Matthew Curtain, Chief Executive Officer at British Weight Lifting, said:
“This project is about creating opportunities for more people to experience the benefits of strength training and para powerlifting within their local community.”
“Through strong partnerships and investment in both equipment and coach education, we’re helping clubs create welcoming and inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to develop confidence, build strength and find their strong.”
A Collaborative Approach
British Weight Lifting would like to thank Sportscotland, Scottish Disability Sport, Dwarf Sports Scotland, Aeternum Strength, Marvellous Fitness and Paisley Barbell for their support and commitment to growing inclusive strength sport opportunities across Scotland.
Together, we are helping create a stronger and more accessible future for para powerlifting.
