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Rose City Barbell is Pasadena’s premier strength training gym, offering personal training, barbell coaching, small group classes, and nutrition support. Our certified coaches help beginners and experienced lifters build strength safely and effectively with customized programs and expert guidance. Whether you want to learn proper lifting technique, get stronger, or join a supportive fitness community, Rose City Barbell provides the tools and coaching you need to succeed. Conveniently located in Pasadena, we’re here to help you reach your goals with proven training methods and a welcoming atmosphere.
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Reviews
Paul Robinson
★ 5
Honestly the best gym I've ever been to. The atmosphere is great. The classes vary and encourage increasing strength in upper and lower body and core strength and they really work on having good programming for the classes to enhance progress. The coaches are great and they'll push you to work hard but not beyond you're capabilities to avoid injuries, and they'll work with you to make work arounds for issues or injuries you do have.
The whole coaching staff is great, Mary, Lizzy, Kim, Sionan, Clementine, they were all great and enjoyed my classes with them even if it was a rough workout day.
I highly recommend them, I was able to increase my max lifts in SBD significantly and everything about the place encouraged me to go consistently.
Source: Google
Tina Yang
★ 5
This is IT--I have found my absolute gym place. & as long as Clementine, Lizzy, Kim and Mary are here, so will I be. (I keep saying this in person too, BTW!!)
After decades of joining corporate run gyms one after another; male trainers shaming me for being big or forcing me on starvation diets and grueling a la 'The Biggest Loser' cult; my whole life being fat shamed and told I "wasn't strong enough", to find a place like RCB is an absolute MIRACLE. I need WOMEN, STRONG, EMPATHETIC WOMEN like these to uplift me, to truly help me reach my goals of health! I appreciate Clementine for being the first weightlifter to recognize that I absolutely LOVELOVELOVE lifting, and to help me stay on track! Huge gratitude for just getting stronger and stronger in just these past months for twice a week private sessions with both Clementine and Lizzy. I've gained balance in my form, strength, and my GP is absolutely over the moon with my progress! (Last year he diagnosed me with diabetes, which runs in my genetics.)
In addition, I can also tell how great the group classes are as well; everyone open, friendly, goal focused and driven. This type of community, inclusive as well as goal oriented, inspires greatness. I LOVE the wide variety of classes too, and I can tell folks do well when they are at similar levels working out with instructors they respect, admire and trust. (That Lizzy runs nutritional seminars is a BIG bonus! SO incredibly helpful for me personally!)
I can't wait to be back for my next lift! See y'all soon at RCB!
Source: Google
Paula Boubel
★ 5
These coaches are incredibly knowledgeable and pay attention to you, no matter your level of experience!
Source: Google
Berj Tavitian
★ 5
I've been searching for a proper barbell/strength gym for a long time. Most places are either CrossFit or gyms with barely a barbell in sight.
Luckily, I came across Rose City Barbell about a two months ago. I cannot say enough positive things about it.
It's everything I could have asked for and more. The trainers are amazing (shoutout Kim and Clementine), the inventory is stocked, the other lifters are sweet as can be, the community is robust, and the gains are plentiful.
Within a month of attending classes 3 times a week, my lifts are rising and my weight is dropping.
On days where the last thing I want to do is exercise, I still find myself making the drive and attending class. I never regret it.
Do yourself a favor and check it out.
Source: Google
Victoria Tobin
★ 5
I was brand new to strength training when I stumbled across this gym. I’m so happy I decided to try out a class- rose city barbell has changed my life! The coaches are incredible and will meet you where you’re at. The students range from brand new beginners to experienced lifters and everyone gets equal attention and advice. Besides being technically skilled, the coaches are all super friendly, supportive, encouraging, and make class so much fun. I actually look forward to working out when I come here. The students in the classes are equally fun and supportive and overall it’s the best gym environment I’ve ever found. Since joining, I’ve gotten so much stronger and more confident in the gym and I can’t say enough good things about this place!
Source: Google
Buck Silva
★ 5
I love love love this gym! Amazing coaches, excellent programming, community and equipment. Lizzy hooked me up with how to start powerlifting and Kim keeps me working harder every visit. <3 it’s my two year anniversary here. Highly recommended 10 stars
Source: Google
Jordan McCormack
★ 5
Rose City Barbell is seriously the best. The coaches are super passionate and actually care about helping you lift safely and get stronger. They offer small group classes that spend time coaching both proper technique and are great at making sure you are progressing.
Everyone’s friendly, supportive, and it feels like a real community. Whether you’re new to lifting or more experienced, you’ll feel welcomed and guided the whole way.
If you’re looking for a place to learn proper technique, get stronger, and be around good people, this is it. 🙌
Source: Google
Rosanna Gamson
★ 5
Rose City Barbell is the best, most positive, most inspiring, and motivating gym I've ever experienced, and I've been in a lot of gyms and studios! As a woman in my mid-60's I appreciate the expertise of the trainers who are all powerful athletes and empathetic, professional, and thoughtful coaches ready to help you reach and exceed your goals. It's a welcoming atmosphere where you can work hard, make meaningful progress, and walk out with a smile on your face. Go! Totally worth it!
Source: Google
Angela Yoeurng
★ 5
Rose City Barbell is such actually such a special place. It’s women and POC owned, lgbt friendly, and welcoming to all levels and people. (It’s not a women only gym, lots of men train here too!)
RCB has all the equipment you need whether it’s your first day lifting or you’re training for your hundredth meet, including oly and power bars, calibrated plates, light technique bars etc. The coaches are super knowledgeable and the owners are always looking for ways to improve the space.
Most importantly, RCB has really fostered a strong sense of community and belonging in their members. Come find your village here 🥹
Source: Google
sean kinsky
★ 5
SUCH a special gym!! I came in with zero experience and they were so welcoming and helpful getting me started, and the group classes continue to be amazing. Love love love this place
Source: Google
Gabrielle Pace
★ 5
Source: Google
Marianne Miranda
★ 5
I started coming to this gym in January 2022 after taking a long break from working out since the pandemic. I used to dabble in lifting back in college, but after a few inactive years, I didn’t feel confident going back to it on my own, especially not at a regular commercial gym.
Training with Mary (one of the co-owners) helped me build up my strength (with proper form ofc) and confidence at my own pace. I’ve hit goals I never imagined, like competing in a powerlifting meet, even though I’m an anxious, introverted person by nature. The trainers are knowledgeable and the programs are designed with intentionality (as in, the workouts are made to challenge you, improve your technique, and strengthen your weak points. It is not gimmicky!)
The community here at Rose City Barbell is also a huge plus. Everyone’s kind, welcoming, and genuinely supportive. It’s a great place to grow, whether you’re just getting started or looking to push yourself further.
Source: Google
Elsa Matsumoto
★ 5
I’ve been a member of this gym through pregnancy, postpartum, and everything in between. The small class sizes have truly helped me grow as an athlete, allowing for individualized attention and a strong sense of community. Even when I’ve had to take breaks, Mary has always been ready to meet me exactly where I’m at and help me rebuild with care and encouragement. I’m so grateful to have found that here.
Source: Google
Jacqueline
★ 5
I’ve been coming to this gym for 3 years, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s changed my life. I originally joined because it’s women-owned, powerlifting-focused gym, and the small group classes meant lots of personalized attention (hello, proper form!). But I stayed because the community here is really special -- kind, encouraging, and zero ego.
It’s not just powerlifting, either. They offer calisthenics, running classes, and open gym options, so there’s something for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or chasing a PR.
This isn’t a bootcamp-y, shout-at-you kind of place. It’s supportive, empowering, and honestly just fun. The coaches and members are kind, encouraging, and genuinely invested in each other's progress. I've made real friendships here, not just workout buddies.
Yes, it’s a bit pricier than your average gym, but the level of personal attention, expertise, and connection makes it 100% worth it. You’re not just joining a gym, you’re becoming part of something special.
Source: Google
Lauren Saavedra
★ 5
I’m happy to have found this place. It’s a really comfortable place to learn how to get strong. I have been attending the group classes. Many great things: squat, deadlift, and bench are different days and The times are convenient, Very welcoming group all around, women owned local business and it’s probably better than therapy.
Source: Google
Ruby Goldin
★ 5
Rose City is the best gym in LA! The community is incredible and Lizzy and Mary are not only the kindest humans but also fantastic and extremely knowledgeable trainers. The programming they offer is top notch and the classes are small enough that you feel like you’re getting a personal training session. Couldn’t recommend more!
Source: Google
Roxanne Flippin
★ 5
I've been going to Rose City Barbell for over two years now and can't say enough good things about this gym. I first walked in as an unsure, unathletic person who's always been intimidated by gym settings, and was instantly welcomed by the coaches and members. I've gained confidence and learned strength skills I never would have thought I'd be capable of.
The coaches are all experienced and knowledgeable. Each has an eye for technique and is able to tailor their coaching to meet individuals' needs, both in the small group classes and in one-on-one training. The community is welcoming and inclusive of everyone, no matter their background or skill level. They also host fun events for members like cookie decorating classes, board game nights, ornament decorating, paint and sip outings, clothing swaps, as well as seminars on nutrition and life goals.
The gym itself is always kept super clean tidy. There's a community ipad and speaker system where people can play their own music. Drinks are available for purchase and there's a coffee maker and microwave as well, for all your workout snacking needs.
Whether you're an athlete looking to get competition ready, or someone who just wants to get their body moving, this is the gym for you. (And you can bring your dog!)
Source: Google
Noël C
★ 5
If you’re looking for a gym that’s not just about lifting weights but about lifting each other up, Rose City Barbell is the place to be. From the moment you walk in, you feel the difference. It’s more than just a powerlifting gym—it’s a supportive, encouraging, and inclusive community where everyone is empowered to hit their personal goals, no matter where they start.
Whether you're a seasoned lifter or just starting out, the energy is electric but never intimidating. You’ll find a team of passionate, knowledgeable trainers who invest and care about your progress. They're not just there to spot you; they’re there to coach you, motivate you, and make sure you’re lifting in a way that’s safe, effective, and tailored to your body’s unique needs.
The gym is outfitted with everything you need to hit your goals—from barbells to specialty platforms. It’s a space designed for lifting, recovery, and growth. Plus, the gym layout and vibe make it easy to focus on your workout, knowing you’re surrounded by others who are on their own journey, supporting one another.
But what really makes Rose City Barbell stand out is the community. There’s no pressure, no judgment—just a group who want to see each other succeed.
Source: Google
Aidan Steen
★ 5
I visited the gym when I was in town for the week. The staff was excellent, knowledgeable, and personable, and everyone was so friendly and encouraging. Next time I'm in town and need a place to work out, it will definitely be here!
Source: Google
Anna Johnson
★ 5
This gym and its supportive staff and community have made me a consistent gym-goer for the first time in my life. I’ve now been a member for about a year and think the membership is some of the best money I spend each month.
The programming and coaching are excellent. It feels so good to walk into a strength class and know my workout is already planned and an expert will be watching and helping with my lifting form. I’ve also made lots of friends within the RCB community because everyone is so open and kind. The owners and manager of the gym (who are all women btw!!!) care SO much and it’s evident in everything they do, from the open community-wide events to the extras they have created for us (like yearly mock powerlifting meets.) I genuinely recommend Rose City Barbell to all of my friends and hope to see the gym continue to thrive.
Source: Google
Liz Rappaport
★ 5
This is the best gym in Pasadena. It is women-owned, which I love to support. The coaches and trainers are excellent, supportive and expert. Everyone who works out there sees results quickly, which is a huge boost for new gym-goers. I have changed my body, my mindset and my health all for the better. I can’t recommend Rose City enough. Also, beyond personal training, the owners offer tons of special events and practice competitions for people who want that.
Source: Google
ezrah pelino
★ 5
Rose city barbell is something special! I’ve been there since they first opened and only improvements have been made! Excellent coaches, a loving community, and a safe space to grow in your fitness journey! Another part of this gym I appreciate is that all the coaches know what there doing, everyone is well educated. If you are looking for a good gym please check out rose city barbell!
Source: Google
Sophia Liu
★ 5
Rose City Barbell is simply the best gym for weight training instruction, community, flexibility and most importantly fun!
The coaches are extremely experienced with all different experience/skill levels, mindful of students’ safety and comfort, and inclusive/encouraging! They really make the class and their expertise really shines when teaching, explaining, and correcting for form/technique.
I also love the wide time range of classes throughout the day to meet my scheduling needs.
The gym is very clean and has a wide range of equipment for all skill levels.
Learning to lift has been so much fun here and I’ve seen so many benefits from it in many areas of my life! I hope you give RCB a try!
Source: Google
Sionann Ghahremani
★ 5
I loved this place from my first visit. Everyone was so welcoming and supportive. The head coach really pays close attention to everyone’s lifts and gives great cueing that really improved my performance.
Source: Google
Morgan Shepherd
★ 5
While I don’t make it out to this gym as often as I would like, if I lived closer I would literally be there everyday. It is such a welcoming space from the coaches to the clientele. Their equipment is top notch, and they know how to set up workouts so that you can focus on your main compound lifts and accessory work with progressive overload. And bonus points for there always being doggos and a clean bathroom! Definitely a favorite. 🤩
Source: Google
angrball
★ 5
Rose City is a great place for anyone that's starting out with lifting to those who are wanting to improve on form and make gains. All the instructors are amazing and the entire gym community is so welcoming and supportive. Go during a PR week and you'll see for yourself. A femme-owned gym with the most kick-ass instructors and body positive makes for the best environment to work out at.
Source: Google
Camille Cannon
★ 5
RCB is incredible! The gym is well organized, clean and comfortable. The coaches are the absolute best. They are true professionals and knowledgeable in their field. I took the group classes and I felt like I was in good hands every time. As someone new to barbell, I relied on these ladies a lot for corrections and support. It’s a very open, judgement free environment. Kim, Mary, Lizzy and Clementine always left me feeling stronger and happy so showed up! I cannot recommend this place enough. Just do it!
Source: Google
Linh Lam
★ 5
As someone who has gone to many fitness boutiques, CrossFit and powerlifting gyms, and yoga studios over the years, Rose City stands out. It’s a female-owned strength focused gym where beginners and advanced lifters alike can get strong, become more athletic and can invest in their health. All the coaches pay attention to technique and make sure that you’re lifting safely. The programming is top notch and incredibly thoughtful. If you aren’t taking classes (which I highly recommend!), open gym is super convenient and the gym has all the equipment you’ll need. The environment is so welcoming and the owners run community events, such as a run club, clothing swaps, or game nights, so that members get to know each other. This is my home away from home; if you have the chance, check Rose City out!
Source: Google
Gemma Natori
★ 5
This gym is an absolute treasure for folks interested in lifting. The coaching is top-notch - thoughtful, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive. The fellow gym-goers are kind, encouraging, and genuinely uplifting. Whether you’re new to lifting or looking to take things to the next level, this hidden gem offers the perfect environment to grow stronger!
Source: Google
Sam Lyden
★ 5
Excellent gym with everything you need. All of the trainers hospitable and encouraging.
Source: Google
Cary Lee
★ 5
Lizzy and Mary both helped coach me a lot in my form and helped me achieve a lot of my personal goals in the classes they offer!
Source: Google
Adrienne Eades
★ 5
I recently visited Rose City Barbell as a visitor from out of town and had a great time lifting there! The gym is well organized, clean and has new equipment. All of the coaches are knowledgeable, kind and fun to be around. I’m looking forward to training there again next time I visit LA!
Source: Google
Philip Rodriquez
★ 5
Great gym with the best coaches and clients. If you’re looking for a non-judgmental, chill space to learn or build on your weightlifting skills, definitely give Rose City Barbell a shot. The small group classes, unique programming and knowledgeable staff will keep you coming back and help you reach your fitness goals.
Source: Google
Kevin Mejia
★ 5
I highly recommend Lizzie, Mary, and all the coaches at Rose City Barbell! Over the years since they've opened, I've taken classes, gone to the open gym hours, and participated in a group bike ride even and I've never been to a more supportive and encouraging space! Thanks Rose City Barbell! Looking foward to more ❤️
Source: Google
Diana Garcia
★ 5
Rose City Barbell is a really special gym with coaches who are genuinely invested in your progress. Their teaching style is clear, effective, and adaptable to all skill levels. The community is diverse and welcoming, with fellow lifters who are always supportive and encouraging. Lizzy and Mary, the owners, have cultivated an environment where everyone can thrive, whether you're a beginner or experienced athlete. I highly recommend Rose City Barbell to anyone looking for expert coaching and a truly positive gym community.
Source: Google
Charisse G
★ 5
All fitness levels are welcome here from beginner, advanced or already competing. The owners and members are welcoming, supportive, and are genuinely invested in your progress.The gym is always clean and well-organized!
Whether your goal is to build strength, lose weight, or just move better, they’ve got you covered. My favorite part is the open gym access. 100% worth the membership!
Source: Google
Shantal Kamanjian
★ 5
I talk everyone’s ear off about this gem of a gym! The coaches bring experience, guidance, intention, and community that is truly special and inspiring. I feel fortunate to have found Rose City Barbell, it has been one of the most transformative experiences in my life (physically, mentally, and emotionally).
Source: Google
Emely Ortiz
★ 5
I started going to RCB around the beginning of this year. I feel like I discovered an absolute goldmine when I found Rose City Barbell. The coaches are, by far, the best I've ever come across - safety, education, and proper form are priorities, the group classes are dynamic, interesting, and fun, and the community is supportive. At 50, (and I want to stress that I don't have an athletic background, I came in as a newbie with a basic understanding of lifting) I'm discovering for the first time in my life, just how strong this body of mine actually is, and just how much fun and empowering lifting can be. I honestly can't recommend this place enough.
Source: Google
Edwin Zuniga
★ 5
If you're in the area and are looking to get strong, I highly recommend Rose City. They are very welcoming here. I weighed 340 pounds at my heaviest and for a long time I thought I couldn't do anything other than cardio until I got my weight down. I was so wrong! I've never felt judged or insecure about my weight while working out here.The coaches here have really been great about making adjustments for my size since there are some movements I can't really do (for now...i'm coming for you, pistol squats and pull-ups!).
I've been a member for about a year now. I'd wanted to learn strength training for a long time, but was always intimidated at big, commercial gyms and felt like I was "in the way" of other people vying for a few pieces of equipment. At Rose City, the classes are capped at 8 people so there is always enough equipment to train. This is so important for strength training! When I've tried learning solo, I never pushed myself as hard as I could for fear of injuring myself. Training with the coaches here has given me the confidence to really go for it every day, knowing that they've got my back and will let me know when my form is off and, VERY IMPORTANTLY, give clear instructions on how to correct.
The programming is excellent, with each day focusing on one main lift followed by a few accessory moves to supplement the training. I have learned so much in my time here and am doing all sorts of exercises I never knew existed.
I started at 3 days a week but went ahead and paid for a year of full access. My days just feel off if I don't start them by lifting something heavy. Come check out the gym and get strong with us!
Source: Google
Megan Mushonga
★ 5
Rose City Barbell is amazing and friendly to all shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities. The gym is clean and there is plenty of equipment to get strong. The programming of the barbell classes keeps you progressing and trying new things. The classes are small, so you get personalized instruction from the coaches. It's also a wonderful and supportive community.
Source: Google
Rachel Neyland
★ 5
I’ve been a member at Rose City for 3 years now, and it has transformed my life! I’m happier, healthier, stronger, and more confident! Rose City has the best coaches, the best members, and the best classes - HANDS DOWN! I’m so grateful to be a part of the community - it’s truly a one-of-a-kind gym.
Source: Google
Jill Chung
★ 5
I cannot say enough great things about this gym and the wonderful coaches! There has never been a gym that I actually look forward to going to, until now. I love Rose city and I look forward to my class! The training is challenging and fun. I feel so much stronger. The coaches not only encourage you to push yourself, but also check in on you to make sure you're staying on track. This really helps with accountability. I love Rose city, and if you're looking for a gym... 10/10 would recommend.
Source: Google
Noosha Razavian
★ 5
I couldn’t recommend Rose City Barbell more for new lifters. I was always intimidated by weightlifting and never knew where to start. The Rose City coaches and members immediately made me feel welcomed and a part of the Rose City family. While I am signed up for the group classes, the Rose City coaches always give great, individual feedback, which makes you feel safer and helps you feel like you’re constantly improving. I absolutely love the friends I’ve made at Rose City and look forward to seeing them every time I come in. This is all thanks to the amazing community the staff at Rose City have created.
Source: Google
Becca Patton
★ 5
This is the best gym I have ever joined. I have been lifting for 7 years and the coaches here are the best I have experienced by far. Such a wonderful, welcoming community. Top notch coaching and excellent equipment. I recommend this gym for anyone - beginner and experienced lifters.
Source: Google
Jeanette Louise
★ 5
Quality gym full of quality people. Love that it's 24 hour access, it really helps with my weird schedule. I have been lifting here as beginner for about a year now, and I've never felt happier. So much support available :)
2025 update: Still lifting at this gym, still very much a happy camper. The coaches are just top quality and the workout structure is challenging (in a good way).
Source: Google
Brittany Barajas
★ 5
I’ve been going for roughly a year now and love it even more! Classes are small (max 8 people, usually less), always interesting (exercises change constantly so you are always being challenged), and supportive (people of all levels). Coaching is great as they give constant feedback so you can really perfect your form and avoid any unnecessary injuries. All in all an amazing place for strength training !
Source: Google
Elise Gibney
★ 5
Rose City is hands down the best gym I’ve ever been to! The coaching is excellent and as a result my form has improved a ton in the time I’ve been there! The vibe is excellent, everyone is so supportive and friendly and I love it. I rave about this gym to anyone who’ll listen. Highly recommend!
Source: Google
Kris Jensen
★ 5
I’ve been a member at Rose City for nearly three years. The coaching is excellent, the programming challenging, and the camaraderie wonderful. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive environment.
Source: Google
Angelica Krauss
★ 5
I’ve loved going to Rose City to get stronger and work out with wonderful people! Thank you to the amazing coaches for making this place awesome
Source: Google
Oscar Bolanos
★ 5
Love my time at rose city during the first month I signed up for a whole year. Great trainers, great programs and overall the atmosphere of the gym community has been awesome! Great way for anyone to lift and gain strength that fit into your fitness goals.
Source: Google
Flirtation Farms
★ 5
This place is so welcoming and gracious. It has a feel of home to me even though I was away.
I went twice and stayed with my program.
As always it’s the people that make it best!
Source: Google
Louie G. K
★ 5
Nice place, nice people. I was a 1-day guest.
I stopped by with some friends who are regulars. I did a light bike exercise here. I also let me try some exercises with my busted wrist.
They gave me free candy.
Source: Google
Steven Van Dyne
★ 5
Awesome spot! This was a great spot to train while I was traveling for work. The owner was responsive and welcoming, the gym was clean and organized, and the folks who train there are friendly!
Source: Google
Kim Fink
★ 5
This gym feels like a home away from home. Everyone here is friendly and supportive, equipment is well-maintained, and you'll have what you need to get in a solid workout! The personal trainers are fantastic, as well.
Source: Google
Kate Kelley
★ 5
I love coming here so much! The atmosphere is absolutely amazing and inspiring- as a woman it feels very safe to come here with the always locked facility available to me at all hours.
The women who run this place are incredibly supportive people who put the same level of dedication and seriousness into a lifter who can squat 315 versus a lifter who has never even placed a barbell on their back. You can feel comfortable being a totally new lifter here.
As a real “meat and potatoes” weightlifter this place has everything I may need to do all of my heavy powerlifting and Olympic lifting lifts as well as all of my accessories. This place is amazing and I would recommend it to anyone!
Source: Google