★ 5

Great gym with great trainers! Great place to start your fitness journey or continue it and lift big with the Big Dawgs.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training at Hardcore Fitness El Cajon for a while now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best gyms I’ve ever been a part of. The coaches are knowledgeable, motivating, and genuinely care about your progress—whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience.
The group classes are intense in the best way, and the energy in the room is always uplifting. The workouts are well-structured, challenging, and constantly changing so it never gets boring. I’ve seen real results both physically and mentally since joining.
The community here is also a huge bonus—everyone is supportive, encouraging, and driven, which creates an atmosphere that pushes you to give your best every time you show up.
If you're serious about getting in shape, staying consistent, and joining a gym that feels like a second home, I highly recommend Hardcore Fitness El Cajon!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great Gym. Great management. Great trainers. Great community. From Day 1 workouts are tough, trainers are friendly, engaging & encouraging. Whatever is motivating you, they are there to offer their professional perspective to help you hit your goals. I love this place. Highly recommend this gym in El Cajon. All the trainers are dope & you leave every workout feeling like a superhero!

Source: Google

★ 5

Please add more women’s self defense class
I loved that class so much I learned a lot and want to take it again

Source: Google

★ 5

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This gym has completely changed my life. The trainers are absolutely top-tier—not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in your goals. They push you to be your best while respecting your limitations, creating a personalized and effective experience.

The community atmosphere here is unmatched. It’s not just a gym; it’s a safe space where friendships grow into family. Since joining a year ago, I’ve transformed both physically and mentally. I’ve lost 10 pounds, gained 20 pounds of muscle, and I’m in the best shape of my life.

Moving to California was a big change, but this gym has been the heart of my journey. I’ve found a supportive and inspiring community that I’m so grateful for. If you’re looking for more than just a place to work out, this is it! Shout out to the manager Brittany for making all this happen.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hesham is the best and most engaging pt I've ever had. His meal preps are amazing as well. 10/10 reccomend. The gym culture here is top quality.

Source: Google

★ 5

The vibe here is unmatched—everyone is so welcoming and supportive, it feels like a real team effort. The trainers are incredible at keeping you motivated and pushing you to reach your goals, all while creating a fun and energetic atmosphere.

I joined their 3-month challenge, and the results have been amazing. Not only have I seen physical changes, but my confidence and energy levels have skyrocketed. If you’re looking for a place where you’ll feel encouraged, supported, and genuinely excited to work out, this is the spot.

Source: Google

★ 5

So grateful for the fitness journey that Hardcore Fitness El Cajon helped me on over the last two years! I came out of the pandemic in a slump--always a runner who hadn't run in a year and a half--and joined HCF to get back in shape the year before my wedding. The trainers have always been knowledgeable and fun and there's a great community at HCF! During my time there, I've also done personal training with Johannes, who is AMAZING with tailoring your workouts for your goals, as well as focusing on mobility to help prevent, or handle, injuries along the way!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is GREAT!! I’ve been going here for about 4 months and have lost 40 lbs!! The trainers and staff are very helpful. Don’t ever see myself going to another gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym, single-handedly made me feel so confident in myself through supportive
and fun instruction that I can’t say anything negative about anybody at this location. Nick, Michael, Stephanie, Brittney challenged me and to reach my goals and strive to be a better version of myself. Amazing and supportive staff… Although I had some health issues and had to withdrawal… I will take with me the lessons I learned in my health journey and apply those to personal goals. Thank you Hardcore fitness El Cajon!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a gym to consider when wanting lose weight or improve in strength training! They have amazing trainers and staff. The trainers are patient and knowledgeable about their training. They also do individual training sessions and my absolute favorite "60 day challenge! I encourage you to join their team!
~Maria Guerrero

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym ever! Classes like personal training. It’s more like a family than a gym. They work with injuries also and make sure you are using equipment properly to avoid injuries. I had a wonderful experience with this gym. Last year they even had a Friendsgiving which was alot of fun. If you want to transform your body and be in great health I highly recommend this gym!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I enjoy sharing the room with motivated--and motivational--people. I appreciate showing up and having a workout laid out for me, so I can concentrate on just being physical, and save my mental energy for decision-making at work and running my household. I like having all of the equipment at my disposal that is needed for a great workout. I'm no stranger to lifting--30 years under my belt, in fact, but I have been given dozens of new exercises. I'm a big dude, so in an hour of lifting I have burned 800+ calories, and in the Fight camp I have approached 1,000. Yeah, this is working for me. --JustADude

Source: Google

★ 5

Really great gym and trainers

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing team and workouts.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place !!! It is a good place to transform your body and it is more than a gym, it is like a family, whenever you need something you will find someone to help you, coach Gio! Always pay attention to what you need to move forward, and bry!! She is blinded and is always willing to help you find what is best for you. It is a very complete gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I like the trainers and how they help make sure you are doing the right movements. I also like that they allow you to go at your own pace but they make sure to push you to improve. I think the most important part of the gym is making the appointment and working out for 1 hour. If it was just a gym that I could go to at any time and do my own thing, I would never show up and probably never improve. It's all about the trainers, they are the best!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym, I’ve been coming for three years and I don’t regret a bit. We have amazing community and great leaders that empower us through our workouts and always get the best out of us. I’m really grateful to be part of HCFEC.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member of hardcore fitness for three years now and I absolutely love it! I love to begin or finish my day with a boot camp or a fight camp at this gym. They have many amazing trainers but my absolute favorites are Johannes and Michael! They are so professional, positive, and personable. The classes are super high energy and the trainers focus on your form and teaching you how to lift the safe way. What I love most is the community and friendships you make with all the members. Want a positive and safe place to lift (especially for women)? Come to hardcore you won’t regret it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardcore is not only an amazing place to workout but everyone you meet is so friendly and the trainers really care. I love this place!

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardcore Fitness has completely changed my view of going to the gym. They take all the worry out of it and actually teach each class and help u learn the movements and improve your form while also pushing u as they watch u grow.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was always embarrassed to train no matter where. And after I moved to the United States it was even more difficult. Because I had difficulty communicating in English. But I always feel very welcome and today it's like a second family. There is always a coach helping you achieve your goals. The challenge was what helped me to be consistent in the gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym I’ve been with hardcore fitness Little over 4 years great staff, professional trainers good spot to be

Source: Google

★ 5

10/10 I would recommend this gym to anyone! I started back in April of 2023, and this gym was my saving grace, to say the least. My life had been in total chaos, and I needed stability. I reached out to the El Cajon location after seeing an ad on social media and spoke to Brittany! She was great! She showed me around the gym, reviewed the pricing, and answered any questions I had! I am so glad I decided to join! The staff was so welcoming, encouraging, and knowledgeable. In each class, there is a board that has that day's workout. At the beginning of the class, the trainers go over every movement and ask if there are any injuries or concerns. If there are injuries, the trainers will give you a modified workout to ensure you still get a great workout while also being cautious of any injury! Trainers will also walk around during the class correct your form, and push you to do that one more rep! It's great to have people who are knowledgeable on the workouts and help push you just a little further!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is awesome. If you want to get back into shape this is your place. Staff and trainers are pretty amazing. They all work to help you get to your goals. They push you and give you the motivation you need.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great gym. I have been coming here on and off since 2019 when I jumped back into fitness and joined one of their challenges. Each challenge I did was motivating and I saw results. All of the staff, coaches and other members have been helpful and nice. I would highly recommend this gym for any fitness level but it is also a great gym for those starting out or getting back into fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Staff are very friendly and professional. They make sure that you do the right thing and encourage you to do your best. They give special attention to new members and make them feel welcome and comfortable. They acknowledge your efforts and achievements. Other members are also very supportive, helpful and respectful. I recommend this gym especially to those who needs motivation to change and those who wants to feel and look their best!

Source: Google

★ 5

The trainers take time to help you if you are struggling with a movement as well as push you when the workouts look too easy. You know you're going in there to do the work and the trainers are right there guiding you on your journey. That level of attentiveness is amazing and makes the classes way more fun. Great workouts and great team of trainers!

Source: Google

★ 5

I like the interaction from the trainers, correcting form, challenging the members who want it
I like the flow of the workouts and how they push you but still set everyone up feel successful no matter what level of fitness you are at

Source: Google

★ 5

Wonderful family! Invigorating workouts. Helpful trainers that care!

Source: Google

★ 5

What sets Hardcore Fitness El Cajon apart is not just the challenging workouts, but the community that has been fostered within its walls. The camaraderie among fellow members creates an environment where everyone feels welcome and motivated to push their boundaries. It's this sense of belonging that makes each visit to the gym a rewarding and uplifting experience.

One trainer who deserves special recognition is Giovanny (@giovis10n). As a personal trainer, I had the privilege of working closely with Giovanny after my car accident. His experience and expertise in physical therapy and strength training played an instrumental role in bringing me back to life from my injuries. His personalized approach and unwavering support made me feel confident in my journey to recovery and beyond. Giovanny's commitment to his clients' well-being is truly commendable, and I can't express my gratitude enough for his role in my transformation.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is one of the best out there. The coaches here are fantastic and I’m constantly pushed to do better in such a supportive environment. The class structure makes it so you don’t feel bored with going into the gym even on a daily basis. They work to target areas per day so you get a full body workout by the end of the week. If strength training is not for you, they also have fight camp - which is more on the HIIT side that also offers boxing bag workouts too. The value you get for the price you pay per month is so worth it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Very structured and organized. 5 stations 2 movements at each station. The trainer demonstrates each move before class starts.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardcore Fitness offers a unique combination of weight loss challenges to go along with their boot camp/lift and fight camp classes. With motivating challenges and expert trainers, this gym provides a comprehensive fitness experience. The facility is well-equipped and maintained, and the sense of community is supportive and encouraging. Hardcore Fitness remains a destination where you can achieve your weight loss and strength-building goals with determination and guidance.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to hardcore for several months and I couldn’t be happier with this gym! All the trainers are super nice and the environment is fun and welcoming. Everyone is so helpful, and the workouts are explained and demonstrated before class starts.

A huge plus for me personally is all the class times that are offered, which makes it so convenient for my crazy schedule, which I absolutely love! And the workouts are always a challenge, you WILL definitely burn those calories!! I highly recommend hardcore, they don’t disappoint.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really love how this gym operates and the various options/classes you get to meet your goals. On top of that, they have personal training options. The challenges are great and the times I’ve done it, I lost tons of weight. I used to go to the old location off Fletcher and this “newer” spot is better in all aspects. The facility feels clean, organized and the staff is awesome. What I really liked is that you can follow the prescribed reps for an exercise or they allow you to go heavy if that’s what you want to work on. The coaches are knowledgeable and workouts never got stale. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've had a amazing experience at Hardcore Fitness; the staff and all the trainers are extremely helpful; they always motivate and push you to go the extra mile to your full potential. You can tell they care about the members and the fitness journey. Hardcore Fitness is the place to start if you are struggling with motivation and want to start your fitness journey.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardcore is such a great environment for all levels of fitness. Great trainers who focus on your needs and areas for growth, fun people to workout alongside and great music. I have been a member for almost 10 years and have worked out at 4 of the however many locations. The El Cajon location is the best so far and has treated me exceptionally well! Thanks Brittany and the rest of the team!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member here for over a year now and I can honestly say this place has changed my life! I am stronger and healthier than ever! The staff and trainers are the best and I love how it is one big family!

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love this gym. The staff and trainers pay such good attention to their clients. I never knew what to do when I went to the gym and HCF has a really great plan for workout and a demo before each class. Lots of options for class schedules (early AM and later into the evening). I started here to get ready for my wedding and I felt so good in my skin on my big day thanks to the meal planning and classes provided through hardcore fitness. The trainers will also work with you if you need any movement modifications due to injury so you don’t feel like you can’t be part of the workout. I really can’t say enough about how wonderful the staff and facility is.

Source: Google

★ 5

Chris is amazing!! I love him!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym with great people. I appreciated how the trainers were there for you each workout to help you be the best you. The best part is how easy the staff makes it for you. Everything is planned out for you. You show up and work out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely love this gym!!! The trainers truly want to see you grow and excel. Very motivating place!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardcore Fitness is the absolute best gym in East County. The atmosphere is so fun and friendly with zero judgment. The staff makes you feel so welcome. All the trainers are incredibly helpful, informative, motivating and provide an exceptional atmosphere for fitness and self improvement. This gym has helped me grow tremendously physically and mentally. Been going here a year now and I carry a whole new level of confidence than I ever have. Highly suggest checking it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great experience, I love it

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you enjoy group workouts that are fun and uplifting, this is the gym for you! I love the team of trainers here and they each bring so much to the classes. 10 out of 10 recommend! Do yourself a solid and sign up!

Source: Google

★ 5

Epic environment! Always a tight niche community yet supportive of new members.

Source: Google

★ 5

Cool place! Nice friendly environment motivating trainers.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym has become like family. Been going here for over a year now and regardless of life’s craziness, it’s always like going home at HCF El Cajon. The people care about you and your health, and the trainers are awesome!!

Source: Google

★ 5

All of the staff is amazing! A very uplifting and family environment! My favorite gym so far

Source: Google

★ 5

Cause I literally love all the options that they provide for you to pay and to be a member there!! Btw all the coaches there and the staff are very happy and I am so freaking grateful to have joined this gym!! Btw my PT coach nick cross is the best coach ever who actually listens and communicates with me and my goals!! Also my new gym manager Brittany is awesome 😎 as well!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love my gym! The staff is friendly and professional. The instructors treat each and every person like a priority, no matter what phase they may be in their fitness journey. My only critique is the pricing for membership. The only way to decrease the cost of your membership is though referral’s of friends or family, however I have not been able to get anyone to join. I pay 150.00 per month with no hope of any form of a discount. I am a single parent and would greatly benefit from a small reduction in my rate. Especially since I have been with the gym for a year! Although I feel that the price is well worth it, loyalty should be rewarded in some form, especially those who paid full price during the pandemic. Overall I give hardcore fitness 4 and a half stars for customer service, great instructors, and a family like atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 4

Nice, clean gym

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym was amazing for me and really thought me so much when it came to learning proper form! All of the team members are wonderful and so positive. I love that they push you but are able to do it in a way that you don't feel judged. I will forever recommend this gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing gym...

Source: Google

★ 5

Perfect place to rebuild strength! Before training at Hardcore, I noticed that I was running out of breath while doing low level activities. Several months into my training, I resumed my role as a wellness instructor. The classes at Hardcore improved my health and conditioning so well that I was able to teach my live yoga classes while observing the mask mandate.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Britt was very amazing she helped me out a lot

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing gym. They've helped take me to a whole new level. Trainers are excellent. Classes not too full. Plenty of space and equipment. I'm here to stay.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you want to join a family that cares about your journey, join Hardcore Fitness El Cajon. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!! I have been overweight my whole life... and for many reasons have not been active for a LONG time! The trainers work with u at your level and the other clients who work out here... also super nice and no one makes u feel judged! I get at least 3 high fives and fist bumps every time I make it through a work out! If u dont think u can do the gym thing...ur intimidated? This gym will change your mind! And u owe it to yourself to be fit! So thanks to this place im doing just that. Signed up for a free 5 day trial and I am hooked. I go pretty much every day. So glad I decided to take a chance here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I been going to this gym for a year and it's been really great. I recommend this gym to anyone interested in getting in shape.

Source: Google

★ 3

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★ 5

Join it and you will be transformed forever. Its a fit family who knows love and kindness atop health and fitness.

Source: Google

★ 2

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★ 5

Food was spectacular, but the portions are small. Be prepared to order multiple dishes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great challenging workouts

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★ 5

Absolutely love this place!!! Been apart of my life for almost 5 years now. Definitely a Must See!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Just show up, they'll take care of the rest. Highly encouraging group of trainers and patrons.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great trainers, challenging classes

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★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place or an intense genuine workout! I just recently joined the hardcore fitness family, and had my first workout yesterday, im dying today super sore lol i highly recommed, this place to big people like me whole really want to turn their life around for the better!

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 4

Fantastic boot camps and trainers. Their weight loss challenges are fantastic and they really do help teach you sustainable weight loss and fitness habits. The gym itself is mostly free weights and a few cardio machines. There is no AC, so summer can get brutal.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great group workouts. The trainers are knowledgeable and very helpful. The members are friendly and encouraging.

Source: Google

★ 5

Can’t please em all! But hey, if you look at MOST of these reviews, it’s 5 stars for a reason. This gym has TOP trainers, proper equipment and innovative workouts to get you to your goal. Trust, a warm-up lap in the alley should be the least of your worries. The trainers here are no joke and give attention to every single person working out. Friendly and personable staff makes it a fun environment. Come check it out 😉

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

This place is a joke, if I wanted to listen to crappy music and work out in an alley I can do that for free!! Avoid this place at all costs!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I never leave here unsatisfied I can truly say the trainers here help push you to your full potential. I personally have never been phycialy active and sence I've joined this gym I've done things I never thought I could the trainers ALWAYS help modify so you still get a work out no matter what .I really appreciate all the trainers for helping me every step of the way they are the BEST and there always making sure you do things correctly !! Your never alone because its always a group or partner workout I would recommend this to anyone ..

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym.. love working out there with the greatest motivating trainers

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this place so much. This is so much more than a gym. It's a fitness family. The trainers are here as a matter of passion. I get the feeling they could go make more money somewhere else,but they are here and they really care. The owners are hands on,often wanting me to report my progress directly. The members are kind,engaging and inclusive. If you want to feel like a part of a team,or a part of a workout revolution,then give this place a shot. You wont regret it.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is one of a kind. The trainers and owners are personally and emotionally vested in our progress. They keep me motivated and engaged and oyster me pay my own limits. They also Jane a program for my kids. It's a fit lifestyle.

Source: Google

★ 5

More than a gym, the trainers and its members make you feel like a family. A year and 4 challenges later and I'm addicted. If you want a killer workout that will push you and force physical and mental growth stop by for your free 5 day trial. I promise you'll be hooked!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym has been my game changer! I've always worked out pretty consistently but my results were minimal. After only 6 months at HCF, I am stronger and leaner than I have ever been. The trainers are the best and the members are welcoming.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started this gym in August the day it opened and will always remember what Owner Tommy Reynolds told me. After touring the gym and hearing how things worked I knew this was the gym for me. Tommy had invited me back for a free 5 day pass and said that the next day was legs. I told him that I'd see him the next day after that and the one thing that he said and has stuck with me was "If you want to change you'll show up" sure enough I showed up. My health wasn't the best when I started here and after 3 months my Dr was amazed on how much of a improvement I had made on my health. This is more then a gym it's truly a family and can't see myself anywhere else.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the best gym ever...probably because it isn't your typical gym feeling but more of a family, team spirit atmosphere. Trainers are awesome and take the time to give you individual attention.
If you try the 5 day free trial you will fall in love with it as I have! I'm 2 1/2 weeks in and already off my blood pressure meds. Couldn't be happier!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

These guys have great Fitness classes and personal trainers. The results on their 60 day challenges are unreal...

Source: Google

★ 5

I needed to face myself at almost 2 years post baby. I tried so many diets and pills but was never accountable. I saw my friend Jen's results and was amazed. I loved what the program had to offer and I accepted that this was my starting point to becoming happy in my own skin again.

I have had the most amazing experience here. Every day having people who support and sincerely care about my health/well-being. I have never met a more real group of people in my whole life. It's scary walking into a gym as an out of shape person, but I never felt anything but encouraged every single day by the trainers and members. It has made me stronger mentally and physically.

What I've accomplished in the challenge is more than I could've dreamed of. With two weeks left of the challenge I was already wearing the clothes I had hoped to be in at the end of the two months and surpassed one of my biggest goals. At final assessments I cut my mile time down by 1 minute. One of my biggest accomplishments was going from squatting 55lbs to 155lbs in just the two months of the challenge. I lost 26 pounds and 31 1/2 inches, in which 4 1/2 of those were in my waist. I'm also down 2 pant sizes. I've gained my confidence back, my happiness, my strength, mind clarity and to sum it up....my life. I am beyond grateful.

Not only would I recommend this to a friend, I already have. I would say that this challenge is one of the best things you could ever do for yourself. You will gain something more than just physical strength and learn so much about yourself in such a short amount of time. I would also say that one of the best parts about doing this is that you are never alone and have so much support from everyone at this gym. This WILL change your life.

Source: Google