★ 5

ATB is my forever-gym! I’ve been a member for 3+ years and have gotten hella strong and have a blast while doing it. The coaches are skilled and delightful, the community is rad, and the programming is top notch. This place runs on relationships, acceptance, silliness and putting in the work. Love you, ATB! ❤️

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym. Love its message. Love the safe space it creates.

Source: Google

★ 5

The trainers are very good, lots of helpful cues, very nice. There’s absolutely no negative energy at this gym. They start you with 1:1 sessions to get the exercises down then you just do them each week with small group classes (around 4-6 people per trainer usually). Really happy this place is in the neighborhood.
More expensive than a cheap gym but much cheaper than a personal trainer, works out to about the same cost per visit as yoga but for strength training. And comes with an app for keeping it up with home exercises even if you’re traveling.
Perfect for beginners or people who need the structure of a class to actually work out.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Queer owned, welcoming space with amazing staff! One of the best options in the city for group training

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym and this community has changed my life! I am stronger and more in-tune with my body. I have a great group of new friends. Every coach here is expert, knowledgeable, and compassionate. And, this place is truly a safe haven for all identity expressions, body types, and cultures. 100% inclusive of every person who has a desire to strengthen their mind and body. Thank you for what you do!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is such an inclusive, inviting and motivating place to work out in. I’ve been a member for a little over a year and have never been so consistent with the programs they provide in addition to leveraging extras like nutrition training and open gym. Each coach is knowledgeable in the industry and so welcoming to any fitness level.

Source: Google

★ 5

Above The Bar has been an oasis in the desert of bad gyms. I have found self-motivation, community and happiness here. It's the best fitness experience I have had in my life, and I've done a whole lot of fitness-y things! Come to this gym and find your groove. 10/10

Source: Google

★ 5

No complaints, I'll highly recommend ATB to everyone, and if I'm back in the neighborhood I'll re-join :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm sad I wasn't able to stay longer. You have a wonderful, welcoming gym and I enjoyed the time I had with yall.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 5

Joining ATB was one of the best decisions I've ever made! Who knew your gym could provide SO MUCH more than a work out? ATB is a supportive community, a fun place to go and also to work out, a group of likeminded people encouraging each other to achieve their personal health goals - whatever those may be! I’m so grateful to be part of the ATB FAMILY!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The approach used by the coaches at ATB has changed the way I view myself and the role of fitness/nutrition in my life. Not to mention the positive and supportive community they've built - I look forward to going to the gym each and every time. If you're thinking about trying it, do it; you won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

We moved to a new state and the place I miss the most in Chicago is Above the Bar. Not only did they take my husband with no workout experience to a seasoned lifter; they helped heal my old injuries and got me back in the saddle of weight lifting. I honestly can’t say enough good things. They also use extremely inclusive language. I’m not just talking about pronouns and affirmations (although they truly lift everyone up and have people’s pronouns on lock). The trainers at ATB are anti-diet and anti-“gym” culture. You’re not going to hear the harmful language you find at most places. Also, if you’re struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating this is a safe space for you to move your body and get extra support. I can’t recommend ATB enough. Shout out to trainer Steph for always having her client’s back no matter what day they’ve had. I’ve personally benefitted from her incredible knowledge base of modifications and gotten amazing workouts in even when my body was not 100%. These folx know they’re stuff.

Source: Google

★ 5

Continuously impressed with Alex & Steph - they listened to our goals and constantly motivate us to reach them. Being part of the ATB family has given me a renewed sense of motivation and drive. Join this gym, you will not be disappointed!

Source: Google

★ 5

Above the bar has been the best gym experience I’ve had. I never thought I would be so into lifting heavy weights but here I am. Alex and Stephanie are amazing. They pay close attention to my needs and make me feel very comfortable. They also push me to give it my all and reach my goals. Above the Bar is it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m a very slender fellow and all of my previous attempts to build muscle were as successful as that Knight Rider reboot. Disappointing. However, that all changed when I started working with Alex. He taught me proper form and gave me guidance on proper eating habits. The workouts are never boring and I always manage to increase weight or reps with every session. Alex also designs routines for my work-travel schedule so I can get in a workout at the hotel.
I love working with Alex and would strongly recommend him to anyone looking to get in shape or just feel better.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been using the online services since I live out of town. Alex goes above and beyond for his clients. I have made so much progress since I started with him! I have been able to manage my mental health better and lose weight. I am also noticing muscle gains! Hoping to get an in-person session in at his gym sometime.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alex brings a personal approach to personal training and building strength in a way that is amazing, effective and rare. Wherever you may be starting your fitness journey, Alex is committed to meeting you there, helping you identify your personal "whys", offering education and behavior changes (even if that means patiently unlearning deep-rooted habits that are no longer serving you), and working with you to build a solid healthy foundation around strength and nutrition. It's truly a full body and mind approach.

I've worked with him both in person and virtually, and walk away from each workout feeling better than the last. I appreciate his tailored approach, deep expertise in movement, and certifications in nutrition coaching and NASM. He pushes me, but also weighs my individual needs and goals to ensure my progression is taking place in a sustainable manner - something that is really important to me. If you're reading this, chances are you're probably interested in giving Above The Bar a try... so, the thing you've been waiting for? This is the moment... reach out and see how Alex can help with your particular goals; I'm confident that, once you get started, you'll be so grateful you did.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was referred to ATB because I struggle with disordered eating and negative body image. Before I even walked through the door, Alex helped me feel comfortable. I was able to express my concerns and struggles without feeling ashamed or embarrassed. ATB is such a safe and chill space, you can fart without hesitation (don’t act like that’s not important LOL).

Not only does Alex encourage self-care, he insists on it. I am able to listen to my body and stop if need be instead of being pushed to the 1,000th burpee by a spitty drill sergeant wannabe. That’s been a huge benefit for me in my workout journey. I can move and progress at my own pace and I don’t have to act tough. And these small acts of validation spill out into other aspects. For example, I have a much stronger sense of bodily autonomy now. And when I do feel like grinding hard, I don’t have to worry about how my body looks or how it may be perceived. I feel worthy and validated as a person.

ATB is really great and Alex is very good at what he does and he’s just an all around good human. I’m so grateful for having found ATB!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working with Alex since 2019 and he is the best personal trainer I have ever worked with. He is thoughtful and kind, but still challenges me to be my best and continue making progress. He has a body positive approach that never leaves me feeling less than and, in fact, leaves me feeling good about my body and the strength that it possesses. He reminds me often that valuable progress is not only measured by the number on the scale (this is a difficult concept for me to remember). He is also just an all around good dude and he has become an invaluable friend.

I refer everyone to see Alex if they're in the market for a personal trainer (and sometimes even when they're not) and both my husband and I see him on a regular basis. In this new COVID world, we both feel safe and respected with Alex and in his gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alex is fantastic. Thoughtful, thorough, and creates training that is in line with your skill level. The studio is extremely welcoming. I strongly recommend Above The Bar and Alex!

Source: Google

★ 5

There is never a bad training session with Alex. He is very personable and is a great motivator. He knows nutrition very well and is always right there when you have questions. Your strengths and weaknesses will be increased training with Alex.

Source: Google

★ 5

Alex is THE BEST. His programs are tailored to your success and he knows how to get you the results you’re looking for. Super personable, very knowledgeable and aware that every client’s needs and goals are not the same. Gym is fully kitted, clean and a comfortable space to get your sweat on. Would not work out anywhere else!

Source: Google

★ 5

I came to Above the Bar looking to get myself excited to be back in the gym and healthy again. I needed the accountability but even more so the training on what exercises would be best for my body and goals.

I trained 3 days per week 1-1 which was just what a needed to kick my butt back into shape! I couldn't be more thankful for how positive the environment is and how encouraged I felt every session - even on my bad days. I couldn't be happier to recommend Above the Bar to anyone looking to improve their health and motivation!

Source: Google