Fitness Workshop: Movement for Affirmation — Squat, Bench & Deadlift Clinic

This session is part of a five-part fitness workshop series designed to support transgender, gender diverse, and non-binary folks aged 18+ in building joyful, affirming relationships with their bodies through movement.

Whether you’re new to lifting or refining technique after years in the gym, this clinic offers tailored coaching from trans instructors who understand what it means to move in a body that’s been overlooked by mainstream fitness culture. Think of it as a safe space to break down the big three — squat, bench, and deadlift — with affirming cues and adaptations that actually work for your shape.

Sam Dengate (he/him), founder and head coach of T Gen Gyms, will lead the session with an emphasis on body autonomy, resilience, and sustainable habits. You’ll walk away with improved technique, stronger lifts, and a renewed sense of confidence — not perfectionism, but progress.

The workshop is perfect for anyone who’s ever felt out of place in a gym — whether you’re navigating HRT, recovering from surgery, or simply learning how to move without the pressure to look a certain way. All expressions, body types, and experience levels are welcome. Bring your curiosity, leave your self-criticism at the door.

The series was created by T Gen Gyms and Transgender Victoria (TGV), who also run Australia’s first trans-led community hub: Affirmation Station. This group champions peer support, gender-affirming services, and inclusive spaces — all with a warm, community-first vibe.

While the clinic focuses on strength, the atmosphere is more ‘supportive training partner’ than ‘grindhouse’. You’ll be coached with compassion, not competition — and there’s zero tolerance for toxic gym culture here.

If you're wondering whether this is for you — it is. Whether you’re chasing your first successful rep or refining your form, there’s space for you. And if you want to keep going beyond this session, the rest of the series covers nutrition without noise, building affirming gym programs, and mythbusting Q&As for transfem and masc-identifying folks.

Questions? Reach out to programs@tgv.org.au.