Bay Strength - Berkeley, California

Krisanne Combs

I've been a Bay Strength member for about a year, coming in 3x/ week to build strength and stamina and keep myself as mobile as possible as I get older. I was seeking a gym that was inclusive, welcoming, and free of diet culture B.S. I have absolutely found that in Bay Strength. I am able to work out at an incredibly well-equipped gym, with a great community, and fantastic coaches. No one's out here telling me I can't be a fat person working out if I don't want to lose weight. I'm free to focus on my goals, without having to dodge someone trying to convince me to join a weight loss challenge or buy some diet supplements. We need more spaces like this where people can focus on being stronger, and I'm glad Bay Strength is among those leading the way.

Sammy Park

I have been lifting at Bay Strength little over a year, and one of my favorite things about the gym is how the coaches ask what your goals are and update and adjust the individualized workout plans according to what you would like to focus on. The coaches and lifters at the gym are very friendly and supportive of each other. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to learn how to lift!

Felicia Lopez

I’ve been going to Bay Strength for a year and a half and it’s my favorite gym of all time. So welcoming, kind, and goofy ?! The coaches are very supportive and knowledgeable, and the gym has very inclusive policies and clear list of a lifters rights and responsibilities (see picture). The people taking classes here are all ages, identities, shapes, and sizes. The learn to lift class also makes it way less intimidating to get started. If you can’t tell, I really cannot recommend this place enough! ❤️

Ruby Chen

I’ve been coming to Bay Strength for almost a year and a half now and this has been the best decision I’ve made for so many reasons! I was a new runner back in 2022 training for my first marathon, and soon felt that my knees and ankles were giving away due to the hills. I decided to try weight training to build strength and prevent injuries. Weight lifting sounded intimidating in my head but it became a very interesting exercise after taking Katherine’s learn to lift class. She is not only welcoming and supportive, but also demystified how lifting works by visualizing the mechanism of the body - which is exactly my learning type. The inclusive environment at Bay Strength and the community here really helped me get out of the shelter-in-place lows. The coaches are very knowledgeable and supportive. It’s easy for people to start going to a gym, but it’s hard to keep going back consistently. I’m glad Bay Strength exists to make continuing lifting a very easy activity to keep going!

Chelsea Preble

I love this place so much! As someone who has always been intimidated by weight rooms at most gyms, I immediately felt at ease and welcome at Bay Strength. The coaches teach you and correct your form in a positive way that is so encouraging, you never feel self conscious. They'll help you with alternative exercises or modifications if you ever need it. It's also so nice to not have to plan out your workouts, since the coaches lay everything out for you. They make it easy so that you can just go in and have fun while working at your own pace.

The absolute best part of this gym is the people. I've made so many friends and we're always laughing and chatting and being silly. We cheer each other on, celebrate PRs, and crack jokes between sets. It's a true community, and I always feel so uplifted every time I'm here. Joining Bay Strength was the best decision I've made in a really long time, and I'm so grateful to be a part of this beautiful place.

Lindsey Bergamaschi

I have been with Bay Strength for under a year, and it has been my haven in the chaos of everyday life! I came in after having several injuries in the past, and the program and coaches have helped me lift safely and get back on my fitness journey. The coaches go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels supported and valued in the community, and I've felt a sense of community from the coaches and members alike. It truly has been something I have not been able to find in any other gym.

Mitchelle De Leon

I mean, the 5-star reviews say it all. Bay Strength is a special place, and strength training here is always one of the highlights of my day. I started with the Learn to Lift class, and Bay Strength has this magic that actually made me look forward to going to the gym. It really speaks to how the coaching team has cultivated a truly inclusive environment, as well as an overall positive and vibrant atmosphere.

Alicia Roy

Bay Strength is a clean, friendly, supportive gym! I was new to weight lifting and the "Learn to Lift" course plus coaching were incredibly helpful to making me feel safe and comfortable with the exercises and equipment. The community of lifters and coaches is amazing and I'm so happy to have found Bay Strength!