New to barbell training?
This Is Where You Start.
Every Jax Liberty Fitness client begins here. For over five years, Rick NesSmith has used this clinic to introduce people of all ages and backgrounds — especially those who never imagined themselves under a barbell — to the four lifts that build real, lasting strength. It's the foundation everything else is built on, and for many clients it's the session that changes everything.
What Is the Intro to Barbell Training Clinic?
The Intro to Barbell Training clinic is a 90-minute private, one-on-one session with Rick NesSmith — Jacksonville's leading certified strength coach with over five years running this exact clinic and 20+ years of coaching experience. It's not a workout. It's an education.
In this session, Rick personally teaches you the four fundamental barbell lifts that form the backbone of all strength training:
The Squat
The Deadlift
The Bench Press
The Overhead Press
You'll learn proper technique, body positioning, and the reasoning behind each movement — so that every rep you do from this point forward is purposeful, safe, and effective.
Why Is It Required for All New Clients?
Because your safety and your results matter too much to skip this step.
Most gyms throw you into a program and hope for the best. At Jax Liberty Fitness, we believe that learning how to move well is the most important investment you can make in your training. The Intro clinic ensures that every client — no matter their background — starts with a shared foundation of safe, sound technique.
It also means Rick gets to know you: how you move, where you're tight, what your goals are, and how to build a program specifically around you.
Who Is This For?
Everyone. Seriously. But this clinic was built especially for people who've told themselves strength training isn't for them — and for adults over 50 who want to build real strength safely and confidently.
You've never touched a barbell and have no idea where to start
You're over 50 and want to build lasting strength without getting hurt
You've been lifting casually but never had real coaching on your form
You're returning to training after an injury or a long break
You're an athlete looking to add serious strength to your performance
No experience required. No fitness level required. Just the willingness to learn.
What to Expect
Before your session: Fill out our consultation form and waiver, which you'll receive after booking. Come comfortable and ready to move — athletic wear and flat-soled shoes (like Converse or Vans) are ideal.
During your session: You'll work one-on-one with Rick in our private Avondale gym. He'll walk you through each of the four lifts, coach your form in real time, and answer every question you have. No judgment, no rush.
After your session: You'll have a clear understanding of all four major barbell movements and be ready to begin your ongoing coaching program — either one-on-one, small group, or online.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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None at all. The Intro to Barbell clinic is specifically designed for people who have never trained with a barbell before. Rick will meet you exactly where you are.
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Comfortable athletic clothes and flat-soled shoes. Shoes like Converse, Vans, or wrestling shoes work great. Avoid running shoes with thick cushioning — they affect your stability under the bar.
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Have a light meal or snack 1–2 hours before. You won't be doing a max-effort workout, but you'll be on your feet and actively moving for 90 minutes, so showing up fueled is a good idea.
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Not only is it safe — it may be the most important thing you can do for your long-term health. Strength training builds bone density, improves balance and mobility, and protects against the muscle loss that accelerates after 50. Rick has coached many clients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond — including a client who set three Florida state powerlifting records at age 59. He'll teach you how to lift in a way that works with your body, not against it.
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Yes — and this is one of the reasons the Intro clinic is so valuable. Rick holds a Barbell Rehab Method Certification and has extensive experience coaching clients through and around injuries. Let him know about any limitations when you fill out your consultation form.
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You'll be ready to join any of our ongoing coaching programs. Rick will talk you through your options and help you choose the right path based on your goals, schedule, and budget.
What Our Clients Say
"Before finding Jax Liberty Fitness, I found myself spending most of my time enduring heavy cardio sessions at the gym or piecing together a 'weightlifting' workout last minute. Rick invested intentional time teaching me proper form and gradual weight increase under the barbell. After spending a few months training in-person with Rick, I am now confident in what I need to do and in my ability to use the weight rack."
— Taylor P, Jacksonville, FL
Ready to Get Strong?
Your first step is simple. Book your Intro to Barbell Training clinic and meet Rick in person at our private Jacksonville gym. For over five years, Rick has introduced people just like you — many of whom never thought they'd lift a barbell — to the four lifts that build real, lasting strength. There's no contract, no commitment beyond this first session. Just 90 minutes that could genuinely change how you feel, move, and age.
Questions before booking? Email us at rick@jaxlibertyfitness.com — we'd love to hear from you.