TO the bar

to the bar

Welcome To-TheBar, there's strength in every story. Pull up a seat, grab a drink and settle in as we set about talking all things competitive weightlifting. From weightlifting news and post competition reviews to giving a platform to the unsung heros of the weightlifting community to tell their stories, we're hoping we've got something for you. What makes us different from all those other weightlifting podcasts? Well, you’ve read the coaches stories, the athlete interviews, the ex-athlete commentaries… perhaps now it’s time to give the ramblings from the technical officials a try…. ?

  1. 19/12/2025

    Weightlifting English Championships, Para Powerlifting, ATHX and British Powerlifting SBD Classic Open 2025

    Join British Weightlifting Technical Officials Aaron and Jess as they review three major 2025 UK strength events: the English Champs, ATHX, and the SBD Classic. Get the insider's perspective. In this comprehensive episode of To The Bar, hosts Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney sit down to unpack a packed season of British strength sports. Moving from the platform to the podcast, they offer their unique, dual perspective as experienced technical officials and passionate community members to review three landmark events from December 2025: the British Weight lifting English Championships, the ATHX fitness festival, and the British Powerlifting SBD Classic Open. The conversation begins with the sport's traditional showpiece event. The NEC Experience: Aaron and Jess discuss the sheer scale of hosting the English Championships at the NEC in Birmingham. Spotlight on Athletes: Specific highlights include analysis of standout performances from both seasoned internationals and new talents emerging on the national stage. They share observations on technical excellence and the intense competition for national titles. The Technical Official's View: True to the podcast's ethos, they provide insights into the challenges and rewards of officiating at this level, ensuring the competition ran smoothly and fairly for all lifters. The focus shifts from traditional weightlifting to the dynamic, festival environment of ATHX. A Different Kind of Event: The hosts contrast the structured format of the English Champs with the expansive, community-driven feel of ATHX. They describe the energy of the festival, where weightlifting is one part of a broader functional fitness spectacle. Access and Atmosphere: They reflect on the more accessible, interactive nature of the event for fans, and what this format means for promoting the sports to a wider audience. The discussion covers the blend of elite competition and participatory fitness. The CrossFit-Weightlifting Crossover: A recurring theme in To The Bar's coverage is explored further: how events like ATHX serve as a crucial bridge, introducing CrossFit athletes and enthusiasts to the sport of Olympic weightlifting. The review concludes with an analysis of a major powerlifting meet, showcasing the hosts' respect for all strength disciplines. Contrasting the Sports: Aaron and Jess draw clear comparisons between the technical, explosive nature of weightlifting and the maximal, pure strength displays of powerlifting. They discuss the different rules, commands, and judging priorities. Event Execution and Community: They review the organization of the SBD Classic, praising its execution and the distinct, supportive atmosphere of the powerlifting community. Observations are shared on notable lifts and athletes who defined the competition. Unified Strength Community: A key takeaway is their appreciation for the shared spirit between the weightlifting and powerlifting communities in the UK. They emphasize that despite different rules, the core values of discipline, support, and chasing personal excellence remain the same. This review episode underscores To The Bar's central mission: to explore and celebrate the depth of the strength sports community. By analyzing three distinct events, Aaron and Jess demonstrate that whether it's on the weightlifting platform in Birmingham, the festival floor at ATHX, or the powerlifting rack at the SBD Classic, every athlete has a story worth telling. Their technical insight provides invaluable context, while their community-focused commentary keeps the human element at the forefront. Listen to the Full Episode: To The Bar: Season Review 2025 Continue to follow our journey to find strength in every story. Explore more episodes, photography, and community features on our website to-thebar.com and join the conversation on Instagram @_to_thebar. This episode and our work are supported by LuxiaoJun UK.

    1 h y 11 min
  2. 24/11/2025

    Behind the Barbell at the 2025 Rogue Invitational & LUXIAOJUN UK, Colten Mertens, Laura Horvarth, Mitch Hooper, Laura Underdown.

    Behind the Barbell at the 2025 Rogue Invitational Join To The Bar behind the scenes at the 2025 Rogue Invitational in Aberdeen as LuxiaoJun UK's media team, capturing Colten Mertens and the world's strongest. A Front-Row Seat to Strength History To The Bar takes you beyond the platform and into the heart of the action. In this landmark episode, hosts Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney deliver an immersive debrief from the 2025 Rogue Invitational in Aberdeen, Scotland, where they served as the official media team for LuxiaoJun UK. Experience the electrifying atmosphere of the P&J Live arena from a unique behind-the-scenes perspective, capturing the grit and glory of the world's strongest athletes. The Aberdeen Stage: A Fitting Arena for GiantsThe hosts set the scene for an unforgettable weekend of competition.A Scottish Strength Sanctuary: The episode opens by painting a picture of the event's home at the P&J Live arena in Aberdeen, Scotland, a venue that provided a legendary backdrop for three days of elite competition from October 31st to November 2nd . The Scale of the Event: They discuss the sheer magnitude of the Invitational, which featured the world's top 20 men and 20 women in CrossFit, alongside 10 strongmen and 10 strongwomen, all battling for a share of the prestigious $1 million prize purse Through the Media Lens: Access, Atmosphere, and AthletesThis section details the unique "insider" experience that defined the trip.The Media Pass Experience: Aaron and Jess pull back the curtain on the life of event media, detailing the unparalleled access that allowed them to capture the raw emotion, immense pressure, and triumphant moments that the public doesn't see on the main broadcast.Spotlight on LuxiaoJun's Colten Mertens: A significant focus is placed on tracking Colten Mertens, the athlete representing their sponsor, LuxiaoJun. They recap his standout performances, including his impressive wins in Event 3 ("Tax Collector") and Event 8 ("Double Bogey") . Championing the Strongmen and Strongwomen: The hosts share their experiences filming the titans of strength, celebrating the victories of Mitchell Hooper (Strongman) and Inez Carrasquillo (Strongwoman), and conveying the awe-inspiring intensity of the Viking Press and Wagon Wheel Axle Deadlift . Crowning the Champions of 2025A recap of the athletes who stood out or stood on the podium in a weekend of incredible performances. CrossFit's Finest: The episode acknowledges the dominant victories of Laura Horvath in the Women's division and Jeffrey Adler in the Men's division, who proved their supremacy across a brutal test of fitness. Strongman & Strongwoman Supremacy: The hosts tip their hat to the sheer power displayed by Mitchell Hooper and Inez Carrasquillo, who claimed the coveted Strongman and Strongwoman titles . A Testament to Community and High-Performance Covering the 2025 Rogue Invitational was more than an assignment; it was a powerful experience that reinforced the universal passion that fuels both weightlifting and functional fitness. Being on the front lines as part of the LuxiaoJun UK media team provided a profound appreciation for the dedication of every athlete, from the platform to the field. Continue the Journey With Us: Watch the Full Episode: For the complete behind-the-scenes story and all our footage from Aberdeen. Follow Our Coverage: Stay tuned to our social media and website for more content from the event.Supported by LuxiaoJun UK: Gear that stands up to the highest levels of competition. Explore More: Follow our ongoing journey at @_to_thebar and to-thebar.com.

    1 h y 10 min
  3. 24/10/2025

    Mem's Weightlifting: Inside Britain's Most Innovative Club With Mehmed Fikretov & Silvia Szabo

    Get behind the scenes at Mem's Weightlifting with Mehmed and Silvia. Learn their Rush Slowly philosophy, training secrets, and community mission. Where World-Class Meets Community Heart A quick note: you might hear the occasional rumble of trains overhead - we recorded this episode right in the heart of Mem's iconic arch 301 gym, and we wouldn't trade that authentic atmosphere for perfect audio!Join Aaron and Jess as they sit down with Mehmed "Mem" Fikretov (3x World Championship finalist) and Silvia Szabo at their South London stronghold for one of To The Bar's most revealing conversations yet. Discover how a former Bulgarian international and Hungarian CrossFit convert built Britain's 2024 Eleiko Club of the Year - and why their "Rush Slowly" philosophy is transforming weightlifting from the ground up.Building Tomorrow's Weightlifting Community, Today. Mem and Silvia represent a new era for British weightlifting - one where world-class technical expertise meets unwavering community commitment. From the echoing arches of their Camberwell gym to the upcoming Rogue Invitational where To The Bar will provide exclusive coverage for LuXiaoJun UK, the message is clear: strength grows where community thrives. The Mem's Origin Story, Humble Beginnings and the Architecture of Success: The strategic expansion to Arch 2 in March 2023, creating a space where Olympians train alongside complete beginnersCultural Foundation: How Mem's competitive pedigree (5th at 2005 Worlds) and Silvia's CrossFit background forged their unique coaching philosophyThe Mem's Method: Rush Slowly & Training RevolutionInside the programming that produces championsRush Slowly Demystified: Mem explains this cornerstone philosophy - "the balance between aggressive progress and technical precision" Integrated Excellence: How training alongside athletes like Noorin Gulam and Katrin Feklistova creates a "rising tide lifts all boats" environment Bulgarian Training Camps: Taking Members to the Source. When South London meets Slavic strength traditions. Elite Access: Mem's connections facilitate unprecedented training experiences with legends like Lasha Talakhadze and Karlos Nasar Transformational Journeys: How members return not just with better technique, but with renewed mindset and community bondsCoaching Evolution: What Silvia and Mem learn from observing European training methods and how they adapt these insights for UK athletes. Community First: Youth Development & Animal RescueBeyond the platform - building legacy through giving backGrassroots Mission: Silvia's passion for coaching local children and making weightlifting accessible to all ages and backgrounds Charity Compulsion: The story behind their charity competitions supporting local sports clubs and animal rescue organizationsContinue the Journey With Us Train With Purpose: Use code TOthebar5 for 5% off LuXiaoJun UK equipment Join Our Community: Follow @_to_thebar and visit to-thebar.com for more weightlifting stories Sponsored by LuXiaoJun UK - Partnering with clubs and athletes who define excellence.

    1 h y 28 min
  4. 19/08/2025

    207 - Lift Me Up, Mem's Weightlifting & Rogue Invitationals

    Lift Me Up 2025, Mem's Junior Showcase & Rogue Invitationals: Community, Charity, and the Future of Weightlifting Relive Emily Muskett’s Lift Me Up 2025, celebrate Mem’s Juniors, and preview our Rogue Invitational coverage. Powered by LuXiaoJun UK. Where Compassion Meets Competition. In this landmark episode of To The Bar, hosts Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney reflect on three pillars transforming weightlifting: charity, youth development, and global stage partnerships. Recorded fresh from the trenches of community-driven events, they unpack how grassroots passion fuels elite dreams. 1. Lift Me Up 2025: Emily Muskett’s Legacy in Action Breaking down British Weightlifting’s premier charity event: Purpose Amplified: How Emily Muskett’s vision to raise money for a charity to honour her late mum, evolved beyond fundraising into a talent incubator, spotlighting para-athletes and first-time competitors. 2. Mem’s Weightlifting Junior Championships: Building Tomorrow’s Champions Inside August 2025’s youth phenomenon. 3. Rogue Invitational 2025: Taking UK Weightlifting Global Preparing for Aberdeen with LuXiaoJun UK. Media Accreditation: Aaron and Jess announce their role as official content partners for LuXiaoJun UK, including behind-the-scenes access to the rogue invitationals. Strategic Mission: Leveraging Rogue’s platform to spotlight British talent and LuXiaoJun’s innovative gear (including adaptive-friendly designs). Grassroots ↔ Elite Bridge: How viewer support fuelled this opportunity—"Your engagement turned our mic into a passport" . 4. Listener Gratitude: The Engine Behind the Journey A heartfelt acknowledgment: thank you to every listener, every person who stops us to say hello, who buys a t-shirt or a photo or gives us a shout out in an interview or an instagram post. We wouldn't be where we are without your support! Milestone Momentum: 50% YoY podcast growth and 200K+ Instagram interactions enabling partnerships with British Weightlifting/LuXiaoJun. Community-Driven Content: What do you want to hear from Mem & Silv?? let us know in the comments The Road Ahead: Teasing 2026 plans..... Conclusion: Lift Together, Rise Together - These events aren’t isolated triumphs—they’re threads in weightlifting’s evolving tapestry. From Lift Me Up’s emotional lifts to Rogue’s global stage, every story proves community is our greatest strength. Join the Movement:🎧 Full Episode: Lift Me Up, Mem's & Rogue Deep Dive Supported by LuXiaoJun UK: Use code TOthebar5 for 5% off gear that powers dreams. Follow Our Journey: @_to_thebar | to-thebar.com"Strength in Every Story."

    48 min
  5. 19/07/2025

    206 - British Weightlifting Championships 2025: Triumphs, Tears, and the Future of UK Weightlifting

    British Weightlifting Championships 2025: Triumphs, Tears, and the Future of UK WeightliftingRelive the 2025 British Champs through the eyes of technical officials, Athletes and Coaches, Aaron & Jess. Record lifts, athlete breakthroughs, and the power of community. Watch now! To The Bar is officially sponsored by LUXIAOJUN UK – Where performance meets purpose. Use code tothebar5 for 5% off all products at luxiaojun.co.uk - By the weightlifter, for the weightlifter. Introduction: Where Legends Were ForgedThe dust has settled on the NEC Birmingham, but the roar of the crowd still echoes. In this special recap episode of To The Bar, hosts Aaron Holt (2025 Technical Official of the Year, 4th Place Mens 50-55 94kg this year!) and Jess Roebuck-Slaney pull back the curtain on British Weightlifting’s main event. From record-shattering lifts to heartwarming community moments, they unpack why the 2025 Championships redefined the sport’s future.1. Behind the Platform: The BWL PerspectiveAaron and Jess break down the logistics, pressure, and pride of being involved in the UK’s Crown Jewel event:The NEC Effect: How the Strength in Depth integration amplified spectator energy and athlete performance, transforming Birmingham into a "weightlifting mecca" for 3 days. Despite the ear defender requirements!Q-point Review: Controversial as they were the success of competition and the real-time decisions that shaped medal outcomes were a joy to be a part of, hear all about how that impacted Aarons personal journey to the platform, and to his newly acquired British Record in the Snatch!Unsung Heroes: We Pay tribute to volunteers, loaders, and first-time TOs whose precision kept the 3-platform chaos seamless.2. Athletes of the Hour: Record-Breakers & Rising StarsSpotlight on performances that left the crowd breathless:Cyrille Tchatchett II: The return of the quads, and we were living for it. The battle between Cyrille and Ramiro Mora Romero’s Dominance: The refugee team standout’s 372kg total (166kg snatch + 206kg clean & jerk) in the 110kg class – a new British benchmark.Youth Revolution: Amelie Pelta , Eliza Pratt, Bella Brown, Hannah Bemrose , the list goes on – proof of Britain’s "talent tsunami".3. Community Fueling the FireWhy this year felt like a "family reunion":Masters Magic: Andrew Seaber’s Q-point masterclass (401.128) and Byrn Jones Vs the Crossfitter newcomer for gold and just how that went down.Grassroots Love: Shoutouts to Mem’s Weightlifting Club (Club of the Year) and North Tyneside Barbells, whose 10th anniversary celebrated decade-long community building.Adaptive Inclusivity: Previewing how the Adaptive Open’s success (featured in Ep. 108) influenced BWL’s 2026 inclusivity roadmap.4. BWL 2.0: Progress & Growing PainsHosts debate the federation’s evolution:Win: Live-stream upgrades and OWLS tech slashing result delays.Challenge: Balancing Loud Venues with Eyes on the Sport (e.g., Manchester Open’s empty seats).Future Focus: Jess’s call for more para-powerlifting integration and a huge shout out to Nick Jones at Grip and Rip and Phil, From the Platform. As Weightlifters and part of the community, working together and with Elicia Agar back on the scene, it was a wonderful experience for us all to work together.Conclusion: The Barbell Rolls ForwardThe 2025 British Champs wasn’t just about medals – it was a testament to weightlifting’s #StrengthInEveryStory. From Ramiro's grace under pressure to a volunteer’s first time handling a clipboard, every moment wove into the sport’s fabric.Ready to dive deeper?🎧 Full Episode: British Champs 2025 Debrief📸 Behind-the-Scenes Gallery: tothebar.pixieset.com💪 Supported by LuXiaoJun UK: Use code TOthebar5 for 5% off gear that fuels champions.Follow our journey:instagram.com/@_to_thebar | to-thebar.com |

    1 h y 17 min
  6. 23/06/2025

    Nigel Barber – Redefining Inclusivity British Weightlifting with WODAPTIVE and the Adaptive Open.

    To The Bar ft. Nigel Barber – Redefining Inclusivity in Weightlifting with WODAPTIVE and the Adaptive Open.To The Bar is officially sponsored by LUXIAOJUN UK – Where performance meets purpose. Use code tothebar5 for 5% off all products at luxiaojun.co.uk By the weightlifter, for the weightlifter. Trigger Warning: Brief references to self harm &/or suicide Join Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney in this powerful episode of To The Bar, as they sit down with Nigel Barber, spinal injury survivor, adaptive fitness pioneer, and co-founder of WODAPTIVE—the revolutionary platform behind British Weightlifting’s inaugural Adaptive Open. Recorded in a setting tailored to Nigel’s accessibility needs, this conversation dives deep into resilience, partnership, and the future of inclusive weightlifting. Meet Nigel Barber: The Force Behind the MovementFrom Tragedy to Transformation: At 16, Nigel suffered a C5/6 spinal injury while working as an electrician’s apprentice, leaving him tetraplegic. After years of rehabilitation, he discovered strength training under ex-marine Colin Kirkman, later embracing CrossFit at CrossFit Pi—where he found community and purpose. Founding WODAPTIVE: Driven by the lack of inclusive competitions, Nigel co-created WODAPTIVE in 2023. Its debut event at CrossFit Verulamium united 32 teams of adaptive athletes (seated, neuromuscular, vision-impaired) and able-bodied partners, proving "ability comes in many forms" Mission Statement: "Paired in Purpose. United in Strength." WODAPTIVE pairs one para-athlete with one able-bodied athlete to foster mutual growth, trust, and equality—rejecting scaled workouts for true teamwork Key Discussion Themes. The Adaptive Open: Breaking Barriers in WeightliftingNigel details his collaboration with British Weightlifting and Craig Graham (Alt Movement) to launch the Adaptive Open (May 31, Oldbury Academy). Categories include Upper/Lower Extremity, Neuromuscular, Seated, and Blind Athletes. Competition Philosophy: Emphasizing accessibility, the event welcomes spectators and prioritizes athlete safety—reflecting Nigel’s belief that "fitness should be for everyone." The WODAPTIVE Blueprint Partnership Model: Athletes are paired to share loads, strategize lifts, and celebrate collective victories—a system Nigel credits for building "unshakable community".Grassroots Impact: From donating equipment to underserved regions to coaching clinics, WODAPTIVE focuses on education and visibility for adaptive athletes. Nigel’s Personal Journey - Mental Resilience: He shares the terror of entering gyms post-injury and how coaching transformed his self-perception: "Fitness let me rewrite my limits" Advocacy Work: As an Adaptive Training Academy-certified coach, Nigel pushes for inclusive programming in mainstream gyms. Why Listen? For Athletes: Learn how adaptive divisions are expanding competitive opportunities ahead of LA28 and Commonwealth Games. For Coaches: Gain insights into tailoring training for diverse abilities.For Fans: Witness the emotional power of events where "PB’s aren’t personal—they’re shared triumphs" Watch/Listen Now: To The Bar ft. Nigel Barber https://open.spotify.com/show/1IgNWIOb3SNIZBFzGhHr3q?si=5c621d127e274f15 Explore WODAPTIVE: WODAPTIVE Mission Sponsored by LuXiaoJun UK – Pioneers in gear that empowers every lifter. Use code TOthebar5 for 5% off.

    1 h y 11 min
  7. 23/05/2025

    LUXIAOJUN EU CEO, Lee– Elevating Weightlifting Through Innovation & Community. By the Weightlifter, for the Weightlifter

    Join Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney in this milestone Episode 204 of To The Bar, officially sponsored by Luxiaojun UK (luxiaojun.co.uk) as they welcome Lee, CEO of LuXiaoJun EU, for an inspiring conversation about bridging high-performance gear with grassroots growth in Olympic weightlifting. Exclusive offer! Use code TOthebar5 for 5% off all LuXiaoJun UK products—because “strength shouldn’t break the bank”. http://luxiaojun.co.uk This episode dives into Lee’s vision for the brand, its global impact, and exciting collaborations shaping the sport’s future - including that big news - the cross fit collab. Meet Lee: Visionary Leader of LuXiaoJun EU Driving Global Accessibility: Lee discusses LuXiaoJun’s mission to make elite weightlifting gear accessible worldwide, from supporting new clubs in underserved regions like Africa and Egypt with equipment donations to partnering with schools to nurture young talent. Sustainability & Community: Highlighting the brand’s “Lift Forward” initiative, Lee explains how clubs can get larger shoe sizes for their younger athletes, as they out grow their shoes. keeping the original outgrown shoes within the club for sanitisation and redistribution—ensuring affordability and sustainability for the next generation. Key Discussion Themes 1. Strategic Partnerships & Global Reach German Weightlifting Alliance: Lee details their groundbreaking partnership with German Weightlifting, providing gear for national teams and fostering talent pipelines ahead of major events like the 2025 European Championships in Moldova. Collaborations with Stars: Just how did that collaboration for limited edition lifters with Karlos Nasar come about? Gear drops that blend performance with iconic design FIBO Cologne Spotlight: From tequila-fueled networking to showcasing innovative designs at Europe’s largest fitness expo, Lee shares behind-the-scenes stories of LuXiaoJun’s growing influence beyond weightlifting circles. 2. Product Innovation & CrossFit Synergy Functional Footwear: Lee unveils LuXiaoJun’s new CrossTraining-style shoes, the X Series. Designed to enhance natural movement—a nod to the brand’s alignment with CrossFit’s functional fitness ethos. 3. Building the UK Weightlifting EcosystemSupporting Grassroots: Lee reflects on LuXiaoJun UK’s origins, including early support for Przemek Borak’s BeOly initiative - Now LuXiaoJun Uk, and how local partnerships are democratising access to quality equipment. Special thanks to Przemek as CEO at http://luxiaojun.co.uk for being To The Bars official sponsor! Why Listen? This episode is a masterclass in balancing commerce with compassion. Whether you’re a lifter seeking gear insights, a coach building a club, or a fan invested in the sport’s growth, Lee’s stories reveal how LuXiaoJun is rewriting the rules of engagement in weightlifting. Watch/Listen Now: To The Bar ft. Lee, CEO of LuXiaoJun UKFollow Us: YouTube | Instagram @_to_thebar | to-thebar.com Sponsored by LuXiaoJun UK – Where performance meets purpose.

    49 min
  8. 27/04/2025

    To The Bar ft. Claire Deacon – Innovating Weightlifting Events & Championing Inclusivity

    Join Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney in this dynamic episode of To The Bar, recorded live at the 2025 BUCS Weightlifting Championships in Brunel, as they sit down with Claire Deacon—British Weightlifting’s Events Lead, coach, and driving force behind groundbreaking competitions. Claire’s dual expertise in event management and coaching offers a rare glimpse into the logistics, passion, and innovation shaping the future of weightlifting. Events Lead at British Weightlifting: Claire has spearheaded large-scale events, including the inaugural Adaptive Open (31 May, Oldbury Academy), a landmark competition co-created with Nigel Barber (WodAptive) and Craig Graham (Alt Movement). This event introduces categories like Upper/Lower Extremity, Neuromuscular, Seated, and Blind Athletes, redefining inclusivity in the sport 414. Coach & Innovator: Beyond her administrative role, Claire coaches university athletes and champions practical fitness philosophies—emphasizing strength for “everyday life” over gym aesthetics. Operational Excellence: From revamping live-streaming tech to optimizing venue logistics (IT/OWLS systems, volunteer rotas), Claire’s work ensures seamless experiences for athletes and spectators alike. Q Points System: Claire breaks down the new scoring format for Masters competitions, designed to level the playing field by age and weight. Discover why this change was pivotal and how lifters have responded. Regional Expansion: Insights into plans for regional Masters events (e.g., Southern Masters) and the balance of costs when hosting alongside senior competitions. Behind the Scenes: Learn how Claire collaborated with adaptive athletes and organizations to design categories that celebrate diverse abilities. Spectator Access: Details on how fans can attend the Adaptive Open and support this historic initiative. From Calendar to Platform: Claire shares the complexities of scheduling, venue selection, and integrating tech like OWLS for real-time results. Partnerships & Profitability: Reflections on balancing community impact with financial sustainability, including lessons from events like Manchester Open. Athletes to Watch: Claire highlights rising stars at BUCS and her transition from event organizer to hands-on coach. Coaching Philosophy: “Fitness for real life”—how she prepares athletes for competition and everyday resilience. This episode is a masterclass in balancing innovation with tradition. Whether you’re a lifter, coach, or fan, Claire’s stories reveal the meticulous care behind British Weightlifting’s events—and the exciting future of adaptive and Masters categories. Watch/Listen Now: To The Bar ft. Claire DeaconFollow Us: YouTube | Instagram | Website Sponsored by LuXiaoJun EU & BeOLY UK – Empowering athletes with gear that fuels greatness. Meet Claire DeaconKey Discussion Themes1. Masters Weightlifting Revolution2. Adaptive Open: A New Era of Inclusivity3. Event Management Unveiled4. BUCS 2025 & Coaching DebutWhy Listen?

    1 h y 13 min

Acerca de

Welcome To-TheBar, there's strength in every story. Pull up a seat, grab a drink and settle in as we set about talking all things competitive weightlifting. From weightlifting news and post competition reviews to giving a platform to the unsung heros of the weightlifting community to tell their stories, we're hoping we've got something for you. What makes us different from all those other weightlifting podcasts? Well, you’ve read the coaches stories, the athlete interviews, the ex-athlete commentaries… perhaps now it’s time to give the ramblings from the technical officials a try…. ?