Founders Row Introduces LiftHER: The Ultimate Women's Strength Training Studio

Founders Row Launches LiftHER, An Empowering Space for Women

In a pioneering move for women's fitness, Founders Row has announced the launch of LiftHER, a strength and lifting studio designed exclusively for women. Founded by visionary entrepreneurs Jamie Weeks, Katherine Mason, and Nike Global Trainer Betina Gozo Shimonek, LiftHER is set to open its doors in Dallas this September 2026, with ambitions to expand across the Southeast.

Jamie Weeks, the founder of Founders Row and a former franchisee of Orangetheory Fitness, recognized a significant gap in the fitness market geared toward women. After extensive discussions with Mason, the founder of SculptHouse, they identified the need for a concept that goes beyond aesthetics, focusing instead on strength training, education, and community support. This collaborative vision led to the development of LiftHER.

Unique Offerings and Class Structure

LiftHER introduces an innovative approach to strength training with its dedicated lifting-rack model, providing each member with her own station to train independently. Classes will be intentionally kept small, accommodating 8 to 14 women, which allows for personalized coaching and a more interactive training experience. In addition to trainer-led sessions, the studio will offer OpenRack sessions, where members can reserve a lifting station based on their own schedules.

One of the standout features of LiftHER is the integration of complimentary DEXA scans for every member, facilitating ongoing assessments of body composition and progress. This will equip women with the insights needed to track their fitness journey effectively, further demystifying the process of strength training.

Katherine Mason shared her excitement about the venture, stating, "Women have outgrown being an afterthought in the weight room. LiftHER is built entirely for them." This sentiment reflects a growing trend in female participation in strength training, bolstered by statistics indicating a 150% increase in women's use of free weights from 2011 to 2021. Despite this progress, many women still do not meet recommended strength-training guidelines, showcasing the potential for LiftHER to fill this void.

Community and Support at the Core

At its heart, LiftHER aims to create a welcoming environment free from the intimidation often encountered in traditional gyms. The studio's design and atmosphere are intentionally focused on fostering a sense of community, where women can support each other on their fitness journeys. Betina Gozo Shimonek, co-founder and Head of Programming, emphasizes the importance of consistent strength training: "Strength isn't built in one heroic session; it's built by showing up, season after season." This approach highlights LiftHER's commitment to lasting change rather than quick fixes.

Furthermore, in line with Founders Row's philosophy, LiftHER is part of a broader vision to provide founder-led brands that prioritize community and accessible fitness. This philosophy allows LiftHER to prioritize the unique needs of its members, ensuring they receive tailored support in a joyful atmosphere.

As the premiere Dallas studio anticipates an initial membership of 250 to 300, this limited capacity aims to enhance the quality of training and community engagement. Future plans also include collaborations with SculptHouse, creating dual-studio offerings that amalgamate the strengths of both brands.

A Movement for Women’s Strength

In summary, LiftHER emerges not just as a fitness studio but as a movement advocating for women's strength and empowerment in the weight room. As they open their doors in September 2026, LiftHER is poised to change the landscape of women's fitness, creating a dedicated space where women can confidently pursue their strength training goals alongside like-minded individuals. With its founding team’s commitment and innovative approach, LiftHER is set to redefine the fitness experience for women everywhere.

For more updates and information, follow @liftherstudio on social media.