Showing up with Pride - Summer 2026

Photo Credit: Caitlin Anderson @caitlin.anderson.photos (insta)
Pride Deadlift Party Seattle, 2026
275 pound deadlift

 Many years ago, I discovered a resource called Pull for Pride. They coordinated Deadlift events all over the country as fundraisers for local LGBTQ+ charities. It turned into a habit and now, every year an event has been offered since, I've taken a small team of lifters there for a PR (Personal Record) attempt day. 

As a weightlifting coach, I can confidently say there are not enough true beginners or 'just for fun' weightlifting events. Nearly all of them require specific gear, a membership with a National Weightlifting Association (USAPL or USAW). It feels very intimidating for people from regular hometown gyms who just want to get strong and have a good time with other like-minded folks. 

So nearly every summer since has become Deadlift Season in my gym for those coming to the event. 

Now, not everyone I train is an LGBTQ+ Ally nor do they enjoy the spotlight that a giant weightlifting street party affords. I respect that and train them accordingly. I mean, I'm a heterosexual female, so I might just be in the minority at these events. I am a firm believer in supporting fellow humans - and this is FUN, so that's why I lift. Not only is it a fun event, the funds they raise to help people. Who could ask for anything more, right? I've often referred to Pride Deadlift Party (which is what Pull for Pride has evolved into) as a 'fun run 5k for weightlifting'. The only clothing requirement is that your shins are covered (because no one wants to leave DNA on the bar and slow things down by cleaning up bloody shins). 

It's an easy access, fun way to get into lifting. Though it was last season, I recall the night before the event like it happened yesterday.

Caitlin Anderson @caitlin.anderson.photos (insta)
Pride Deadlift Party Seattle, 2026
245lb deadlift 

I curled up in bed beside my husband and let out a long deep sigh. My body relaxed into the comfort of my own bed. My husband snaked an arm around me and curled up. 
  "Stressed?"
  "Meh. Ready as I'm ever going to be." 

  "You'll hit 275." 

  "Probably. Just going to be maniac coaching this many and lifting in the same day. More people every year. I'd take the Impossible Girl, but Pride was a protest first. I hate that I'm not sure it's safe."

  "Yeah, that sucks." 

 Silence settled over the darkened room as I closed my eyes and tried to settle down to sleep. 

Then I heard My Sailor's quiet voice in the darkness.

Caitlin Anderson @caitlin.anderson.photos (insta)
Pride Deadlift Party Seattle, 2026

"Thank you for doing this."

"What?"

"Thank you for Jackson, and Liz, and Ashleigh, and Craig, and...."

He continued listing off names. Every person on the list is a friend of ours in the LGBTQ+ community. Though none of them benefit directly from the funds raised or the event. 

It hit me like a ton of bricks. 

These people may never understand what an honor it is to be part of their story - to be trusted with coaching them - whether it's for a season, or for a lifetime. 

It's an honor I take seriously.

And these humans... they make me proud.

They support each other.

Yes, I am a personal trainer, but sometimes, we all need a little community. 

And let's face it - 

A coach is nothing without a team.

I will keep showing up for them 

- and I am amazed at how they show up for each other.

See you in 2027, Pride Deadlift Party.