★ 1

Source: Google

★ 1

I have reached out to the owner about a refund several times over text and email and not had the messages acknowledged.

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 5

The beat place

Source: Google

★ 5

A great gym and supporting community here. Everyone is super friendly and helpful

Source: Google

★ 5

This is one of the best gyms in entire Chicago . It just feels like family every time I go there . Very convenient location and very reasonable prices. The gym is well equipped and organized with 24/7 access . On top of that they offer different types of group classes such as boxing or in person training . This is a gym for everyone’s needs . Very clean organized and well maintained. Will never change my gym no matter how far I live . Owner Diego is the best .

Source: Google

★ 5

Definitely one of the best gyms I've ever joined. As someone who works haphazard hours, I found it really convenient to be able to get a workout in whenever I wanted since it's open 24/7. Scheduling is my greatest fitness hurdle, so it was nice to never have to worry about that. I felt like the emphasis on community and acceptance there really ushers in a sense of safety that you might not find in most commercial gyms. I found that aspect to be reflected the most in the people I spoke with, whether it be the members that I bumped into while filling up on water or the trainers that gave me feedback on my form during self-defense classes. Speaking of the classes, I've never tried Muay Thai before but it was surprisingly easier to get into than I anticipated. The sweat I worked up during those was greater than any cardio I've ever done (okay maybe that part is just me). Generally, the place itself is pretty clean and well maintained. Outside of the occasional few misplaced dumbbells, I never had any issues with the weights and machines. Overall, I would highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 1

Appears they rented a truck to do some renovations. They parked the truck blocking the alley, with plenty of room to shift it over so cars could pass. When nicely asked twice by people trying to drive through if they would mind moving the truck over a few feet, the guy unloading the van said, in a rude tone, “I don’t think we can, we are busy here”.

Great to know you don’t care about the people who live in and frequently visit the neighborhood. There was absolutely no reason to be so snarky either, a simple “Sorry we can’t move the truck now but would be happy to when we are finished up shortly” would have been a million times better. Disappointing way to treat your neighbors.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym, awesome training, awesome experience. Love the fact that this is an Afro Latino owned business . Extremely great experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

I can't say enough great things about this gym. Diego (owner) is incredibly welcoming and helpful. When I first moved to the area I was looking for an affordable gym, but wanted a community-feel. If that's what you're looking for, Strong Hands is the gym to choose. There are a good number of machines, plenty of weights, and cardio equipment. The boxing and Muay Thai is also an excellent choice if you're interested. Coach Christian and Coach Kale are so friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. Everyone who attends the gym and the martial arts classes are all respectful and friendly as well. Especially the trainers! I honestly have never been part of a more well-rounded and welcoming gym in my life. Strong Hands is an amazing space to train, and an even better place to feel right at home.

Source: Google

★ 5

A really solid gym. The people in there are really nice especially Diego, the owner. If you can put up the money for an annual membership, you definitely can't go wrong!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been going to Stronghands for about 5 months, and the results have been amazing. The gym is clean, has a lot of equipment variety, and the members and coaches are friendly. Diego makes training sessions personalized, goal-oriented, and fun! I look forward to every session!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place great people go any time get a great work out in.

Source: Google

★ 5

Really welcoming environment, especially for newer gym-goers. Diego is always friendly and responsive to questions! Definitely a great value for a small community gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am a plus size trans girl. I don’t feel comfortable at any gym and have super social anxiety. From the minute I stepped in the door everyone greeted me with the biggest smile. I felt so comfortable. I love that it’s open 24 hours. I love that it’s super inclusive. I love that it doesn’t have a toxic environment. But most of all I love that it’s my in and out gym when I need to go fast. It’s an intimate gym, so there aren’t a lot of machines but no one over uses them or stays on super long! It’s the perfect gym for doing what you need to do and making connections :). 10/10! Anyone who is feeling like they want community and not to be judged.. THIS IS IT :). Go baby go

Source: Google

★ 5

I was never successful at working out before bc I didn’t know how to, and I always felt so dumb at the gym. My friend told me about this place, and how much he liked it so I decided to give it a shot. My trainer Angelique was amazing. Since the first day she understood my goals, created a workout plan, and gave me great tips to archive what I wanted to do. Angelique was so professional, so flexible with scheduling, and so approachable. Please if you are thinking about training here ask for Angelique 10/10 she’s just great.

Source: Google

★ 5

Sttonghands Gym is easily my favorite place to work out in Chicago. I’ve been a member of some chain “big box” gyms and they frankly do not compare. Stronghands is inclusive, clean, welcoming and FUN. I’ve organized private group classes there for my friends and had personal training sessions. Each experience leaves me feeling challenged, empowered, and eager to return. Hats off to Diego and Dan who make it their personal mission to help clients feel seen, safe and celebrated on their fitness journey.

Source: Google

★ 5

1. Grunting
2. Hitting weights in the floor
3. Having an aggressive behavior

I mean I can continue with this list, but the reason I start my review by mentioning this is because that’s the typical behavior I see and get at most gyms.
I don’t consider myself the most masculine or the most feminine, but I always feel insecure when I do free weights and when I’m surrounded by this behavior.
One of the things that I enjoy at THIS gym is that I don’t see it at all.
I feel very comfortable going and doing my thing without the necessity to be thinking about what I just mentioned. It’s hard enough that we stress on our daily lives so why add more.
Diego has a gym that anyone within the LGBTQIA+ community can feel comfortable. The gym is far from where I stay but because of the level of comfortableness that I get I don’t care the commute.
I personally do recommend this gym and I HARDLY take the time to do reviews. Try it! I’m sure he can give you more details and see what works for you.
Thanks again Diego for makes a safe space for all.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a Stronghands goer for over a year and I can say that I finally found a gym I enjoy going to. The gym is small, but it has everything piece of equipment you need for a full workout. Over the years the gym has attracted a diverse clientele, due to its focus on inclusivity and safety. The staff and trainers are very friendly. Diego, the owners, is perhaps the strongest asset. He is very welcoming and available to help. Personally, I have been training with Diego for a few months now and I am starting to see results from the careful meal planning and exercise routine he devised for me. I would definitely recommend visiting the gym and giving it a try.

Source: Google

★ 5

I found Stronghands after a quick google of gyms in the area, as I was visiting for a few days. Both the reviews here and the gym itself were very specific about it being a queer-friendly space, so I was excited!

I called to ask about day-passes and Diego, the owner, was all for it. I came in, met Diego, and had a great time. Diego was incredibly friendly and the other folks there were lovely! It's a small space but it's got all the essentials for a full-body day, including a space for boxing and bodyweight exercises. If you're looking for a quick session, I'd come in the later morning/early afternoon, as it can get crowded fast during peak times!

It also held up to its promise of being a queer-owned and body-positive gym, which is a hard thing to achieve! I think the tone Diego sets for both the space and for the other trainers really make what could have been just another boutique gym into something that does feel communal and well-rounded. I didn't feel awkward or out-of-place asking questions, bouncing to the music, or smiling at folks! Very happy with my experience and I'm already planning to visit again next time I'm in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great gym for anyone who is looking to get away from the corporate type gyms. I’ll breakdown the review in three parts.

One: The gym owner Diego is great. Very responsive and helpful. He helped me get enrolled real fast and quickly. He got me in touch with Daniel, the gym instructor who is training me.

Two: Dan is amazing, he understands really well what he is teaching and explains each and every exercise. He goes into details on how each exercise impacts different muscles. He is always smiling and happy to answer any question. He is flexible, accommodating and understood very well what I was looking for. I was a bit worried when I started gym because of my lower back pain. I have been going to the gym for 3 months now, I no longer have pain in my lower back and gained considerable strength, all thanks to Dan. I would recommend this gym to everyone who is starting their journey in the fitness world.
Three: The gym is open 24/7 and has everything you need. Bathrooms are squeaky clean. Every member of the gym is super nice and polite.

Source: Google

★ 5

Been going here since September and have been enjoying my fitness journey. Diego helped me with my supplements which I think was a game changer. In addition to that he also set me up with Ivis Rodriguez who is an amazing trainer with great knowledge, and people skills. Everyone is friendly, and respectful of one another here. The space is somewhat tight, but folks are more than willing to move their benches or weights around. Overall, a great place if you're looking for some handholding in your fitness journey and/or not sure where to begin.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out for many years. I have always been associated with larger chain facilities. Never completely satisfied with the level of professionalism found in these facilties, I statrted asking around for a better more professional facilty that might satisfy my needs. An acquaintance told me about this place called "Strong Hands". I stopped by to check it out. What a "breath of fresh air". Strong Hands was exactly what I had been wishing for. A great experience. Personafied the ultimate in professionalism. I found a great trainer to work with,
The owner, Diaego, is a hands on operator who personally makes sure that people accomplish their intended goals.
I could not be happier.
I highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Pleasant gym experience, convenient hours, and having classes for free gives a good bit of variety

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to Strong Hands for close to six months and training with Bianca for the entire time. When I started going to the gym, I was looking for a way to get back on track with my health and fitness. I was one of those people who stopped exercising during the pandemic and I knew I needed accountability to become consistent again. I can honestly say I made the best decision for myself by joining this gym and training with Bianca. It is a very VERY inclusive space where I always feel comfortable to be myself. Even though I’m training alongside professional bodybuilders, I never feel intimidated because that’s just not the vibe in this space. Additionally, Bianca makes it so fun to show up for my twice weekly training sessions. She super good at what she does and she is just a wonderful person on top of it! I highly recommend this gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent gym with really quality trainers! Thanks Diego for bringing an incredible gym to Lakeview!

Source: Google

★ 5

My fiancee and I started here a bit over a month ago, and there's legitimately not a person at this gym who isn't incredibly cool and not full of energy. I gained a lot of weight over covid and became pretty weak, and the trainers have been very helpful in working with me where I'm at now, both in strength/conditioning and in diet.

The place is very accepting, I would suggest it for anyone who feels anxious about their weight/strength and wants to improve themselves.

As a bonus, we came in looking for pure strength/conditioning, and we've just picked up boxing - the staff here is amazing at working with absolute beginners.

Big thanks to Diego and team!

Source: Google

★ 5

After a few years away from the gym and covid pounds i wanted to find a personal training gym to kick off a new program. Strong hands and Diego are awesome. Diego’s positive energy is so inviting and the space and community he has created is great. The gym is never overly crowded and has great energy. I work with Will as a trainer and love him. highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 4

Overall, its a good gym. It's 24 hours which is super convenient and everyone is super nice here. The trainers (if you get one, which I recommend) are receptive to your needs and goals. The gym owner (I think Diego?) is very nice and happy to answer any questions. Also, the price is great and if you can afford it, I recommend just paying for a whole year upfront to save money in the long run.

The only downside is the lack of space. I actively avoid 7-9am and and 4-7pm M-F because there's usually no space to do anything and everything is in use (basically, I'm now one of those people that wake up at 5 am haha). I think just re-arranging the gym would be a dramatic improvement in use of space.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great people. Very chill and welcoming.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Best gym I have ever joined. Love the community there. Honestly as a trans person and fighter, I can't say enough to someone looking to join, just join! If you want to get into boxing or kick boxing and never have, JOIN! If you fought before their coaches are active fighters and are fantastic. Seriously, I can't recommend them enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m someone whose always been a smaller guy, but started putting on weight going into my 30s. I’ve never in my life been a “workout” or “gym” guy. I took a chance on Diego and tried out his gym. After many failed gym memberships and trainers I’ve tried to work with, this one finally worked. He has the experience and knowledge like most trainers do but what’s extra special about Diego is the motivation and connection he offers to not only give you an amazing workout, but he offers the tools to use his trainings in your every day workouts, with or without him. He not only helped me to be more comfortable in a gym, but made me actually enjoy working out. I never in my life thought that would be me. I recently told him he’s a Superhero creating Superheroes and that’s the truth. What he does for his members and his community is nothing short of incredible. I highly recommend Strong Hands and Deigo to anyone. He has the talent to make anyone want to work out and improve their life. I’m just one so many examples.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

What makes Strong Hands Gym so great is that it caters to all people and centers them around one common objective - to break a sweat and have fun doing it. The founder of the gym - Diego - has created a great atmosphere with friendly staff and all the equipment you need to get a great workout in. Highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for an inclusive, judgement-free place to better themselves physically and mentally.

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm working out with a personal trainer twice a week and getting nutrition coaching. So far I love it. The gym has a warm, inclusive, fun vibe. Lots of personality. And there's always some really cool classes taking place. I definitely prefer this over corporate chain gyms.

Source: Google

★ 1

I found an ad for Mathieu Lekina as a coach, I connected him, paid what was agreed and we only trained twice out of 10 sessions, now he does not answer my messages, I lost my money by trusting him.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym and great location. Excellent equipment for heavy lifters, LGBTQ friendly, and even has kickboxing/boxing/muay thai classes!

Plus it has parking!

Source: Google

★ 5

Fun, professional and inclusive place to work out and to train clients!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a trainer at Strong Hands for one year. Great place to be. Strong hands is a safe space to be your authentic self. The energy is vibrantly inclusive and encouraging of challenge & working hard. Us SH trainers value connection and growth. Lots of learning takes place here for both trainers and clients. Excellent & encouraging training environment, great equipment, and top-notch coaching. We love what we do.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really enjoy my experiences at Strong Hands Gym. The gym is one cleanest gyms I’ve ever been to! The staff members are kind and always willing to help. I’ve also, had the support of the staff with my goals of becoming a bodybuilder. The gym equipment is excellent and easy to use.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym! - Great trainers, wonderful ownership, and gives me exactly the quality workout that I need. Bianca is awesome btw! Highly recommended

Source: Google

★ 5

Super professional and clean atmosphere. An amazing gym for people that want to work out amongst other dedicated athletes! Great communication from the owner and the rest of the staff. I love this gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member of this gym for about 2 months now. I came here to train throughout my offseason (I row in college), and I can proudly say that I am in the best shape of my life thanks to Strong Hands! The gym has all the equipment you'll ever need and everything is always clean and orderly which is always appreciated! The staff is very kind and personable, you can tell their all very passionate about what they do. What really sets this gym apart from the rest is the fact that everyone is there to work, it's a completely judgment free establishment and I will definitely be back at Strong Hands for my next off season!!

also, the fact that the gym is open 24/7 is amazing! It completely takes away the stress of having to make it to the gym before it closes and you won't have to rush through your workouts!!

Source: Google

★ 5

By far not only the best gym but beyond the best staff. The classes are incredible and the one on one training cannot be beat in the city. We have had two different trainers at the gym and they are both amazing. Diego focuses on FORM, FORM and more FORM!!! Plus the healthy eating aspect. Nothing but positive energy when you walk through the door.

Source: Google

★ 5

An amazing gym experience! I've really been able to take control of my weight loss and feel really affirmed in such an inclusive and diverse environment.

Training with Diego has been the best. I truly feel like I'm learning and understanding how to take care of my body and am getting stronger everyday.

Source: Google

★ 5

The number one place for a trainer to take his business to the next level.
With expertise and great and versatile equipment, this provides a great place that will benefit not only you, but your clients as well.
This gym will take your career to new levels.

Source: Google

★ 5

24/7 open at a nominal membership price which is awesome. Great owner. This gym has classes everyday. Love the kickboxing class by Nam Ho. If you are into MMA, will definitely recommend this as it also has some amazing personal trainers.

Source: Google

★ 5

5 Stars! What really sets this gym apart for me, are the staff of personal trainers, who give their clients the tools, drive, and motivation to help them reach their fitness goals. I have achieved more results in the last year at StrongHands, than I have with big box gyms for many years. 24/7 access, classes, clean, LGBT+ friendly, and strong sense of community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I were looking for a locally owned gym after recently moving to the area.

The space is cozy but works well for standard weightlifting routines. The classes are held in an area separate from most of the equipment so it's easy to stay focused. The owner, Diego, is incredibly friendly, and he provides plenty of rags and sprays to keep everything clean through covid. The community seems close and supportive.

Highly recommend to anyone looking for a gym through covid and beyond.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym has been an amazing outlet for me. Very well laid out floor plan and great equipment. The staff is amazing. The owner gives back and cares about our community. I also highly recommend the personal training. I am in the best shape of my life and owe it all to the workout plans and classes at Stronghands. Truly a “fit fam” community.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started going to StrongHands in the beginning of June utilizing doing personal training with Diego (the owner) and I’m already seeing results. I would 5/5 recommend the personal training they offer. The cleanliness of the gym is perfect. The bathrooms/showers are spotless. The gym is very organized and well maintained. I highly stronghands.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great staff, friendly members, a super clean environment and everything most people need to have a great workout. I highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I found this gym recently and am so happy I did! I am doing personal training with Diego and he is really motivating and professional. He is also flexible with scheduling which is nice when you have a busy schedule to work around. The gym has new equipment and is really clean and friendly - great sense of community!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym with amazing staff. Very professional environment with organized ownership and a focus on working hard and being considerate. Every time I go in the the gym is a bit nicer than the last time.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 5

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★ 2

The place has changed so much lately

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★ 2

The place has changed so much lately..

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★ 1

Poor quality of equipment and the stuff is rude

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★ 5

Love this place! So close to home I can jog there no matter how cold it is. Great environment, super cool owner, unbeatable price.

Source: Google

★ 5

Couldn’t love this place more! The entire staff goes out of their way to make their clients feel welcome and comfortable. I’ve never felt more comfortable at a gym in my life! Diego and team do a great job curating workouts and classes, I leave feeling accomplished everytime I walk out the door. They go above and beyond in understanding your goals and helping you meet them. Highly recommend this place to those in the Lgbtq+ community, you’ll always be welcomed at strong hands.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym and atmosphere. Diego and all the trainers are very welcoming and super knowledgeable. The classes awesome too, they’re always challenging and fun.

Source: Google

★ 5

Really happy with this gym! Everyone introduces themselves & you get to know everyone. All the couches are great. The classes are awesome. Definitely recommended!😇

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym. Clean, new. Great coaches. All classes are really good, hard

Source: Google

★ 5

I am absolutely in love with this gym and the staff is incredible, as well. It’s the perfect size gym, they have very well lead classes, it’s actually clean (all of the time), and they do an incredible job of making everyone feel welcome. Even the clientele is great. And...there’s free parking, yay! Can’t beat the price for this type of atmosphere and having 24 hour access. Hands down, best gym I’ve ever been a part of.

Source: Google

★ 5

There are many reasons why I give Strong Hands five stars. I’ve been to quite a few gyms in my lifetime! And these guys are doing everything right. The space is clean, inviting, and not intimidating. The layout is very cool and has a good flow to it. The team that owner and trainer Diego is building is top notch. There are a lot of options for trainers out there now, and in the industries of boxing/Muay Thai/bodybuilding you will always find imposters. But everyone on staff has the chops and resume to back up what they preach. Trainers teaching boxing and Muay Thai have fought. Strength coaches have been in competitions and are still competing. Also, pricing is very competitive and you get a lot for your money whether it’s buying pts or the monthly charge for use of the gym, which is open 24 hours btw. Plus there’s parking! Bottom line is this is a great addition to the neighborhood and you won’t be disappointed by trying out a class or a personal training session with literally anyone there. This gym will be around for awhile! Check them out.

Source: Google