British Weight Lifting – Penny Lakin

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.

This time we’re featuring Penny Lakin, who spoke about quitting her corporate 9-5 to live her passion. Inspirational and down to earth, Penny gives her advice on why coaching qualifications pave the way to success.

Starting my Weightlifting Journey

Hi, I’m Penny aged 30 from Leeds.

I actually started my fitness journey long distance running which is obviously a bit different to weightlifting! The time I spent running let me focus on myself and having some alone time. One of my proudest achievements was when I completed the Chester marathon in just 3:40!

As much as I enjoyed running, I just never felt strong, and I was ready for a change. I accidentally discovered lifting by going to a session in a CrossFit gym. They were strict! My coach made me focus on getting the technique correct before focusing on adding the weight.

Doing something I had never done before gave me the opportunity to grow. A year and a half ago I discovered Olympic Weightlifting through a friend at Yorkshire Strength. I found the sport felt really rewarding and helped me slow down, set goals and achieve more.

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

My twin sister was already into weightlifting, so I knew a little bit of what to expect. She was already on pretty heavy weights – which I had a new respect for when I properly started training!

It took a lot for me to understand the process, I struggled with the coordination of the movements. Although it was a struggle, I really enjoyed myself and I decided to stick with weightlifting as I loved the challenge - plus it was highly rewarding.

As for coming naturally...not really no. I can’t say genetics don’t come into it and it can benefit you in different areas, but really for me it was all about the learning and making sure my technique was good.

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

I have always been described as a bit of a hurricane! I knew I needed to slow my go go go attitude down. I have to always tell myself: when I slow down, I make less mistakes.

I now train 5 or 6 times a week, so wellness is key to my training. For me, getting a good night’s sleep, eating nutritional food and keeping hydrated is important. It’s also key that if something hurts, asking myself ‘is this pushing myself or am I injured?’ I listen to my body!

This wasn’t always the case, and I’ve had to make sacrifices to progress, but it’s been so worth it. I must have discipline in my lifestyle, so I am particular with what I put my energy into.

How has weightlifting impacted your mental health and overall well-being?

It’s my constant! I have ADHD and exercise to me is as beneficial as medication. It’s a really good place for me to put my energy.  Even if I have a bad day, I appreciate it - if I don’t have the bad days, the good won’t feel as good.  

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

In December 2024, I competed in my first English Championship. This was a big goal of mine and I completed another goal of lifting a 170kg (75/95) total, at my weight of 64kg. In the moment I didn’t really take in how much of an achievement this was and now when I look back, it's one of my biggest accomplishments.

Starting my coaching journey

About a year ago I changed my job from a 9-5 in marketing to now being a full-time coach. It was not an easy decision as I was leaving the security of a full-time job, but it’s the best decision I’ve ever made.

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

My brother-in-law. He owns the two ShireFit gyms in Leeds. He has always pushed me to have a no limits mindset. Always has ‘a just do it’ attitude that’s inspired me so much.

What made you decide to pursue coaching?

Personally, I was surprised at my own capabilities and strength which has made me want to show others how they can reach their potential. I want to be the type of coach that people feel comfortable with and trust. My coaches have always been an inspiration to me and that's what made me want to pursue this career.

How do you think your personal experience will shape the way you coach others?

I don’t want anyone to feel overwhelmed. I understand people have different ways they like to train. I want to make people feel confident and comfortable when training in my sessions.

How do you plan on using your coaching course to inspire others who are new to weightlifting?

I completed my Level 2 and Level 3 PT around my 9-5 job. I enjoyed it so much that I would encourage others that are looking to become a coach to do the same.  It gave me more confidence in the area. For me I need to know my knowledge is the best before I share it with other people.  The Courses are good for getting more excited about the coaching – gets me out the rut. I want to use my knowledge to build a supportive community at my coaching sessions.

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

Do it – there is never a perfect time, if you are passionate about it, you are already a step ahead of the rest.

How do you hope to impact the lives of others as a coach, both physically and mentally, through weightlifting?

I really want to help people believe in themselves and build the confidence. Even if I can give someone an extra 1% confidence that would be great!

Why have you chosen a British Weight Lifting course?

I have always heard British Weight Lifting being highly recommended amongst other coaches British Weight Lifting is the Governing Body. Its courses are backed by credibility and well received as a training provider.  To feel like a good coach, I feel as though I need to continue grow – be the best coach I need to continue to grow my skills and learn from the best – British Weight Lifting.

We’ll be following Penny as she continues her coaching journey on the Level 2 Coaching Strength course.

For more updates on Penny and her weightlifting career, follow her on Instagram @powerwithpenny