About us

Valour in Iron is run by the experienced Strongman & Powerlifting athlete Joe O'Flanagan.  Qualified Level 2 British Weightlifting Coach with 18 years of drug free strength training & lifting experience.

From online 6 week programmes to get you started with a barbell to competition prep for experienced lifters, Joe can help you TODAY!

I'm Joe, 31 from Buckinghamshire, UK, Dad of 1. I started my lifting journey when i was 12 years old believe it or not with some concrete dumbells my parents bought me in my bedroom. At the time i was at the brunt end of bullying at school and wanted to find a means for the bullies to not pick on the "quiet, Fat" kid anymore and was inspired by Arnold in the renowned "Conan The Destroyer" ( we have all seen him in that!) This sparked the flame which became a full on forest fire of a passion for lifting.

Over the years i have had the privilege of training under the influence of some of the worlds best strength coaches such as Dave Beattie owner of Genesis gym, famous for training the likes of "andy Bolton, the first man to deadlift 1000Lbs, Dwayne Johnson and many a filmstar and athlete" other affiliates i have had the pleasure for training with James Crossley better known as "HUNTER" from UK Gladiators, Jamie Chivers - Owner and founder of JC Fitness. Brian Schawb of elite FTS also gave  me a great insight when i got to train with him in America.

I have competed at all levels in Rugby, Powerlifting and Strongman, both nationally & internationally and now find myself still competing and still have a love for training and want to pass that on to others .