Episode 7 - Cheaper Than Therapy: Dima on Weightlifting, Mental Health & Trusting Your Body

In this episode of The Snatch Chat Podcast, Coach Oates sits down with Dima; a dedicated weightlifter and executive director working in human rights, to explore how weightlifting became more than just training… it became a lifeline.Dima shares her journey from gymnastics and CrossFit into Olympic weightlifting, the technical challenges that kept her hooked, and the powerful sense of community she found along the way. We also dive into the mental health side of training, including her experience with postnatal depression and how lifting gave her a way to disconnect, rebuild confidence, and feel happier in her body again.With the pressures of a demanding career and motherhood, Dima explains why training isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. As she puts it: “It’s cheaper than therapy.”This episode is a must listen for anyone who trains not just to lift more weight, but to live better.Key Takeaways:• Trust your body — it’s capable of amazing things• Weightlifting is a journey, not a destination• Training can be a powerful tool for mental health• Find a coach you trust and connect with• Make fitness part of your family’s storySound Bites:🗣 “It’s cheaper than therapy.”🗣 “I’m happier in my body generally.”🗣 “Trust your body — it’s amazing.”⏱ Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Dima’s Journey02:50 — From Gymnastics & CrossFit to Weightlifting05:55 — Finding Community Through Training09:42 — Mental Health, Motherhood & Lifting19:23 — Falling in Love with the Technical Side25:06 — Goal Setting & Staying Motivated35:44 — The Bigger Benefits of Strength Training52:11 — Advice for Women in Fitness