Stronger Together.

Accessible, science-backed strength training for ALL women

Who We Are

Physician Founded Nonprofit

The Strength Initiative is a physician-founded nonprofit dedicated to helping women live longer, healthier lives through strength training.

Advocates For Strength Without Barriers

We remove barriers- like cost, intimidation, and access, and we build community, so that every woman can feel welcome in the weight room- regardless of age, income, or experience level.

Community for ALL Women

We are not just a gym. We’re a community built on science, empowerment, and support.

Our Core Programs

  • Small group women's strength training

    Accessible Strength Classes

    Small group, science-based lifting classes for all levels. Pay what you can, personalized instruction, welcoming community.

  • Movement and Mocktails

    Movement & Mocktails

    Free outdoor community workout + post-lift social hour. Designed for all adults, genders, and fitness levels. Bring a friend and make new ones!

  • Wellness workshops at The Strength Initiative

    Women's Wellness Workshops

    Expert-led sessions covering strength, nutrition, menopause, and all things women’s health! Always free. Always empowering.

Why Strength Training? Why Women?

Strength Training for Every Woman

At The Strength Initiative, we are empowering all women to lift weights. Through science backed instruction, inclusive community, and accessible programs, we believe all women can live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Women who lift weights live longer. Lifting weights supports women in midlife.

Ladies Who Lift, Live Longer…And Are Happier!

Research demonstrates that women who strength train have a 30% reduction in cardiovascular mortality, improved bone strength, and report better moods and vitality.

Only 1 in 4 Women Strength Train

Most women are not strength training, especially as they age. Barriers, such as cost, intimidation, and gender-based norms have been shown to be contributing factors.

Real Stories

Elizabeth

Age: 55

Prior Lifting Experience: New to weightlifting, but lots of yoga experience!

Goals: Bone health, and moving freely as she ages.

In her words: “I’ve known I needed to lift weights for my bone health, but figuring out how to do it, was daunting. The Strength Initiative made it easy! I’m comfortable knowing I’m being taught good form, and I already feel stronger!”

Get Involved

middle aged women doing a bench press alternative with small group personal training with the strength initiative in Charlottesville, Virginia. a non profit gym empowering all women to lift weights.

Join a Lifting Group

Get stronger alongside other women in one of our welcoming, small group strength training classes. Designed for every body, overseen by a physician. Build strength and community- safely!

Volunteering with women in strength, nonprofit, resume booster, great for college students

Volunteer

Help us fulfill our mission, and feel great doing so! Multiple opportunities available, from social media management, to gym help, and even Board positions. Students welcome!

Women working out together. Strength training in a community helps with consistency.

Become a Community Partner

We are stronger together!  We value our connections with like-minded local organizations. Options include leading a workshop, renting gym space, co-hosting events, and more.

Give The Gift Of Strength

Wether it’s dollars or fitness supplies, every amount you give helps us build a safe, well-equipped space, allowing women in our community access life changing strength training, regardless of income.

Your donation is tax deductible

Strength In Action

See what’s happening right now at The Strength Initiative. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates, strong lifts, and community events!