You Are Stronger Than You Think!

We are now offering a learn to weightlift class. We have seen a regular demand from patients who want to get stronger and would like to get more familiar with how to use the free weights at their local gym. We also know that so many problems that we treat in physiotherapy benefit from improved strength; there’s a reason we always send patients home with strengthening homework.

The goal of the weightlifting program is to introduce the basics of free weights in a small group setting. The class is capped at 4 people and is led by a physiotherapy assistant. There are 6 classes that run on a rotating basis, they do not need to be done in order so you can start with the class at anytime, you do not need to wait for an official start date. Once you have completed the 6 classes you will have the option to attend a consolidation class where the physio assistant will put you through a workout where you will practice each of the skill you have learned in your 6 weeks

Each class will cover one of the following movements:

SQUAT – Learn proper form for squatting. Learn different squat variations. Learn how to add weight to your squat using dumbbells, kettlebells and barbells.

DEADLIFT – Learn proper form for deadlift. Learn the different variations and how to add weight using dumbbells, kettlebells, and barbells.

PUSH – This is the week where all motions are pushing motions. Push-ups, overhead press, bench press and triceps exercises will be covered along with their variations. You will use your own body weight, dumbbells, kettlebells, cable machine and the barbell.

PULL – This is the week where all motions are pull motions. Rows, pulldowns, pull-ups (with lots of help!) and bicep exercises will be covered. You will use body weight, bands, dumbbells and cable machine.

CORE and ARMS – This week will cover the other arm exercises and the basics of core exercises. It’s more than just sit-ups and plank. You will use some light weights and your body weight.

MOBILITY – This class covers the basics of mobility. You will learn the difference between stretching and mobility and you will be able to identify which mobility exercises will benefit you the most to help you move and well and get stronger. This is the only class where you’re not actually lifting any weight.

In every class you will learn a little bit about the principles of weightlifting, how to lift heavy, how to know when to push harder, what pain is safe to work through and when you should back off.

Here’s the best part: We can bill this class to your insurance benefits as physiotherapy! If you have been in for physiotherapy in the last 6 months and your therapist feels that the class would be appropriate for you to reach your goals then they can refer you into the class. If you haven’t been in recently you will need to schedule an assessment with one of our physiotherapists to ensure that you are ready and able to participate and to create a treatment plan that includes strength training. If you do not want to do a physiotherapy assessment that’s not a problem, it just means that the class will not be considered physiotherapy treatment and therefore will not be billable to your insurance plan.

Cost: The classes are $60 each so the 6 week program costs $360.

If you need to include a physio assessment we will reduce the cost to $450 for a modest savings of $35 for the program.