What kit should I bring?

You should bring a pair of Olympic weightlifting shoes. If you don’t have any, please purchase some, as they are an essential piece of lifting equipment. I am happy to advise about what and where to buy. Please don’t bring Converse or running shoes – and definitely no Vibram Fivefingers!

What is the format of the training session?

First-timers usually do the major lifts in this order: squat, press, deadlift, bench. You will do up to three heavy work sets of each, except for the deadlift, where you will do one top set only. If you are suitable for the power clean – and depending on your goals – then we will learn that at the very end of the first session or the start of our second session.

Where are the nearest transport links?

East Putney is the nearest underground station (on the District Line to Wimbledon). Putney Rail Station is the nearest overground. Both are roughly five minutes’ walk from the gym.

Is there parking?

There are pay-and-display meters on Oxford Road, but it can get very busy. Just Park is another option: they have several local spaces available if you book in advance (basically, you're renting someone's driveway). That said, if there's any way you can avoid it, I wouldn't advise driving in Putney. The high street is the third busiest in London, and you can easily get stuck in traffic jams there for hours. If you don't have any other option, it's best to leave yourself plenty of time!

Do I have to pay any additional fees to the gym?

No. All gym fees are included in my rate.

Does the gym have showers?

Yes, there are shower facilities. There’s no shower gel or towels, so please bring your own.

Is there a water fountain?

Yes.

Where do I leave my bag and valuables?

Physical Culture is a private gym and is strictly members only. There is extensive CCTV surveillance. Most of your belongings will be safe upstairs in the changing rooms. However, if you would prefer to bring your valuables with you, you can take them downstairs with you inside the gym while you train.

Do I need to bring food?

Sessions typically last two hours, so you may want to bring a snack that’s easy to digest. Suitable snacks include bananas, protein shakes, Lucozade and oat bars. These will help keep your sugar levels up.

Can you give me any restaurant recommendations for after training?

Putney has loads of amazing restaurants! There's Rodizio on Putney High Street (Brazilian spit roast barbecue restaurant), Tortilla on Putney High Street (Mexican chain with decent burritos and quesadillas) and Nando’s on Upper Richmond Road (piri-piri chicken – it’s the classic cheeky Nando’s, innit!)