★ 5

Awesome place; knowledgeable coaches who are great motivators!

Source: Google

★ 5

World class coaching. Wonderful crowd of folks.

Source: Google

★ 5

I used to use various weight machines casually and inconsistently, I would invariably burn out on whatever exercise plan I tried to come up with on my own. Have never experienced consisent gains in strength like I have in the mere month I have been going to this place. Coaching is always spot on and Michael has an uncanny ability to catch at a glance from across the room whenever I've loaded an incorrect weight on the bar. Would recommend to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have started my strength 🙏 I can now effectively bench my coworkers at any time necessary 🏋️‍♀️

Source: Google

★ 5

I started here a long time ago and learned pretty much everything I now know about lifting at SS Boston. I thought I got good and decided to go to commercial gym closer to my place instead, since SS Boston membership isn't cheap and it is far from where I live. Pretty soon after quiting SS Boston, I stopped coming to the gym, gained weight, and lost my muscle. I tried signing up for other gym classes, hiring PTs, etc. There is just nothing like SS Boston. So I came crawling back. So far, I regretted quiting SS Boston in the first place.

Source: Google

★ 5

I had the pleasure of training today while I was visiting town and I can’t say enough good things about this place. The staff was amazing at coaching my terrible technique and making me work hard while also having fun. The facilities are spectacular. I’d love to come again when I’m back in Boston! Thank you for having me!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place to just get stronger. All ages and all types are welcome here and get the same great coaching. Stick with it and you will get results.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was looking for a gym that offered strictly strength training. Found it!! World class coaching and a supportive community.

Source: Google

★ 5

These guys are amazing. The coaches are terrific. I’m an older guy and never thought I could gain this much strength. I do serious road bike training and the effects have been immediate.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am an almost-70 yo retired grandmother who couldn’t even do a decent squat when I started this program—seriously, it was embarrassing. The Starting Strength coaches and members (of all ages and strength abilities) have only been welcoming and supportive—thank you all!
I have always known strength training is important, and I certainly have spent my share of paychecks on personal trainers in the past, mostly in my 40s; however, I never stuck with a strength program for any length of time…until now! I can honestly say I LOVE doing squats now. After just three weeks in the program, I credit squats for helping me feel more grounded in my body and steady on my feet than I have felt in 5 years. And every passing month gets better and better. I finally feel confident in my ability to keep up with my adorable athletic 2 1/2 yo grandson!
I believe Starting Strength is one of THE BEST INVESTMENTS I have ever made for my health. Call Michael Shammas. He will answer all your questions and treat you with respect and kindness. Most important, he and all of the SS coaches will supervise your form to be sure you are doing the exercises correctly AND will come up with new cues if one form correction phrase doesn’t ‘register’ for you.
Bottom line: You get a proven strength program with a personal coach with a supportive small community for a more than reasonable cost. Seriously, DO IT!

Sent from my iPhone

Source: Google

★ 5

Trusted instructors for lifters of various levels

I've lifted for 10 years before joining Starting Strength. Some of that was on my own, some with other trainers. I came into Starting Strength to get expert advice on cleaning up my form, and wow has it been worth it.

In one year of training here, my lifts have gone up significantly and feel less painful after cleaning up form issues I didn't know I had (and previous trainers did not catch). The programming is spot on - follows the Starting Strength method with customization as appropriate for the liftee and their progression.

As an additional testament, I convinced my wife to come in for a trial with no previous weightlifting experience - didn't expect her to stay - and to my surprise she loved it.

Great place to start or continue a strength training journey.

Source: Google

★ 5

Training at Starting Strength Boston has been an incredible experience. I started as a very weak 40-year-old, and now, a couple of short years later, I have made such significant strength gains that I frequently have strangers asking me if I am a football player (ha).

And if I can succeed on this program, absolutely anyone can. Not only had I never trained with barbells before (I always thought of it as something that was reserved for "those other guys"), I had always had (at best) a love-hate relationship with exercise in general.

I should also note that the atmosphere in the gym is unlike any I have seen anywhere else. Both the coaches and the other trainees are VERY welcoming to new members, and that spirit continues throughout the training process.

TL;DR: Starting Strength has been life-changing, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member at Starting Strength Boston for about six months now, and even with a somewhat inconsistent schedule, I’ve made amazing progress with my lifts—currently at a 285 lb squat, 140 lb press, 390 lb deadlift, and 195 lb bench! The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the coaches are incredibly knowledgeable, offering helpful adjustments and form corrections to keep you moving toward your goals.

For those concerned about crowding, the gym has its busier times, like most gyms. However, the coaches manage the space really well, making sure everyone gets the attention they need to complete their workout. If you're looking for quieter hours, later times tend to be pretty relaxed from my experience. Overall, Starting Strength Boston has been a fantastic place to train, and I'd recommend it to anyone serious about improving their strength!

Source: Google

★ 5

Very welcoming and supportive environment, awesome coaches, great results. I’ve tried so many gyms over the years. I was only going to do one month at first, but I saw the results, and kept coming back. A year later, and I’m in the best shape of my life. Joining the 1000 club any day now. 5 stars isn’t enough, here’s another: ⭐️

Source: Google

★ 5

I am 72 and started going to Starting Strength Boston (in Newton) almost 2 years ago, pausing twice to recover from hip replacement surgeries. For me, Starting Strength has been a great way to avoid, or at least delay the frailty of aging. I had some reservations about starting Starting Strength, because I had not lifted a barbell since I was 17 and was worried that I might hurt myself or worse, embarrass myself. Fortunately, due to the excellent equipment in the gym and the watchful eye of Coach Mike Shammas, I did not hurt myself. I didn't embarrass myself either, because there is no embarrassment at Starting Strength Boston (in Newton). The coaches and other lifters, while serious about what they are doing, are always welcoming, friendly, supportive, and fun to be with. I recommend it very highly.

Source: Google

★ 5

At the SS gym you will get coached on each rep. The gym really helps you stick to the SS program, and in my case, address any random ache that comes up as you increase the loads. As a result, I became familiar with all basic barbell moves, and my numbers have gone up a lot the few months I've trained here, I'm doing way more I ever imagined I could do. Higher weights make each rep that much more effective.

People training here span a whole range of ages and backgrounds, everyone doing weights and challenging themselves. The coaches' music tastes also span a long range: If you enjoy lifting to Mongolian throat singing in the background, you'll love this place.

The price is steep, but it can be worth it.

Source: Google

★ 5

If I could give Starting Strength Boston more than five stars, I absolutely would. After years of lifting weights and trying every gym and program available, I was apprehensive about lifting heavy on my own. However, I finally discovered the perfect program here.

The coaches - Michael, Rob and Steve - are exceptional. They prioritize my safety and hone in on technique that enable me to achieve strength I never thought possible. Their culture of positivity and expertise keep me moving forward even when I don't think I can. Their guidance has been instrumental in my weight lifting. I never in a thousand years thought my squats would go from 100 lbs to over 200 lbs (when I turned 60!) in two years.

Starting Strength keeps me accountable - not only for showing up but for challenging myself physically and mentally. I was welcomed into a friendly, non-intimidating, and encouraging community. This welcoming environment made it easy for me to get started and will for any newcomer out there. I cannot recommend them enough. Truly.

Source: Google

★ 5

After 3 years of membership, I think it's fair to say that Starting Strength has changed my life. After injuries in college sports in my 20s, and having kids in my 30s, I thought I'd never get my 20 year old strength back again, but I was wrong. Now in my 40s I'm stronger than ever, and it's made my life easier and more confident.

The approach -- science-informed good form with progressive overload -- works. The coaches have challenged me beyond what I thought I was capable of, but never in a way that pushed my limits or caused me to hurt myself. I don't know what I'd do without my SS gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working out with the coaches at Starting Strength for a year now. I was completely out of shape at the start and looking for a way to rebuild muscle mass and increase my strength. With the guidance of the coaches - all of them are so fantastic - I'm now deadlifting 30 lbs beyond my body weight, squatting 100 lbs and while my press weights wouldn't impress anyone else they impress me. The vibe at the gym is so welcoming, we all get to know each other and no one is there to preen. What I appreciate the most is the individual attention from the coaches, having a dedicated weight rig waiting for me (no more getting in line for equipment), and the fun and encouraging community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Strength is the best way to lift. The head coach Michael is amazing whether you are a complete novice or an experienced lifter.

Source: Google

★ 5

Very cool, very demure

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm a Starting Strength member from Indiana and was able to get a lift in while visiting. Gym was clean, well lit and spacious. The coaches are friendly and knowledgeable. If I ever moved to the boston area this is where I would lift.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym and Steve is a great coach. (If you don't know about the Starting Strength method, check out the book or some of the many videos online, but it really is for everyone.)

Source: Google

★ 5

I never in a million years thought I would try weight lifting - let alone like it.

I decide to try weight lifting to help me get back into fitness and I absolutely love it.

Michael is an amazing trainer and Marie is fantastic as well. The fellow lifters are friendly, welcoming and motivating.

I had a misconception that weight lifting was a hyper-masculine environment that wasn’t welcoming to women but I have been proven wrong.

I highly recommend Starting Strength!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m a 63 year old male that has been doing SSB for 6 months now. I can confirm everything I have read in the 5 star reviews here. After 8 weeks I could tell this was the most effective fitness activity I have ever done. Running, rowing, yoga, dumbbells all made me feel better and gave me a feeling of wellbeing, but after 8 week of SSB I started to feel like a different person. I felt stronger, I was stronger, I moved through the world with ease, my chronic lower back issues dissipated. After four months I had gained 11 pounds of lean body mass and my bone density had increased slightly (before and after DEXA scans). It is no exaggeration to say I feel 10 years younger. Heck, I don’t think I have felt this good in 15 years. There is no way I could have done this without Starting Strength.

I will repeat one thing that others have said because they deserve to be recognized - the SS coaches are excellent. They go through a rigorous program to become certified. Thanks Steve, Mike and Marie!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great instructors! this is the place you wanna go to get really really strong perfect for folks over 40 who want to be strong and functional later in life. This method will get you stronger no matter how old you are or how impossible you think it is 100% changed my life for the better.

The facility is clean and well lit. You owe it to yourself to treat your body well, and you owe it to yourself to have the experience of treating your body will be a clean comfortable and instructive one.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great atmosphere, knowledgeable coaches, and good equipment. The most surprising aspect to Starting Strength Boston was the community aspect. I normally go to the gym and do my thing while interacting with the people around me very little. I got to know several of the people at the gym here and it begins to feel like a small community in each session.

5/5 starts can't recommend it enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

The best weight lifting training you can Getz

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting Strength changed my life. I used to be scared of strength training. Michael helped me conquer my initial fear and has supported me through my continued strength journey. 1.5 years later, I’ve gained 20 pounds of muscle and can squat 2x my body weight. Getting strong and achieving incremental goals 3x a week has been transformative for my physical and mental health. It is the single best use of my discretionary income. I would recommend anyone come in and change their life!

Source: Google

★ 5

It’s about making your whole body stronger, not pumping you up. Barbells improve balance and coordination, unlike machines. These guys know what’s up.

Update: I’ve been at it for nearly two years and am stronger now than at any time in the past. I’d never been athletic or trained or worked out before this and I’m so glad I started.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place! Positive, supportive atmosphere. Welcoming to people of all levels of fitness and all ages. In a small group setting, the coaches here will teach you how to do basic, compound barbell exercises correctly. If you show up on a regular basis and follow your coach’s instruction, you will get stronger and change your body composition. That’s a fact. The program here is simple and effective.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member at Starting Strength Boston for a little over 6 months now, and this is possibly the only program/studio I have diligently and enthusiastically attended in my entire life. I can't recommend it enough for people who looking to get stronger and prevent injury.

I don't love going to the gym - I don't like waiting for equipment, I don't like the vibe, I don't like not knowing what to do each visit, I don't like the solitariness (but I am also not looking to socialize) - in other words, I am impossible to please. Starting Strength Boston has been the answer to all of these issues. I get my own rack, I have a very clear and simple progression of exercises to do, and the people I lift with have been so amazing. Michael is an excellent coach - he is funny and encouraging without being obnoxious, and he is super sharp and knowledgeable. I have never dreaded coming to the gym, and that is a first.

Obviously, it's not cheap - but I haven't once questioned the investment. And the studio is very flexible if you're going away for an extended period of time. Give it a try!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to Starting Strength Boston for a few months and have noticed improvements in my posture and my injured shoulder. Everyone I have shared a class with (ages ranging from early 20s - late 70s) have been encouraging, kind, and friendly, and my coach taught me lifting techniques and tailored a personalized training regiment to my needs and progress!

Source: Google

★ 5

The coaches, and even the fellow lifters, are of high quality. I stubbornly dismiss what Mike has been telling me until it finally clicks. Thank God he is so patient! :-)

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member for over a year, and I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to develop functional strength and improve overall health. It's for everybody because each member receives a customized program, which constantly evolves based on fitness goals and progress. I started with very little "gym" experience, but Coaches Michael and Steve were exceptionally supportive and, with their guidance, I have exceeded my initial goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training at Starting Strength Boston for about 10 months, and it's been a really great experience. I've trained at quite a few specialty gyms in the area and have never gotten this level of coaching. If you make the commitment, wake up every morning and train consistently, you'll be amazed at the results you get!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Pleasant facilities, knowledgeable and dedicated staff, great clientele. Everyone wants to be there, and you can feel it. I was delighted with the process for onboarding and participation. I would eagerly advocate for signing up. Get strong!

Source: Google

★ 5

It's been about a month since I joined Starting Strength Boston. I haven't seen these results going to the average gym or even hiring a personal trainer. I did that for 2 years. Don't get me wrong my personal trainer was great, but the curriculum that is taught at SSB is easily learned and the benefits are noticeable. I highly recommend you try it. It is designed for all ages and levels of strength. I strongly believe you will love it as I have. Most of all the results.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined the SSB gym with my husbands encouragement. He had taught hisself the StartingStrength method when there were no gyms in New England. He felt SSB is exactly what I needed, he was right!

I am a 61 year old woman and have balance issues (RRMS) and osteoporosis (collapsed Thoracic Vertebrate T11).

The coaches are incredible, they are so informed, encouraging, excited when you make a new personal record, and supportive if you need it. They are so invested in each and every one of us.
Michael, my coach, has a steel trap memory, he knows exactly what i have done and what my next steps should be to optimize my strength.

My peers at the gym have ranged in age from 14 to 98, and have included students, nurses, engineers, business owners, financial experts, mucisians, retirees, homemakers. The camaraderie is amazing from everbody!

I have been a member for 12 months now and my balance has improved drastically, i am anxious to see if my bone density has improved as much as I feel it has. I will post an update when i am able to get one. I recommed SSB highly and i feel everyone could benefit from it!

Another great thing about this facility is that it is very family focused.Over half of the member are getting such great results that they have brought more family members on board!!! Thats huge! Mom with son, mom with daughter, father with son, husbands with wives!

Source: Google

★ 2

Pros: Great facilities and Arthur the owner is very friendly and accommodating.
Cons: The coach I saw commented I should "ask my parents for money" so I can come to the gym multiple times a week. This comment really disappointed me, and I felt uncomfortable going back. Fitness classes are a luxury not everyone can afford, especially now. Not everyone has people to ask for money either.

Source: Google

★ 5

Wonderful starting strength gym in Boston/Newton with a super friendly community and helpful coaches!

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter and I went for a “tune up” on technique. Austin and Steve did a great job with instruction. Crammed a lot into 90 minutes. Good value for the $. Hope to do it again.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Sequential individual coaching in small groups makes sense since barbell training involves significant rest time between sets. While resting you watch and learn from your groupmates training and marvel at their progress as they do about yours. The bottom line: great coaches and great environment to efficiently train for strength.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic gym. Great coaches teaching a simple and effective method for getting stronger.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

an excellent gym to learn the big lifts properly.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym, great people. Good place to get strong and have fun doing it. Whether you've never lifted weights, or have been doing it for years, give Starting Strength a try. I always look forward to working out here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym to start lifting and get stronger. All the coaches are extremely friendly, knowledgeable and are genuinely interested in helping you achieve your goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have not worked out in a LONG time. I knew it was time to do something. I have been so pleased with my progress and feeling good again without being sore because they know how to do things right. Jason and Nicole are amazing coaches that really care about everyone in the class. Try it out you have nothing to lose.

Source: Google

★ 5

In the area for a visit. Set up a time to workout. Such a great gym with great coaches and people. Will come back!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The best place to learn to lift and get strong!!! Unlike any other gym in the area. The coaches are extremely knowledgeable, professional and encouraging - they will teach you the basic barbell lifts properly and set you up for a lifetime of safe strength training.

Although the equipment is top notch - I’ve never seen so many squat racks and barbells in a gym before - what makes this place truly exceptional is it’s staff. They will get you stronger, I have been here for over two months and seen the numbers on my squat, deadlift, bench and press nearly double. I highly recommend this place to anyone of any age who is looking to improve their strength, health and well-being.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google