★ 5

Great Gym! As a UFC fan, I have always loved martial arts, and trained in different disciplines. I couldn't wait for the UFC Waterfront gym to open. I signed up for the Champion membership specifically so I could take Coach Joao Martinez's kickboxing and Muay Thai class and Coach Micheangelo's boxing classes, and they have both delivered so far above my high expectations! Coach Joao is one of the most knowledgeable, effective and intuitive martial arts instructors I have ever had trained with. He expertly introduces both basic and more advanced techniques to beginners and more experienced students simultaneously, seamlessly adjusting the class to each student's skill level with a well balanced curriculum that provides a strong foundation of skills, then builds upon it, with emphasis on the practical application of each skill. During personal training sessions, Coach Joao further customized his approach to address my unique weight loss challenges, while emphasizing & modifying specific techniques and drills based on my goals, and encouraging me to evolve. I changed my schedule to attend as many classes as possible, as each session is an invaluable interactive learning experience!
Coach Michaelangelo Turner is a spectacular Boxing Instructor, and been equally encouraging, accessible, and supportive. Coach Michealangelo 's high energy classes not only provide amazing conditioning, but also help students develop and refine boxing and footwork techniques using heavy bags, mitt work and partner work. He is a force of positive energy, a natural motivator, and always makes himself available to answer questions on boxing technique, conditioning and nutrition. The UFC gym is clean, has good quality equipment, offers a red light sauna, amazing recovery room amenities, and friendly, helpful, & approachable staff. However the differentiating factor that makes UFC so superior to the other gyms and martial arts schools in the region is the quality of personalized training provided by Coach Joao and Coach Michaelangelo; they are helping me acheive my goals and are they reason i maintain my membership at UFC Waterfront.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really enjoy this gym! They have a variety of classes, good equipment, and great coaches. I took Coach Michelangelo's boxing class when I first started and am still taking his classes now. He is such a great coach! He manages to teach an entire class while noticing your individual strengths and areas you can focus on to grow and easily describe them. He is encouraging, but motivating. He seems to know your limits so he pushes you, but respects your level. He goes above and beyond and does things like recommend certain boxers to watch that fit your goals or areas to work on, or giving your specialized combos. I will continue coming to this gym as long as he keeps coaching! Take one of his classes or get private lessons with him!

I have also looked into Muay Thai recently and look forward to taking one of Coach Joao's classes! He seems very skilled and organized, which I appreciate for starting something so new. I've seen his classes and the way he works with students, and the gym is lucky to have him!

The coaches are what make this gym successful, so I hope these two continue teaching and helping me grow!

Source: Google

★ 1

Terrible cancellation process. I had to pay over double my monthly fee and MAIL A LETTER to them even though state law says they have to cancel it after someone moves. Extremely high fees for a very mid gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was training at Crunch and admit was a bit apprehensive with the change to UFC but have to say it's been a great experience. I have been training with Tony and Kim, and both are great. As someone with past shoulder surgeries, both have done a great job listening and working to make sure I'm training safely. I am seeing a steady improvement with their coaching.
I also never thought I would ever try boxing but since being encouraged to try a boxing conditioning class by Tony, found its really fun and a great workout. Would definitely recommend!

Source: Google

★ 2

Yeah… I got overcharged for my monthly dues and I’m not cool with it.

Source: Google

★ 1

**********Update 8/2025**********
My fees have been refunded. Case closed.
Lost 35lbs on my own. Adversity inspires.

**********Update 7/22/2025**********
The GM left me a message on my voicemail Friday, I returned his call an hour late his staff was rude again , tried again in Saturday, same seems like they haven't given him my message to call back. You can't make this up. TRASH

If I could give zero stars, I would.

I came in with my wife, scanned my membership (which cleared), and was immediately stopped and told I wasn’t allowed a guest—even though I was specifically told when signing up that my plan included one. Staff acted like they’d never heard of my membership type and left us standing there confused until we missed our scheduled class.

We decided to stay anyway, but were interrupted repeatedly by a staff member named Eric, who approached me at my workout station to continue arguing about it. He walked away from me while I was talking, ignored me when I called after him, then tried to loudly confront and humiliate me in front of other members. Even after the general manager admitted they were wrong, Eric returned to escalate again while my account was being canceled.

As a disabled veteran, I expect professional and respectful treatment—not to be insulted and belittled by staff who can’t even check their own membership policies. This was hands-down the worst gym experience I’ve ever had.

I canceled on the spot and will never return. If you value being treated with basic respect, look elsewhere.

Source: Google

★ 1

Just cancelled my membership today but unfortunately will continue going until I no longer can.
I've been going to this gym since they first opened up as UFC. Was there grand opening day, super excited to workout, and was very happy to be there. The staff was amazing, kind, and it was nice to have multiple platforms. That was back in September, I believe. Everything was absolutely amazing. My husband I became rather close with the staff. We became friends with the staff at the desks, some of the trainers, and even the cleaning crew. In the past couple months, we started to notice that everyone was slowly disappearing. One of the trainers we became close with was no longer there. When we asked where he went because we were actually looking into working with him, we were told he fired because he wasn't hitting quota. Another trainer we liked stopped showing up. We were told that she was not a fan of the direction the gym was going. Turns out, management has changed. The staff we knew that had been there since the gym was Crunch were dropping like flies. They were either being fired or walking out the door.

As time further went on, we noticed that the gym was no longer as clean was it was in the beginning. The bathrooms were disgusting, the stairs were foul, and the overall cleanliness of the gym went from a 10 to like 2. The soap in the showers were no longer there. When the manager was confronted about this by us, he made it seem like we should just be grateful the gym had showers. However, he would then complain about the water coming out of the showers. Sorry that the showers don't have a proper drain, but don't ask me not to shower there when I have every right to. Whenever my husband and I walk in, hang out, chat with staff, nobody has a kind thing to say about gym management anymore. I cannot blame them. The gym is now seems to be understaffed and treated poorly. When we see them stand up for themselves, everything is brushed under the rug.

To top it off, we were just looking at the cryo chambers and saunas just to be told we can't use them unless we pay for it. Even though when we signed up, we were told it was a part of it. Ok fine. It must've changed. However, we weren't even using them. We were just looking into it to see if we would even be interested in using them and paying to use them. This place went from a great place to work out to just being a place I don't want to be. Nothing is being done. No complaints are being answered. it's kinda crazy. Not even the least bit mad to be leaving. Oh wait. Here's the thing. We were told when we signed up, there would have to be 21 days notice. Cancelled today just to be told that it apparently changed again and we will be charged AGAIN for the month of September. I saw someone else on here say they were charged a ridiculous amount of fees. I am right there with them. When doing the math, to have the membership to pay for use of the facility plus the sauna, you are playing about $130 a month. For what?

If you asked me back in September if I would recommend this gym, I would have told you yes. I told all my friends about it and how must they would love it. Now? Nope. I'd tell them all to leave. Gonna hate to say goodbye to the friendly faces but it's not worth my mental health.

Source: Google

★ 5

Zane, Joseph, Batman, Amanda and the whole staff is utterly amazing and I get pumped up every time I step foot into the gym because of them.

Source: Google

★ 4

We love the youth coach Angelo. Staff is friendly and helpful. Locker rooms and bathrooms seem pretty clean. The gym has some cool amenities like the red light sauna, hydro massage, tanning, and crypto therapy which is sooooo cold but equally as cool 😎(This is not my original review I have updated it as I saw fit seeing the gym make some changes and fix some of the issues I saw before.)But we still love the youth coaches Angelo and Josie! I don’t see that part ever changing!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great experience down there, Lamont, Eric, and Tony those guys are great, very knowledgeable, all of my concerns are met daily , definitely recommend to anyone looking to join a new gym 🫡💯

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been coming to this gym since 2019. The renovations since becoming UFC are top tier and the staff has been more than helpful, kind and motivating which is the reason I keep coming back. Joe, Eric, Brett, Mont, Alonna, Brandon and the rest of the staff are all amazing people that constantly check in on me and my workouts and create a very positive atmosphere for newcomers and returning members. I will forever recommend this gym to everyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training at the Waterfront UFC Gym for a while now, and I can honestly say it’s been a life-changing experience. The environment here is more than just a gym — it’s like family. Everyone supports each other, and you truly feel like you’re part of a community.

Working with Eric has been incredible. His boxing training is top-tier — professional, intense, and always motivating. He pushes you to reach your full potential while making sure you grow at your own pace. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, he knows exactly how to help you improve both physically and mentally.

If you’re looking to work on your health, discipline, and overall well-being in a positive and empowering atmosphere, this is the place to be. Highly recommend! 👊🔥

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym and the positive vibes people have here. Machines are well kept and fully functional to give effective workouts. Staff like Eric and Brandon are helpful and supportive and have good energy, they make me feel like I belong.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been an ufc member for some time and I’ve never wanted to engage in any of the classes and i came in and a staff member by the name of Eric seen me engaging in bag work and asked if id ever join a class and I replied back no and discussed my reasonings. Eric gave me some encouraging words to try the class and reassured me that I’d be comfortable with the instructor and other ppl that will be also joining. I thanked him for encouraging me after the class and i told him I’d be back for more classes. As easy as it is to get discouraged in the gym I’d like to thank Eric for helping me dust that off and get into a class.

Source: Google

★ 5

love the gym ,nice atmosphere, good people , great place to workout

Source: Google

★ 5

From the time I walked in everyone was so Pleasant and extremely helpful. I took a tour with Eric he was helpful explained all the equipment and ease my anxiety about the working out in a gym environment. He even took extra time with me and answered all the questions I had, which I didn’t get at other gyms. So huge thank you to the staff at the ufc gym For such an amazing job.

Source: Google

★ 5

UFC gym is awesome.. They have a young man there name Eric that helped me change my life around. His enthusiasm and expertise was very encouraging for me. If you read this Eric, thank you

Source: Google

★ 5

Just joined great gym staff is outstanding make you feel welcomed very clean 👍

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 1

I witnessed an appalling and unprofessional incident today at UFC GYM Waterfront. The assistant manager, Eric, aggressively got into the face of a patron and cursed at him over what appeared to be a simple misunderstanding regarding a new membership. The patrons, a man and woman, remained calm and respectful throughout, but Eric's behavior was hostile, confrontational, and completely unacceptable for someone in a leadership role.

As a concerned citizen, I approached the couple afterward to check on them. That’s when I learned they had recently joined the gym and that the man is a retired and disabled veteran, just like myself!

Learning that made this incident even more infuriating and deeply personal. No one deserves to be treated that way, least of all someone who has served this country and was simply trying to use the gym he just joined!!

If this is how UFC GYM Waterfront allows its leadership to treat paying members, with aggression, disrespect, and zero professionalism, then it reflects very poorly on the values and culture of this facility.

I strongly urge upper management to investigate this incident and hold Eric accountable. Veterans, and all members, deserve better!

Source: Google

★ 1

Pros:

1. Machines are in good condition.
2. The place is clean, most of the time

Cons:

1. They apply random extra charges. Even though I have autopay activated and two cards assigned in the app, they keep charging outrageous additional fees allegedly because of late payments.

2. If you have a problem and go to the manager, Joseph, he won't help you. He’ll just wash his hands of it, as he did with my issue regarding unjustified charges.

Because of these two points alone, you should think twice before signing up — the hidden fees and lack of support from management make the membership not worth it.

3. Small. Even though the machines and equipment are new, the place is quite small compared to others like LA Fitness. During peak hours, it gets overcrowded, and you’ll have to wait in line for some machines.

Conclusion: Not recommended — just another brand where money is the only thing that matters.

Source: Google

★ 1

We joined UFC Gym Waterfront because we thought it would be a good place to train together—but our visit was so disrespectful and embarrassing that we canceled immediately.

We went in for a class. My husband's membership scanned in fine, but staff stopped us and insisted his plan didn't allow a guest—even though we were told at sign-up that it did. They seemed confused and unprepared, leaving us standing there while they debated among themselves, making us miss the class entirely.

When we finally got in, a staff member named Eric singled us out upstairs, interrupted our workout, and kept pestering us about the “problem” even though they were the ones who didn’t know their own membership types. He even walked away while my husband was talking to him, ignoring us completely. Later, when we went to cancel, he got even louder and more confrontational instead of apologizing or backing off.

The general manager eventually admitted they were wrong about the membership, but by then it was too late. We were humiliated, frustrated, and treated like we were the problem when they caused the entire issue.

We will never go back. This was the most unprofessional and disrespectful gym experience I have ever had.

Source: Google

★ 5

The personal training at the UFC Gym Waterfront is next level. I signed up for training with Angelo and in a short couple months I am stronger, and look and feel better than I have felt in a decade. I'm wearing clothes I never would have before, I'm eating 1000x better and I cannot recommend him more. He also is one of the BJJ instructors so you really get an all around best bang for your buck with him. Thanks Angelo for being the best trainer I could have asked for. Give that man a raise.

Source: Google

★ 2

Sucks that there’s No Wrestling. You would think they would have it at a UFC gym ..

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym in Pittsburgh. Just moved here and tried all the others before deciding the UFC gym was for me. Better than Crunch, PF, or LA fitness. Love the energy love the staff. Everyone is welcome

Source: Google

★ 5

Eric and Adam are the best. They make their rounds and make sure everything is good with the weights and the gym is super clean and ready at all times.

Source: Google

★ 5

Beautiful space, modern equipment, great staff and hosts, overall nice gym

Source: Google

★ 5

I love my experience at this gym! The staff were friendly from the moment I signed up and I get all the boxing tips from experts like Eric. Never had any problems or egos from other gym goers either.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym Great people great atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym in pgh

Source: Google

★ 5

Great staff,wonderful gym atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Eric was an amazing help getting my girlfriend and I set up for the gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Positive vibe, friendly staff, super clean and awesome sauna! Love this place

Source: Google

★ 5

I love what UFC gym has done for the space. Everything and more from the old crunch

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love the new UFC Gym in the Waterfront! Everything in the facility is up to date and theres workouts for experienced and beginners alike. Don't be intimated by the name, it has a ton of stamdard gym equipment just like the competitors. This is the best gym I've been a part of.

Source: Google

★ 5

Former crunch member and if anything they’ve added more features. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Really nice and helpful staff!

Source: Google

★ 5

Facility is incredible!

Source: Google

★ 5

I had a great experience. Everyone was very helping.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Michelangelo Turner is an amazing coach and trainer. He has a lot of positive energy and enthusiasm and he truly cares about his clients. This is rare.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym and great atmosphere, was here working out of town so had to check it out. Will definitely be back !

Source: Google

★ 5

As a former longtime Crunch member, I was pretty bummed UFC bought this location - Crunch had everything I needed to get in a great workout or do my physical therapy for a great price, and even though we were all grandfathered in to UFC at a pretty good rate for a while, that value of Crunch was going to be really hard to beat.

That being said, UFC has been open for a few weeks and it's been better than I expected (but not perfect!)

What I like -
- The turf with the sleds is AWESOME. Didn't know I needed this until I had it
- I like that they're open until 11 pm. I'm a pretty late gym-goer, so not being kicked out at 10 is pretty nice
- They have a more diverse range of machines and benches than Crunch used to have. Dedicated areas to do hip thrusts and decline bench are pretty nice. And the new olympic lifting platforms were definitely needed for the big dudes who felt the need to drop their weights hard after doing one deadlift or shoulder shrug (kidding, but only kinda)
- Lockers with combinations that you can set are a nice upgrade too. Now I don't need to bring my own lock.

What I still miss about Crunch (and what I wish UFC had...)
- The hex bar. I miss this thing the most and UFC just doesn't have a good substitute for doing hex bar deadlifts (I & others frequently used because hex bar deadlifts are much easier on your lower back). I know there isn't a great space for it, but I still miss the option.
- In addition to the hex bar, Crunch was definitely more of an every-persons gym, and they had extra equipment & lower-weight dumbells to support that audience - and UFC is lacking some of those pieces of equipment. Things that I used all the time that I haven't found a substitute for yet are yoga blocks (come on, this should be pretty standard) & any steps/platforms that are lower than 12". The lowest step I've found is 12", which is too high to do most exercises that require slight elevation of one leg or the other, and Crunch used to have a couple of these as options.

Overall though, I'm fairly pleased.

**UPDATE** - they did get a hex bar and all the equipment I mentioned above and added it to the main gym area for everyone to use, so I updated to 5 stars!

Source: Google

★ 1

My partner and I went into UFC today after seeing their website and thinking their amenities were worth the cost. ABSOLUTELY WRONG! We tried to get a duel membership, we were told it was $24.99 mth for the membership + 49.99 annual fee + $20.99 to add on my partner. OH! on top of that, the classes that I wanted to do that I thought were a part of the membership ($24.99 a month) thats not included, you have to pay extra for that too. What a shame! 1 star for me. Figure out your prices that are worth it and then MAYBE we will consider.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love love love♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️😘

Source: Google

★ 5

Left planet fitness to join love it here

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym for a great price.

Pros: amazing recovery facilities including infrared sauna, cryotherapy and hydro massage chairs. Great coaches for martial arts such as Jiu Jitsu, boxing and kickboxing with plenty of classes to fit any schedules. Plenty of room and equipment for weightlifting, dozens of heavy bags for striking practice. Staff is friendly and helpful as well as respectful of personal space. Working hours are best in the area and perhaps in the city comparing to any other gyms that offer martial arts or recreational fitness activity. Parking is free, always available and right next to the gym. Great cleanliness in workout areas and bathrooms. Membership plans can be customized so you wouldn't have to pay for anything that you don't need.

Cons: limited matt area for people who'd like to do grappling outside of official class times. Music not always but often is very loud and can be distracting, even if wearing your own headphones.

Overall, phenomenal facility for your fitness and training goals. 5/5

Source: Google

★ 3

UPDATE: Adjusting from 2 stars to 3 stars. The day after I posted my review they changed the music - not sure if it was intentional as a result of my review or just coincidence but it's so much less irritating to work out now with better music. The only other comment I'd add after a few weeks using the space (and why I won't bump up to 4 stars) is that the lighting is rough - some spots are dark, some spots are overwhelmingly bright, and the lights are blinding if you lay on your back to do anything. I've literally had to shade my eyes when I stretch or do core work.

I loved Crunch so I was pretty upset when they sold to UFC, but I reserved judgment until they reopened. Overall I'm disappointed and the new facility is exactly the vibe I was worried it would be (red flag when the big motto on the wall is about how pain is fuel).

They cut down the number of treadmills significantly which is a big bummer and treadmills were always heavily utilized. My biggest complaint is that the music is terrible - I can't imagine anyone really wants to listen to techno at 5 am but if you don't want to you're forced to wear headphones and even that doesn't fully drown it out. If I could get one thing, it would be better music - I really enjoyed the music Crunch played.

It's also annoying that while they have a lot of amenities they all come at a significant upcharge. Crunch just included them in my membership package and there's no way I'm paying the fees they're charging for the hydro massage or infrared.

I'll still go because the equipment is nice and it's a better option than LA Fitness but overall it's exactly what I was expecting (which I wasn't thrilled about).

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym suits my needs across the board, from great use of space/design, weight machine variety, a pleasing atmosphere, some fitness/Zumba options, recovery spaces (like the hydro massage area and red-light sauna)—and affordability! I haven’t gotten into the martial arts aspect, but it’s a cool vibe. The incredibly friendly, helpful, and fun staff also make it a comfortable and inviting space for awesome workouts a few times a week. Thank you!

Source: Google

★ 1

Not only did they convert my crunch membership to their more expensive membership without my consent, they also refuse to comply with CA state laws requiring memberships to be cancellable with the click of a button.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Clean gym, nice staff, great equipment and a reasonable price.

Source: Google

★ 5

Tone, Lamont, and B- Skeezy make this place feel like home.
Give all of them a raise ASAP.
NAW FR 😎

Source: Google

★ 5

I am 74 and love the renovated gym. The weight machines are new and good for all muscle groups. The staff are welcoming and friendly. I wish they had more Zumba and dance classes. There is an overall masculine feel, but women also feel comfortable there. The sauna is a wonderful addition. The price is right. I have not as yet met Andreas, the manager.
We've only spoken on the phone. But I know the manager sets the tone for the staff and for the overall atmosphere, so he is doing an outstanding job!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing facility

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The new UFC gym is truly so nice! All of the equipment is brand new, there are new classes offered and I’m most excited for the cryotherapy machine! It serves as a natural pre workout, has a list of health benefits and burns calories in just a few minutes!

Source: Google

★ 4

It took me a while 2 adjust being a former Crunch member but I get just as good of a workout. I'm glad they kept all of the staff, they are top notch

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent workout facilities and a top notch, caring staff.

Source: Google

★ 5

Gym looks nice, heavy weight (dumbbells), and overall better, love it already

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym with all new equipment 😭😭

Source: Google

★ 1

I was previously a member at crunch. Before they closed for remodel, I asked if they would have spray tanning and red light therapy at this location and a manager told me yes. While they were closed, I tried both at the market square location. I went in for the first time today and of course they don't have spray tanning, and they only have the red light therapy saunas, not the pod. It makes no sense to open a brand new gym without all of the amenities. It's very disappointing and a missed opportunity on UFCs part.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Honestly love the improvements UFC made to the gym—all new equipment with more variety, and a more functional layout for people wanting to do calisthenic/athletic workouts.

Source: Google

★ 1

I don't like that my crunch membership got automatically converted to a UFC membership. I also don't think it's fair that I got charged for Crunch after they closed, and then again for the UFC gym before they opened. Can't cancel online, and no one picks up the phone.

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 5

Looking forward to seeing the new set up! When in September will this location open up?

Source: Google

★ 5

One of the best facilities in Pittsburgh with an even better staff! Definitely check it out if you're in the area!

Source: Google

★ 5

Already signed up! Can’t wait for it to open. Way better than crunch

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 3

So sad to see Crunch Go 😭. We need a low gym membership fee in this area again…. Median income in Pittsburgh is appx 71k and in homestead it is appx 59k…. I know gyms need to cover their costs but I am sad to lose a place to work out :(

Source: Google