Emily Campbell competes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. GETTY IMAGES

Emily Campbell, the two-time Olympic weightlifting medallist, is focusing on opening a gym dedicated to youth development and community wellness. Although the 30-year-old from Nottingham remains uncertain about participating in the Los Angeles 2028 Games, her post-elite career is taking shape.

Campbell’s commitment to her new project comes just a week after she clinched the final medal for Team GB at the Paris Games. Her bronze in the women’s 81kg category added to her impressive tally, which includes a silver medal from Tokyo 2020. Since then, she has shifted her focus from the Olympic stage to her local community, returning to her training base in Alfreton, Derbyshire.

Emily Campbell has two Olympic medals under her belt. GETTY IMAGES
Emily Campbell has two Olympic medals under her belt. GETTY IMAGES

In an interview with BBC East Midlands Today, Campbell revealed her aspiration to open a gym that prioritises youth and community engagement. “I want to be more than just an athlete,” Campbell explained. “I would love to open my own gym, primarily for youth and development, but I want anyone to have the opportunity to walk into a space where they can learn weightlifting, gain physical literacy, and live a healthy lifestyle.”

Campbell’s ambition to create a lasting impact is being supported by the newly established ChangeMakers fund. This initiative, backed by the National Lottery, UK Sport, Team GB, and ParalympicsGB, provides £100,000 ($129,434) in funding for community projects. Campbell’s application to this fund reflects her commitment to fostering positive change and leaving a legacy in her local area.

Campbell poses on the podium during the victory ceremony the Paris 2024. GETTY IMAGES
Campbell poses on the podium during the victory ceremony the Paris 2024. GETTY IMAGES

“This is the first time we’ve undertaken a project that I believe will make a real difference,” Campbell said. “It’s not just about having athletes visit schools and pose with medals; it’s about building something enduring that will benefit our communities long-term.”

Her enthusiasm for promoting body positivity and encouraging a wide range of people to engage with fitness is clear. Campbell’s plans for the gym are designed to be inclusive, providing a welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their background or experience level.

Despite her focus on this new venture, Campbell is still reflecting on her future in competitive weightlifting. With the Los Angeles Olympics four years away, she acknowledges the significant decision she faces about whether to continue her Olympic career. “It’s a big decision that my team and I need to discuss,” she said. “I’m in my 30s now, and there are other goals I want to achieve. I need to consider whether pursuing another Olympic bid is the right choice at this time or if it might be better to focus on other opportunities.”

Before making any final decisions, Campbell plans to take a short holiday to relax and enjoy herself. “I’ll take some time off, indulge a bit, and then have a debrief with my team to determine what comes next for me,” she added.