First Row Fitness

Council Bluffs, 4040 Rivers Edge Pkwy Suite 101, Council Bluffs, IA 51501 | ★ 5 (53 Review)

📞 +1 712-314-4959

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Personal trainer Fitness center Gym Nutritionist Physical fitness program Pilates studio Weight loss service Women's personal trainer Yoga studio

About the Club

MOVE BETTER. FEEL BETTER. LIVE BETTER
Sustainable Fitness for an Active Life.
We specialize in longevity training through both personal training and low-impact group fitness classes. Join us for strength training, indoor rowing, indoor cycling, yoga, and pilates.
Please feel free to message us for a free consultation.

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Reviews

Jean Hobus

★ 5

I personal train with Tami at First Row Fitness twice a week. The trainers and facility are outstanding. They tailor the workouts to your goals and provide instruction and encouragement as you accomplish things you didn't know were possible!

Source: Google

kathy Rieger

★ 5

The BEST trainers in the world in a fantastic facility! Don't fool yourself that you can improve your strength, flexibility, and cardio muscle by watching videos and walking around the neighborhood. We all need a place to go where there is camaraderie, support, the right exercises with the right equipment. Sign up at First Row Fitness today!

Source: Google

Carol Horner

★ 5

I have been a member of First Row Fitness since 2016. Many things have kept me engaged for all those years. First, the workouts are challenging and safe. Second, Carrie stays abreast of the latest research about fitness and nutrition and shares that with us. As a 60-year-old woman, this is huge for my health and wellness. But, I think the most important thing is that there is this wonderful sense of community that we feel like we belong to.

Source: Google

Kendra Taylor

★ 5

I started First Row Fitness about a month ago. I was looking for a class atmosphere where I could be pushed. After one class I knew I was hooked. I currently try to make it to 4 classes a week! Sculpt, REPS, and Sit all give me a variety to keep my body moving. Everyone has been more than welcoming! Joining a new gym can be intimidating, however at First Row fitness every age & body type are welcomed! I love it there.

Source: Google

Andrea Harper

★ 5

Wonderful place for fitness expertise and a place to find community and pathway to wellness!

Source: Google

Becky Fields

★ 5

First Row Fitness - they know what they’re doing. I’ve been a member since 2017 and I am still learning something new on how to improve my overall health. The Certified Trainers, Carrie, Tami, Michelle, Tiffany and Eileen can help you get healthy and fit at any stage of your life. The classes are small and we get a lot of attention. “All Are Welcome” is true and backed statement. If you want to get healthy, feel supported and laugh a lot, come join First Row Fitness today!!

Source: Google

Debra Plugge

★ 5

I found the fitness center very friendly yet also professional. The attention to details is impressive.

Source: Google

Buffy Schupp

★ 5

This place is like no other. I have been with Carrie and her staff for several years. Started out personal training with Carrie and joined the classes once my confidence grew. Carrie and her staff care about their clients while being tough and making it fun ( not sure how they do that) I have formed great friendships as well and they also keep you wanting to go. If you are hesitant about a gym setting and getting lost in a crowd, come to FRF you will not be disappointed!

Source: Google

Mary Foltz

★ 5

First Row Fitness has helped me to live my best healthy life. One on one with Carrie has been just what I needed to find my way to loose weight in a healthy way. Carrie cares. She’s always available with a helpful suggestion….no judgement……just guidance.

Source: Google

Duane Barrier

★ 5

First Row has helped me feel better physically and mentally. The sessions keep my interest such that they make me feel committed to work out. The concentration on my core and stretching has helped tremendously. Tami always try’s to “Cull” the herd by pushing us and Eileen keeps us “Stout” with her workout sessions :). All awhile Carrie manages all our care for overall wellness so we don’t feel like old “McDonald”! Thanks for all you do!

Source: Google

Paulette Barrier

★ 5

I started at FRF 11 months ago and did personal training with Tami for 12 weeks. She was amazing and has the best personality to keep you motivated and wanting to keep going. After 12 weeks I started going to small group sessions. These sessions have helped me stay focused, have more energy, sleeping so much better at night, keeping up with my grandkids and no more joint pain! I have more confidence about myself!! I cannot say enough about FRF!! I workout the most with Tami and Eileen and mix it up with cycling, rowing, core, sculpt and reps. They care about you as an individual and make sure you are doing it correctly so you don’t hurt yourself. Getting weights in and cardio and working on your core is s great way to have fun with it! You can sign up with what works best for your schedule. Having that flexibility is important for me. FRF has helped me mentally and emotionally and my outlook on life is better now than ever!! Thank you all for what you do!! All of your staff is amazing!

Source: Google

Jacqueline McCloud

★ 5

I have been at First Row for 5 months and it has been the best 5 months of getting health. I love the atmosphere and LOVE how welcoming they are to each and every individual that attends their sessions. It truly feels like you’re working out with your friends and not just some random people. It’s hard to get up every morning, but they truly make you enjoy your workouts. Tami and Carrie not only make sure you are doing your workouts right, but also give you so many compliments on how much stronger you are getting.I Love going to the gym, even at 5:15am 4 days a week!

Source: Google

Patty Scarpello

★ 5

I’ve been a member since day #1 at First Row Fitness and is the best decision I’ve ever made! Not only is Carrie a fantastic leader. She has all of our health and fitness in mind when she outlines the programs. I know I have gained so much knowledge in regards to just fitness in general, but also the knowledge of what I need to really work on for the rest of my life So I can continue to be as healthy as I can.

Instructors at First Row are top-notch, and I love taking classes from all of them as they also live the first row way!

We also have very welcoming people at first row —we all want to make sure that any new people feel as welcome as possible and are always there to help people in class…we are a family!

Source: Google

Brooklyn Westenburg

★ 5

Carrie and the team at First Row Fitness make you feel like family! They will undoubtedly help you feel more confident in the gym and are relentless in the pursuit to provide value in the lives of their clients!

Source: Google

Scott Cordell

★ 5

The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. They will help you exercise correctly and make necessary accommodations for injury or fitness level. They have lots of equipment and use the rowers a lot. The classes are small which is a plus for many reasons. Carrie, the owner, is really making the facility high quality.

Source: Google

Kris Stamp

★ 5

After losing my husband of 47+ years suddenly I was really struggling 😞. Joining First Row Fitness has been the best thing for me, both mentally and physically!! I love/look forward to my twice a week 7 am workouts with personal trainer, Tami; Even when I’m on vacation, we workout via Zoom!! And Saturday morning group Flow yoga is a great way to begin the weekend; Sunday evening Restore yoga is a perfect way to end the weekend.

Source: Google

Steve Dunham

★ 5

First of all let me say, from the trainers to fellow participants, the atmosphere at First Row Fitness is welcoming, encouraging, and motivating. Their new facility at 4040 River's Edge Parkway in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is clean, open, and modern.
I have been a member 1 year and a few months and have improved strength, flexibility, endurance, and mental wellbeing. The knowledgeable trainers listen to you to help you set goals and achieve them.
The small class size allows the trainers to be sure you practice proper form and technique. They make the work fun!
First Row Fitness Rocks!!!

Source: Google

JUDY HEITHOFF

★ 5

I love the open feel of FRF's new space. It is light and you don't feel crowded next the other people working out. The trainers are highly engaging and knowledgeable. There are a wide variety of classes offered, not just rowing.

Source: Google

Jason James

★ 5

First Row is an amazing place, I have worked with Carrie McDonald for over 10 years and she has changed my life in a great way when it comes to my health. I recommend this place to everyone. I also love Tami Cull that works at First Row, she makes working out fun, and for me, I am not someone that loves to work out, I do it because I know its what best for my health. I always enjoy seeing Tami at our morning classes.

Source: Google

Bob Leeper

★ 5

I started personal training, with Carrie, at First Row Fitness a little over a year ago. Before that, I had never sought out a trainer; and I had no idea how much it would impact and motivate me. I’ve since moved on to small group training at the beautiful, new River’s Edge facility. Carrie and her trainers are professional, educated and caring people who personalize my workouts. I highly recommend First Row Fitness!

Source: Google

Angelia Davis

★ 5

The coaches are knowledgeable, encouraging and truly care about our fitness goals and well being. Their classes are designed to meet any fitness level. Come check them out. Thanks so much FRF!

Source: Google

Roy Tiarks

★ 5

It’s a great place to go. Just love the row family and everything about it. It makes me feel good about myself

Source: Google

Lisa Steward

★ 5

Been one of the best decisions I have made. Carrie keeps me motivated and wanting to do more.

Source: Google

Kathryn Marvin

★ 5

If you are looking for a full body work out, great guidance and a variety of work outs look no further!

I have been a member of First Row for 4+ years. And I honestly don’t know what I would do with out it. I started because I wanted to try rowing, and I stayed because of everything else. I love rowing and how it has helped me mentally and physically. But, the other classes keep me strong and powerful.

The variety is great. Everything from Yin-Yoga to HIIT classes. And lots of rowing in between. The work outs are great for beginners, and even for someone with injuries. Carrie helps guide you on so many levels. With any injury or medical issue I have had she keeps me involved and keeps me motivated.

Class sizes are small so it’s personal and you don’t get lost in the work outs. The instructors help guide you to a successful workout. And the community of people at this gym will keep you there.

The new space is amazing. It’s bigger and beautiful! Lots of new equipment and class formats to keep everything new. Come check it out!

Source: Google

Kris Stamp

★ 5

If you are looking to feel better, both mentally and physically, I highly recommend First Row Fitness!! They have amazing trainers and offer a variety of group classes, personal training and nutritional guidance.
After I caring for and then losing my husband, I found myself struggling with what to do ☹️
A friend and a relative both suggested checking out First Row Fitness but, I thought since I was 67 years old, I was too old. WRONG!!!! My joining was the absolute best thing I could’ve done; I can’t believe how much better I feel and sleep!!!! I meet with Tami, my personal trainer, twice a week; she’s knowledgeable, amazing and so caring. I love the Saturday morning Flow Yoga class; it’s a great way to end the week!!

Source: Google

Bobbi Calderon

★ 5

FRF, is a place of strength, dedication and support. You walk in the door and know that you are going to walk away with more power and satisfaction. 4+ years and I can do more today then I have in years past, that is because of the instructors at FRF. This is one of the many things I have been able to do because of it!

Source: Google

Karen Zimmerman

★ 5

I joined First Row in June and it was a great decision! Everyone is so friendly, helpful, encouraging & motivating! I feel better, am sleepy a little better, have lost a little weight and am getting stronger. It's been good for my self esteem as well. I love the small groups because it had been a long time since I worked out so I was intimidated. I didn't feel uncomfortable at all. I would highly recommend First Row!

Source: Google

Cindy Rae Mathiasen

★ 5

First Row Fitness put me first! Paying attention to small details to help me push myself without injury. I’m 68 and feel fit and healthy!

Source: Google

Nancy Schulze

★ 5

I have been going to 1st row for over 6 years. I have been happy with the personal training, classes and nutrition coaching. Carrie takes her time with you and modifies exercises to fit your needs. I recommend 1st row for anyone that is either starting to exercise or has been exercising for a long time.

Source: Google

Kelli Deere

★ 5

Joining First Row Fitness was the best decision for my health! I have made more progress towards my goals than I ever expected to and the team is supportive and motivating.
The classes are fun and fly by, but the results are real. I just signed up for a full year.

Source: Google

Brad Nocita

★ 4

It is hard to explain what 1st row has done for me. Going to First Row has not only led me to increase my Level of fitness. First row has challenged me to set goals for my life and has changed my outlook on life. Brad N

Source: Google

Amanda Koch

★ 5

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Amy Pitzer

★ 5

FRF offers rowing, strength training, yoga, personal training, weight loss challenges, remote training and more. Group training sessions are small in size so you get plenty of attention to ensure everyone is safe and practicing good form. If you are looking to get healthy and get in shape, look no further! Every day is another chance to get stronger, eat better, live healthier and be the best version of you! Let First Row Fitness give you the jump start you need!

Source: Google

eileen stout

★ 5

I am doing things that I didn't think I would ever do again. I had low back issues and if it wasn't for carrie and her team it would be difficult to walk much less lift again. She gets to know her clients so she can help them to achieve their goals. Shout out to her team! And I can't wait to use the reformer. All cardio is low impact unless you want to make it harder she will give different options. By the way, I will soon be 63 and I can get up from being on the floor very easily.

Source: Google

Sandy Graybill

★ 5

Everyone at First Row Fitness has been GREAT!! Not just the instructors but also all the other members!!! Excellent instructors who CARE about your own health and well being!! They help you in teaching proper form and technique so you can improve your strength and flexibility at YOUR desired pace. They make it FUN!!! Each class I have attended from Reps, rowing, fitness and yoga I continue to learn. I cannot believe that within a month how much my strength, flexibility and over all feeling good has improved!!! Joining has been the best choice I have made for myself in a LONG time!!! THANK YOU Carrie!!! And your entire TEAM!!!!

Source: Google

Cindy Colpitts

★ 5

Love the classes and the positive atmosphere! Tami is one of the best instructors I’ve ever had! So motivating!

Source: Google

Rebecca Liston

★ 5

Tami leads class in a positive way that makes you want to work out harder and come back tomorrow!

Source: Google

Melinda Alitz

★ 5

If you want to change your body and your life, First Row Fitness is the place to be! The team is dedicated to serving their members with anything related to exercise and nutrition. The classes are small and the instructors are walking around helping members grow and be safe. Tami is so positive, knowledgeable and able to adapt the exercise to meet people where they are but still get the targeted muscle group worked.

Source: Google

Mackenzie Bolton

★ 5

Tami is great fitness coach!

Source: Google

Tami Cull

★ 5

Carrie McDonald will help you set an meet your fitness goals! No matter what your level of fitness you will feel welcomed and challenged! It’s a great community with great support from everyone

Source: Google

Kathy Rieger

★ 5

If you want to change the way you feel about yourself, consider First Row Fitness as a starting place. With a commitment to change and the support of the instructors and others in the classes, you will see change happen. You will learn how proper fitness can change how you feel, how you look, and how you can stay strong as you age. Don’t wait! It’s the best environment for learning and being supported as you embark on a journey of health and wellness.

Source: Google

jd ketch

★ 5

First Row is one of the most inclusive and welcoming organizations I've ever been a part of. Traditionally, most work-out/fitness facilities had felt very stand-offish or downright hostile to me based on past experiences. Carrie, Michelle and the rest of the crew at First Row made me not only feel better about working out, but better about myself. Where I was nervous before about joining a 'gym', now I feel like I'm part of a group.

Source: Google

Phillips Fasteners

★ 5

Carrie and her team at First Row are top notch with a variety of classes for all types of fitness. Facilities are clean and professional in a non-intimidating environment. The classmates are all welcoming and supportive of one another.

Source: Google

Lisa Buckentine

★ 5

If you are looking for a supportive environment to make positive lifestyle changes come to First Row! Carrie will help you set goals and build patterns that make sense and will fit with you for the long haul! No gimmicky diets or workouts here!

Source: Google

Pam Nielsem

★ 5

I love First Row Fitness. From the first day I walked in the door I felt like I belonged there. Carrie is so motivational and pushes you to perform at your highest level. I always look forward to getting up and working out at First Row Fitness.

Source: Google

Deanna Axland

★ 5

This is a top-notch studio! The facilities are very clean and inviting. The staff and members are welcoming and supportive.
The workouts are challenging and do not become boring. The staff push you and are accommodating in showing modified exercises to fit your individual needs.
If you need a place to workout to stay fit, get fit, or reach for higher fitness levels, this is the place to be!

Source: Google

Adrienne Rochleau

★ 5

Carrie is an outstanding trainer and an amazing person! I’ve learned so much from her! She has helped me to break down some walls that I’ve had up regarding taking care of myself first, so that I can be healthy for my family. She’s a holistic trainer and sincerely cares about each of her clients! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Carrie at First Row Fitness to help you to take your life back and get healthy!

Source: Google

Ilona Holland

★ 5

I have been working with Carrie for well over 5 years now. It's First Row Fitness but Carrie offers more than just rowing. You have a great number of combinations to choose from and if you are holding back from attending due to some limitation, the class I attend has a mixed fitness level crew. She's got enough experience, knowledge and credentials topped with having found her true calling and passion that you'll watch her navigate the class, customizing, looking at form and following the whole floor. I don't do this sort of thing and to show up to a class not having attended before, it sure is a welcoming environment too.

You'll also come to see that Carrie is majorly involved in our community and that enthusiasm and support is infectious. You are welcomed into an environment that thrives. Worth every investment!

Source: Google

Kelsey Hamilton

★ 5

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Tami Mendell

★ 5

First Row Fitness is great. Carrie and the other instructors meet you at your level and encourage you be your best self. The gym is always clean and the workouts are well organized and designed to keep you engaged and challenged.

Source: Google

Carol Horner

★ 5

I love so much about being a member at First Row Fitness. There is a variety of types of workouts that keep my body challenged. Rowing is a fantastic full body exercise without the joint impact. The classes, and there are lots of them, challenge you in a very safe way.

But what really stands out about this place is the sense of common purpose and community that the owner, Carrie McDonald, creates. She has that very unique and magical balance between authority and empathy. She builds such strong connections with members and between members that you really feel like you are a part of something special.

It is fun, rewarding, and results happen! At 55 I am more lean and fit than I have ever been.

Source: Google

Dessie Redmond

★ 5

A fantastic place for a workout and great place to have on the 100 Block! Highly recommend, Carrie and her crew are wonderful.

Source: Google

Jim Stoddard

★ 5

Source: Google