★ 5

Visiting from out of town and Barbarian Barbell will now be my home-away-from-home gym. It’s an Olympic lifting-oriented space (lots of platforms, barbells, etc.), but as a powerlifter and someone who trains lots of accessories I was able to find everything I needed too (combo bars, squat rack, dumbbells, a few kettlebells, bands). Best of all, I love a gym that feels like it has a heart and a community - even though I was there on my own during open gym time I could tell Barbarian has that including a community goals board where there were lots of lifting goals and goals like “get my mind stronger”, flyers about upcoming seminars and gym meetings /potlucks. Best of all the gym has a pride flag on the wall - I love finding fitness spaces that are welcoming and inclusive of all people, especially weightlifting spaces that can be especially “bro-y”). This place is a gem, and I’m so happy to have found it for me frequent LA trips. If I lived here, this would be my spot!

Source: Google

★ 5

Came for a drop in -- Head coach was super nice and day pass was affordable (they have week passes as well). Bars spin well, platforms are flat, plates are high quality, the gym is clean, and the training environment is great. Will definitely be coming back when I'm in the area!

Source: Google

★ 5

Super friendly staff and nice facilities

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★ 5

Great environment. Great gym equipment. Everything you need/want for weightlifting!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing place, people and really good equipment! Perfect spot for a weightlifting session!

Source: Google

★ 5

We are visiting Los Angeles and we come from France. Amazing gym for weightlifters. See you next time !

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing Gym in LA. We came from France and loved it so much. The owner is very kind and helpful. We enjoyed our training there a lot! Definitely coming back next time we’re in LA!

Source: Google

★ 3

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★ 5

Barbarian Barbell is awesome! The coaching and programming is top-notch, and the environment is super friendly and welcoming. It’s my favorite olympic weightlifting gym in 10+ years of lifting

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym . Very clean and a great set up with quality equipment. They were kind enough to let me drop in on short notice while I was in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

Top notch weightlifting gym. For those of you guys in the SFV interested in getting stronger, you could not ask for a more supportive coaching staff. Beginner friendly and truly a community of fellow strength athletes who look after each other and lift each other up. 100% recommend

Source: Google

★ 5

TL;DR: Best gym. 24 Hour Access. Plenty of free parking. Woman-led. Even if you live far, make the trip to drop-in.

This gym in the valley is such a gem. For anyone who wants to improve or learn the sport of weightlifting, this is hands-down the best place to do it. In just a few short months, I have gained a lot strength and confidence in weightlifting; I have never been as strong as I am now. The technique classes are my favorite because you get so much focused attention and as a result make quick improvements that really make a difference. I think they are worth making a trip out to the valley to learn from an elite pro weightlifter. I especially love that this gym is led by women coaches who are truly exceptional and are both accomplished competitors. Their care for each individual athlete and the community is apparent and only adds to the experience of all members. The community is so supportive and amazing. It's incredible how every time you go for a lift, it feels like the whole gym is lifting with you. No matter what level you are, this is the place to grow and learn.

It is also just a convenient place to workout; here are some great and practical features:

- 24 Hour Access via Key Card
- Plenty of Free Parking
- Equipment for weightlifting, accessory work, and cardio
- Programming and workouts are posted in a convenient app that you can access anywhere
- Video review by coaches to help analyze your lifts
- Manage your membership via app

Source: Google

★ 5

Best weightlifting gym in the Valley. Awesome equipment, great community!

Source: Google

★ 5

this woman-owned gym feels much different than m/any of the gyms I have been to otherwise in LA - the atmosphere is very positive, no matter what your skills/shape/flexibility/past injuries/aspirations are. you are continuously challenged as a person, and taken seriously as an athlete. the coaches give much more than just vapid cues or confusing drills, but take the time and energy to help you with all lifts - snatch, cleans, jerks, squats, presses, RDLs, etc., as well as the mental game - mindfulness, patience, visualization, and mind-body connections. the space has the nicest weightlifting equipment i've ever seen in a dedicated gym. the people in the gym are also so friendly, silly, and strong. 5 stars doesn't even describe the value!

Source: Google

★ 5

Barbarian Barbell is where I discovered my passion for competitive Olympic-style weightlifting, and I’ve never looked back. Since joining, I’ve reached a level of fitness I never thought possible. Coach Emmy’s incredible skill, expertise, and dedication have not only transformed my body but also my entire lifestyle. My functional fitness, coordination, and overall health have significantly improved, and my weightlifting technique has advanced leaps and bounds. Over the years, I’ve hit personal records I’m incredibly proud of, all thanks to the top-notch coaching and supportive environment. Weightlifting has become my sport of choice, and I plan to stick with it for the long haul!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been weightlifting since 2016, took a break for about two years due to injury, and when I came back, I decided to try out this gym, and I feel I’ve found my 2nd home.
Barbarian has a clean, well-equipped, solid facility. Head coach Emmy and Assistant coach Kristin are amazing and help focus on what the needs are for the level of athlete. They program for all levels from youth to the Masters, and encourage participating in competitions. “Make a heavy lift? What do we want?!?!……. MORE WEIGHT!!!”
The members are great, everyone is friendly, the culture is welcoming, and open gym 24hrs!!! What more can you ask for?!
Movement is life, I’d choose Barbarian Barbell all over again, and if I could vote, they would win best weightlifting gym in the valley.

Source: Google

★ 5

Barbarian Barbell…home away from home. Genuinely one of the greatest places. Ive had the privilege of being apart of Barbarian for 4 years and have grown in every aspect of my life because of it. Not only is Emmy an amazing coach but the people that continue to walk into this gym make it all the more rewarding. There is not enough i can say about the community that is in this gym. It truly changes my mood when I walk in and recommend Barbarian to anyone who wants to grow not only physically, emotionally but spiritually. :) <3

Source: Google

★ 5

This is more than a gym! This is home. Accepting of all beginners, intermediates, national/international level lifters. LOVE IT

Source: Google

★ 5

Barbarian Barbell is an absolute gem of a gym for anyone serious about strength training, weightlifting, or powerlifting. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this is more than just a place to work out—it’s a community built on hard work, camaraderie, and excellence. The atmosphere is electric, the equipment is top-notch, and the culture fosters growth and grit at every level, from beginner lifters to elite athletes.

What truly sets Barbarian Barbell apart is its head coach, Emmy Vargas. Emmy is not just an incredible coach; she’s a force of nature. Her depth of knowledge in strength training is unmatched, and she has an uncanny ability to meet each lifter exactly where they are. Whether you’re a first-timer nervous about technique or a seasoned competitor chasing PRs, Emmy’s coaching style is equal parts technical mastery and heartfelt encouragement.

She takes the time to understand your goals, hones in on your strengths, and helps you tackle your weaknesses head-on. Her sharp eye for technique ensures that every rep you perform is efficient and safe, and her motivational style makes you want to push past limits you didn’t know you had. It’s clear she genuinely cares about each athlete’s progress, not just in the gym but in life.

The programming at Barbarian Barbell is smart, effective, and tailored to individual needs, and Emmy’s dedication to creating an inclusive and empowering environment makes the gym feel like a second home. Whether you’re hitting a new personal record or just grinding through a tough session, Emmy and the community she’s built are there to cheer you on every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a gym where you can grow stronger—physically, mentally, and emotionally—Barbarian Barbell is the place to be. And if you’re lucky enough to work with Emmy Vargas, you’ll quickly see why she’s one of the best coaches in the business. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been with Barbarian Barbell for the past 4 and a half years and cannot recommend this gym enough.

If you’re looking for a place to start weightlifting, improve your technique, or find a new gym, this place is just for you! Emmy and Kristin are the most supportive, kind, and dedicated coaches I have ever met. They have helped me refine my technique, reach new personal records, and have been there for me when I needed someone to talk to. Because of them, I have been able to compete with confidence at both the local and national levels.

The facility itself is exceptional — there are many platforms, plates, bars, and free weights to work from so you don’t have to worry about it being busy compared to a commercial gym. Sharing with others is not a problem even on busy days since everyone is very friendly. There is also a 24-hour access option which is perfect for individuals who have busy work-life schedules and need more flexibility for access.

The people at Barbarian Barbell are some of the nicest, friendliest, and most supportive team you’ll ever meet. If you’re looking for a community that pushes you to do your best, you will have no problem finding that here.

Source: Google

★ 5

I came in never having never lifted before, and the coaches have helped through the biggest transformation of my life since puberty. The community is full of dedicated and welcoming people, who make coming back exciting everytime. Something I've never experienced at a commercial gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is an incredible group of people to work with! I train remotely, and the coaches are outstanding—they provide expert guidance and personalized support. They truly prepare you for any competition you’re aiming for, ensuring you’re confident and ready to perform your best.

Source: Google

★ 5

Barbarian Barbell in Van Nuys is a true gem for anyone passionate about Olympic weightlifting. From the moment you arrive, you’ll appreciate the convenience of easy parking and its accessible, easy-to-find location.

The gym is outfitted with top-notch equipment that caters specifically to weightlifters. Platforms, bars, and weights are all meticulously maintained, and the setup is designed to meet the needs of serious lifters while still being welcoming to beginners. This is a space where true weightlifters can thrive.

The head coach, Emmy Vargas, is a standout feature of this gym. Emmy is a well-known figure in the weightlifting community and brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Under her guidance, lifters of all levels — from beginners to competitive athletes — develop beautiful technique and gain confidence in their lifts. The community she fosters is supportive, knowledgeable, and inspiring.

Whether you’re brand new to the sport or a seasoned lifter, I highly recommend Barbarian Barbell.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym, specializing in Olympic weightlifting, great energy, friendly environment, expert coaches, and good music. Def recommend it if you want to learn or improve your Olympic weightlifting technics.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great community with plenty of space. Come here if you want to learn the basics of Olympic weightlifting.

Source: Google

★ 5

Our 11 year-old son has been training at Barbarian for almost two years now. He's a competitive soccer goalie, and the strength gains he's made have greatly improved his game. Coach Emmy and Johnny are phenomenal with kids, both patient and meticulous about ensuring proper form. The kids' class meets three times a week, Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays from 4:30-5:30. It's an invaluable tool in the arsenal for any competitive athlete.

Source: Google

★ 5

Barbarian barbell is the best Olympic weightlifting gym I have ever been to. Emmy is amazing, super helpful and crazy knowledgeable and so friendly. Her technique class is the best and spends the whole time with you.

Source: Google

★ 5

The best weightlifting gym in the area! Team environment and top tier coaching. Everyone is so supportive in helping you attain your goals, and celebrating your successes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Definitely gem in the Valley and LA itself. Really supportive coaches and an awesome team.
It’s great to learn actual Olympic Weightlifting Technique (Not CrossFit) alongside highly skilled athletes and an amazing Coach.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym filled with friendly people, Emmy is a great and truly knows the art and skill that is the sport of Olympic weightlifting.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hands down one of the best training environments that I have ever been a part of. Coaching has the right balance of toughness and patience. Everyone is friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend to anyone interested in learning the classic lifts.

Source: Google

★ 4

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

This is a really good gym to learn Olympic lifting. The coaches are very knowledgeable and supportive. Everyone is very cool here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent Facility, overall! Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Best Olympic Weightlifting gym in LA. Great coaches, equipment and atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Gr8 m8

Source: Google