YOUTH BARBELL CLUB
Ages 8–17 · Trains 3x a week · Resumes August 31, 2026
A powerlifting program for kids and teens, coached three days a week at Range 307 for $60/month. Athletes learn the squat, bench, and deadlift under direct coaching. Proper technique from day one, not just supervised reps.
Technique needs a reason to sharpen. Competition gives it one. A kid working toward a meet trains differently than a kid showing up with nothing to aim for: more focus, more effort, more reason to push on hard days. Every athlete in the program competes at USAPL-sanctioned meets, with a pathway to Youth and High School Nationals for those who qualify.
Coached by Maggie Jones — a USAPL Senior National Coach and Referee who competes nationally and has coached multiple athletes at National competitions. As an official, she knows exactly what judges are looking for, and it shows in how she coaches technique.
SCHEDULE & CALENDAR
Weekly Training
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday — 4:30-5:45pm at Range 307.
Key Dates
Onboarding
New lifters start with a beginner-friendly course to learn the powerlifting main lifts, safety rules, and gym habits before joining regular group training. Onboarding for the Fall 2026 session will be on August 26 and 27 4:30-5:15pm.
Season Start
Training resumes August 31, 2026.
Breaks
Practice generally follows the school calendar for closures; check back here for updates.
No practice on:
September 7
October 15
November 26
December 21–January 3
Upcoming Competitions
Dec 5, 2026 - USAPL Heavy Liftmas in Evanston, WY
Jan 30, 2027 - USAPL WY State Championship in Casper, WY — Register
Mar 19-Mar 21, 2027 - USAPL High School Nationals in Albany, NY — Registration opens 1/1/27 at 3pm
Jun 2027 (TBA) - USAPL Youth Nationals in Albany, NY
RESOURCES
Official USA Powerlifting links for registration, records, and rules.
USAPL Membership — required to compete, renews annually.
USAPL Event Calendar — every sanctioned meet nationwide.
Youth Committee — divisions, weight classes, and rules specific to youth lifters (ages 8–13).
High School Committee — rules and divisions for high school lifters.
Results Database — search meet results by lifter or event.
Records — state and national records by age and weight class.
Rankings — see where a lifter stands nationally.
National Qualifying Totals — minimum totals required for national-level meets.
USAPL Rulebook — current rules on equipment, weigh-ins, and competition.
frequently Asked questions
How much supervision does my child get?
A coach and an assistant coach are at every session, so athletes get real one-on-one attention. Athletes learn to work through their own lifts — coaches are watching closely and stepping in when something needs correcting.
Does lifting stunt a child's growth?
No, this is a common myth, not backed by research. Coached, age-appropriate strength training is widely supported by pediatric sports medicine as safe for kids and doesn't affect growth plates or height. The real risk is poor technique or lifting without supervision, which is exactly why every session has direct coaching.
When can my child compete in High School Nationals?
Starting in 7th without a qualifying total. For 8th grade and up, lifters need to hit a qualifying total for their division first.
What does my child need to bring?
An internet-capable device to access training, a water bottle, comfortable workout clothes, and flat-soled shoes. Squishy, cushioned running shoes aren't a good fit for powerlifting since they can throw the lifter off balance.
Is competition really required?
Yes, at least once a year. Competition gives training a purpose kids can feel. It's part of why every athlete in our club competes at USA Powerlifting sanctioned meets.
What does the $60/month cover?
Coaching and training, three days a week. Meet entry fees, USAPL membership, and travel costs for competitions are separate.
Does my child need a USA Powerlifting membership?
Yes, to compete. We'll walk you through it once your athlete is registered.
What if my child can't make it to a session?
Let us know ahead of time if you can. Occasional misses are totally fine. The program is built around consistent attendance, but life happens.
What happens after I apply?
We'll review your application and let you know either way. If we're full, we'll keep it on file and reach out when a spot opens up.
ready to train?
come see what range 307 is about
