Fitness & Gyms in Portland, OR

“After joining Industrial Strength's BJJ program, I have been able to bring resistance training into my fitness routine, with a great crew of welcoming training partners and fantastic coaching by Tony. There's no ego nor pretension, just solid instruction with good camaraderie. Tony keeps the place clean and organized, with ample space to change and clean up afterwards. His method of training is clear and attentive, with a good structure to the class. It's been a pleasure to get back to a fun and healthy activity after so many years.”

“I had been sedentary for years, until last August. A friend had me try a class with her, and I've been hooked ever since--and that was even with me rowing myself off the machine that first class. I haven't moved with joy in a very long time, and I can honestly say, even though I hate a lot of the pain some of the exercises cause (namely you, burpees), I love this gym. I especially love the front desk staff, management, the coaches--all make me feel seen and not an invisible, yet judged, fat kid. <3 Thanks for being amazeballs!”

“Mike is an awesome coach at Cully Strength. He's really helped me learn good lifting technique and has an encouraging way of pushing me to a good edge. And I have heard great things about all the coaches/trainers as well. Great community of folks and a chill gym vibe. I have even participated in some of the social stuff outside the gym and it's been great to get to know folks, and then see familiar faces at the gym. If you're looking to have fun, meet nice people while you work on getting strong as an ox, check this place out!”

“Best gym in Portland!!! Has everything you need and more in terms of equipment. Even during busy times, you can get any machine or spot needed. It’s also super clean and well kept, the staff does an amazing job keeping everything clean, organized and all members spray and clean their space after use :)”

“Reese has been my trainer for a few months this now and she has helped me lose body fat and build my muscles after pregnancy and Taysha at the front is such a lovely face to see on the weekends. They need Deasia back on mornings during the week.”

“My child has been attending twice a week classes for a few years now and I credit the youth coach, whose dedication, skills and positive energy, have boosted the children’s self confidence and physical health.
I also totally appreciate that the gym make room for the fact that kids will come and go as sports sessions fill schedules.”

“Amazing workout and wonderful people make for a perfect experience every time. Lagree Fitness is one of the best ways to train full body in as little as 45 mins and the results are noticeable after only a week. Strongly recommend it.”

“I was a member of an Anytime club in CT many years ago and one of the things that I like a lot is the size of this one. The one in CT was 1/4 the size. That being said the number of machines available for cardio and muscle are impressive! I am a very early attendee to the gym so I do not have contact with staff. However, if an issue arises it is addressed quickly by owner James! I will continue to recommend this gym to all that ask where I go.”

“What an amazing gym. The community is top of the line. The coaching staff are encouraging, motivational, and very educated. All around a top gym around! Thanks Coach!”

“I’ve been working with Salwa for just over a month now and I’m already seeing a huge difference! I have always wanted to learn how to use kettlebells and she’s been fantastic with teaching me the basics and proper form to help me feel confident with what I am doing and to ensure I won’t injure myself. I have always been hesitant with going to gyms and working with a trainer, but turns out I just needed someone I could trust! I have already told my friends about her and I’m happy I reached out to Vive. Great people!”

“Boxing has been an incredible journey! I believe it’s because of the Ballistic Boxing philosophy. One of the best decisions my son ever made was joining this gym and it quickly became one of mine too. What started as supporting him pulled me in right away and became an amazing way to model hard work, perseverance, discipline, and the courage it takes to step into the ring.

Coach Jason is more than just a boxing coach is a true leader. He pushes everyone to be the best version of themselves while teaching one of the toughest sports out there. His ability to meet people where they are, motivate, and communicate across all ages and skill levels is truly impressive. Jason gives you as much as you’re willing to put in, and no matter where you start, you’re never left behind.

The atmosphere at Ballistic Boxing genuinely feels like family. I’m always excited to walk in, train, and see everyone. If you’re looking for a gym that builds skill, character, and confidence, this is the place.”

“As someone who used to do her little HIIT workouts in the 24 Hour Fitness room at 9pm with no problem, and then somehow evolved into one of the most anxious people alive about gyms, this has been a really big deal for me.

For the last like 8 years, I really haven’t done much gym exercise at all because of anxiety, fear, not knowing how to use equipment, worrying about unspoken gym etiquette, and feeling deeply insecure about doing things wrong. I had been paying for a gym membership near my house for 6 months and had gone maybe 3 times total. Two of those times were with a friend, and the one time I went by myself, I left right after my 30-minute treadmill run.

I’ve had such a deep fear of learning how to lift because I’m terrified I’m doing my form wrong and will just somehow keep doing it wrong forever. That fear honestly kept me from even trying.

My friend encouraged me to check out Ironside and connect with Devon, and I’m so glad I did.

Devon really embodies a quote we use in my line of work: “as much support as necessary and as little as possible.” He’s supportive without coddling the anxiety. He knows when to push, when to explain, and when to let me figure things out so I can actually build confidence and skills for myself instead of constantly needing reassurance from the perfectionistic part of me that wants to do everything exactly right.

One thing that really stuck with me was when I hurt my back and felt so embarrassed about it. I immediately wanted to turn inward, skip my next session, and honestly kind of disappear. When I finally told Devon what was going on, his response was so tender, reassuring, and caring that I immediately felt more at ease. It reminded me that even when he’s pushing me to work hard, he’s also very much in my corner and knows how to slow things down when I’m genuinely panicking about pain or injury.

He also has a way of easing anxiety through really simple, clear exercise education that makes everything feel way less intimidating and way more doable. Since then, he’s kept checking in, adjusting things, and helping me feel more solid. And for someone who usually struggles to commit to anything for more than 3 weeks, I think I’m going on week 4 or 5 now, which says A LOT.

Ironside as a whole just feels really, really good to be in. I love witnessing people cheer each other on. I love how welcoming it feels to all kinds of identities and bodies. Even though I’m shy, there’s something about the energy there that feels warm, encouraging, and genuinely supportive. The gym is clean, has all the equipment. Everyone I've encountered has been kind! The more I go, the less anxiety I feel, and the more desire I have to keep getting strong, and engage more with what looks like a close and supportive Ironside community. it feels so good to finally have a gym where I’m starting to feel confident.

Very, very grateful to Ironside and to my Coach Devon.

And the music is always 🔥

If you’re anxious about gyming, don’t know where to start, don’t know what to do, or feel intimidated as hell, go to Ironside for real. And then find me so we can bond over our precious gym anxiety. My Ironside experience has genuinely gotten me to the point where when my partner asks if I want to go to the gym with her, I actually want to say yes — and that is a serious feat.

The confidence and strength is peakinnnnn' 💪🏽”

“I have been a member at a wide range of gyms and Strength Union is my absolute favorite. Culture is great, access is great, the equipment is high quality, and the gym isn't filled with a bunch of unused equipment /amenities. Highly recommend!”

“VC Fitness is an absolutely amazing CrossFit gym! From the moment you walk in, you feel the energy, encouragement, and genuine care the trainers have for every member. The coaches give special attention to your performance — they take the time to correct your form, push you when you need it, and celebrate your progress every step of the way.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced athlete, this is the place to start (or continue) your CrossFit journey. The workouts are challenging yet adaptable for all levels, and the community is incredibly supportive and motivating.
If you’ve ever wanted to try CrossFit, stop hesitating and check out VC Fitness — you’ll be amazed by how quickly you feel stronger, more confident, and part of an awesome fitness family”

“Lovely little gem of a gym. The Rogue free weights and Olympic style lifting platforms is what attracted me most to Peak Performance. Cleanliness is a must and this gym has just that. From steaming the turf to daily vacuum and cleaning Peak is better than most.”

“i love lloyd athletic gym! they are always so friendly and the environment feels super safe. I also love the locker room sauna and the remodel. I am moving and the cancellation process was so easy and the workers were so helpful. Definitely recommend this gym!”

“Welcoming, positive folks. This is my first time going to a gym and in two months I’ve learned so much and feel way better– both in my ability to do life and my mood. Highly recommend!”

“Stretch Lab offers experiences that are not only custom-fit for your needs, but educates around how to best take care of and support that body that you're moving around the world in. I worked with three excellent practioners, Abbey being my favorite, during my time visiting Stretch Lab. I would love to keep visiting, but they helped me realize how my hypermobility isn't serving me and I understand that I need a different kind of support right now. Not only did they meet me where I was at, they taught me what I needed to know in order to be my best self. Once I build my strength back up and rebalance my frame I plan to return - I left every visit feeling lighter and limber and supported.”

“This is long overdue but being a gym rat, I have an active membership at: MAC, PAC, MJCC, Swcc, f45, Barry’s, OTF and Löyly. Thus far, I have not found a platform that provides 1. The program and 2. The Instructor(s) to define and achieve my goals.

This studio has the two most knowledgeable instructors in town in Coach Niko and Coach Lauren. If you take a class, take it with anyone if you want to get a good workout but take it with either of the coaches above if you want to find out what your body is capable of. Before taking my first class, Coach Niko gave me a walk through of the general framework of the class, broke down HRM and actually demonstrated how to use the equipment (I had never rowed prior to OTF).

Great location, and an even better staff. Behind the counter is any number of staff who can swiftly get you checked in and troubleshoot your HRM.”

“I've been coming to PDXStrength since 202. I love the small classes, the coaches and the welcoming environment. Absolutely worth the trek for me from SW Portland to St. John's 3 times a week.”

“Great supply of equipment, clean, comfortable, and there's a diverse
clientele.

I do wish it was open till midnight but I'm grateful they are open till 10 at least, difficult to find places outside of one large chain that's open late.

**Edit** June 1st '26

Dreams can come true! It's open 24 hours now. You can use a key card to get in. I'm a happy night ?”

“Can’t say enough good things about American Top Team PDX. Brought my daughter to drop in for Saturday 9:30 women’s class. She was immediately greeted by Professor Jessi and introduced to the rest of the team. They treated her like one of their own, and invited us both to stay for the team open mat afterwards. It was an awesome experience. We hope to come back when we are in the PDX area again.”

“I'm 46 and I've never lifted anything beyond kids, groceries and mulch. I've always been intimidated by the equipment and the vibe of weightlifting...but I also wanted to get stronger. I'm so glad my friend introduced me to Bridgetown! Jay has been incredibly kind and respectful to me. He's helped me find some routines that I feel excited about and he's committed to my safety and form. The whole community there is welcoming and friendly. No one records their sessions or takes selfies, folks do their own thing quietly and with intention. For the first time ever, I'm LOVING going to the gym! I feel like I've found something better than therapy.”

“Man I loved going to this gym this week! I come to Portland a couple times a year and they gave me 10 passes with no expiration date for $60 plus they are right down the road from where I stay.”

“Great gym very nice and very clean only problem I’ve seen is people can’t seem to re rack there weights but that’s common unfortunately would highly recommend a visit”

“The trainers are kind, motivating, and create an inclusive environment. They encourage you to push yourself but always meeting you where you're at—really appreciate that level of thoughtfulness and energy. The space is clean and inspiring to work out in. I've been training there for a couple of years now.”

“This gym has a genuinely welcoming community and a strong focus on both strength and functional fitness. The smaller class sizes create a friendly, supportive environment where it’s easy to feel comfortable. I especially appreciated how the coach modified my workout to work around a running injury—it made a big difference. A great option for anyone, no matter their fitness level.”

“This studio has the best staff and energy in the Portland area! Not to mention all of the members are amazing! It’s a fun, energetic community of likeminded people pushing each other everyday to be the best they can for each work out! 100/10 recommend!”

“I loveeeee Farzin. I’ve only been training with him for a few weeks so far, but am already feeling a huge difference in strength and flexibility, not to mention significantly reduced stress and better sleep! Farzin has this incredible ability to push me farther than I ever thought possible while making me feel successful and confident the entire time. He’s so kind and motivating, and clearly an expert in his field. I feel so lucky to have him in my neighborhood!Updating after my final (for now!!) session with Farzin — our time together completely flew. Never have I enjoyed working out more or learned more about my body and how to take care of it. I miss Farzin already and can’t wait to be back!”

“First I’d like to highlight I’ve never actually felt EXCITED to get my workouts in during the week until I tried Barre3. (Give this a shot even if you haven’t had success sticking with something in the past!) Been going regularly for over a year and couldn’t be happier with the Williams studio. The instructors are friendly and truly care about your success in the class, whatever that means to you. They cater to different levels within the class without pressure to perform at any particular level. Class is always switching up to keep things from getting stale. Music is great! Sometimes it’s the most fun I have all week. Haha! All love to Barre3 and the Williams Studio!”