British Weight Lifting – Francis Nelson

Welcome to our weightlifting blog series: Lifting the Bar! We’re speaking with four individuals who are each at different stages of their weightlifting coaching journey.

Each week we’ll uncover their stories, challenges and triumphs – unveiling how determination can overcome anything. Whether you’re a seasoned coach, or just curious about how to take the plunge into the world of coaching, this series is for you. 

This week we’re featuring Francis Nelson, who spoke about how he manages his commitment to the gym, work, studying and family time. Dedicated to his routine, he gives his advice on how to make a busy lifestyle work perfectly alongside his British Weight Lifting Course!

Starting my Weightlifting Journey

Hi I’m Francis aged 33 from Bradford.

I started my fitness journey all because of my dad. He used to be an amateur weightlifter and because of this I was surrounded by experts in the industry from a young age. I used to train with one of the older coaches and it all started there.

Then about 2 – 3 years ago I started doing CrossFit. I really enjoy the training that comes with Cross Fit, but my favourite part will always be the lifting.

To me lifting will always feel impressive and it looks so too. Being able to feel stronger and lift heavier is important to me. That's why this sport is so enjoyable I can always improve.

What was your initial impression of weightlifting when you started? Did it come naturally to you?

For me it was a humbling experience. I had to take a step back from the weights I had previously been lifting. My coaches took me back to basics and it has made me a better lifter since. Going back to the lighter weights and taking my ego out of my routine was fundamental to growth and success.

Starting out I wasn’t strong, and I felt out my comfort zone. This was a motivator for me as it didn’t come easy, but it did feel great! Knowing I was pushing myself and setting goals helped me stick to a routine that gave me room to progress and succeed. It was all about challenging myself and aiming to be good at the sport.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early on in your weightlifting journey?

Knowing where to start! The biggest challenge was starting, it can feel daunting stepping up to the bar… which is why having a coach has aways helped me. My coaches have always been able to bring me back to focusing on the technique.

I have to say that working at the weights that you know you can move correctly does bring confidence and watching others is a great way to learn all about the correct form.

How do you balance the physical demands of weightlifting with other aspects of your life?

I start each day by cramming in as much as I can. If I just get up and go with it, I have time to spend the rest of the day balancing work and family. I make the time for it as it’s so important for me and my mental health. It gives me a chance to focus energy into something that’s rewarding.

Can you describe a moment when you hit a breakthrough or achieved a goal in your lifting that was particularly meaningful to you?

Once I realised, I had a passion for lifting I got booked in with a coach. It was brilliant my first session was on the Wednesday, and I hit a PB on the Saturday of 105 clean. It was a breakthrough moment and now my PB is 110.

Starting my coaching journey

Who or what has been the biggest inspiration or influence on your weightlifting journey?

I would say the coaches I work with. You can tell a good coach because they put in as much work as you and they care about the outcomes.

What made you decide to pursue coaching?

I have a few coaching qualifications in different sports. I already do a lot of coaching for juniors’ team. Growing up I did a lot of sports myself and I was always inspired by the coaches, and I hope to do the same. 

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about starting weightlifting coaching but feels intimidated or unsure?

Get coaching! When I signed up and I could see how easy and flexible the course fits round my already jam-packed routine I knew I could do it. I think the course is great as I can just jump in or jump out whenever I have the time. Even if you don’t want to be a coach, understanding how a coach will teach you will help you and I feel it has made me a better lifter overall. I will use everything I have learnt Level 2 Award in Coaching Functional Fitness to give myself coaching seasons by filming and watching back the videos.

Why have you chosen a British Weight Lifting course?

British Weight Lifting have always been highly recommended amongst other coaches. As the Governing Body the courses are backed by credibility and well received as a training provider. To feel like a great coach, I must continue to develop my knowledge and my skills by learn from the best – British Weight Lifting.

We’ll be following Fran as he continues with his coaching journey on Level 2 Award in Coaching Functional Fitness.

 For more updates on Fran and on his weightlifting career, follow him on Instagram @frannelson.cf