★ 5

The sweet owner, Kody, will welcome you and show you the ropes. I cannot recommend Berkeley Barbell enough for its welcoming community and supportive staff. The equipment is minimalist, but just right. Vibes are high, and the community will keep you coming back. Thank you BBC 🥰

Source: Google

★ 5

I just went for the first time and this place is wonderful! Good variety of equipment, very clean, staff was super helpful and welcoming!! Highly recommend if you're anywhere in the area and want some good, classic weightlifting

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★ 5

We had an awesome lift here while traveling through California! I got to chat with some members, and some trainers and one of the owners, and they were all super lovely! Highly recommend this gym!

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★ 5

My favorite gym: it’s well maintained, has the full range of weightlifting equipment and most importantly is a fun, friendly place to be. I love the community and look forward to seeing the staff and fellow gym goers every time I lift!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym and I tell everyone in my life about it!! The space has just the right equipment and layout, there is a wonderful outdoor workout area that makes the space wonderful for covid-cautious and/or immunocompromised people!! It is always very clean and I rarely have to wait in line to use anything.

Connor and Kody are really welcoming, as are everyone at the gym. The gym community is very diverse across gender, age, race, ability, gender identity, and sexuality. I'm queer and trans and feel very at home in that there are always other queer + trans people around and receive good vibes from the cis-het folks as well. In the four months that I have been going, my fitness has improved soooo much because I actually really want to go to the gym every day (I have never felt that before!!). The very reasonable price feels SO worth it -- could not more highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 1

It took me some time to get around to writing this review but it's been in the back of my head for a long time. I attended this gym for a month about a year ago with my fiance. I came in first, and was looking forward to another boutique weightlifting gym experience, especially because the equipment offered in the space was thoughtful and the reviews seemed great. One of the first days I attended, I was staring off into space (as one does after a big lift) and noticed that one of the men was looking at me with fear. I was staring in the direction of his phone without even thinking. I am all too used to that look of fear in the bay area as a small black woman. I have never stolen anything or committed a crime, but I my time in the bay was so racialized, I had to move back to the South. Many times, I am always overly aware of how I'm standing, talking, moving, anything in the bay because despite being 5'0, people think I will steal or hurt them.

Turned out the person watching me and his phone back to back, was one of the owners. I already knew I had to make him comfortable with my presence, as I usually had to in the bay, and noted that I was a federal employee and used to work in Big Tech. He noticeably softened, and mentioned he himself was half black (although passing). My fiance and I only stayed a month after that because it was just so blatant and saddening. If I'm inside of the code-locked gym, my only purpose is to be there for the service I paid for. This, among other experiences over almost a decade, is why I left the bay ultimately. It was just one of a few straws that broke the camels back. I knew I couldn't be a part of the gym community there after that interaction because it would always be dependent on me explaining myself -- how much I make, why I'm there, that I'm safe, I'm human.

I think for any other demographic this place is great. But if you're a younger looking black woman and especially dark skin, you already know the bay places your social status in a place where being in a Berkeley-heavy environment is not going to safe or welcoming for you.

I absolutely kept the peace and was nice to everyone while there regardless, but I've learned over time to minimize my time in spaces where I receive the worst assumptions to start with. I do want to note that the other owner never left me feeling out of place and it was appreciated.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

The best!! I’m older than most members, but everyone, most of all Connor and Kody are so inclusive and encouraging.
I think Connor knows SO much, that I feel safe working hard.
I just had a knee surgery and I’ve done really well so far with recovery. Dr and pt say it’s probably bc of the work and ‘pre-hab’ I’ve done with Connor. I am grateful!

Source: Google

★ 5

Kody is an amazing trainer! I was very new to lifting and working out in general, and he made me feel a lot more confident about my form & trying different workouts. Would 100% recommend this spot for anyone else looking to start their journey.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym! The owners are super welcoming and down to earth. I’ve been training with Kody for the last couple of months and really appreciate his warm and encouraging coaching style. If you’re new to working out or easily intimidated by gym culture, give this place a shot! You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the friendly, neighborhood community vibe.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great local gym. Really enjoying my training sessions with Kody.

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★ 5

Awesome local gym! Love the outdoor space.

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★ 5

Day passes are difficult to come by in Berkeley if you're just visiting and the few gyms that offered them had incredibly inflated prices.

Kody at Berkeley Barbell Club offered us a solution for a month that was far less than any daily pass fee from all other gyms in the city.

To top it off he and Connor are both very knowledgeable and really nice and they have put together a fantastic gym that has everything you need for a great workout with a very mellow vibe going on.
There were no attitudes other than good, friendly ones and my wife and I both very much enjoyed our workouts here.

Truth be told, Berkeley Barbell Club was a Berkeley highlight for us during our week stay.

Don't waste your time if you are visiting calling around, just go straight to the source and get it done.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome time! Was here for a quick lift on a day trip, and Connor was very cool and welcoming. I’ll be here every single time I’m back in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

Without a doubt the best gym I've ever been able to go to. I came to Berkeley Barbell as a graduating Cal student staying in the area, and I've watched the gym grow over time. I'm always impressed by the accessibility and the amount of equipment. It's extremely clean and well organized, and there's a gym culture of always picking up after yourself, keeping the equipment and benches clean, and working in. I rarely have to wait in lines. The owners are always there and you can also sign up for personal training with them. The gym is very affordable, especially compared to other options in the area. There's an entire community and group chat as well so you can get to know other gym members. Unfortunately I have to leave the area, but I appreciate the time I had here and I grew a lot here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Berkeley Barbell Club is next door to my business (Adeline Yoga). I have recommended it our students and my family over there since they opened. Everyone has had a great experience and given rave reviews. Kody and Connor are wonderful neighbors. One thing I enjoy as a neighbor is occasionally patrons squat down the street with weights on their shoulders. It makes me smile. Another thing I really appreciate is that there is a wonderful mixture of folks - lots of women and lots of ages and lots of sizes - and no implied dress code. My husband pops in to lift weights in his jeans (!!!!) and nobody bats an eye lash (though I bat an eye lash at his fabulous new biceps). Its funny that I am giving a review on a place I have never stepped foot into, but I am around there practically every day. Its a chill place where everyone can feel accepted.

Source: Google

★ 5

I visited the gym as a guest for several days while on a week long visit to Berkeley. It’s a great spot. It felt well cared for, with lots of equipment and clean bathrooms. Connor and Kody are very friendly. They set a warm tone, the other members I interacted with were approachable too. It was affordable and felt inclusive. Strength for everyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Dropped in to lift while in town for a short trip. Warm welcome from staff. Great equipment, immaculate vibe, and excellent location. Would definitely come back or consider a membership if I lived here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Berkeley Barbell is a powerlifter’s dream. Qualify equipment, open 24/7/365. Plenty of squat racks. What more can you ask for! Visit & you won’t go anywhere else if you live in Berkeley!

Source: Google

★ 5

I came upon this gym while on a short, one-week stay in Berkeley, and couldn't be more pleased with the place. The owner Kody is incredibly nice, welcoming, accommodating. Their price for a week-long access was very reasonable. The gym is spotless and very well equipped. I went there during the week, mid-day and it was never crowded. There's a warm, neighborly vibe about the place, yet it's truly not lacking in any equipment you might need. I look forward to going back the next time I'm up in Berkeley.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym! A 24 hour location in Berkeley is crucial since all the other gyms close before midnight. I was here around 7am on a Sunday and there were two other people. Very quiet. Great equipment. And Kody was super contactable even outside normal hours. Would recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member for a little over a year and I really love this gym. As all the reviews attest, they have solid and plentiful equipment - multiple squat racks, two deadlifting platforms, cables, dumbbells, isolation machines - there's even a rowing machine and a bike. But what really sets this place apart is the people. The owners Kody and Connor have cultivated a community of warm, supportive, and fun people. I'm in the best shape of my life in part because I really enjoy going to the gym and seeing all my gym homies. There are lots of gyms but only one BBC.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic weightlifting gym! Owners Kody and Connor are super knowledgeable and easy to work with.
The gym itself is clean, has a wide variety of equipment, and is never too busy (plus 24 hour access). Patrons are diverse and trend away from being 'bros.'
Absolutely worth checking out if you are interested in weightlifting or are looking for a place to refine your technique.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 5

I went a few times while I was visiting some family in the area. It’s a small space but has absolutely everything you could need. I love that it’s open 24/7 so I can go early in the morning or late at night and the owners are really nice and responsive to one’s needs. Hope to go back next time I’m in the area! Without a doubt one of the best value gyms I’ve been to!

Source: Google

★ 5

Berkeley Barbell Club is hands down one of the best gyms in the area. The space is clean and the equipment is great — nice outdoor area too. Special shoutout to Aristotle — an incredible trainer who really takes the time to understand your goals and tailors workouts to match. He listens, adapts, and genuinely cares about your progress. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Just started at Berkeley Barbell Club a week ago ! I've always been scared of using weights and have been worried about safety- but working with Kody has made me feel super safe and comfortable in the gym. Training sessions with him have also been the first time my lower back hasn't hurt after a workout. I would highly recommend this gym for anyone starting their workout journey

Source: Google

★ 5

Good space, good culture, has everything you need and nothing you don't, a weightlifter's gym

Source: Google

★ 5

I LOVE this gym. Great place to work out, with an excellent assortment of racks for benching and squatting, and a couple really nice deadlifting platforms. There's a cool outdoor area for when the weather is good, and it's open 24/7!

The owners, Connor and Kody, are absolutely lovely people, and they've built an amazing gym community if you're looking for lifting partners, running club buddies, or someone to give you a quick spot. I highly, highly recommend this place.

Source: Google

★ 5

A true gem of a neighborhood gym.
Berkeley Barbell Club; great community, kind owners, welcoming atmosphere, and 24-hour access. The equipment is thoughtfully chosen, and they expanded into the space next door so there’s lots of room. Can’t recommend it enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym, great people, great equipment. Everything and more than you'll need to get a great workout in. The owners are some of the most genuine people I've met and the community is not only welcoming but great to be around. Lots of strong and caring people. If you're in the area and looking for a gym this should be on the top of your list.

Source: Google

★ 5

Was in the bay for the month of February and was fortunate to find this gym. Great equipment, friendly owners and clientele, really clean, and 24 hr access. If I lived nearby this would be the place.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is exactly what I’ve been looking for — clean, minimal, affordable, and friendly. They pack a lot in a small space! It’s a great little community with awesome trainers and really friendly regulars.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love Berkeley Barbell! They have fantastic weightlifting equipment and the community is so welcoming and friendly. All good vibes!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great community, friendly owners and super convenient access to weightlifting equipment.

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★ 5

Fantastic weightlifting gym! This place is incredibly well laid out for a great weightlifting workout, and has more than what you need to work through your program. I joined for a month while traveling in Berkeley because of the incredibly fair pricing ($55/mo!) and would highly recommend to anyone who is in town and looking for a great place to get a lift in.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is almost exactly the platonic ideal of what I want a gym to be. Staff is helpful and friendly, gym is open 24/7, community is warm and accepting. I can't recommend this enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cody and Connor take great care of and are passionate about the success of their members.
Reasonable rates with all of the equipment that someone could hope for as a newcomer while meeting the training needs of serious bodybuilders/powerlifters.
They've even expanded since I've joined, effectively doubling the gym space.
I know I'm fan-girling a bit, but the 24-hour availability lets me work out around my work/school schedule.. how could I not?

Source: Google

★ 5

Berkeley Barbell Club is an outstanding place to work out, offering top-tier equipment and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere created by the incredible owners, Connor and Kody. They’ve truly gone above and beyond to make this gym a standout in Berkeley.

The equipment here is exceptional—featuring multiple Titan Fitness squat racks, two well-maintained deadlift platforms complete with jacks, and a wide selection of high-quality barbells. The plate-loaded machines are robust and versatile, and with plenty of plates available, you’ll never have to wait to load up for your sets.

Whether you’re pursuing peak performance or simply looking for a supportive space to achieve your fitness goals, this gym is the place to be. The environment is friendly, the community is supportive, and the trainers are incredibly knowledgeable.

Berkeley Barbell Club is hands down the best place to train in Berkeley.

Source: Google

★ 5

They have basically anything you'd need for a good workout, plus it's a super welcoming environment. You can't beat the hours!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 1

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★ 5

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★ 5

Great spot to get a lift in. Clean and well organized with all the equipment you need.

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★ 5

I have been loving going to Berkeley Barbell Club.
First off, it's so easy getting parking in front of the gym (can't do that at equinox), and when you walk in you get hit by great music (also can't get that at equinox).

The gym itself is great, it has everything you need and I've never had a problem using the equipment I need. Everything in the gym is tidy, organized and well maintained helping you get in the work you want to do.

The owners are super helpful and supportive if you ever need anything. 5*/5* would recommend to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

I see Kody twice a week for personal training. I feel like this gym has become a part of my community. I’m stronger and able to do exercises I never thought I would be able to. I highly recommend joining this gym - you’ll get stronger, join a wonderful community, and make great friends ❤️.

Source: Google

★ 5

Berkeley Barbell Club is a great little gym. I love the intimate feel, the equipment is quality, and the owners, Kody and Connor, are great trainers/ people. Added bonus that parking is easy as well. Do yourself a favor and check this place out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Berkeley Barbell is so much more than a great gym. By becoming a member you'll have everything you need for achieving your fitness goals and gain an awesome community! I was new to weightlifting, and with the help of Connor, Kody, and fellow members I have learned my way around the gym. I enjoyed their simple and generous monthly membership, several one-on-one training sessions, a three-month training program, and their monthly community adventures and events. Fun, fitness, and friends all in one place!!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is my favorite gym I’ve worked out at! Everyone is so kind and welcoming & they have tons of great equipment (and it doesn’t feel crowded!) despite the smaller space. It was never too busy & the 24/7 access is a huge plus. & Kody’s free run club is a must join 😊

Source: Google

★ 5

Great facility and great trainers! I've been working with Connor, who's fantastic. He helped me develop both weightlifting and nutrition plans that effectively accommodate my needs (shoulder injury recovery + pescatarian diet), and consistently makes himself available (both in the gym and via text) to answer my questions and help me with adjustments.

The gym itself has all the equipment I need, is clean and tidy, and most of all has such a great community vibe. Folks say hello/goodbye, there's lots of friendly conversation, and there are so many familiar faces each day (something I missed with the big box gyms).

Definitely recommend BBC as a great place to work out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Signed up as soon as I could after touring! I toured with Kody, one of the co-owners and trainers, who is always helpful and kind. Connor, the other co-owner and trainer, is very knowledgeable and welcoming. Both effectively work to create a sense of community, and ensure that everyone is comfortable using the equipment. Members are also super friendly and most people know each other by name. The gym is mainly geared toward strength training, with new equipment that is regularly maintained and updated based on member suggestions. The space is vibrant and inviting.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Kind + respectful community, clean, always able to use a rack.

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★ 5

Gym of my dreams. Private and everything you need. 24/7 access.

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★ 5

Awesome gym that’s incredibly well-equipped. Really nice crowd and friendly owners too!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym for powerlifting. Thanks connor and corey!

Source: Google

★ 5

more than just a gym- a warm, knowledgeable, and welcoming community space! Definitely a hidden gem- brand new equipment with everything you could possibly need, and also open 24 hours. The owners Connor and Kody are super friendly and helpful and are always making improvements to the space based on feedback from members. P.S. You can pay an extra ~$30 a month to have your workouts written for you and tailored to your goals/this gym itself, which I definitely recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Outstanding new gym. But basically followed my current trainer there (Connor) from another gym in town that was considerably closer to my home. But wanted to be with this trainer who has been outstanding....really knows what he's doing. sensitive to injuries and careful always about form. Brand new equip in the gym which is a big plus and music playlist which is second to none. Never looked back once becoming a member here. Big pluses also: easy parking and no charge for parking either. No monthly charge for gym when training there too. Would give them a constellation of stars if i could...but 5 the max on this system.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nice equipment, ample squat racks, great owners, and excellent tunes

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★ 5

After having hip replacement surgery and continual lower back pain, I was looking for a personal trainer that was familiar with chronic injuries and more specifically, someone who could work with a client who has had a hip replacement and can work with getting my body back into working condition. That personal trainer is Connor Barnett. Even within two sessions, my body is able to do more than it has in the last 6 months. Why live with chronic pain if you dont have to? Instead of ignoring jt, or icing it, or heatpads, or weight loss schemes, just make an appointment with Connor. he explains the workouts as you are
doing them, is very friendly, but also makes
sure you finish your sets and with correct form.
Do yourself a favor if youve had chronic back issues and make an appointment today.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place to move heavy things up and down. Plenty of squat racks so you won’t spend all day waiting for one to open up. Good music choice from the owners is a plus for when I forget my headphones.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Connor is a tremendous personal trainer/owner. His EMT and athletic background make him a great trainer who is thoughtful about injury, goal setting etc.

Source: Google

★ 5

Close and personal:
Just opened and already a hidden gem, a great small place to learn and train. Kody is a great trainer and will help absolute beginners find an entry to lifting, and the pros find everything they need.

Protip, you can lift more with a fresh haircut from Lucky at Revival next door. That's science!

Source: Google