How RVA Barbell Began

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In a way, RVA Barbell began in 2008. We started RVA Performance Training (then CrossFit RVA) Richmond, VA in 2007, but I was immediately enamored by the Olympic lifts (Snatches and Clean & Jerks). Good information was hard to come by, and it was tough to even find videos of people performing the lifts well. I think that was part of the appeal. It felt like a great unknown to be discovered.

I found out about a weightlifting meet down in Hampton, encouraged a couple of guys to sign up for it, and coached them. I barely knew what was going on, and frankly barely understood the lifts. But somehow we all made it through.

The program continued like that for years, coaching a couple of athletes at a time. I’m thankful to those athletes that helped me take those first few steps as a coach.

The program has grown and changed so much since then. We have a great crew of weightlifters of all skill levels; from absolute beginners to international competitors. Our experienced coaches support those many athletes during structured group training sessions.

Through our beginner’s program (Barbell Basics) we teach those new to lifting how to get started in a way that’s effective, safe, and unintimidating.

Wherever you’ve never touched a barbell, to a seasoned competitor, we’re here to give you a hand to get started with Olympic Weightlifting in Richmond, VA.