Olympic Weightlifting in Battersea
Olympic Weightlifting classes at Shapesmiths are dedicated barbell sessions led by professional coaches. You'll receive technical breakdowns and structured programming for every level.
What is Olympic Weightlifting?
Olympic Weightlifting is a training discipline that focuses on two movements: The Snatch and the Clean and Jerk. These movements develop and test strength, power, coordination and flexibility.
At Shapesmiths, we offer state-of-the-art weightlifting facilities where you can hone your skills under the watchful eye of a coach.
Dedicated weightlifting room
State-of-the-art equipment in a premium space in the heart of Battersea and Clapham Junction.
Technique-first sessions
We break down each movement into its components and help you refine your technique to ensure you move safely and effectively.
Structured training blocks
Follow structured training cycles programmed by a Shapesmiths Olympic Weightlifting specialist coach.
Test Yourself
Track your progress on one of our benchmark days and by taking part in our annual in-house weightlifting competition. Suitable for all abilities.
Trust the process
- 01
Start where you are
Whether a complete beginner or a seasoned lifter, we'll meet you where you're at.
- 02
Learn the positions
Pulls, catches, overhead stability. Each lift broken into parts before it's rebuilt whole.
- 03
Follow the cycle
We design all of our training programs in 6 week blocks. Each with a theme to make your progress deliberate.
- 04
Test Yourself, then repeat
Put numbers to your progress by testing each lift. Then move to the next training block to continue the progress.
Your Olympic Weightlifting Questions Answered
Absolutely! In fact, we would recommend new Shapesmiths members to regularly attend these classes to work on their technique. Every lift is broken into positional steps and loads start with an empty barbell. Beginners and competitive lifters share the same sessions at weights appropriate for them.
You can join a weightlifting class as part of your 7-day trial at Shapesmiths. They are also included in all of our memberships, so you can attend as often as you like.
In short, no. Olympic lifting builds speed, mobility and strength. Physique change follows your diet and training volume, not the barbell itself.
The community
says it best
"I joined Shapesmiths about three months ago, and it’s been one of the best decisions of my life!!! I’ve never done CrossFit before, so I can’t do many exercises yet, but I don’t have any problems during workouts because the coaches always show variations of each exercise for different levels, and I can scale easily. I am definitely much happier and stronger after. The management is also doing a great job with extracurricular activities and community events. Plus the gym has all of the facilities needed. I also like the variety of classes, nicely done app and the playlist. One of the reasons to love Clapham and Battersea is this place. Xxx"
"I’ve been training at CrossFit Shapesmiths for over a year now, and honestly, it’s an amazing place to train. The coaches are brilliant, super friendly, always taking the time to explain movements, give advice on form and scaling, and make sure everyone feels comfortable no matter their level. The programming has great variety; there’s something for everyone, whether you’re working on strength, fitness, or skills...You’re constantly learning and improving. But, what really makes Shapesmiths special is the community. Everyone’s so welcoming, supportive and friendly... you instantly feel part of the team. Whether it’s your first class or your hundredth, the atmosphere is always positive and motivating."
"I joined Shapesmiths in Jan 2024 and have never looked back - I am so much stronger and fitter and doing things I would have never imagined. The coaches are awesome and there is an option for all abilities. I love the gymnastics components but also the weightlifting which is super important at my age!"
"I was slightly intimidated by this place before I joined but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Every one of the coaches takes an interest in helping you to progress regardless of your level of fitness / competence etc. I’ve got so much more out of coming here for a year than a normal gym, and it definitely feels a bit like a family away from home. Special shout outs to Kamal, Naomi and Josh for helping me plan out my CrossFit Open in their spare time at the gym, Karima, Noelia, Sean, Harry, JP for always, in the nicest possible way, making me lift more weight, Tamara, Vicky and Marta for gymnastics encouragement, Naomi for her enthusiasm over my first chest to bar pull up and Lee for having a team that always remember your name :) 5 stars 🌟 would recommend"
"Truly life changing, taking every day gyming and dreading running to being able to not only lift heavier but run well and do gymnastics like handstand walking to which I thought I could never do. Great atmosphere and community. Would highly recommend for anyone looking taking their fitness journey to next level!"
"Such a great place! I started Crossfit at Shapesmiths a year ago and plan to be part of this community for many years to come. From the moment I booked my first trial class, I felt welcomed. Everyone is really friendly and in a short time I'd be seeing familiar faces in class all the time, creating friendships along the way. I've also become the fittest I've been in years and picked up a few new skills I'd never thought I was capable of (Muscle Ups, Handstand Press Ups and Handstand Walking). It's a fantastic community with lots of socials to get involved and tonnes of top-class coaches who are passionate about what they do, you can really feel it. If you're looking for a community in your fitness journey to make things more fun whilst getting great results, look no further."