The Vision

Detroit Barbell the only hardcore powerlifting gym in the state of Michigan was opened in January 2005. Detroit Barbell is owned and operated by Clay Brandenburg and JJ Thomas. The gym was opened with the intent of brining together the area’s serious lifters. They wanted a gym that would provide a supportive and educational environment which is a necessity for any serious athlete.

The Methodology

With over 20 years of combined experience and knowledge Detroit Barbell has the know how to take you to the next level. Detroit Barbell’s approach to training is based on Westside Barbell’s conjugate training methodology. The methods used by Detroit Barbell are proven time and time again and is reflected by the success of their members.

The Staff

Clay Brandenburg
Clay Brandenburg has been training for over 15 years, and is a trainer and coach of several state/national record holders. Clay is a WPC world and national champion. He has competed at the Arnold Classic four times placing second in 2005 with a bench of 821lbs. Clay has also won the 2004 WPO Bench Bash for Cash.

JJ Thomas
JJ Thomas has 8 years of training experience. JJ holds several Michigan APF/AAPF state records. His current best lifts are a 760lbs. squat, 470lbs. bench press and 611lbs. deadlift. Throughout his years of training JJ has spent countless hours researching and educating himself on powerlifting and strength training.

Other Staff's Credentials
Multiple 600, 700 and 800 pound squatters
Multiple 500, 600 and 700 pound benchers
National Level Powerlifting competitors

 

Facility

Speed-strength is the combination of maximum speed incorporated with maximum strength to produce the greatest amount of power. We believe that this is the key to success for serious athletes in all sports who want to perform to their highest level. You have to train explosively in order to play explosively. Mass * Acceleration = Force and speed is the ultimate goal.

Our professional strength trainers will assist you in your pursuit of excellence. Here are just a few of the trainers’ accomplishments.

We would like to thank you for considering us for your strength training needs. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding our programs. We offer hands on personal health and nutrition programs, personal training, group training and seminars. We also offer a free coaches’ seminar that will give you an overview of our program.

Results guaranteed,

Detroit Barbell Strength Training Facility


The facility is equipped with the following:

Monolift

Cambered Squat Bar

 

Forza Bench

several sets of bands

Sarden Bench

all boards

Forza Deadlift Helper

chains

Okie Deadlift bar

3000+ pounds of olympic weight

Squat bar

170, 180 and 210 pound dumbbells

Squat Box

Reverse Hyper

Texas Power bar

Glute Ham

Safety Squat bars

Band deadlift platform

Cambered bar and much much more.....