Never Been to a Gym? Here’s Exactly How to Start Strength Training in Canberra.

One of our StrengthXP members getting back into strength training

If the idea of walking into a gym makes your stomach flip you’re certainly not alone.

Maybe it’s been years (or decades) since you last exercised. Maybe you’ve never set foot in a gym before. Or maybe every gym you’ve tried felt overwhelming, intimidating, or just... not for you.

I get it. 

I’ve seen it over and over again in my years as a fitness professional. That’s why I built StrengthXP. I wanted to create a gym in Canberra unlike any other specifically for people like you.

And one of the most common things I hear from people who are considering joining a gym, but are a bit apprehensive to commit is “I want to come, but I need to get a bit fitter before I start.”

You don’t need to “get fit first ”

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to be fit to start strength training. You just need to start - at your level, with the right support. That’s my job.

At StrengthXP, we specialise in helping beginners (especially people in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond) feel comfortable, confident, and capable in the gym - without the bootcamp yelling, the mirrors, or the bro vibes.

So... Why strength training?

Good question. If you're brand new to all this, you might be wondering why we focus on strength and not just general “fitness” or cardio.

Here's why strength training is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind, especially as you get older:

• Builds muscle so everyday things feel easier (lifting kids, groceries, or yourself off the floor)

• Improves bone density (especially important after 40–50+)

• Boosts energy and mood

• Helps with balance, mobility, and injury prevention

• Can reduce joint pain and stiffness over time

• Makes you feel stronger — physically and mentally

And it doesn’t take hours every day. Most SXP members train just 2–3 times a week.

What holds people back?

Let’s talk about the stuff that’s actually stopping most people from starting:

• “I’ll look stupid / I don’t know what I’m doing.”

• “Everyone else will be fitter than me.”

• “Gyms are for young, already-fit people.”

• “I’m worried I’ll hurt myself.”

• “I don’t want to be yelled at or pushed too hard.”

I hear sentiments like this all the time. And I’ve designed every part of StrengthXP to make sure you never feel that way here.

What it’s like to start at StrengthXP in Canberra

Here’s what actually happens when you fill out our contact form:

1. I’ll get in touch for a quick chat - no pressure, just getting to know what you need.

2. You come in for a private intro session - we learn about your body, goals, and any injuries or concerns.

3. We build a plan together that works for you - whether that’s small group sessions, 1-on-1 training, or just easing in slowly with some classes.

4. You start getting stronger - at your pace, with a coach and community who’ve got your back.

No mirrors. No egos. No yelling. Just good people, smart programming, and support every step of the way.

How to get started (it’s simple)

If you’re ready to try something different - something built for beginners - we’d love to help.

👉 Just fill out our contact form and I’ll reach out for a quick chat to see if we’re the right fit.

There’s no pressure. No obligation. Just a chance to start feeling stronger, with the kind of gym that actually makes it enjoyable.

You don’t have to do this alone.

Whether you’re in your 30s and just getting back into movement after kids, or you’re in your 60s and ready to finally feel stronger for the long haul - it’s not too late and it’s not too soon.

You don’t need to be fit to start. You just need a place that gets it.

That’s us.