#36 The Truth About Strength Training for Women: Brooke Scerri on Muscle, Mindset & Real Results

In this powerhouse episode of the D8 Training Podcast, host Ann-Marie Antic sits down with D8’s very own Strength & Performance Coach, Brooke Scerri, to talk all things strength, nutrition, and what’s really going through a coach’s head when you’re training in the gym.

With dual degrees in Exercise & Sport Science and Nutrition & Food Science, Brooke blends science with real-world experience—helping clients from all walks of life push past physical and mental barriers.

You’ll hear:

• How her internship at the Australian Athletic Centre shaped her coaching style
• The behind-the-scenes story of working with Paralympic hopeful Matt Brumby
• What it’s like training young female athletes and building confidence early
• Why strength training won’t make women bulky—and how to build a better mindset
• Her experience supporting veterans through the Invictus Pathway Program

Whether you're just getting started in the gym or you’re a seasoned athlete, Brooke shares no-fluff, evidence-based advice that can change the way you think about training.

🔑 What You’ll Learn:

• How to break into strength & conditioning from uni
• The power of positive environments for youth in sport
• How movement supports mental health and trauma recovery
• Why every woman should be lifting weights—and not fear the barbell
• How Brooke builds resilience in clients across all levels, from juniors to veterans

Brooke’s Recommendations:

Books

• How Bad Do You Want It?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle by Matt Fitzgerald - https://amzn.to/4o095YV
• The Nevernight Chronicle: Nevernight, Godsgrave & Darkdawn by Jay Kristoff - https://amzn.to/4kPqNve

Influencers

• Lean Beef Patty - https://www.instagram.com/leanbeefpatty/
• The Sports Dietitian Taylor Ryan - https://www.instagram.com/the_sportsdietitian/
• The Fight Dietitian Jordan Sullivan - https://www.instagram.com/the_fightdietitian/

Connect with Brooke:

• @brookescerrisn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookescerrisn/

Learn more about D8 Training

• Website: https://d8training.com.au/
• Join the D8 Training Newsletter: https://www.d8training.com.au/mailinglist

Check out D8 Training's Programs starting from age 10 at:

• Ages 10-14: https://www.d8training.com.au/juniorgym
• Ages 15+: https://www.d8training.com.au/10week
• Adults: https://www.d8training.com.au/adult
• Forever Strength (60+): https://www.d8training.com.au/foreverstrength

Follow D8 Training on:

• @d8training on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d8training/
• @d8training Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/d8training/
• D8 Training on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/d8training/

Connect with Host Ann-Marie Antic:

• @ann-marieantic on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annmarieantic/
• Ann-Marie Antic on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmarieantic/

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🎶 Music: Seize the Day — Licensed via #Uppbeat License Code: 8U2GAGXWDI4FW9M8

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