Project Overview
Barbell Connect is a platform designed to bring weightlifters out of isolation and onto the platform together. The goal is to create a supportive community that encourages gym discovery, promotes inclusivity, and empowers weightlifting as a sport for everyone—from beginners to experts and coaches.
Project Goals
- Create a streamlined platform for finding gyms that match user preferences
- Build a community-focused experience that reduces friction for beginners
- Encourage gym discovery and promote inclusivity in weightlifting
- Empower weightlifting as an accessible sport for all skill levels
- Develop a support system connecting lifters, gyms, and coaches
Impact
Barbell Connect addresses key challenges in the weightlifting community:
Reduces friction for beginners
Simplifies the process of getting started with weightlifting by connecting newcomers with welcoming gyms and resources.
Encourages gym discovery and inclusivity
Helps users find gyms that align with their goals, preferences, and comfort levels.
Empowers weightlifting as a sport
Promotes weightlifting culture and makes it more accessible to diverse audiences.
Creates a support system
Builds connections between lifters, gyms, and coaches to foster a collaborative community.
Who is this for?
Everyone!
Barbell Connect is designed for the entire weightlifting community:
- Beginners looking to start their weightlifting journey
- Amateurs seeking to improve their skills and find training partners
- Experts wanting to connect with like-minded lifters
- Coaches looking to expand their reach and support more athletes
Key Features
- Gym Discovery: Search and filter gyms based on location, equipment, and community vibe
- User Profiles: Create profiles showcasing experience level, goals, and preferences
- Community Feed: Share progress, connect with other lifters, and stay motivated
- Coach Directory: Find and connect with certified coaches and trainers
- Event Listings: Discover local competitions, workshops, and community events
Design Approach
The design emphasizes accessibility and community. Key design decisions include:
- Bold, energetic color palette (yellow and black) to convey strength and motivation
- Clean, intuitive navigation to reduce barriers for new users
- Visual hierarchy that highlights gym features and community aspects
- Mobile-first responsive design for on-the-go access
- Inclusive imagery representing diverse lifters and skill levels
Reflection
Working on Barbell Connect reinforced the importance of understanding user needs and building for community. The biggest challenge was balancing feature richness with simplicity—ensuring beginners felt welcomed while providing enough depth for experienced lifters. This project taught me valuable lessons about inclusive design and the power of connecting people through shared passions.
Key Takeaway: Barbell Connect brings lifters out of isolation and onto the platform—together.