From moulding minds to sculpting powerful bodies

Kindy teacher turned powerlifter trades in classroom to open her own gym in revamped Parmalat precinct.

Diba Heinrich is the owner of Warwick's latest gym, Ironside Industries, located at the Parmalat precinct.

WHEN Diba Heinrich decided to have a crack at powerlifting, she had no idea it was a move that was going to change her entire life.

Her foray into the sport that pits you against yourself not only led to her becoming a state champion but was the catalyst for her opening Warwick's newest gym, Ironside Industry.

The latest addition to the Parmalat precinct and joining Weeping Mulberry which opened in July, the gym opened its doors this week.

Mrs Heinrich boldly traded in her career as a kindergarten teacher for a chance to follow the industry that has quickly become more than just a sport to her.

"When I started powerlifting and going to the gym, I found a passion for lifting and loved that social side of the gym and being with friends.," she said.

"Powerlifting is such a supportive sport and you have your crew around you - everyone supports everyone."

It is that mateship of the sport she loves that Mrs Heinrich and her husband Ben want to bring to their gym.

All of the equipment in the gym was trialled and hand-picked by Mrs Heinrich, who said she wanted people of "all walks of life" to feel comfortable and confident walking into her gym.

Mrs Heinrich said the building's industrial feel and statement mural featuring a phoenix by renowned talent Matty Bro Art, were important to the overall feel of the gym.

"When I was looking for a location, I wanted something different," she said.

"You just get a feeling when you walk in here, that it's just not a normal gym. It's a little bit more than that."

Mrs Heinrich said she wanted to bring some fun new things to the Warwick gym scene, including specialised equipment like a belted squat and other perks, like an in-house sauna and members' area for relaxing after workouts.

More info on Ironside Industry at 4661 1129.

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