8030 SE Harold Street, Unit D, Portland, OR 97206

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers for new members, current lifters, and anyone curious about our body positive barbell gym in Portland, OR. Reach out any time if your question isn't covered below.

Overhead flat-lay photograph of chrome weight plates stacked on a dark wooden platform, deep grey and silver tones

Joining & First Visits

I'm new to lifting. Is this gym for me?

Yes. Liberation Barbell welcomes people of all experience levels, including beginners. We focus on strength building without weight stigma, and we support individual processes.

How do I start?

Our Body Positive Lifting 101 course is a four-week introduction to lifting, covering basics, community expectations, and gym etiquette. Classes meet on Saturdays from 10:00–11:30 AM, and the course is $100.

Do I need an appointment to visit?

Walk-in inquiries are by appointment only. Please reach out by email or phone to schedule a time.

What are your hours?
  • Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Community & Etiquette

Who is the community for?

Our space is built for queer folks, trans folks, people of all sizes, intersectional feminists, people of color, vegans, artists, parents, punks, book nerds, people in recovery, and anyone who has felt excluded by traditional gyms.

Liberation Barbell frames strength training as a practice that extends well beyond the barbell, inviting people to engage with exercise on their own terms. The gym's philosophy centers on respecting each individual's process and celebrating the inherent strengths that come from diverse bodies, identities, and histories. Rather than promoting a single image of fitness, it welcomes queer folks, trans people, vegans, parents, artists, punks, book nerds, and anyone in recovery, creating a space where showing up honestly matters more than performing a particular look.

The community aspect is central to how Liberation Barbell operates. Members are encouraged to support one another through shared effort, conversation, and the simple act of lifting together. This sense of belonging helps reduce the isolation that often accompanies starting a new practice, and it gives beginners a place to ask questions without judgment. Over time, the gym becomes a setting where people build physical capacity alongside friendships, accountability, and a deeper sense of connection to their own goals.

For those curious about getting started, the gym offers structured introductions that cover the basics of lifting, community expectations, and gym etiquette. These sessions are designed to lower the barrier to entry, helping newcomers feel grounded in both technique and the shared values of the space. Walk-in visits are arranged by appointment so that staff can give attention to each person's questions, ensuring that the first experience feels welcoming and informative rather than overwhelming.

Beyond the lifting floor, Liberation Barbell maintains an active online presence with resources, blog posts, and a small store featuring branded gear. Members can access scheduling tools, membership options, and a member log, while visitors can explore testimonials, staff bios, and media features. The overall design, with its high-contrast palette and bold typography, reflects the gym's assertive and inclusive identity, signaling that this is a place where strength is built through community, intention, and respect.

Is weight talk part of the culture here?

No. We are committed to strength building without weight stigma or diet talk. Members respect each other's bodies, gender identities, and histories.

What etiquette should I follow?

Treat fellow members and equipment with care. Re-rack weights, wipe down benches, and check in with anyone around you before moving heavy loads. We ask that members honor a respectful, supportive tone at all times.

Contact & Support

Who do I contact for coaching questions?

Email lacy@liberationbarbell.com for coaching questions.

Who handles memberships and operations?

Email christina@liberationbarbell.com for memberships, pricing, scheduling meetings, and gym operations.

Can I call?

Yes. Call (503) 477-4985 Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Liberation Barbell

8030 SE Harold Street, Unit D, Portland, Oregon 97206

Phone: (503) 477-4985 (M–F, 9–5 PM)

General: info@liberationbarbell.com