Not just any gym by Hannah Priestman

Not just any gym...

By Hannah Priestman

Almost four years ago now, community dental nurse Hannah Priestman began her weightlifting journey at Teesside Barbell Club – a safe place for women to go to reach their health and fitness goals, form friendships and forget the day-to-day stress of life.

Hannah’s only regret – not discovering it sooner.

HANNAH: I love my job. But like anything, some days can be a bit much. The day-to-day pressures, issues and, not to mention, a global pandemic thrown into the mix – everyone has a breaking point.

When I joined Teesside Barbell Club back in 2018, I was looking for a new challenge in a new environment. I had been to other gyms around the area and had tried a bit of Olympic weightlifting training which I instantly became addicted to. So when I saw that the club had an open day, I popped along and have never looked back since. Teesside Barbell Club is a women’s-only gym. Why? Because we need one.

It offers a safe place for women of all ages, sizes and abilities. With a mix of strength and cardio-based classes, there’s something to suit everyone and no matter what your ability, everything is adaptable. But it’s not just that – it’s a fun, happy place where you can have a laugh, de-stress and surround yourself with fab women. To be honest, it’s kind of cheap therapy!

During the pandemic and endless lockdowns, the community has stood strong. Even after the most stressful day at work, I knew I could jump onto a Zoom session and would instantly feel a release of stress – all from the comfort of my make-shift gym in the garage.

When the gyms re-opened, we were all like kids on Christmas Eve. Just the thought of being back with my little gym family made the usual work pressures that little bit easier knowing that once my shift was done, I’d be going to escape it all with a heavy barbell in hand.

The encouragement and support from the amazing women is second to none. Without the support of the coaches’ support and daily pick-me-ups, I wouldn’t be where I am today, physically and mentally.

I have made friends for life with everyone at the Teesside Barbell Club and wouldn’t change it for the world.

If someone asked me how I deal with stress and look after my mental health, I would say I simply surround myself with inspirational women. Give it a go – you won’t regret it.