★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I worked with Coach Brooks on a personal training program for 4 weeks in December while visiting Oakland for the month.
Brooks is so positive and encouraging and really knowledgeable! They helped me with technique and created a routine for me that has improved my strength and maximized my time in the gym.
While I didn't participate in any CrossFit classes, the overall vibe at Brightside Barbell is undeniably positive and welcoming.
I highly recommend both Coach Brooks and Brightside Barbell to anyone looking to enhance their fitness journey

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been coming to this gym for two years now. The coaches have helped me improve my lifting technique and mobility. The community is really friendly and fun, so I look forward to coming here after working all day. The class schedule is convenient for my schedule, but I also come in and workout on my own when I'm particularly busy.

I love that the gym offers 1:1 sessions upon joining. Coach Brooks refreshed me on the techniques and mobility required to do Crossfit movements safely. Also, I almost always scale down the workouts from what's written, so it was helpful that they taught me different scaling options for movements.

tl;dr knowledgable coaches and good vibes!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym in Oakland near Lake Merritt! I always drop in when I’m in town. Great community and coaching staff, fun mix of workouts, and a really great vibe. Definitely check them out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I just finished my first month at Brightside Barbell and it's fantastic. It's just about a 15 minute walk from my house, 12 if I walk fast. It is a Crossfit gym, so there are classes at specific times with a "workout of the day." I actually love that, because I don't have to decide what to do, and I'm in and out in an hour. Because this style of fitness doesn't use machines (aside from a rower and a bike) it is spacious and uncluttered. You can also schedule open gym time to do your own workout or practice a skill.

Something really important to me was to go somewhere inclusive and welcoming, because as someone who was always the last to be picked for anything sports-related in school, I've got, um, emotional baggage. I'm also neurodivergent and an artist, and I was pleasantly surprised to see people like me working out. The members are friendly, encouraging, diverse and cool!

The coaches are exceptional. Granted, I don't have previous experience with this genre of exercise, but I know a great coach when I see one; someone who is deeply knowledgable about their sport, enthusiastic, encouraging, and safety oriented but will also push you when needed. So far I've had classes with Coach Brooks (one of the owners), Liv, and Lilly. All of them have incredible attention to detail, and it's like having a personal trainer because the classes are quite small. They have all helped me to scale/modify exercises, figure out appropriate weight, as well as improve my lifting technique. This alone makes it well worth the monthly fee and I'm sure their instruction will become even more nuanced as my skills improve.

And last but not least, I LOVE that the only time someone touches me is for a celebratory fist bump. I know that seems like such a little thing, but after having had injuries from assists in yoga, and other super touch-centric things like partner dancing (where touch can easily veer into inappropriate), or even just being a woman out and about in the world, I really appreciate not having to worry about that during the hour I am there. It really helps soothe my nervous system in ways I didn't even realize I needed.

If you are thinking about trying out Brightside, don't hesitate! Anything and everything is possible. I'm so glad I took this step for my health and wellbeing. It's really boosting my confidence and I'm feeling stronger every day. We are so lucky to have this option in our neighborhood!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside Barbell is fantastic! I joined the gym for two months while I was spending the summer in Oakland. The instruction was super helpful, the community was very supportive, and the workouts were both fun and challenging. Easily the best experience I've had at a gym. I hope to be back. If you're thinking about joining, I strongly recommend that you do!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place to break a sweat and a laugh

Source: Google

★ 5

Such a great gym and community! Everyone is super welcoming and friendly and the coaches are great. Coach Brooks is AWESOME and huge bonus to the gym is having a dedicated barbell club class so you can work specifically on olympic lifting. I am going to miss this community so much and hope to drop in when I am back in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I found my gym! This place is truly wonderful.

After a decade of hopping around, lifting by myself, going to another Xfit gym and other strength focused gyms - this is the spot. It's super queer but not to the point of exclusion. Diversity of backgrounds, genders and experiences, and vast majority of the time the classes are more AFAB folks / women than not. I sat on trying it for a couple months when someone told me about it, and I'm glad I finally managed to come in. The community is fantastic and fun. They focus well on fitness and getting a good workout in without pushing you too much and giving lots of scaling options. I'm both stronger and have less injuries than before. Can't ask for much more than that.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside is truly a special place. I've been coming to this gym for a year, and my experience has been nothing but positive. Many reviews talk about how experienced and positive the coaches are, and that is no exaggeration. I've had classes with nearly every coach at the gym and each one is incredibly attentive, encouraging, and knowledgeable. Whenever there has been a movement I'm not able to do yet or needed to take a break from due to a minor injury, they always have numerous options for modifications and ways you can still get a great work out in. Crossfit has a reputation for being crazy intense and always pushing yourself to the max, which if that's your style you can do that here, but that will be because it comes from you and you alone -- the coaches never push you to go beyond what you are safely able to do, and are usually the first ones to recommend modifications or scales to make sure you stay safe and healthy.

It's also been so refreshing to be part of a gym culture where the goal is to get strong and set up a good foundation for functional movement and aging well as opposed to losing weight -- this is a truly inclusive, super body-positive gym, a real gem in the fitness world. Feel very lucky to have this in town.

Source: Google

★ 5

Super welcoming group of people! I dropped in for the open and everyone I met and all the coaches had amazing energy and vibes. Would definitely workout at this gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Dropped in Brightside while I was visiting friends, and I must say, THIS gym represents the CrossFit methodology. Brooks was super responsive on IG when I was asking questions about general info/class times, Coach Jake lead a great class and the members cheered me on as if I were one of their own! I felt very welcome and loved their all inclusivity of people. Will definitely visit again if I’m in the area!

Source: Google

★ 5

The nicest coaches and members! I've enjoyed having Brightside part of my health and fitness routine. The coaching staff are super knowledgeable and wonderful at providing modifications to accommodate skill level or pre-existing injuries.

Source: Google

★ 5

Starting personal training sessions at Brightside Barbell was a life changing experience. I came into training suffering from chronic pain and being unable to walk for even 30 minutes without having to stop because of the pain. After only a few months, I could walk miles pain free, bench press my own body weight, and more. The trainers are incredibly intelligent, patient, and just a great time to be around.

I'll take what I've learned from Brightside with me for the rest of my life!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside Barbell is the *best* gym I’ve ever been to! It is a super-inclusive, body-positive space where you can focus on getting stronger and meeting your individual goals without the noise and pressure of traditional gyms. They offer CrossFit, olympic lifting, pilates, and powerlifting classes, and have tons of convenient class times. In addition, they run all kinds of fun events like special skill workshops, the CrossFit open, potlucks, etc. They’ve also been really responsive to requests from the community — for additional class times, more lifting classes, skill workshops, etc. Most importantly, the coaches at this gym are phenomenal. The coaches are able to create custom programs for you to work through on your own, which is helpful to meet specific goals like alleviating pain or getting stronger in specific areas. But even in group classes, you get 1-1 time with the coach where they answer questions and provide really useful feedback on your form so you can rest assured that you're doing all the complex movements correctly and safely and/or adjust the workout to your needs and abilities. When I joined BB, I learned that I had developed bad habits at other gyms where my form wasn't closely watched, so it has been great to be educated so I stay safe and get stronger. I’d been to tons of other gyms before and haven’t loved the energy, but Brightside is a really special place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym, I’m new to CrossFit and have felt so supported and safe at Brightside Barbell. I’m so glad this place is in the neighborhood and would recommend it to anyone and everyone!

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside Barbell is an incredible gym. The coaches here are all thoughtful, encouraging, and incredibly talented at teaching skills and form to everyone. Coach Brooks is especially talented at making CrossFit and lifting accessible to all; they always have scaling options prepared for every movement in class, and come with a no judgement approach designed to get you moving. The community is welcoming, nonjudgemental, and just fun to be around! I’ve never been into exercising before Brightside, and now I feel excited to head to the gym multiple times a week. I leave every class feeling accomplished and encouraged to keep coming back. I can’t recommend Brightside Barbell enough!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

over the last year this gym has become my favorite gym of all times. The owners are the nicest humans, and the owner/headcoach Brooks is the best CF coach ive ever had. They have the rare combo of a brilliant mind and a gentle hand. The way they coach has made me understand the lifts in ways Ive never understood them before. Love this community, so hardworking and so gay, so good.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym I've ever been to! This is an incredibly welcoming gym, across all dimensions: no matter how much experience you have, no matter what your body looks like, no matter what gender you are, if you want to have a solid workout, this is the place to do it. The coaches are welcoming and know how to scale the workouts for all skill levels. They're here to make you strong—nobody is trying to make you "lose weight". And the community is small, tight-knit, and just as welcoming as the coaches are! I joined as a complete beginner six months ago and I'm now the strongest I've ever been in my life—really grateful to Brooks and the whole team!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside is a great place to visit or join for anyone who is looking to get in spicy CrossFit workouts or improve on their Olympic lifts at Barbell Club. There is even an option to get your sweat on while helping the community through fundraiser workouts on Saturdays!

The programming is thoughtful and scalable for all. The coaches are welcoming, encouraging and all offer a wealth of knowledge in movement and fitness. Members here are friendly and supportive. Diversity at this gym is a plus!

Whether you want friendly competition to help push you in workouts or just looking to accomplish personal fitness goals … you can get that here!

For me - working out/lifting weights helps me relieve stress and makes me feel strong. Brightside has been a safe and fun place for me to do so and I’m thankful they are part of the Oakland community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place to get a kickass workout. I took a CrossFit style community class here from Coach B and it was incredible and well adjusted to suit everyone's needs. Pretty chill group and a safe & welcoming space for all. Their website is pretty thorough as well.
Looking forward to my next workout here!

Source: Google

★ 5

Love the team at Brightside Barbell. I have chronic back pain. I started doing 1:1 training with Coach B and had the best time. They crafted routines for me that helped me significantly strengthen my back and increased my overall mobility. Coach always made it interesting, accessible, and a positive experience. I love the new gym and especially the Saturday Community workouts. They often turn the work out into a fundraiser for important causes. They also differentiate the activities so a variety of skill levels can participate. Check out the great website to catch one of the community workouts and you will be hooked!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside Barbell is home to some of the best coaching I’ve ever received while doing CrossFit. Brooks is a master at teaching skills and form to beginners and advanced athletes alike. The space is clean, the workouts leave me feeling accomplished and satisfied, and the community is extremely welcoming and inclusive to all. Whenever I’m in the East Bay I love dropping in for a workout here 💪🔥

Source: Google

★ 5

More than a gym, this place is a community of friendly folks who want to help each other feel strong and competent in their bodies. The coaching here is top-notch, and regardless of your fitness level or goals, the team here will help you get there.

The coaches at this gym have helped me grow in my own fitness journey by leaps and bounds, and they can do the same for you regardless of your current level of physical fitness or comfort with working out!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym! It is so welcoming, inclusive, non-judgmental/non-shaming, friendly and fun! It’s a great place to be with a diverse group of down to earth folks. I’ve worked with the head Coach (Brooks) for about a year and my time with them has been incredibly instrumental to my overall well-being. Highly recommend Brightside Barbell and Coach Brooks!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is great! They offer a community class on Saturdays that I absolutely love. The space is inclusive and welcoming, as are the coaches. A great addition to the neighborhood.

Source: Google

★ 1

I have been to this location twice and have inquired about operational hours and to look at the facility. Unfortunately both times i was ignored. The first time, I walked in I was told I had to make an appointment. No hello, no welcome to our gym, no customer service. I was told to look online at the schedule. Today I thought, I would give them a second chance. I saw someone working out and I tried to go in but the door was locked. There was a women sitting at a desk directly at entrance. When I tried to open the door did she did not react. Maybe she didn't her me. So, I then knocked on the window and was told we are closed. No hello and no friendly customer service. Just a cold stare! Both times I felt like the individual women who worked there were either of afraid of me or really just didn't want my business. Not throwing in the race card but I am an AA male. I have lived in this neighborhood for quite some time now and have never been treated rudely by any of the business merchants. Is race an issue, it very well could be. Were they rude on both occasions, yes! So if you are an AA male trying to work out here this is not the place for you!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is my favorite gym. It has everything you could want. I was nervous about being new to crossfit but the coaches made me feel instantly welcomed. They are so knowledgeable and supportive, and I was excited to learn so much about how to improve my techniques. What I love is that I'm constantly learning in every class. Everyone is also really friendly. It is a very diverse and kind group of people which can make anyone feel welcomed. Besides the fact that you will achieve your fitness goals at this gym, you will enjoy being here. Oh and the classes are fun, I look forward to each one!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great little local barbell/crossfit gym in a convenient location (street parking is almost always easy to find). The folks who workout here are friendly and encouraging, the coaches are fantastic, the programming is always just the right amount of challenging.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside is hands down my favorite gym I have ever been a member at. Brooks is the best coach. They make olympic lifting and Crossfit accessible, scalable, not intimidating, and all around fun! They have built an incredible, welcoming community that is friendly to newcomers and seasoned lifters alike.

I started consistently training with Brooks about a year ago and have crushed PR after PR. Brooks's programming is super effective. They are also amazing at assessing technique and adapting cues to what will work for you. This includes in group classes. Truly feels like getting personal training level attention to technique in a group setting. And if you're not about crushing PRs that's okay too! This is a place where you can really feel comfortable doing whatever works for you on your strength journey.

If you're looking for a place to get stronger, fitter, and happier, I can't recommend Brightside enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brooks is the best! Encourages a tight knit community that supports each other.

Source: Google

★ 5

My friend put me on to training with the head Coach, Brooks, last year. Haven’t looked back since! They’ve been an integral part of my wellness and healing journey. Super chill, patient, funny, and knowledgeable. I appreciate the gym space, other coaches, and inclusive community too. I say check it them out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside Barbell is an absolute gem of a gym. Affordable and with an accommodating schedule of classes. But the coaches and community are what bring me in every week. I've been working with Coach Brooks since 2018 and when they opened their own gym it was a no brainer to join.

Whether you've never lifted before or are a CrossFit/Olympic lifting regular, you'll feel right at home at Brightside.

Source: Google

★ 5

Simply the best gym in the east bay. Great equipment, peerless coaching, and an amazing, welcoming community of members.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you’re looking for an accessible, welcoming, positive, and motivational gym and community, look no further! Coach Brooks taught me CrossFit, and years later it is the only type of workout that I still do, besides running (ew). I’ve learned and grown (literally) so much with Coach Brooks, and am forever indebted to them for creating a space for me to find community, friends, health and fitness, and the tools I need to carry on proper form and exercise for the rest of my life.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brightside Barbell is an incredible space with welcoming and friendly staff. Brooks creates CrossFit accessible, safe, inclusive, and fun for all body types and levels in a nonjudgmental approach. Brooks and Kristin are incredibly knowledgeable. I feel grateful to have joined this community after incredible physical movement challenges due chronic pain and knee surgery. 💛✨🌈🏋🏾‍♀️

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing space, coaches, and community!

Source: Google

★ 5

Welcoming, inclusive space. Brightside Barbell is a community of kind, encouraging people.

Coach Brooks is absolutely a whiz at debugging mobility issues and finding cues that click even for clumsy folks such as myself. I've gotten so much stronger working with them, and had a ton of fun along the way.

Source: Google

★ 5

Brooks is a fantastic coach. They are great at scaling for all intensities- I trained with them when I was pregnant and when I had a broken ankle!

Source: Google

★ 5

Brooks is an amazing trainer and community builder and this gym reflects that. Brooks’ depth of knowledge and ability to apply it is incredible. I smashed all my PRs after their personal training 10 week cycle.

But the best is that this gym is for EVERYONE whether you are training to compete or have never touched a barbell in your life, or just want a place to go and take classes with nice humans. 10/10 recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym! Inclusive, friendly, great community and excellent coaching. Lift heavy things here!

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic coaches. Awesome, welcoming community. So glad I joined this gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

The best gym in Oakland! Super supportive crew and outstanding coaching. Love it here!

Source: Google