Strength for life.
Forged by grit with iron.

Barbell-based training rooted in science, experience, and results.

Trusted by lifters at every level

Certified Starting Strength Coach with 10+ years of experience
and 50+ five-star Google reviews from lifters of all ages.

PittStop Strength

Online strength coaching for lifters at every level.

Whether you’re just getting started or pushing toward new PRs, Amanda Sheppard brings over a decade of coaching experience to help you get strong and stay strong.

Her coaching is:

    • Grounded in experience

    • Practical and results-driven

    • Built to adapt as you progress (never one-size-fits-all)

What lifters say about working with Amanda

Amanda has coached teens, busy professionals, and lifters in their 60s and 70s. Here are a few of their stories.

 

“Before I started working with Amanda, I was dealing with chronic illness, injuries, and frequent migraines. Within weeks my pain eased and my strength climbed. After a few months I had a big reduction in migraines, cut my meds and sleep aids in half, and was squatting more than my bodyweight.”
                                              – Nicole

“I’d hit a plateau and couldn’t break through on my own. Training with Amanda completely changed that. In a few months my bench went from 135 to 215, my squat from 155 to 325, and my deadlift from 205 to 385.”
                                           – Sidharth

“I came to Amanda at 60 with chronic low back pain and a doctor who told me not to lift more than 20 pounds. After a few months of coaching, I no longer needed PT or chiropractor visits and now deadlift 160 pounds. I can climb stairs, haul heavy bags, and move furniture without worrying about my back.”
                                          – Jocelyn

Coaching That Evolves With You

With PittStop Strength, you’ll receive:

  • Weekly programming tailored to your goals, schedule, and lifting history
  • Personal feedback on key sets (including screencast form reviews)
  • Real-time adjustments after every session, not just monthly check-ins

Serving clients nationwide. (In-person form checks available in Chicago metro.)

Customized Coaching​

Weekly programming designed aroud your goals, schedule, and lifting history.

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Real-Time Adjustments

Feedback on your key lifts, so you know when to push, pull back, and focus.

In-Person Training

Form checks or personal sessions available in the Chicago area.

Future Gym Vision: PittStop Strength & Conditioning

PittStop Strength will soon have an in-person training space. A home for serious lifters and newcomers alike. While still in planning, the gym will reflect the same barbell-focused, high-standard approach that drives her online coaching. For now, Amanda is fully committed to delivering results through PittStop Strength online coaching.

"Amanda is an exceptional Starting Strength coach. Her programming and technique expertise is outstanding, but what truly sets her apart is her dedication to pushing you beyond what you think you’re capable of."
Martina Lueras

Why Choose PitStop Strength?​

Experience personalized support from a seasoned coach. This isn’t cookie-cutter programming. Amanda’s approach adapts to your needs and empowers you to achieve lasting strength.

Tailored Programming​

Plans built specifically for you, factoring in your goals and lifting experience.

Expert Guidance

With over a decade of experience, Amanda provides coaching and consistent communication to keep you progressing.

Start Your Transformation Today​

Join PittStop Strength for customized coaching and expert support every step of the way.

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