★ 5

I wanted to get stronger at lifting heavy and that’s when I found Coach Diego at Backyard Barbell and I can honestly say it’s been one of the best fitness experiences I’ve ever had. Coach Diego genuinely cares about your form, progress, and safety.
At first ,I was very intimidated with the numbers as I started lifting heavy weights but under his guidance and training, I had no clue that I was strong enough to squat/deadlift 100+ LBS ! He showed me how strong I was. That was a very big win for me and all credit goes to him!
He created a custom program for me taking into consideration my goals and fitness level. After each week, he recalibrated my program based on my progress keeping recovery also as a priority. He’s educated me about the importance of strength training and muscle building, especially for women, and helped me understand how clean eating and balanced nutrition is critical.
He’s incredibly patient and will also push you beyond your comfort zone to complete each rep. During each set/rep, he has been very observant of my form and posture to ensure proper technique. If I am on the verge of giving up, he will encourage me to not give up and give that extra motivation to power through. That right there, has made me strong mentally!

What I also love is - he explains every exercise with simple analogies that made it easy for me to visualize and correct my posture (example: Think of a chair during a squat / Balancing firmly like a tripod). He always makes sure my posture and form are spot-on ,even during heavy lifts. He applies progressive overload in a way that initially felt challenging but I was thrilled when I could achieve it. After every session I felt stronger, accomplished, and proud of my progress.

If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and supportive trainer who is equally invested in your progress , I would highly recommend Coach Diego Rivera !

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Diego as a personal trainer for over a year. Before I started training with him, I always injured my lower back when deadlifting heavy, to the point that I was afraid to deadlift. Diego quickly helped me improve my form and regain confidence in deadlifting and in strength training overall. I’m lifting more weight now than I did in my 20s and feel more energized. I would recommend Diego to anyone looking to get stronger and feel more balanced with their body. Additionally, Diego is a straight shooter and genuinely invested in his clients’ success.

Source: Google

★ 5

Highly recommend this gym to anyone interested in getting strong. I was training with coach Brian and was able to hit PRs in my squat, bench and deadlift. Brian is very knowledgeable and patient. He knows when to push and when to back off. When I was training solo I had tweaked my back multiple times due to incorrect form. Brian helped me learn the right technique and thanks to his programming I was able to lift much more safely and correctly. This gym has all the equipment you would ever need and isn't super crowded.

Source: Google

★ 5

I got tired of crowded "gyms" and aimlessly trying to gain results. Switching from Planet Fitness to a real power-lifting gym and getting a trainer has been nothing short of lifechanging. When I started I could barely lift anything, and now after months of working with Diego I can safely say I have never felt more in control of my results and feel leagues stronger than when I was going to the gym 5/6 days a week. If I could go back I would tell myself to stop wasting my time at other places and get into Backyard Barbell sooner. This place is clean, offers the same 24/7 hour schedule, and has everything needed to build yourself from the ground up. The other gymgoers are always friendly, happy to offer a spot, and answer questions if you have any. Diego has been monumental in my progress journey by teaching me how to lift safely, and writing a personal program to fit my needs. The owner Chandler was very helpful when signing up, and is always friendly when in the gym. Bonus: sometimes you get to see very cute pugs. It really has everything you need.

Source: Google

★ 5

January 2025 I found Backyard Barbell when I moved to San Jose. Coach Diego was recommended for beginners (which I very much am to the power lifting world) and I am grateful for his expertise, patience, and grounded motivation. This training is radically different from what I had previously experienced, for the better. Power lifting sessions are a much slower, steeper pace and I am stronger and have better form than I did in my 20's.

Invest in the appropriate accessories, track your progress, show up on time, and Diego will strucure a plan and callibrate along the way. Questions and concerns will be taken seriously and corrections will be given for form and tailored adjustments doled out.

If you stay consistent, respond to feedback, and trust the coach, you will find results. I credit Diego's chill and constructive attitude for the immense progress I have made this year. He took all the anxiety and trepidation I had about lifting heavy and replaced it with confidence and grit.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym and an even better place to learn powerlifting. I’ve been training with Diego for about 8 months now, and it’s the best decision I’ve made this year. I came in as a complete beginner and now I’m lifting weights I never thought I could. Diego keeps things structured and easy to follow, and he knows exactly when to push you. The people here are super supportive too. Highly recommend this gym if you are looking to get stronger while enjoying the process.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing trainers, amazing owners, super clean gym no nonsense like commercial gyms. Equipment is amazing. Chandler and Nicole are awesome, friendly, and overall some of the best people to have given me guidance in my training since my start here i was 265lbs and now im 213lbs. Highly recommend!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Chandler is a top-shelf human and a top-shelf coach. Beyond grateful for him.

Source: Google

★ 5

A gym for serious powerlifters. Never had to wait for equipment. Highly recommend. Everything well organized.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great powerlifting gym with supportive and respectful coaches/owners and members. People of all walks of life are in here and the environment is positive.

I have been training with Coach Diego for 2 years with no prior experience. He is an excellent teacher on proper form and safety to prevent injury and bad lifting habits, something I was concerned about since I was starting to lift in my late 30s. I told him my goals and he made monthly custom programs tailored to my body composition and abilities. As a coach, Diego provides the right balance of motivation and pushing you while making sure you aren't overdoing it, and it has made me stronger physically and mentally. He is extremely knowledgeable on strength training, nutrition, and recovery, and he walks the talk! Perhaps most important to many is he keeps me accountable, and every month I felt better, stronger, and more confident. I have seen all of this with his other clients as well, and it is impressive how he knows and meets every one of his clients' unique needs.

The gym itself is great with 7 racks, strongman equipment, machines, and much more.

If you're looking for a way to start or improve your powerlifting journey, this is the gym to join and I highly recommend getting trained by Coach Diego!!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son and I have now been coached by Diego for over a year. With his guidance, knowledge and support we have seen spectacular results. Having just completing our first Powerlifting meet we are Stronger than Ever! Diego is more than a trainer he is a mentor, leader and has become a friend. Backyard Barbell is the gym for anyone looking to get results, searching for a welcoming community & to be a part of a team.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great facility for people into power lifting or strongman training. There are plenty of racks, machines and almost every specialty barbell you can imagine. The coaches and clients are all very friendly.

I've been training at Backyard Barbell under Coach Brian for almost two years now, and I've had a great experience. I had thought my lifting days were over due to a pre-existing shoulder injury and knee injury that never fully recovered from physical therapy. Thanks to Brian's programming I'm now lifting way more than before the injuries and my recovery has exceeded what I thought was possible with barbell training. Not only am I much stronger but my quality of life has improved a lot as my injuries have become nearly asymptomatic.

I would recommend backyard barbell to anyone interested in strength training, and I would highly recommend Coach Brian to anyone struggling to work around injuries!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Diego is a great coach at this gym. I’ve been working with him for over a year, and he has helped me immensely. He’s very knowledgeable about powerlifting and does everything from making your program, nutrition suggestions, rep to rep feedback, and help with mobility and more.

The gym itself has 5+ squat racks, great equipment and 24 hours access. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym, friendly and helpful trainers, lots of equipment, and good price for the quality of coaching. Diego helped me put 200lbs on my deadlift in a few months, highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Powerlifting pandemonium! Are you new to powerlifting? Have you been doing it for years? If you are serious about lifting and putting in the work, you need to be a member of Back Yard Barbell.

Credit to Chandler and Nicole for BYBB’s magnetic environment. With its old-school iron-first style, BYBB has the coaches and the equipment you need to reach your highest potential.

Go see Diego; thank me later.

Whether you're brand new to powerlifting or have been doing it for years, Coach Diego is the resource you want in your corner.

When I started with Diego at the end of December 2023, I did so for two reasons: 1) I needed help getting into better positions in all three big lifts: Bench, Squat, and Deadlift; 2) I wanted a team environment and accountability.

I ended up with far more than I anticipated. Over the past nine months of working with Diego, I have lost over 52 lbs of fat tissue and dropped 12% body fat, with zero loss in lean tissue (data achieved via Dexa Scan). In addition, we simultaneously surpassed all of my collegiate personal records.

Goal #1: ✅ Definitely achieved better positions. Here are my maxes after each block while recomping:

Squat: 260 - 325 - 330
Bench: 185 - 215 - 215
Deadlift: 315 - 385 - 395

Goal #2: ✅ As for accountability, in the last nine months, I've missed 5 out of the 96 training sessions, achieving a 93% attendance rate - A.

All the BYBB coaches are knowledgeable, educated, and skilled.

What impressed me about Diego is his ability to adjust and adapt a true powerlifting program for everyone, no matter your strength or skill set. D1 athlete? No problem. Finance manager who can barely squat? No problem. The guy who takes two trips from the car? Diego can fix that. That's the magic of working out here; we all start from the same place.

With Diego, you are guaranteed to get the true powerlifting experience, no matter your starting level, gender, or age.

Go sign up with Diego; the dude’s a one-way elevator—the only pathway is up.

Source: Google

★ 5

It’s the best gym in San Jose!
If you are serious about pursuing your strength goals, Backyard Barbell is the place. They have the perfect setup to do no-nonsense, no-BS workouts. Chandler is also quite active on acquiring equipment that targets specificity in powerlifting and strongman.

I’ve been personally working with Coach Diego since February 2024, and the strength gains have been massive.
Diego is very knowledgeable about sport-specific issues, and excels at pinpointing and correcting the minutest flaw in technique.
I started as basically a beginner, and Diego has transformed me into an intermediate level lifter in a matter of months. Specifically, I’ve seen my S, B, D maxes go up by 140lbs, 70lbs, and 120lbs respectively.
I’m currently training off-season with Diego, and he has successfully rounded me out as a lifter - strengthening my weak points while holding on to gains during a cut.

Lastly, the community at BB is very supportive, and friendly. You’ll find no lack of people cheering you on, when you’re going for a max-out.
All coaches are more than willing to provide a spot, if needed. And, might even add in a critique or two that comes from a place of tremendous experience in the field.

I highly recommend giving Backyard Barbell a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

I was looking for a powerlifting gym and stumbled on Backyard Barbell. I was impressed with the gym and how orderly everything was and how clean it was for a powerlifting gym. I inquired about personal training and was paired with Diego. Diego is a great coach! We have been training for over a year and I have made some awesome achievements in my lifting. I recently competed in my first WRPF meet and placed. Squatted 518, benched 320, and deadlifted 484. These results would have never happened if it wasn’t for the expertise Diego drew from to train me. From pointing out weaknesses and deficiencies and training them out with accessories to giving me the confidence to throw 500 pounds on my back. I would recommend this gym to anyone seeking strongman and powerlifting training. Both Diego and Chandler have the skills needed to get you where ever you want to go.

Source: Google

★ 5

Diego is the greatest coach of all time! Before I joined, I was at around BP 125 S 180 D 190 with very bad forms. Diego started from the fundamentals and taught me the correct form, nutrition, and the right mindset. With around one year of training, I was able to deadlift 315 lbs max. Highly recommend to everyone who wants to learn hardcore powerlifting!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have trained at Backyard Barbell for the past 4 years. The gym is well equipped with nearly every specialty bar, multiple power racks, monolift and accessory machines.

The best part of this gym is the people, the coaches are always open to helping and will push you to make progress. Chandler, Diego, and Brian are highly knowledgeable and have consistently helped me improve all of my lifts. Chandler has been running my programming since day 1 and I couldn't be more pleased with the progress. I started lifting in my 40s and that comes with some limitations. Chandler has worked around every nagging injury and ache keeping my progress consistently going up.

While I work with Chandler, I train at times that other coaches are working with their clients. Brian has always been there for a quick spot, random question and between set banter. Diego is always helpful and makes room for me to train even when he is running group training sessions and the gym is packed (Thanks Diego!).

Big thanks to the Backyard team, keep up the great work!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ever since I switched to this gym, my workouts have been considerably more enjoyable than the commercial gym I was in.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Diego for the last six months, and it’s the best gym experience I could ask for! On my first day with Diego, I told him I wanted to deadlift 300 pounds and bench 135. At the time, I was deadlifting less than 200 and benching around 105, so I thought it would take a few years to get to those goals. Last week, I beat them, deadlifting 305 and benching 140. (I also squatted 275!)

I didn’t think I’d be able to make so much progress so quickly, but it’s all thanks to Diego. His training plan is ambitious but doable. It’s made me realize that I can push myself way more than I had been when working out on my own. He’s also incredibly knowledgable. He strikes a good balance between working on technique and just letting you lift. I feel like my technique has improved, but I’m not obsessing about every rep or focused on a million cues.

I’m also way more accountable. I work out with Diego twice a week and once on my own. Now that I have a set schedule, going to the gym has become second nature—I don’t think about whether I want to go to the gym or whether I feel good, I just go and workout on the days I’m supposed to. It’s given more structure to my week, and it’s taken out the stress of deciding whether to work out on any given day (and then feeling guilty if I don’t).

The gym is also great. Everyone is friendly, and there’s always someone willing to spot you. It’s very organized, and everyone is conscious about putting things where they belong, so you don’t have to hunt around for equipment. I come in the mornings, and I’ve never had to wait for a rack or any other equipment. Parking is also free!

Source: Google

★ 5

Backyard Barbell is the ultimate gym for powerlifters! It has everything you’d dream of; from torque tank to monolift. The gym owner and head coach is an encyclopedia on powerlifting and is an active competitor. He is generous with his knowledge and always willing to answer questions. The entire staff is incredible - I’ve interacted the most with Diego and Nicole. Everyone there seems genuine and humble.

Source: Google

★ 5

I came across Backyard Barbell through a friend. I wanted to get back into weightlifting & happy to say I went through this gym. I spoke with Chandler about my goals, and he welcomed me and referred me to Coach Diego for beginners. Diego has the patience for those just starting. I’ve been going for the past 3 months, and he has helped me to improve my form immensely. Diego keeps me consistent and accountable. If you are interested in trying out or continuing powerlifting, I highly recommend this gym. Happy to be a part of Backyard Barbell community!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training with Coach Diego at Backyard Barbell for over 4 years. I was at a desk for about 10 years doing basically zero. How far I have come! What I love about this community is the accountability. Powerlifting is hard and you can come up with all sorts of excuses, sometimes valid (injuries happen) but Diego keeps a steady plan, adapts and pivots when necessary, and helps keep you on the path. After a powerlifting session, the hardest part of your day is done and everything else becomes easy. The vibe with the coaches here is pragmatic and no nonsense. The members are welcoming and supportive. I moved away but still make the drive once a week for the support of Diego and Backyard Barbell.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working with Coach Diego for 9 months and have absolutely loved every minute of it and appreciate his dedication to seeing me grow with my strength physically and mentally.

I started with zero lifting experience and could barely squat with any weight. Now I’m accomplishing lifts and weight I never would have imagined.

As a woman, I was always scared to enter gyms and feel comfortable and safe. Coach Diego makes sure everyone, especially his female clients, feel safe, welcomed and equally important when it comes to being part of the Backyard Barbell family!

Source: Google

★ 5

I first came to Backyard Barbell 8 months ago to try out powerlifting for the first time. Under the training of Coach Diego, I have developed a strong passion and foundation for the sport.

Over these months, Diego has patiently mentored me through my powerlifting journeys. He works well with understanding the individual needs and circumstances. Beyond the lifting aspect, Diego has supported me with nutritional planning, mobility work, and mentally with positive feedback. Even though I first came to the gym with wrist problems, we worked together to navigate around the pain while addressing the lifestyle issues outside the gym that caused the pain.

Diego's passion for powerlifting and knowledge in coaching is very apparent through conversation and action as he willingly and repeatedly stays after hours to watch my lifts and provide effective feedback. Invested in my success, he provides personalized programs and communicated very effectively with me, treating every individual with respect. He has instilled discipline and technique that has helped greatly me progress in the sport.

The environment is very supportive and the passion for powerlifting is in the atmosphere. Diego holistically works with his clients to become stronger powerlifters, and I would highly recommend him to anyone who wants to try out powerlifting.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with coach Diego at Backyard Barbell for a little over 8 months now. I came into this gym as an amateur lifter initially wanting to just work on my form, but quickly fell in love with powerlifting and strive to compete.

Diego worked patiently with me on every aspect of powerlifting -- both the physical and mental hurdles that come with the sport. He made sure to help me develop proper form and technique but also other aspects such as mobility and nutrition to make me not only a better lifter but also physically healthy and functional.

Diego works with each individual at their own pace, but he also makes sure to challenge you to levels that you thought you could never hit before. He is extremely passionate about lifting and coaching, and is also very responsive to any questions that you have whatsoever. He gives personalized programs (including warm ups, mobility routines, etc) every week to work on your weaknesses. During the session, he always has great feedback and always asks if we have any questions. He frequently stayed over-time after the session is over with me just to answer any questions, show me a new exercise, or work on my form if I was still struggling. He also works around your schedule if you have to go out of town (work, travel, etc) and has mutual respect and support regardless of your experience level.

If you are a complete beginner looking guidance to get started or an intermediate/experienced lifter trying to push past your limits or plateaus, then I would highly recommend to train under coach Diego.

Source: Google

★ 5

Been coming here to train woth Diego for almost a year and a half and it remains one of the best decisions I've made in a while. Highly recommend for people wanting to learn how to powerlift.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have worked with Coach Diego for 9 months now, and it has been one of the best training experiences of my life.

I came to Backyard Barbell with virtually no weight lifting knowledge. I had lifted weights in the past, but never had any formal coaching. From day one, Diego was deliberate in correcting my technique before progressing to heavier weight. When I couldn't figure out how to drive my legs on bench, we kept drilling the basic movement until I was able to perform it correctly.

I was also impressed by the level of attention Diego gave to each client in the group. I had done small group training before and felt neglected by previous coaches. Diego always asked me at the end of each session if I had any questions for him. He would often stay later than our scheduled time to show me a new exercise or refresh my memory on something we already covered.

In addition to coaching movement mechanics, Diego covered nutrition and equipment. Whenever I was approaching a max-out session, he would remind me to eat properly and be well rested. Diego showed me how to properly size and wear protective gear such as knee sleeves, wrist wraps, and a powerlifting belt. He recommended brands and even provided links to purchase the products.

If you want a coach who gives you all the ingredients for success, then look no further. If you show up, and follow his program, Diego is going to make you the strongest person you have ever been.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with Diego for 8 months now at Backyard Barbell. I can't express enough how fantastic my experience has been! From the moment I walked through the doors of BB, I knew I was in great hands with Diego.

First and foremost, let me start by saying that Diego's sense of humor is absolutely contagious. I genuinely look forward to every session, not just for the physical gains but also for the uplifting atmosphere.

Diego has respect for every individual who steps foot into the gym. As a newbie to powerlifting, I initially felt a bit apprehensive and intimidated. However, Diego immediately created an environment where I felt comfortable and supported. He never made me feel judged or inadequate, instead offering encouragement and celebrating even the smallest victories. This level of respect and inclusivity makes the gym a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or background.

Additionally, Diego's responsiveness is second to none. He's always attentive and genuinely interested in my progress, which created a strong sense of accountability. Whenever I had a question or needed guidance, he was readily available, providing valuable insights and personalized advice. It's clear that he genuinely cares about his clients' success and goes above and beyond to ensure we have all the support we need on our powerlifting journey. His programs are updated weekly and he sends a message out to everyone letting them know when they're updated.

Thanks to Diego's expertise and guidance, I've experienced tremendous growth in my lifts. From learning the correct form to gradually increasing weights, his comprehensive training program has been instrumental in my success.

If you're considering a trainer for powerlifting, I wholeheartedly recommend Diego. His programs will help with your gains, his respect keeps you in the gym, and his positivity and humor makes you actually want to come to the gym on hard days. Truly cannot recommend Diego enough!

As for the general vibe of Backyard Barbell, it's also immaculate.
In my 8 months of lifting here, I've had nothing but positive experiences. Everyone at BB is supportive and encouraging. Unlike commercial gyms, the vibe at BB is purely focused on making progress in your lifts - no matter where you started. If you lifted 50 pounds last week and you get 55 this week, people will celebrate your progress with you, even if they're in a rack repping 400 pounds on squats.

Source: Google

★ 5

Backyard Barbell is an old-school powerlifting gym. The first thing I noticed is that, there are no mirrors. No one is showing off, but minds their own business with the weights. Everyone I met so far in the gym are helpful and also showed respect and support for the beginners like me. I never felt out of place, even when I joined the gym.

I took group training sessions with my coach Diego Rivera. He started from the very basic movements, what to do, what not to do etc. He stressed the importance of diet, hydration, sleep and stretching again and again over many sessions. Please listen to him :)

As I progress further with heavier weights, I started getting pains in different parts of the body. Diego is knowledgeable and suggested different exercises, additional stretching movements to get rid off those pains. I am super happy and thankful to have Diego as my powerlifting coach.

I started from no experience in powerlifting and able to do squats @ 360 lbs, bench @ 215 lbs, deadlift @ 365 lbs, in just 8 months. See the videos in this review.

I highly recommend Backyard Barbell and Diego for your powerlifting needs.

Source: Google

★ 5

Backyard Barbell is a fantastic old-school style powerlifting gym. At first glance it is not a very big gym, but you definitely have enough space to lift without feeling cramped. All the equipment is very good quality as well.

I've been lifting here for close to 3 years. I've worked with coach Chandler about half that time, and currently with coach Diego.

Both are excellent coaches and awesome people overall. They are very knowledgeable, and able to answer any technical questions with thorough explanation.

The programming is very well designed. You will be taught proper form and corrected constantly. Your weaknesses will be worked on in the programming, and you will see excellent results.

Backyard Barbell is one of, if not the best, powerlifting gym in the Bay Area.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been lifting here for nearly a year with Diego as my coach, and I have gotten substantially stronger, bigger, and overall healthier during that time. The gym itself has everything you could possibly need as a powerlifter, with some strongman equipment too, and there's enough weights, racks, and platforms that you're never waiting around for something even at peak times. The overall vibes are really great too---always someone willing to spot you if you need it, for example.

Diego has been great as a coach. I actually want to learn the sport of powerlifting---not just have someone tell me to do this lift or that lift---and Diego has been extremely accommodating. He teaches me the *why*, not just the *how*, so I feel like I understand the mechanics of the lifts, how to use supplementals and accessories to improve performance on the competition lifts, how certain stretches and exercises improve mobility, how to set up a training schedule and a nutrition plan, and so on. He's never given me a "just because" answer when I ask about why we're doing what we're doing. He's also great at helping me push my limits in the gym, while still staying safe. Finally, I travel a lot for work and my schedule can get kind of crazy sometimes, and Diego's always been great about working around my schedule so I can get my gym time in. If you actually want to learn how to become a powerlifter, I cannot recommend Diego enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been going here for almost 2 years. Diego is a great coach and really pushes me without the sugar coating or BS. I’m not a fan of the new fad of constant videotaping (for influencing vs review of form) and hyping over every lift as I’ve experienced at a few other gyms. I’m more about form, seeing results and finishing the workout so I love the feel of this gym, very no nonsense. It’s a great powerlifting gym. I do see a hand full of strong man equipment but it’s mainly powerlifting focused. As a lesbian, I feel very comfortable and welcomed as the other members are very diverse.

Source: Google

★ 2

First things First. Backyard barbell is a Powerlifting gym. It is specifically designed for those who are interested in not only learning to power lift but also potentially compete at competitions in the future. So, if you are interested in other aspects of fitness like endurance, cardio, flexibility or mobility, this may not be what you are looking for. Additionally, just like other gyms, they have multiple coaches with different styles. So, your experience may differ depending on who you train with.

I joined Backyard barbell in November 2021 and did personal training with Diego for around 9 month with my spouse. We had 2 primary goals. 1) Increase strength with the 3 major compound lifts (Squats, Deadlifts, and Bench press). 2) Do them with correct form and avoid injury.

I was certainly able to lift more especially with deadlifts and squats as the program starts at a comfortable point where emphasis is on technique and correct form and gradually more weight is added every week allowing you enough time to recover.

I, did, however, start having issues with heavier weight while doing military press, and squats - something I have struggled with in the past and was hoping that a personal trainer will be able to help with. When bringing it up, Diego would question if I was sure it was not just soreness and that I needed to keep exercising. I have been working out for well over a decade and so have a good understanding of how muscle soreness feels compared to a pain resulting from working out. Only when the pain got worse, was I told to stop the related lift entirely and take some days off. This was frustrating as it was one of the reasons I decided to work with a personal trainer.

Although, our coach Diego was very flexible with scheduling sessions, he did ask for 24 hours notice when canceling. This was fine except there was no accountability when he had to cancel on us. On one occasion, he did not show up at all and called us after half an hour stating that his phone got discharged. Mistakes happen and we were accommodating. However, after a few weeks, when I was out of town, the same thing happened again where my wife had to drive all the way to they gym and wait 30 mins only to drive back.

Our sessions were not even scheduled that early (8 am). So, it was confusing when the reasoning given was that he set the alarm at 9 am instead of 8 am. Why would you set your alarm at the time when you are supposed to meet your clients?

Diego apologized profusely for missing the session and wanted to "in good faith" offer us an additional free session. When I asked him how many sessions were remaining (you pay for 5 sessions at a time), he suddenly added the condition of only offering the additional session if we renewed with him. We found this behavior as absolving responsibility and lacking integrity and did not even finish our remaining session.

So, while we did derive some benefit and the owner (Chandler) was also extremely responsive whenever we reached out to him, we decided to not continue because of the absence of professionalism and lack of confidence in being able to workout without any serious injuries. It's been more than 3 months, and I am still experiencing issues in my knee caused from performing the squats that were part of the program.

Based on all of the above (and a few other things not included here), I will not recommend personal training with Diego at Backyard barbell.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is THE place to go if you want to improve your lifts and improve as a powerlifter. I started my journey with the owner, Chandler, and he is extremely knowledgeable and fantastic to work with. He will call you out when he needs to and hold you to high standards all in the name of making sure you improve as a lifter. Later I shifted to working with Diego who was equally fantastic to work with. My lifts improved immensely and he worked with me both while I was lifting well and while I had some injuries. Truly knowledgeable and will make sure you are lifting properly and safely. You can't go wrong going here for both general lifting, powerlifting, and personal training.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

I walked in today to get some information. The guy behind the desk seemed a little annoyed/ surprised that I would even walk in but they asked what they can help. I started to say that I needed a place to train but I was quickly told that I needed to apply in order to work out there. I attempted to let them know that I was only in town for a few days but before I could even finish my sentence, I was cut off mid sentence and told that they absolutely don’t take walk ins.

I don’t mind the fact that you are unable to take walk-ins but it was one of the rudest 30 second exchanges that I have been a part of in quite some time.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been to quite a few gyms in the bay area and across the country and this has been my favorite gym. They have platforms where you can deadlift, and no one is going to give you any trouble, because you put the weights down too hard. You can lift barefoot. You can use chalk, and it's provided. The weights are calibrated. You know how sometimes the weights feel heavier than other days, well at other gyms they are, here they are competition weights. They have chains bands and boxes. They have plenty of squat and bench press areas. The weights are always put away neatly. You won't have to hunt for that 1.25 lb plate because you are just trying to squeeze out a few more gains. There is a leader board and the guys at this gym are strong, because the equipment that is there is designed to get you strong. Before going here I had always been one of the stronger guys at a gym. Well, I'm not even close(though I had injuries before staring here). This is the place to go if you want to train, not be distracted and get some results.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Started in December 2018 with some private training sessions with Chandler. The stuff I've learned in those 3 lessons surpasses anything I've learned in 7 years of lifting. He increased my deadlift PR by nearly 80lbs just by showing me the proper form.

The training crew lets you get help from experienced and knowledgeable trainers as well as working with other people reaching for the same goal.

The gym is small but has the essential equipment necessary to get a great workout in. Multiple squat/bench racks, but people are courteous enough to let you work in with them if they're all being used. Dumbbells, benches, different types of barbells, etc. Best part is everyone of different size, experience, strength, etc. are welcome and the room will stop and cheer for you when you're going for a new PR in a lift.

Overall, this place is worth every penny you pay for whatever option you choose. Even if you choose a just an online training plan it'll be the best plan you've ever gotten.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Good gym and awesome people. Been here 3 weeks and can say the following.

1) this is a strong gym.
2) people are nice and friendly (no mean mugging bullshit)
3) chandler is a great coach. He cuts it to you straight, and has made me much stronger and better lifter.
4) the other coaches are awesome as well.

I am an experienced lifter and found a new home, but if you are a newbie I feel you would feel the same way.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Top notch lifter's gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place. Best powerlifting gym in the Bay Area. World class coaching, atmosphere, and culture. All the equipment you need for both heavy lifting and every accessory you could think of. Amazing and supportive members, whether you are struggling to squat the bar, or pulling 500lbs+ deadlifts for reps. As long as you want to get stronger and are willing to do the work, you will be welcome here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Good gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google