Iron Lair

Apex, 2501 Schieffelin Rd Suite 124, Apex, NC 27502 | ★ 5 (57 Review)

📞 +1 919-355-2071

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Gym Fitness center Physical fitness program Wellness center

About the Club

Iron Lair – Apex’s 24 hour Premier Training & Recovery Destination Welcome to Iron Lair, where serious training meets next-level recovery. Located in Apex, NC, and proudly serving Raleigh, Cary, and Holly Springs, we offer a one-of-a-kind fitness experience designed for everyone—from beginners to elite athletes. At Iron Lair, we combine cutting-edge performance equipment with classic bodybuilding grit, creating a high-energy, community-driven environment built for real transformation. Our expert lifestyle and competition coaches are here to help you crush your goals, whether you're chasing strength, aesthetics, or total well-being. - Advanced Equipment - Expert Coaching for All Levels - State-of-the-Art Recovery Center - Mind-Body Wellness

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Reviews

John L

★ 5

Hands-down the best gym for bodybuilders in the Apex/Cary area. Excellent equipment, month-to-month memberships, and 24/6 access.

Source: Google

Tyler Haley

★ 5

Fantastic place and amazing staff!

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David Taylor

★ 5

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Brandon Cooper

★ 5

Amazing equipment and ownership. Has everything you could want/need. Recovery room is awesome.

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Sarth Benoit

★ 5

If your goal is to train in an environment that pushes you past your limits, surrounded by positive members and knowledgeable staff, look no further than Iron Lair. This gym is built for serious lifters — equipped with the best machines, hand-picked by owners who train hard and bring years of experience in the fitness industry.
Iron Lair also offers top-tier recovery equipment to help you perform at your best and bounce back even faster.

Source: Google

Aiden Hoffman

★ 5

I’ve been a member of this gym since it opened and really enjoy training here. It has everything I need including some hard-to-find equipment that’s great for serious bodybuilding. It is the right place to be to prep for a competition. The staff is always friendly and makes the place feel welcoming every time I walk in. It’s a great environment to stay motivated, and I’m excited to see the upcoming expansion. Can’t wait to see what’s next!

Source: Google

Colin Marco

★ 5

Nothing but the best for the best. Equipment is handpicked by the owners, from old school gems to new school pieces, everything has its purpose. The environment is unmatched and the members are even better. Everyone’s willing to help one another, talk to one another, and most importantly support one another. It’s worth the visit and most certainly worth it to sign up! Best gym is the triangle 👏

Source: Google

Josh

★ 5

If you’re in Raleigh this is the bodybuilding gym to go to. Great equipment, the atmosphere is welcoming, and some great amenities from sauna, red light bed down to the toiletries in bathrooms. Love a gym with attention to details and they have everything you need. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

John Spencer

★ 5

If you’re serious about your fitness, this is the spot! Highly recommend.

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Zac Duffy

★ 5

Everything about this gym top tier, from how well thought out each machine is, to the culture that it screams from the second you step into the “arena”. I bring my 12 year old here to train with me because I’m not only raising a savage but he’s surrounded by IFBB pros. Top notch murals on the walls and an amazing posing room. I’m excited to see what comes of the expansion here shortly. The Triangle needed a place like this. As an Amateur body builder and Head Performance Coach at Alpha Male Wellness I give it a 5/5!

Source: Google

Clifton Mack

★ 5

So refreshing to get away from planet fatness and enjoy a culture of hard work, consistency and a hell of a nice group of men and women! It was especially great to have my son with me to experience a REAL GYM! Owners have invested a fortune into new state of the art equipment and vintage classic machines that you can’t find anymore in perfect working condition! My son and I will def be back
PS: to the pro bodybuilder there that gave some advice/encouragement to my son, THANK YOU!🙏

Source: Google

Brianna Pockette

★ 5

Hands down best gym in the triangle! So glad to have a gym in the area that is truly tailored towards bodybuilding. Great equipment selection, friendly staff and members, awesome owners, amazing recovery room, and clean! Plus they’ve just announced they’re expanding!

Source: Google

Jason Moyer

★ 5

Iron Lair stands out as a remarkable fitness destination that truly elevates the gym experience. The array of unique and rare machines they offer is nothing short of impressive, catering to both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike. Each piece of equipment is carefully selected to provide diverse workout options that you won't find in typical gyms.

One of the standout features of Iron Lair is the recovery room, which includes a sauna and various amenities aimed at post-workout rejuvenation. This addition makes recovery just as important as the workout itself, allowing members to unwind and recharge in a serene environment.

The vibe at Iron Lair is incredibly motivating and supportive. Members consistently express how the atmosphere fosters camaraderie and encouragement, making it easier to pursue fitness goals. The friendly and knowledgeable staff adds to this welcoming ambiance; they are always available to offer guidance and ensure everyone feels at home.

What really sets Iron Lair apart is its strong community feel. The management is genuinely dedicated to cultivating a premium experience for all members. This commitment shines through in every aspect, making Iron Lair more than just a gym—it's a place where individuals can connect, thrive, and achieve their fitness aspirations.

Iron Lair Gym is not just a fitness facility; it's a lifestyle choice for those looking to engage with a passionate community while enjoying top-notch equipment and amenities. It’s only going to elevate over the next few months with the upcoming expansion! Highly recommended for anyone seeking a comprehensive and fulfilling fitness journey!

Source: Google

thelos5607

★ 5

Adam Jacobs, sybau

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Alissa Yaw Adams

★ 5

Love the Iron Lair!! From the gorgeous lobby to the unique equipment to the recovery room, they really thought through every detail. Highly recommend!

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Carolyn Cook

★ 5

I’m new to this gym and couldn’t be happier. Besides the top of the line equipment that you won’t find in other gyms, I love that they keep it spotless. The recovery room is top notch also. Another bonus is the custom wall art. I look forward to my work out everyday!!

Source: Google

Jess Moyer

★ 5

So excited to have a local gym dedicated to the health of our community. Iron Lair is the perfect place to build strength and endurance in a clean, welcoming environment. I love the recovery room and the incredible equipment designed for all levels! Highly recommend making this your hometown gym!!!

Source: Google

Bryan Harris

★ 5

Modern state of the art equipment, classic elite equipment and a throwback vibe that is truly unique and inspiring. Iron Lair is a gym that reminds you how important the environment is to your performance. If you are looking for a gym to take your workouts to the next level, Iron Lair should be at the top of your list.

Source: Google

Brett Johnson

★ 5

This gym is a great addition to Apex, nice to have a high quality gym that’s close to home but also and more importantly open 24/7. It also has amenities that other gyms in the triangle area don’t offer. Highly recommended for anyone driving through or looking for a permanent spot.

Source: Google

Meeks OnZebroid

★ 5

Iron Lair is unique in that it is a non-nonsense type of environment that allows you to focus on getting the work in. People working out aren’t sitting on the equipment on their phones or watching TV holding folks up. Everyone that come in come is to get after it and get done. The gym is clean and doesn’t smell like a gym sock which is a nice touch, and something the owners have clearly invested in to make the gym more inviting to more people. The staff is super friendly and helpful and always happy to demo the equipment or the recovery gear. The recovery area is very nice and has several things to help with post workout recovery aches and pains. If you want a place to workout where working out is the focus, then Iron Lair is for you. If you are looking for a place to come in a talk most of the time and stare at your phone sitting on the equipment, you’d be happier at LT or PF gym.

Source: Google

Carlos A.

★ 5

I recently moved from Los Angeles to Apex and was looking for a gym that felt like part of the neighborhood and had high standards. Iron Lair nailed it. The place is super clean, well-kept, and the equipment is top-tier. You can tell they take pride in the space.
Jake was working the front desk when I came in, and he couldn’t have been more welcoming. He made the sign-up process quick and easy, gave me a full tour, and answered all my questions without missing a beat. That kind of service made it a no-brainer to join.
If you're looking for a high-quality gym with great people and a laid-back, professional vibe, Iron Lair is the spot. I’m glad I found it—and big thanks to Jake for making the first visit such a great experience.

Source: Google

Conservativerev Finch

★ 5

The Iron Lair is like no other gym I’ve ever been in. I am 64 years old and after a car accident and several surgeries I’m trying to get back in shape. At first I thought this gym would be full of people who are in shape and I felt intimidated. I decided to join and so glad I did. The staff is so friendly, welcoming and helpful. Even the people who attend are friendly, everyone is willing to help you (I’m just learning) It is clean, with lounge and red light therapy and other therapies including compression cuffs. The owner Dan is helpful, friendly even coming out of his office to talk with members. As a long time resident of Apex I’m so happy IL is in our community Thank You Pastor Rodney 💪🏾😊

Source: Google

Andrew Rowback

★ 5

Iron Lair is hands down the best gym in the area. The equipment is unmatched with rare pieces you just don’t see anywhere else. Every machine was chosen with serious lifters in mind to create the best training environment. It’s clear this place was built by and for people who truly live the bodybuilding lifestyle. Whether you’re training for the stage or just love pushing yourself, this gym makes you want to give 110% every time. Absolutely top tier.

Source: Google

Demirkan Koprulu

★ 5

I LOVE this gym. Owners are amazing, and the front desk does a wonderful job. The Hospitality was INSANE. 10/10 Would recommend everyone who is in the area that takes lifting and recovery serious to pay a visit.

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Jared Hagstrom

★ 5

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Brady Cronin

★ 5

Jake at the front desk is great.

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Ava Roistacher

★ 5

By far the best gym in the area!! I love the community here and the recovery room!! Definitely recommend!

Source: Google

joseph nitti

★ 5

Known the owners Dan & Jeff since high school. These guys built a gym the way any true bodybuilder would have built it for themselves. State of the art specific equipment everyone wants to use and the old school atmosphere conducive to why we all started training in the first place. Well done!!!!!

Source: Google

jonathon geller

★ 5

Finally a gym that motivates me to get better every time I walk in the door!

Source: Google

Blair Helms

★ 5

If you're a bodybuilder or take your fitness serious, this gym is an absolute dream. From the moment you walk in, you can tell this place is built by and for people who really know what training is all about. The equipment is hands-down the best I’ve ever used—everything was clearly chosen with strength training and ergonomics in mind.

There’s a wide variety of machines, free weights, and specialty equipment that you just don’t find in typical commercial gyms. Whether you're prepping for a show, hitting new PRs, or just love the grind, this place has exactly what you need.

The atmosphere is next-level. The vibe is intense but supportive—everyone’s here to put in work, but there’s a real sense of community and respect. No egos, just good energy and people pushing each other to be better.

The staff is friendly and genuinely passionate about fitness. It’s obvious they care about the space and the members, and they’re always around to help or give advice.

10/10 recommend Iron Lair!

Source: Google

Justin Badurina

★ 5

Awesome gym, owners, staff, and offering. You want a welcoming hardcore bodybuilding gym, that offers the highest end recovery treatments, Iron Lair is for you!

Source: Google

Paul Serra

★ 5

ron Lair is easily one of the best gyms I’ve ever trained at. The equipment is top-tier, perfectly maintained, and clearly selected with serious lifters in mind—yet it’s still welcoming to beginners. The vibe strikes that perfect balance of hardcore and supportive, where everyone is pushing themselves but also looking out for each other. Dan, the owner, is incredibly hands-on and made me feel right at home from day one. You can tell he genuinely cares about the members and keeps the place running like a well-oiled machine. The staff is friendly, the community is strong, and whether you’re a competitive bodybuilder or just trying to get in shape, this place delivers. I always walk out feeling better than I walked in. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

Joshua Stevenson

★ 5

Iron Lair is by far the best gym in the area. It’s not just a gym—it’s a full-on experience. Built by bodybuilders, for people who live the lifestyle or are ready to step into it. The energy in there is unreal. You can feel the passion and drive the second you walk through the door.

The equipment is flawless, everything is top-tier, and the staff is just solid—super friendly, super helpful, and they genuinely care. What’s even better is that it’s not intimidating. Whether you’re a pro or just getting started, this place is inviting, educational, and motivating.

If you’re serious about fitness—or even just trying to figure it all out—this is the spot. Can’t recommend it enough.

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Paymon

★ 5

A++ across the board, the best gym. Prestine selection, awesome management, and ready 247!

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anthony gonzalez

★ 5

Place is amazing from equipment to atmosphere!

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Jordan Oakes

★ 5

Great gym and community. The equipment is top notch I’m finally full time at this gym after getting out of my other one. If your looking for a gym to lock in and get better this is the one!

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Sarah Calkins

★ 5

Just moved to the area and needed a gym with great equipment, flexible hours, and good people. Iron Lair has it all. The space is beautiful, the artwork is amazing, and the owners are incredibly knowledgeable and kind. Super bodybuilder-friendly with recovery tools and a posing room. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

Manny O

★ 5

Great Gym
Great equipment
Great staff

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Erin Oliver

★ 5

LOVE Iron Lair so far!
The facility is comprised of quality equipment that is maintained by super nice staff.
The extra amenities like the red light, sauna, and hyper Ice tools take your workout to the next level.
I’ve been watching the progress of their recent mural updates and I’m impressed by how cool 😎 the artwork is.

Source: Google

Bacchus Grant

★ 5

From the equipment to the vibes and community.. this is hands down one of the top gyms in the area already

Source: Google

Andrew Gauck

★ 5

Iron Lair is by far the best gym in the Cary/Apex area. You can tell they truly care a lot about their members. I've been to numerous gyms in the triangle area and this has got to be the greatest overall. You can tell the machines were meticulously chosen for this gym, and a lot of them are very unique/rare pieces and feel amazing. The recovery room is also super beneficial post workout, I love utilizing it. They have everything you need, from the atmosphere, the vibes, the lighting, and the experience you can tell it's made for bodybuilders & avid gym goers, and isn't just your regular corporate cookie cutter gym, but rather a locally owned gym with management and staff that truly know gym culture. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Best bodybuilding gym in the Triangle area.

Source: Google

David Kist

★ 5

Aiden and Co absolutely killed it with the choice of machines. It was great to drop in and train. Seeing everyone again was awesome and the space turned out beautifully

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Daniel Lash

★ 5

This is the best gym I’ve been to in the Triangle. The equipment is top-tier. Thought and consideration went into the selection of each piece. They have some unique machines here you’ll have a hard time finding anywhere else. The vibe and atmosphere are perfect for a great lift. The recovery center is the icing on the cake with a sauna and numerous other options as well. Overall great gym and absolutely worth checking out.

Source: Google

Detail Lab Cary

★ 5

great gym. love that they accommodate all types of lifters. great place for both bodybuilders and powerlifters to use.

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Madison Myers

★ 5

Awesome gym, the equipment is top tier and 24/7 access has been so nice. Highly recommend it for anyone whether just starting out or experienced

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Lachlan Perkins

★ 5

As someone who has worked out at most local gyms and worked at some. This gym is everything you could need. From the equipment to the ambience, to the environment this gym truly had it all. I had the opportunity to help pick out a few pieces of equipment and there few things I can thing of that this gym could “upgrade” with. Overall the best gym i’ve worked out and the friendliest staff around. 10/10 would reccomend!

Source: Google

Cody Hinkle

★ 5

My new favorite gym to go to! I love the equipment, the atmosphere of the gym, and the recovery room. I don’t any gyms that have a recovery room like Iron Lair has. Iron lair also has a posing room. This is a great gym for anyone but especially for bodybuilders and people that are considering competing. The staff are friendly and the owners are really knowledgeable. I like this gym enough to make a 50 minute ride there to work out. You won’t be disappointed if you get a membership here!

Source: Google

Kevin Boehm

★ 5

Great equipment combined with 24/7 access makes this a fantastic gym in the area. We needed this.

Source: Google

Joseph De Prisco

★ 5

The Best Gym in the Triangle – Hands Down!

Iron Lair isn’t just another gym—it’s an experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re hit with a vibe that screams premium, not cookie-cutter.

They’ve curated an insane lineup of equipment—old-school legends to cutting-edge machines—all chosen for one purpose: maximum muscle activation. If you’re serious about back or leg day, this place is a goldmine. Every piece feels intentional, not filler.

On top of that? A top-tier recovery center that matches the same high standards as the training floor.

But what really sets it apart is the community. It’s got that rare family feel—welcoming, motivating, and clearly built by people who care about giving their members the absolute best.

If you’re anywhere in the Triangle, put this gym on your map. It’s not optional—it’s essential.

Source: Google

Veronique Rowback

★ 5

Iron Lair in Apex has completely reignited my love for training. The energy is electric, the equipment is top-notch, and every staff member greets you like family. Between the immaculate weight floor and the thoughtful recovery area, it’s clear these folks care about every detail of the workout experience. If you’re looking for a gym that motivates you the moment you walk in, Iron Lair is it—can’t recommend it enough!

Source: Google

Asher Piraino

★ 5

Best new gym in the apex area! Hand picked machine and an un matched energy and community building !

Source: Google

Matt Kanis

★ 5

Finally a gym for bodybuilders, by bodybuilders. This place focuses on quality, not quantity, with equipment and clients. Small gym, garage vibes, immaculate equipment and intentional members. Couldn’t be happier. Also VERY clean.

Source: Google

Kaya Rosselle

★ 5

Great new gym! Was looking for a new gym that wasn’t huge and this is a great fit! Lots of unique equipment and a great environment! Only downside is the giant blue panther painting has 6 incisors on the top and 5 on the bottom so I tend to stare at this in between sets because it bothers me and I don’t think anyone else knows.

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Tarreik Washington

★ 5

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Shaheer Lodhi

★ 5

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Vinnie Campo

★ 5

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Matthew Saliba

★ 5

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