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THE TEAM

Our dedicated professionals

Our team comprises individuals who are not only experts in their fields but also passionate advocates of fitness and well-being who contribute to the rich, supportive environment as part of the HENCH community.

Rory Girvan

Founder

Background

With an academic background in Biomedical Science and Sport and Exercise Sciences and a certification in Nutrition Coaching, and decades of extensive coaching and training experience Rory contributes to our vision and exemplifies the professional standards we uphold at HENCH. He has a rich background in Strength and Conditioning, Powerlifting training, and Nutrition coaching and was recently appointed as The Irish News’ Fitness Columnist.

His journey in fitness includes diverse athletic experiences, from winning accolades in powerlifting (first-ever overall IPF Powerlifting champion for both NI, Ireland and All-Ireland and also winning a silver at the Drug-Free World Powerlifting Championships) and weightlifting (NI Open Champion at 80kg) to competing in high-level amateur in MMA. Beyond physical fitness, he advocates for mental health as an ambassador for charities like Inspire and TAMHI.

Coaching Philosophy

Rory sees strength training as a transformative anchor habit that influences physical health and mental well-being that’s beyond comparison. This belief is a cornerstone of the HENCH philosophy. His passion for the transformational power of strength training and good nutritional habits is rooted in his experiences of losing over 70 lbs in his twenties.

Impact

Rory works closely with the coaching team, guiding and shaping the HENCH methodology based on shared principles. His role involves continually refining our coaching methods and and developing ways to raise the bar for our member’s experiences.

Conor Johnson

Head Strength Coach

Background

Conor brings a wealth of expertise to his role, holding a degree in Sports Development with Coaching and numerous other qualifications from renowned training institutions. With nine years of diverse coaching experience, he exemplifies the professional standards we uphold at HENCH. He is multifaceted coach with expertise ranging from Strength and Conditioning to Nutrition Coaching and Program Design.

His journey into the fitness world was inspired by his love for competitive sports and his innate desire to help others. This passion led him on an international adventure to Qatar, where he lived after university and helped set up and manage a gym. His experience in competitive Judo, both as an athlete and a coach, and his ranking within the top 20 in Ireland during the Crossfit Open from 2016 to 2020 is a testament to his commitment and dedication.

Coaching Philosophy

Conor champions an individualised, science-based approach to training. He believes in mastering the basics, establishing solid habits, and evolving with individual needs and goals.

Impact

Conor leads our coaching team, ensuring exceptional service and a superior member experience. During his years with HENCH, he has helped countless members achieve outstanding results directly and as a mentor for the team.

Jay Malcolm

Senior Strength Coach

Background

Jay received his Bachelors degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences at Ulster University and holds numerous fitness and strength training related coaching qualifications. After graduating Jay continued to spend time learning and gaining knowledge in training to help with his own training and others.

His fascination with strength training began as a teenager years ago, initially shaped by a performance-oriented mindset and an emphasis on athletic development. After a profound shift in his perspective during his university years, Jay learned to appreciate the remarkable benefits of strength training beyond performance – encompassing mental and physical well-being. This personal journey fuels his passion for coaching and enhances his understanding of the various obstacles individuals might face on their fitness journey.

Coaching Philosophy

Jay sees strength training as a transformative journey. He’s committed to making this journey as enjoyable and rewarding as possible for our members.

Impact

His expertise lies in introducing beginners to strength training, and championing a evidence based approaches to the overall coaching process.

Joseph McGreevy

Strength Coach

Background

Joe has received his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) qualification from the NSCA and a Masters degree in Strength and Conditioning at Ulster University. He has experience in Strength and Conditioning, where he has worked with a variety of teams such as Rugby, Gaelic and Netball, in addition to this, Joe also has experience in Powerlifting and Hypertrophy/Bodybuilding training.

His interest in sport and fitness began at a young age when he played Football and Gaelic. This later transitioned into a passion for strength and hypertrophy training – including the science surrounding the topic. Joe originally attended Queen’s University Belfast, where he graduated in Computer Science and spent some time in the IT industry working as a Software Engineer. However, his fascination with the strength world later led him to pursue a different career path, which led him to study Strength and Conditioning at Ulster University and coaching at HENCH.

Coaching Philosophy

Joe ensures that his coaching strategies and methods have a scientific base while also dedicating himself to ensuring members have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

Impact

Joe works closely with the rest of our coaching team to provide members with comprehensive and effective training programs. His unique background in various sports and his commitment to scientific-based coaching methods greatly enrich the HENCH coaching approach.

 

 

Bronagh Donnelly

Strength Coach

Background 

Bronagh has a Degree in Sport & Exercise Science and is a Qualified Olympic Weightlifting Coach. Complementing her degree, she has pursued multiple sports-related courses and boasts over ten years of experience coaching individuals across all fitness levels.

Bronagh’s journey into sports and fitness began at a young age, though not without its challenges. She faced body shaming, struggled with food, and was overtrained during her teenage years. However, these experiences served as a powerful catalyst, leading her to understand the true importance of strength training, nutrition, and fostering a positive body image. These personal experiences drive her mission to help and inspire others to exercise for the right reasons and to build strength and confidence in their own skin.

Coaching Philosophy

Bronagh’s coaching philosophy is centred around the belief that everyone should be able to move and live well. She emphasises the crucial role of strength training in everyday life, noting how the strength, confidence, and skills we gain in the gym permeate our personal lives.

Impact

With extensive experience working with adults of all backgrounds, Bronagh is particularly interested in women’s health and the importance of strength, mobility, and balance training.

 

Ciara

Business Manager

Background

Ciara brings a wealth of experience in business, management and customer service to HENCH. With a degree in Business from Ulster University, her experience spans the retail and leisure industries, and is the tema’s linchpin in managing our diverse business operations.

Impact

As the Business Manager, Ciara is the driving force behind the scenes at HENCH. Her strategic oversight ensures that HENCH operates smoothly and efficiently, aligning our business goals with our mission to make people stronger for life.

Alongside Rory, she has been instrumental in shaping the vision of HENCH from its early days. Her passion for creating a positive impact on people’s lives through strength training is reflected in her tireless efforts to ensure the best experience for our clients and team. Her ability to bring people together and create a sense of community is a testament to her role at HENCH.

Ciara’s is pivotal in steering the business towards sustainable growth while maintaining our core values and commitment to excellence.

 

Join us

A journey that began in 2012, we have helped thousands of people fall in love with strength training by considering the pursuit as something to learn, master and enjoy for a lifetime. We’ve expanded, innovated, and now stand as one of the fastest-growing and most renowned strength coaching gyms in the UK and Ireland.

Work as part of a team of like-minded, ambitious, fun, curious, professional and down-to-earth people who are as passionate about the ability for strength training to change lives as you are.

WE’RE ON A MISSION…

To find those who see strength training as having a deeper purpose in people’s lives! While HENCH is scaling up and on the lookout for:

  • Intern Strength Coach
  • Strength Coach
  • Front Of House Supervisor

We’re searching for those who resonate with our core values and purpose. 

 

What makes a HENCH team member?

Role Modelling: Talking the talk and walking the walk.

 Beginner’s Mind: Leaving the ego at the door to clear the path to continually learn and grow.

Strive for Excellence: Seeking the best tools, knowledge, or skills to do the best work with our members.

Professionalism: Going the extra mile, and holding the standard whilst remaining down-to-earth.

Craic: When your passion, purpose and career are aligned what else is there to do but enjoy the ride?

Our mission? To help each individual we work with become stronger for life.

If you believe in our purpose and embody our values —submit your application below.

Apply Now