About

IRON RAVEN is Tonbridge's only specialist powerlifting club—created for lifters, by lifters. Founded by world champion powerlifters Jason Swalwell and Helen Redhead, our club is built on a passion for strength, a commitment to community, and the belief that everyone can benefit from getting stronger, both physically and mentally.

Our Vision

We believe that strength training is for everyone—whether you're aiming for your next competition PB or just beginning your journey to feeling stronger and more confident. IRON RAVEN is more than just a club; it's a community where you'll find support, expert coaching, and a welcoming environment that celebrates progress at every level.

Our vision is to create a home for strength athletes in Kent: a place where powerlifters, strength enthusiasts, and newcomers alike can train, learn, and grow together. We're here to break down barriers, make serious lifting accessible, and demonstrate the physical and mental benefits of strength training to our community.

At IRON RAVEN, we draw inspiration from Stoic philosophy—embracing resilience, focus, and the pursuit of progress one day at a time. We believe true strength is not just about lifting weights, but about building character and mastering challenges, both inside and outside the club.

Our Coaching Approach

As competitive powerlifters ourselves, we know what it takes to succeed on the platform. Our coaching goes beyond just building strength—we teach lifters exactly how to compete, from learning the rules and commands to mastering competition day routines. Every athlete receives detailed, hands-on instruction in technique, ensuring lifts are performed safely, efficiently, and to competition standards.

We take pride in our technique-focused coaching, recognising that every lifter is unique. Our approach is never “one size fits all”—we work closely with each individual to understand their goals, experience, and strengths. Whether you’re stepping onto the platform for the first time or aiming to reach a new personal best, we tailor our coaching to meet you where you are, supporting your progress with expert guidance and genuine care.