Powerlifting
at
Back Alley Barbell
Powerlifting is a strength sport that consists of three attempts at maximal weight on three lifts: squat, bench press, and deadlift.
Powerlifting focuses on absolute strength.
We are a powerlifting gym
If you are looking to train powerlifting for strength, athletic carry over to other sports, or to compete in a local meet. You are in the right place.
We carry the best equipment, the best vibes, and are flexible for your schedule and budget.
Get open 24hr membership to train whenever, join a fundamentals workshop to learn, or join us for weekly team training.
Expect a welcoming community of new lifters and world class athletes.
Where do I start?
If you're unsure what next steps would be best for you, feel free to come by for a tour to check out the space.
Interested in learning how to lift but don't know where to start? Our Foundation series of workshops are designed to teach you the fundamentals of Olympic Weightlifting or Powerlifting.
Loading days...
2 hr
90 Canadian dollars
Powerlifting - Starter Package
175CA$This is the place to start powerliftingValid for 2 months- Fundamentals workshop
- 4 sessions for the weekly powerlifting class
- 1 Month personalized training program
- Best Value
Powerlifting: 4 Pack + 24hr gym access
240CA$Every monthComplete package to get everything you need • monthly programming • includes Introductory Workshop for free * • 24/7 gym access *Workshop will be booked separately- Weekly Powerlifting Class
Powerlifting: 8 class pack
280CA$Two months of POWERLIFTING! • Includes monthly programming This package does NOT include the introductory workshopValid for 4 months- Weekly Powerlifting Class
Equipment
Equipment Gallery
Don't see something? We probably haven't got to putting it up yet on the site! Send us a message or come by to check everything out.
Team Training
Want to train with a coach and a team?
Train with others.
Train like you mean it.
Team training comes in two flavours here. Guided and unguided.
You can come train with us weekly via open membership.
OR
You can be paired with a coach and get even more out of training.
Learn how to train safely and how to train hard.
We can teach anyone from the ground up to Powerlift.
Want to compete? We got you covered. We have in-house for-fun meets and we also bring people to local, provincial, regional, and national meets.
Want to Join our Powerlifting team?
Meet our Coaches
Meg Desmond
Meg is a personal trainer, spin instructor, and powerlifting coach based in Midtown Toronto. In the past, she’s coached everyone from teenagers to retirees, and Meg is more than comfortable working with people of all ages and fitness backgrounds. Whether your goal is to get to CPU Nationals, compete in your first meet, or simply move more and find a fitness program that you enjoy, Meg can give you the help you need to get there!
Growing up, she played high level hockey (girls AA) and soccer (provincial/OYSL). As a university student, Meg became interested in weight training. She began as a bodybuilder but soon found that she far preferred training hard and lifting heavy to dieting and trying to look a certain way. Meg fell in love with powerlifting and competed for the first time in a local meet at Fortis Fitness, placing first in her weight class and age group.
Quick FAQs
Quick FAQs
Do you have calibrated plates?
Yes! Both calibrated plates for Powerlifting and for Olympic Weightlifting.
Do you have a combo rack?
We have tons of racks you can work in, but we also have a Powerlifting combo rack for squats and bench.
Can I videotape myself?
Of course! We’ve got three camera stands just for that. Heads-up though that, despite their best efforts, people may walk in front.
Can I bring in equipment?
Yes, please do! Just know that if it’s a large piece of equipment, staff will have to approve it first.
Do you have clubs/Teams?
Yup! We’ve got a Powerlifting club, Olympic Weightlifting club, and Strongmand club. If you’d like to start your own club, just reach out to us so we can collab.
Do you run in-house competitions?
Absolutely! It's important to work towards a goal. Official competitions can be intimidating so we run bi-annual Mock Comps as a way to encourage members & non-members to get into the competitive scene in a comfortable environment.
What’s the deal with memberships?
Alright, let us give you the spiel. Membership is a month-to-month expense. You’re not locked into a contract and can cancel your membership or put it on pause at anytime without being charged a fee. All we ask is 10 days notice of the change in advance of your next invoice. We are an open hours gym and as a member you get a Key Fob that gives you access to the gym space from 4am - 11pm, everyday of the week including holidays.
Gallery
Because pictures are fun
