★ 5

Awesome equipment, awesome vibes. Great people. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Top-tier equipment, top-tier people, top-tier environment. If you want to PR a lift with a supportive group, come on Saturdays, affectionately known as Cat-Sats. I love it here and drove 2.5 hours from WI one day to lift here!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst Strength is a new startup - they opened just about eight months ago as of writing, in a space that once housed a Crossfit gym. They are well on the way toward becoming a genuinely top-flight powerlifting gym for the Northside.

They have the people for it. The three owners, Elly Jdaidany, Ricky Zheng, and Zach Haines are all experienced lifters themselves, and Ricky and Sydney Tennill offer expert and credentialed individual and semiprivate personal training for all genders. To date, they have hosted one major competition and are preparing for another in a month or so.

The lifting stations are first-rate, with competition-quality platforms, bars, and calibrated kilogram plates as mandated by all lifting federations. There are six squat / bench racks and six deadlift platforms, each with a jack.

This is genuinely the place to go for serious lifters, as well as people who are new to real lifting who want a place they can explore and learn the sport.

It's one large room, in sections for the powerlifting stations, conditioning machines, and a downtime area with a couch and - a basketball net!? There are also three gender-neutral washrooms and a small shower room.

If there is a deficiency, it’s the absence of platforms for Olympic weightlifting, which, because of the nature of the lifts, require more room than the gym can spare.

Having concentrated on the powerlifting, the owners are now actively reinvesting funds by expanding and improving the conditioning equipment. They already have hinged benches, dumbbells up to 120#, kettlebells, a double pulley machine, Roman chair, a leg press and a Hack squat machine, a back-row and pulldown machine, and plates in pounds as well as kilograms. They intend to augment and expand the conditioning equipment in the coming months and years.

You would do well to get to know them.This is a lively, dynamic, gym and I am happy to have found it a few months ago, after my previous commercial chain gym made it clear that serious lifters are not really welcome.

Source: Google

★ 5

Of all the gyms I’ve been to, powerlifting or otherwise, Catalyst truly stands out. The equipment at Catalyst is top notch and you can really tell just how much the owners care about this space from the way things are maintained. As a powerlifting gym, the majority of the machines align with the needs of strength athletes. While this can make it difficult at times if you are focused on hypertrophy training, the experience of the owners and community make concerns about “optimizing” your workout negligible. The wealth of knowledge the owners and the members of the community have and are willing to share is truly invaluable.

I’ve been to gyms with significantly more specialized machines than Catalyst, but I think the environment Catalyst has cultivated truly brings something else to the table. The kindness of community may only be outmatched by their hype — no matter what kind of lifter you are, it’s always inspiring to watch people take their sets here.

Also whoever is on aux at 6pm plays good white girl music. My only note is to be prepared for music occasionally being played on loop. Not sure why but Tom Jones ‘What’s New Pussycat?’ was played for about 15 minutes straight one time. Song was OK. Gym is excellent 👍

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been coming to Catalyst Strength since they first opened up back in January and they are by far the best gym I’ve been to in my 4-5 years of lifting.

It’s not just the high quality and wide range of equipment they have, but the tight knit community they’ve built here that keeps me coming back in every week. Trainer Ricky was especially helpful and since starting to work with him I have put on roughly 20 lbs of lean muscle.

If you’re looking for a gym to take your strength, fitness, and health to the next level, I cannot recommend Catalyst Strength enough 💪

Source: Google

★ 5

The best powerlifting facility I’ve been to hands down. Top notch PL and accessory equipment. Incredible community that’s welcoming to both powerlifters and those trying to improve their general fitness. I find myself not just lifting here but also hanging out with the many friends I’ve made.

Source: Google

★ 5

Used to workout at a commercial gym and never looked back after switching to Catalyst. Whether you’re a powerlifter or not, I would 100% recommend trying this gym out. It has a variety of equipment catered for everyone. Not only that, the gym invests in new and high quality equipment. The overall training environment is also another reason why I recommend. Everyone is so supportive, approachable and serious about training here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst is a great gym; the equipment is all top of the line. Whether you’re into powerlifting or just want to workout somewhere with a great atmosphere, community, and staff, Catalyst Strength is somewhere I can’t recommend enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst Strength is an exceptional training facility with a plethora of gym equipment available to all of their members, whether they’re powerlifting or bodybuilding, or others. The owners Elly, Ricky, and Zac are all very welcoming whether it’s a new person trying out the gym for the first to anyone that’s been coming for months! I definitely recommend this gym, even if you’re just stopping by for a day!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you’re ever in or near Chicago, this gym is absolutely worth checking out! Great facility, with great people and staff, I’ll definitely be back!

Source: Google

★ 5

Used this gym for 3 months while visiting Chicago for the summer. Great facilities, staff are friendly and very helpful, love the 24hr access to the facility too really helped with my busy schedule. Couldn’t recommend more. One of the best powerlifting gyms out there. Big thanks to Elly and Ricky for the hospitality during my trip. If I’m ever in Chicago again, I will definitely be coming back to train here. Wish I could take the gym back to Ireland with me.

Source: Google

★ 5

Incredible gym it has everything you'd want. The staff are lovely and the atmosphere is phenomenal. I can't recommend the place enough

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely love this gym. I live in the neighborhood, and originally came to Calalyst to escape the crowds at LA Fitness. I'm an average-joe, not a power-lifter, and I felt welcome from the moment I stepped into the building. The owners have done a great job creating a community where the only goal is to improve with no judgement, regardless of starting point. Ricky, an owner and the main fitness coach, is always quick to give tips and advice, even if you aren't one of his paying clients. I always struggled to put on muscle, but have put on 10lbs on muscle in the 4mo since I joined. I believe it's driven by: Machines/equipment are always open since it isn't crowded, the machines themselves are top quality, and the community of lifters motivates growth and consistency.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was visiting from out of town and their owner was accommodating to my schedule to make sure I was able to get my training done.

This gym has TONS (no pun intended) of calibrated weights, bars, etc. They also have top of the line competition racks and equipment. The atmosphere is one where you know that you will be pushed by not only yourself but your fellow lifters. I could not recommend this gym more if you are looking to elevate your training or if you are someone who is just starting out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Top tier PL facility with great equipment and a great community that will help you become the very best like no one ever was.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is the best gym to train in the Midwest without a doubt

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been to gyms across the country, and Catalyst Strength still stands out as one of the best gyms I've ever been to.

The owners are incredible and they do everything in their power to help the people in the community. This extends not just to people in the gym, but throughout Chicago Powerlifting as a whole. It's clear from even basic interactions that they care deeply about the community they are apart of.

The energy in the gym is unmatched. Cat-Sats are constantly electric and the people are genuinely supportive and encouraging. Even on random days, I can expect to go in and have a fantastic lift with a group of dedicated lifters.

If you're in the Chicago area, I can't recommend this gym enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great leadership, wonderful equipment, and a fantastic facility

Source: Google

★ 5

A powerlifter's dream gym! When you walk in, combo racks and deadlift platforms fill the entire room. Tons of kilo plates, chalk, and power bars. The accessory equipment in the back is nice too.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m not a powerlifter, just a middle-aged guy trying to get a little stronger. That said, the owners are incredibly friendly and welcoming no matter my goals.

The equipment is incredible and in excellent shape, with all the essentials. It’s clean, quiet, and I love the easy after-hours access.

There are 6 deadlift platforms (with jacks), 6 squat/bench racks, two other squat racks, plus plate-loaded leg press, hack squat, belt squat, glute raise, and chest press, among other machines.

Also, for someone with an insane travel schedule, I really appreciate the easy month-to-month membership.

Overall, I’m extremely psyched to have found Catalyst and highly recommend it to anyone who wants a place they can focus on their training.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great powerlifting facility in the north side with an amazing community, tons of equipment and great owners! There’s nothing comparable!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym and even better staff! Super helpful and friendly.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great lift experience with friends here - highly recommend if you want to get your numbers up! Thanks Catalyst!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym! Clean and spacious! Owners and staff are very kind and accommodating! Thank you!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing and helpful staff! Super supportive community, clean equipment, and accommodating staff members. Would definitely visit again! Highly recommended 🫡

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing powerlifting gym with amazing, helpful, and knowledgeable staff!

Source: Google

★ 5

Big thanks to Catalyst Strength for graciously hosting our church powerlifting event! The owners were incredibly kind and welcoming. It’s a fantastic facility. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great vibes. Energetic yet friendly atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst Strength offers everything you’re looking for in a powerlifting gym from its multiple combo racks, deadlift platforms to even chairs for rest breaks (yap). The owners are very welcoming and the members have very high levels of energy. Everyone in the PL space is able to share the area if needed and wait times for equipment are not long. If you’re looking for a place to call your next gym, or are visiting, come visit Catalyst! I can’t wait to see what the future plans are for the place and I’m excited to see them grow.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome spot, love training here!

Source: Google

★ 5

The best powerlifting gym in Chicago. Great facility, great people, great atmosphere. Would encourage all powerlifters and strength athletes in the area to stop by!

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst strength is the newest up and coming gym in chicago for good reason. Beautiful equipment, great community, a perfect place to make your fitness goals come true. It has all the powerlifting equipment you would need, I highly recommend it to anyone in the area.

Source: Google

★ 5

No better place to support your weight and training goals! The owners are great. Ask for Elly, Ricky, and Zach to give you a tour.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you’re looking for a gym that will encourage you to reach your goals, Catalyst is the place to be. This gym is the perfect place to get stronger, find a community, and feel welcomed every time you step in. The moment you enter you’ll feel the inviting and welcoming environment from not only the members and guests, but also the owners who have so much passion for fitness, the gym and its members. Aside from the vibe of the gym, the facility is clean and well taken care of and offers a variety of equipment for powerlifters and general fitness enthusiasts. I’m excited to see this place continue to grow and expand!

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst has an amazing community that makes it easy to stay motivated and push yourself! The owners are friendly and always make sure everyone feels welcome, whether you're a member or just stopping by with a day pass.

All of their equipment is brand new, top of the line, and suited for all types of training. Whether you’re a seasoned powerlifter, general fitness goer, or someone wanting to try something new, Catalyst is a great place to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst strength was everything I imagined it to be and more. Upon entering the facility on 12/28/2024, you could tell it would be a very enjoyable workout session. There is a high level of energy and support at the gym. The facility is very clean and well organized. It is one of the few gyms that has more than enough 25kg calibrated weight plates. All of the equipment looks and feels brand new. If calibrated weight plates aren’t your cup of tea, they do have the pound plates as well in addition to machines for accessories. I can see myself coming again and the main thing that draws me to this place is the energy level, the level of support, and the amount of professionalism. Catalyst strength is in good hands and I’m excited to see it grow.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym with friendly and helpful staff. New and nice equipment suited best for powerlifting, body building, and general health!

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst Strength isn't just a gym—it's a hub for personal transformation and performance. I've watched athletes from all walks of life discover their inner fire here. With a supportive community that embodies the vision and values of Elly, Zack, and Ricky, Illinois powerlifting has found its true home.

Source: Google

★ 5

Catalyst Strength has quickly become one of the top Chicago gyms, for good reason. It has beautiful aesthetics in an awesome space. The equipment is top notch and plentiful. All the powerlifting equipment one could need, paired with incredible accessory equipment makes it a desirable place to be. The owners are fantastic people that have created a strong community that will benefit all who participate, regardless of experience or goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

High quality equipment, great location, and it already has a strong community. It has a clean aesthetic while also being very spacious. I'm excited to see how it comes together for their grand opening. I'll definitely be returning!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great facility owned and run by great people!

Catalyst has all the powerlifting equipment you need to succeed and it’s a great place for all powerlifters and strength athletes.

Check them out, especially if you live up north.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great atmosphere, gym has lots of combo racks, deadlift platforms, and has a great community. Highly recommend for anyone in the Avondale area!

Source: Google