★ 5

UPDATED REVIEW, AFTER SIX MONTHS AT STARTING STRENGTH—BOISE WEST

This last Saturday, November 8, 2025 was my six month anniversary at Starting Strength—Boise West. Thanks to John, Mason, Travis, Tony, and Sam, at the ripe old age of 71 I have made incredible progress in building up strength. Below is my start lifting weight, against my lifting weights accomplished in the last couple of weeks:

Bench press. 70 to 135 (two 45 plates)
Rack Pull. 65 to 225 (four 45 plates)
Overhead Press 22 to 87.5
Deadlift. 65 to 175 (after about three months)

I’ve been able to accomplish the above due to the professional and focused training provided by John and Mason primarily, with additional training and support provided by Travis, Tony, and Sam. Their attention to my lifting with proper form, plus the caring and encouragement they have given me has allowed me to increase my strength in multiples of two, three, and even four times depending of the specific lifting exercise. I know with their continual support and expertise I’ll meet and exceed my goals of 225 for bench, 315 for rack pull and deadlift, and 135 for overhead press.

Not only do they provide the expertise to grow and excel in the physical realm, but they provide the emotional and mental support which is also necessary for successful lifting. They act as counselors. Case in point: A couple of weeks ago I was programmed to bench 135 (my previous to Starting Strength PR). During my warm-ups, I reached one rep at 125–no problem. But after two tries, I missed 135. Needless to say, I was quite frustrated and thrown for a loop. This failure on my part haunted me the rest of the day. Later that afternoon, as I was trying to process what had happened, walking along the Boise Greenbelt, John texted me, telling me I was doing a great job, and stating he had confidence I would successfully lift 135 the next week. John didn’t have to do that, but his words of encouragement and support helped me accept that there will be ups and downs in the training process, and I just needed to accept that and keep working hard. The following Monday, I tried again. I missed the first attempt at 135 but John pointed out it was not for lack of strength, but improper form. I gave it a few more minutes, and tried again, concentrating hard on correct form, and lo, and behold, I got my 135!! I also need to point out the day after I missed 135 twice, though John had scheduled me for rack pull at 205 rather then a PR of 225, after successfully doing 205, he asked me if I wanted to try the four 45 plates. I said yes, and I did it! 225!! After thanking John for allowing me the successful 225 attempt, he said “I decided you needed.a win.” This is the beauty of the Starting Strength program which is effected by professional trainers who are committed to you succeeding and meeting your lifting goals.

So, again, thank you John, Mason, Travis, Tony, and Sam for helping this old guy succeed at barbell lifting beyond my wildest expectations! I money I spend for Starting Strength Training is worth every penny, and I continue to recommend it to anyone who wants to get stronger, male or female, young or old!

And one more thing! My fellow Starting Strength trainees are great people and working out with them along with John and the other trainers is always a lot of fun.

So sign up now and start lifting!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve had an amazing experience at this gym and I think it's fair to say it's changed my life. It's perfect for beginners, older adults, and anyone looking to build strength for daily life. The coaches are incredibly knowledgeable, supportive, and make every class feel welcoming. The bar for getting certified here is an absolute cut above the personal trainers you've met. Thanks for being awesome John, Mason, Tony and Sam!

The coaching sessions are in a group but everyone has their own tailored program designed to help improve strength and bone density which is super important as we age. I have even seen measurable results: my recent DEXA scan showed more muscle and better body composition since I started training here.

What really makes it is the community. With small class sizes, everyone encourages each other, and it is a place where you actually look forward to working out. If you are looking for a safe, effective, and friendly environment to get stronger and healthier, this is the place to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym, great people, and great coaching from the Starting Strength Coaches! I was able to drop in for a class while traveling, and they were very accommodating. This was the second time in the past few years I was able to do so. The first was with Coach John, and this time, Coach Tony guided me through my workout. I lift at home in my garage, and even though I video my lifts for form errors, it's essential to get a coach's eyes on you. I envy those who live close to a Starting Strength Gym. I can't recommend them highly enough - if you want to get stronger, learn the lifts, have excellent coaches guiding you on the way, and have a great community of like-minded people, then Starting Strength Boise is the answer. This is the way.

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Strength Gym is where you want to be if you’re tired of cookie-cutter gyms and want real results in a coached and supportive environment. The facility is set up for serious strength training … and is also quite fun! I love the focused attention from the coaches, the camaraderie with the other lifters, and seeing – and feeling – the noticeable and consistent progress I’ve made in just three months of training primarily with Head Coach, John.

He is an amazing coach! John’s coaching style is direct, encouraging, patient, and highly effective. He points out tweaks for you to make to your form so that you lift safely and for the most benefit. I’ve lifted weights already that I didn’t consider a possibility for me! The other coaches I’ve worked with are also sharp, notice everything, and help fine-tune form, stance, etc. Whether you’re a newcomer, getting back into it (like me) or a seasoned lifter, the coaches customize your workouts based on your goals. They'll push you ... and celebrate you.

If you want to get stronger and you find value in a supportive community on that journey, the mission of this gym and the coaches that embody it make it a great choice and investment in YOU. I encourage everyone to schedule a 30-minute complimentary consultation to try it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Positive reinforcement and willing to modify workouts if needed. Travis and John are amazing and great to have as coaches!

Source: Google

★ 5

Love working with John and sometimes Tony. Looking forward to building strength and muscle.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out at the Boise Starting Strength gym since August 2021.
I am currently 75 years old, and when I started at this gym, I had balance issues, and difficulty standing up from a chair without assistance. I would not get on the floor to play with my grandchildren because of the difficulty I had getting up.
Currently, I am much stronger, have great balance, and I frequently get on the floor to play with my grandchildren 😀.
I travel extensively and have an excellent quality of life. A large part of this I can attribute to my work at Starting Strength. The coaching is exceptional, the gyms are well equipped and clean.
I’m getting stronger every day! 💪🏋️‍♀️😀 Thank you, Travis, LeAnn, John, Tony and the rest of the Starting Strength family!

Source: Google

★ 5

John D. has excellent communication skills to work with every level of fitness. I highly recommend Starting Strenghth.

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience exceeded my expectations with Starting Strength Boise. Having a dedicated workout space, customized coaching and the added benefit of camaraderie with other members would be the top three benefits I've experienced. While the gains I've made in the amount of weight I can lift have been terrific, what I've been most happy with is the level of consistency the Starting Strength program has provided to me. A special thank you to Coach Tony for his help.

Source: Google

★ 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Absolutely love Starting Strength Boise!

Joining this gym was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Every workout was fun, focused, and incredibly rewarding. The coaches are top-notch — knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely invested in your progress. They strike the perfect balance of encouragement and challenge, always pushing you to grow beyond what you thought you were capable of.

What really sets this place apart is the community. The other lifters quickly became like family — we cheered each other on through heavy lifts, celebrated personal records, and supported each other through tough workouts. It’s such a positive, motivating atmosphere.

Not only did I get stronger, but I saw real improvements in my endurance, muscle tone, and overall confidence. The physical changes were amazing — but the mental boost and sense of achievement were just as powerful.

If you’re looking for a place to build real strength, with a team that lifts you up (literally and figuratively), this is the gym to join. Don’t hesitate — just start!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaches, fun environment, good for all ages to start training. if you have joint or back issues they have ways to work out them and even improve them. I have been going for almost a year. Give them a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

First time lifting - great trainers! Great experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

very friendly and professional coaches, they get me to work even though i really don't want to

Source: Google

★ 5

As a 64-year-old man who works on the computer all day as a software developer, I knew I was slowly losing strength. I've had gym memberships over the years, but never really found the motivation to go to the gym, or if I was there, I wasn't sure exactly what to do to workout effectively.

I joined Starting Strength a little over a year ago and it has been an excellent experience. In fact, I'd say it is the best investment in my health that I've ever made. Let me tell you a few reasons why Starting Strength is great:

First, the coaches here are actively involved in planning your training and helping you to achieve your goals. They watch you as you perform the lifts to ensure you are using the proper techniques and they give immediate feedback. They are genuinely interested in how you are doing and will adjust your training as needed.

Second, you have dedicated workout times called a class. For me this has been motivational because I know that I must be there at those times. Plus, there is the same group of people with you in class, and you will get to know them. We cheer each other on and there is a lot of comradery which is also very motivational. Also, during your class you have a dedicated workout station which means you don't have to share or wait for any equipment. This helps to make your workout time very efficient.

Lastly, Starting Strength regularly holds all-gym events that are a lot of fun. For example, last fall they had an event called "The Day of the Deadlift" in which we all attempted to attain a PR in the deadlift. This was a Halloween-themed event, and many people had on costumes and there were a lot of great treats. It was a blast.

I could list a few more reasons, but I'll conclude by saying that over the last year Starting Strength has helped me to be much stronger, and I know I could not have done that on my own. Again, it has been the best investment in my health that I've ever made.

Source: Google

★ 5

Good, clean, well-equipped gym with top-notch coaching. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Great gym coming from a high school football player. Starting strength will boost your lifts, get you more muscle and give you the one on one training you need to make sure you stay on track.

Source: Google

★ 5

WOW...Started with John 2 months ago and what a difference! I'm stronger than I've ever been and even notice an improvement in my posture. I've never lifted weiths before and with John's watchful eye and program, I know I'm in good hands. Thanks to SS Gyms, I hope to hike play pickleball until I'm 100+ 😀

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to this location for around two years and haven’t had a single bad experience to date. Coaches are extremely well trained and friendly, and make weightlifting easy for anyone to understand. I’d highly recommend Starting Strength to anyone looking to get strong, because no matter what ailments you may have, the coaches will find a workaround to make you stronger

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Strength has been the only thing that helps my knee and back pain. I've been training on my own for a while, but today I booked a private session with Coach John. He was able to quickly identify and fix several things with my form, and I feel much more confident in my technique now. John is incredibly personable and helpful, and a fantastic teacher. I can't recommend these guys enough, and I look forward to coming back!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've passed my two year anniversary now, and Starting Strength has been transformative for me! Best coaching ever.
____

I've been here for over a year and a half now. I don't think I could have grown as much without going here.
____

Original Report:
Just joined and my expectations are already being far exceeded.

Source: Google

★ 5

At 55 yrs young, I have spent hours upon hours navigating my own workouts and staying in decent shape. However...it took only a few mins (during the 30 minute intro session) with John to realize I was not optimizing my time OR the technique to gain strength. A tip here...a tweak there...15 reps with ONLY the barbell, and my legs are noodles as I write this 30 hours later. (Ouch!)
Thank you Travis for the invite and THANK YOU John for taking the time to help me see that having a STRONG foundation will keep me on the P'ball Court and Golf Course for many years to come.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym and trainers! Super friendly and welcoming environment, thanks guys!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 5

Honest review after 8 months. I was long time garage gym lifter that wasn't reaching my lifting goals. I checked out SS Boise because I tried several different programs at home and was no longer progressing. I have now set new PR's in several lifts.
- People- Owners, Coaches, and fellow lifters are outstanding and a pleasure to be around. Great atmosphere.
-Gym- The facilities are clean and well organized. One of the best features is a dedicated rack all to your self with the equipment and plates. No waiting for a rack or having someone waiting for you to finish like in other gyms.
-Program- The SS program does what it is designed to do, which is build strength. I can feel the increased strength in just about any activity I participate in. The coaches drastically improved my form for all the major lifts. I soon realized I had been neglecting the squat and press for years. Because this is an honest review there are couple things to consider that I notice. One is diet. To really get the results I want, I have had to increase my protein intake and that can sometimes be difficult (and costly). Two is general soreness after a heavy lifting session. I enjoy lifting so I will just deal with the soreness, but it can put me out for a day or two from doing other activities I enjoy.

Source: Google

★ 5

Working with John, Travis, and Tony has been wonderful. They all take a personal interest in your development. They make you feel like your progress is efficient and safe. In just a few months I fee like a totally different person. Cant wait to see the progress over the next few years.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great form coaching and programming, knowledgeable and meticulous. They'll help you build real strength at any age.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym! The encouragement from the coaches and other members keeps me going. I injured my knee on vacation and was afraid I could not lift. My program was modified and I recovered quickly. My back pain is almost nonexistent. So awesome to lift grandkids, groceries, etc with little effort.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been lifting for many years I have never been able to squat 400#. I started with SS in Jan 2024 and in may of 2024 I hit 400 for 3 reps.

Source: Google

★ 5

The ownership, coaches, and people who work out are absolutely amazing. The process/program works, and it’s one of my favorite parts of the week now.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the first gym where I have looked forward to going to each session. The coaches are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. The cater each workout to your specific needs and abilities. All of the members are fantastic too! If you want to get strong, this is the place!

Source: Google

★ 5

Knowledgable, friendly and pumped the breaks on what I have been doing wrong. I'm ready to learn more! They are detailed and specific which is exactly what I need. I learned more attention to detail from a trainer is imperative. The little details make a huge difference. Starting strength is patient and encouraging. Thank you to all the staff! See you soon!

Source: Google

★ 5

I started strength training later in life and was introduced to the Starting Strength method by a friend. After lifting for six months, I attended a squat clinic at the Boise Starting Strength gym. I decided to sign up for regular group coaching and have been making progress with my form and lifting heavier ever since. I never saw myself going to a gym regularly to lift heavy weights, and here I am looking forward to reaching a new personal record with my deadlift at tomorrow’s session. The excellent coaching has made my experience rewarding and keeps me coming back.

Source: Google

★ 5

SS Boise is the perfect spot for anyone. As a lifter with some experience, John and Travis helped me pass plateaus and avoid injury. There’s also plenty of folks that never thought they’d touch a bar. Lifting with a the same group of people in a session keeps me accountable, lets me learn from others, and the encouragement we give each other makes it all work. But my favorite part is that Avery helped my daughter recover from injury tons more than physical therapy did.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are looking for a place to get strong, this is the place to do it. Coaches are the best.

Source: Google

★ 5

Instructors are helpful, group is welcoming. I really did love it there. The first time I never dreaded an exercise routine & best results. I highly recommend if it's in your budget to join, if not I suggest getting the starting strength book & following the program. Hands down the best in strength training!

Source: Google

★ 5

I so much enjoy all the strength I am rebuilding and most important the form is a priority here to help maintain proper spinal function! As a chiropractic doctor I appreciate the fact that they never loose sight of what is important to keep our spine functioning at its best while increasing strength and longevity!
Love all the trainers but must say John is so amazing and has helped me so much. Appreciate you all!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been aware of and using the Starting Strength Method since 2018. However, I’ve always been a solo lifter lifting in my garage. During a family trip to Boise, I decided to get a form check using the free drop-in session. I was aware of the Boise location from the Starting Strength Gyms podcast.

I met with John in the morning and briefly discussed my lifting history. I decided to start with the squat and deadlift as those are the two lifts I’ve had to self-correct the most over the years. John was incredibly generous with his time. The free session is technically 30-min, but I was there for about 2-hr eventually going through all the lifts (sans power clean). It was great working with John to tweak my technique. I completely understand the value if you have the opportunity to regularly get hands-on coaching at a Starting Strength Gym. John’s explanations were excellent, and I really enjoyed watching him coach other lifters. All in all, I had a very positive experience with John and the Boise gym. I recommend anyone new to SS or anyone who hasn’t experienced hands-on coaching to give them a try.

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Strength has been an incredible experience for my 18-year-old. Brandon and all the others have been so welcoming and great at keeping him motivated to reach his goals this summer. It has been a huge summer win.

Source: Google

★ 5

We visited from Orlando and had such a great time. Coach John was excellent! Thank you!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great community, knowledgeable coaches

Source: Google

★ 5

The trainers are great and work well with a wide variety of people! Very knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend this business to anyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

The coaches are fantastic at Starting Strength Boise! If you are interested getting strong through basic barbell exercises this is the right place. They will help you optimize your back squat, bench press, standing press, dead lift. No gimmicks, or fad programs here, just classic strength exercises.

The members are super friendly and it is an amazing environment. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience with Starting Strength Boise has been beyond my expectations! I moved here several years ago looking for a personal trainer and found the best gym in Boise for my interests and needs. My background is in bodybuilding. Wanting to add more muscle I discovered that powerlifting as a base to my overall program is what works best for me. The personal trainers at Starting Strength are so knowledgeable and have really helped me add strength and increase my numbers. The great thing about Starting Strength is you can come in with no experience in lifting weights and be coached through all the lifts using proper form and getting individual attention. It’s the best gym in the Boise area to get personalized attention in your lifts, enjoy a small class size, and meet some amazing coaches and athletes.

Source: Google

★ 5

I wish I had started going to Starting Strength Boise as soon as I got to Idaho. I am a student doctor and still with my busy schedule, all my lifts have increased beyond anything I imagined. The coaches are friendly and supportive and actually care about your progress. It is a non-judgmental environment and not intimidating by any means. The other students are also extremely kind and encouraging. If you are serious about getting stronger and learning the lifts, I highly recommend this gym. You have a spot reserved, so you do not need to wait for a squat rack. They have the best equipment possible. Not sure what else you want. I've gained 25 lbs while lifting here for only 6 months. My deadlift has gone up 155 lbs, squat has gone up 125 lbs, bench has gone up 70 lbs, and press has gone up 70 lbs. If I can do it, anyone can.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym has been a godsend! The coaches are consistent and well educated. The gym is super clean. I really enjoy the careful training and steady progress that comes from it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Getting stronger every session. They coach you to lift with proper form so you don’t get hurt and work the most muscles. Enjoying my time here.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Aaron was very helpful in teaching me how to deadlift. I would recommend this gym to anyone looking to learn proper form.

Source: Google

★ 5

I came into this gym with a bunch of injuries and medical issues. The highly trained coaches are all so patient with me and genuinely care about how best to train around my limitations. I am so grateful to have found this place! My strength has increased just like they said it would. The coaches and people who work out here are so fun to hang out with....we are like a little family. Coach John even played my crazy music when I was having a hard time getting motivated. LOL...I can't recommend this place enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is an amazing gym with not only top-notch coaches who know their stuff but a really inviting, uplifting atmosphere. I just turned 60 and decided it was time to really prepare for my older years by ensuring I was as strong as possible. I'm loving the results!

Source: Google

★ 5

I dropped in for a class when I was in town on a business trip. I went back and forth as to whether it would be worth the price but I’m SO glad I went for it. The gym itself is impressive—cool aesthetic, great equipment, and super clean. Everyone was inviting and kind. Avery, the coach I worked with, was down-to-earth and warm, not to mention incredibly knowledgeable. The cues and advice were invaluable; I actually took notes because it was so helpful and I didn’t want to forget anything. Avery even helped me get to the bottom of a nagging hip issue I’ve been having for years. If I lived in the area, I would absolutely be a member of this gym. It would be foolish not to. Alas, I am left to wait until a SS gym near my home opens.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have loved my time time at this gym. The trainers John and Avery are top notch. They work with you to help you build confidence in working out. I love the group setting. It made it feel like you were all in it together. The gym is small in a good way. It makes it a personal training session with friends. The equipment is high quality. Everything is clean and organized.
On top of all that, you also have a tracking app to show you how far you have come. You also set your next workout before you leave. This helps put it in your head that you are going to come back and work with no questions on what you need to do. I got excited about my next session and couldn't wait for my next workout. Because of this gym I have found a workout routine that I love.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son suggested that I join the Starting Strength gym when they opened in our area. I'm glad that I followed his advice. I've been progressively getting stronger and building muscle back. The coaches are great. They are patient and professional at explaining how to properly do the exercises to help you progress. The gym is always clean and the coaches are consistent. Sticking with it gets real results. Great program!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been following the SS methods the best I could for about 4 years on my own as I dreamed and waited for a SS gym to open in Boise.
The coaching here is fun and professional. I highly recommend this strength training method. These coaches are helping each of us get stronger and stay safe under the bar by teaching correct lifting techniques.
Follow us on Instagram to see more about this.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

I have been following the starting strength program for sometime now on my own, using the books. I have been stagnating for awhile now. I'm not from Boise but when I came to town a month ago, I gave them a call to see if they could coach my lifts for a session. They fit me right in despite the fact it was the day of their grand opening and were busy getting ready. The coaching staff made some changes to my squat and deadlift. Their coaching was excellent and professional. They were extremely friendly and encouraging. The form changes and the programming tips allowed me to squat a new 5 rep P.R. and deadlift my PR when I was in my 30's. If you are looking to get stronger, please, please check them out. They will save you time through simplicity and and efficiency.

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Strength works, show up and allow it to.
Phenomenal instruction. Evidence-based programming. If you’re looking to gain any amount of strength in a controlled and safe manner, look no further.
I cannot recommend this place enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I had been training barbell with their program at home for 6 months prior to visiting Starting Strength on their opening day here in Boise. My experienced friend had been helping me dial things in but I still had some form issues. Within just a single hour, John coached me through the lifts and opened my eyes to how to execute this program properly. I plan to continue visiting them in the future.

When I first walked in, the entire staff was very friendly and everyone was eager to introduce themselves and welcome me there. My mom (age 56) also came to Starting Strength for her first time with the barbell and David was very good on coaching her. He took the time to address all her questions and concerns.

They have several experienced and educated coaches ready and able to help anyone of any background and age train with barbells safely and effectively. I will recommend this place to anyone who wants to be healthier and increase their strength with the most effective method.

Source: Google