Bay Strength - Berkeley, California

Krisanne C.

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.

Chelsea P.

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.

Felicia L.

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! ❤️

Eli W.

I love this gym. It is welcoming to queer folks, women, and people of any size and shape. The atmosphere is fun and the coaches are knowledgeable. It's accessible to beginners and experienced lifters of any age and ability.
No pretense, no bro-y-ness (if that's a word), and plenty of space for folks to be themselves and meet their goals.
I've been going for about 9 months and feel stronger and also much more comfortable around lifting equipment.

Ruby C.

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!

J. H.

I consider my twice a week membership at Bay Strength one of my best life decisions. I’m in my early 50’s and joined Bay Strength about two years ago to help me maintain muscle mass and fight my family history of osteoporosis. Not only have I been able to GAIN muscle and lift things I never thought possible but I’m now a member of a wonderfully supportive lifting community. Bay Strength not only has EXCELLENT coaches who tailor exercises to your needs and abilities but also community peers who are supportive, fun, and respectful. I have gained so much in strength and confidence, and I now consider Bay Strength my “third place” and regularly proselytize to others about the benefits of membership. Bay Strength for the win!!!

Lindsey B.

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.

Stephanie H.

I recently joined Bay Strength after finishing my physical therapy for an ACL reconstruction. While my rehab had gone well, I still needed a plan to build strength. The instructors are exceptional. Everyone I've worked with has been incredibly knowledgeable, supportive, and friendly. I love that I'm learning a entirely new way of moving my body and building global strength in a warm and welcoming community. I couldn't be more impressed with my experience.