Our Story
What started in a garage with a few friends, some weights, and a shared passion for strength has grown into something much bigger. In 2021, we moved out of that garage and into what we now proudly call The Pub. Fueled by our love of lifting, community, and competitive powerlifting, we set out to turn a dream into reality — our very own gym.
In January 2022, we officially opened the doors to The Public House Barbell, located in the heart of downtown Renton. From the very beginning, our mission has been simple: to create a space that builds community through strength.
At The Pub, everyone is welcome — from first-time lifters learning the ropes to world-class competitors chasing their next title. We believe strength is for everyone, and that the best results come when we lift each other up — literally and figuratively.
The Pub was built on community, and that's exactly how it will stay.
What Keeps Us Focused
- • Build a home for competitive and recreational lifters alike
- • Invest in coaches who care about the whole athlete
- • Bring strength events to our community every quarter
- • Keep training fun, challenging, and inclusive
Mission & Values
Every decision we make starts with the lifters who trust us with their training.
Community First
We create a supportive environment where lifters of every background feel welcome, safe, and encouraged to push their limits.
Coach-Led Progress
Our coaches invest in continuing education and hands-on mentorship to deliver individualized programming and feedback.
Stronger Together
We lift as a team—sharing platforms, handling for each other at meets, and celebrating every milestone on the platform.
Meet the Team
USPA certified coaches, programming specialists, and handlers who live the sport day in and day out.
Chris Ulrich
USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach
With over four years of dedicated powerlifting coaching experience and more than eight years coaching in football, baseball, and fastpitch, Coach Chris brings a deep understanding of athletic development and performance to every athlete he works with. His coaching philosophy is built on partnership — working hand in hand with each lifter to unlock their full potential and achieve their goals, whether that's stepping onto the platform for the first time or chasing a new personal record.
Credentials: USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach
Matt Saegesser
USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach
Coach Matt brings over a decade of coaching experience and a lifelong passion for athletic performance to The Pub. With four years of powerlifting coaching under his belt, ten years as a football coach, and three years as a NASM-certified personal trainer, Matt combines strength training expertise with a deep understanding of athletic development. Matt's goal is simple — to work hand in hand with each athlete, providing the guidance, accountability, and support they need to reach their full potential.
Credentials: USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach | Former NASM Certified Personal Trainer
Our Facility
From calibrated plates to competition combo racks and deadlift platforms, our equipment mirrors what you’ll see on the platform. Each corner of the gym is set up for focused, respectful training.
We host sanctioned meets, mock meets, specialty seminars, and community nights to keep training fun and challenging. The space is tuned for chalk dust, loud music, and big lifts.
Facility Highlights
- • 3 combo racks, competition benches, and calibrated plates
- • Specialty bars: squat bars, deadlift bars, SSB, Duffalo, and more
- • Recovery corner with sleds, reverse hyper, and mobility tools
- • Members-only kitchen, lockers, and recovery lounge