★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

If you’re thinking about training here, do it — my only regret is not starting sooner.
I’m a personal trainer who’s coached professional athletes, and after 10 months of Olympic weightlifting with Coach Tim, I’ve made more progress than I ever expected. I started with a 220lb clean & jerk and a 175lb snatch — now I’m doing 300lb clean & jerks and 231lb snatch.

I wake up at 4am to train 8 clients a day and still make it to Tim’s class by 4pm — because it’s that worth it.

I’ve competed in two meets, hit PRs in both, won my session in the first, and took 1st place at Illinois State in the men’s 89kg class in the second.

Coach Tim’s style is highly technical. You earn your heavy weights here. His unique blend of Chinese and Russian Olympic training principles creates a truly next-level approach to the sport.

Classes are group-based, but it feels like 1-on-1 coaching. Everyone follows the same structure, but weights are customized for each lifter. It’s beginner-friendly yet pushes even advanced lifters to level up. The community is also incredible — supportive, hardworking, and welcoming. New lifters thrive here because of that.

Tim holds you accountable. He’s tough in the best way — pushing you to meet your potential. Training with him has transformed not just my lifts, but my mindset. The way he keeps intensity high, reads his athletes, and communicates — it’s clear how much knowledge and passion he brings. He’s forgotten more about weightlifting than most people will ever learn.

The gym itself is well-equipped and even has a recovery room with a cold plunge, sauna, and power plate — a huge asset with how much we train.

Tim also coaches you through competitions and is completely locked in — helping with timing, attempts, and in-the-moment strategy. He knows how to get the best out of you when it matters most.

At the end of the day, he’s not just a coach — he’s someone I trust, respect, and am proud to train under. I was hooked from day one, and I can’t recommend this gym and Coach Tim enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Just dropped in today for a class. Learned more in one class than years of solo lifting.

Tim is an amazing coach that built a great atmosphere at his gym. There were lifters from 15 years old all the way to 62 years old on the platforms today hyping each other up and improving together. Can’t wait to be back!

Source: Google

★ 5

If you care about training or want to learn how to do weightlifting properly, this is your spot. You’ll actually get coached here by someone who not only knows the lifts inside and out but actually knows how to communicate and relate to other humans. RAWW Barbell is it.

Source: Google

★ 5

When I came to Raww I had been training for over 6 years, but just started up again after a 3 year break. He was highly recommended to me from my previous coach. When I met Tim he asked me what my goals were and I said to qualify for the senior national level competitions. After training with Tim for a year and a half we've accomplished just that with so much more to come. I drive 45 minutes each way from Chicago 3 times a week because being able to be coached in person has made a drastic difference in my lifting. Tim is very knowledgable, professional, but also personable and flexible (and also funny!). If you're looking for a coach, team, drop-in, whatever... Raww is the way to go! You won't RAWWgret it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Found Raww at a crux in my life, when the world seemed to be both exploding and imploding simultaneously.
First time there, I put two holes in the wall. (insert facepalm here)
Appropriately humbled, I paid for a punch card that day, promising to, at a minimum, learn from the mistake that caused the destruction.

I did everything I could to make it there at least twice a week- even on dreaded snatch days. 7 years of crossfit, and snatches still were some form of sorcery that I couldn't even comprehend muchless perform without damage to myself, or my surroundings (clearly). I would get shoulder pain almost every time I snatched. Today, Snatching is one of my favorite things to do. I went from completely abhorring the movement- to loving it. Lifting more than I thought possible, pain-free.

Tim tells you like it is. He's a loud, passionale, animated HUGE man, but damn, I don't think there's another human on earth who embodies both the expertise and spirit of weightlifting the way he does. One of the most genuine people I have ever met- he's able to have fun, be serious and give you the tools to become the best lifter you can be. He has taught me more about technique in the last 12 months than I gleaned from 3 years with other specialists, including a coaching certification course.

Beyond that, the spirit of this sport lives in the community he has cultivated. We're all striving for better, while supporting and cheering each other on. I've been working out since I was 16 (coming up on 40 now) and Raww has been the greatest chapter of my fitness journey. I'm stronger, healthier and happier than I have ever been. Tim and Raww Barbell have so much to do with it- I only wish I found it sooner!

If you're looking for a life changing opportunity- come weightlift with us at Raww Barbell. Even if you just start out in the Sauna or Cold Plunge- let us be a part of your next chapter.

Check out my lifts at Raww on @standitupMeg

Source: Google

★ 5

One of the best weightlifting gyms in the Chicagoland area. Tim has a lot of knowledge and experience to make you stronger and reach your goals, you won’t be disappointed.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you want to find out what weightlifting can do for you, come to RAWW Barbell. Olympic Weightlifting Champion coach Tim Rawlings will enrich your life with the best weightlifting practices. He is a fantastic, exceptionally talented coach. In his group classes, he addresses everyone individually {experienced or new}, cueing in on proper techniques, bringing us to lift higher weights beyond our imagination. The atmosphere is friendly. The place has everything to desire, including an Infrared Sauna and a cold water plunge tank. Tim will support and coach you if you are interested in competitions. He teaches all age groups. Come and visit this extraordinary place. You won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I will start by saying any written words I have about RAWW Barbell will not do it justice. I have been weightlifting for years with different coaches, but the level of expertise that Coach Tim has is unmatched. Tim has a keen eye and a level of detail I have never experienced and his style of coaching is tailored to each of his members. I joined RAWW Barbell in October of last year and since joining I have hit personal records I have never hit in my lifetime. His personality, the gym and recovery room are top notch. Anyone who wants to learn how to be an awesome weightlifter needs to check this place out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely THE BEST Olympic weightlifting gym in the entire Chicago/ Illinois area. Specifically because 3x national champion Tim Rawlings is constantly watching & guiding his weightlifters toward correct positioning, technique & the speed & strength training necessary. Very orderly organized training facility. If you sign up to train at Raww Barbell you WILL improve greatly under coach Tim's training methods and watchful eye & verbal cues / input.

Source: Google

★ 5

My weightlifting technique improved in 2 months, I achieved PR’s in row in very short time. The best oly weightlifting coach runs this business. I love This community so much. Small group of people lift and coach focusing on every athlete every single time. Nice schedule program in mobile app.

The best recovery room in this gym. Sona bath and cold plunge. I use this facility every time after I lift weights. Affordable and decent price all in one package.

Best life and best environment I love this gym. People work as a team and highly motivated people lifts here. Every age group like 10yo to 60yo lifts here. The best!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been with Coach Tim officially 1 month at the Raww barbell Club in Nortbrook, Illinois! I have to say being postpartum now 9 months and starting weightlifting again after so long and body changes inside and out. I am confidently getting better technique in my lifts and stronger altogether. I am glad I found Tim on my new chapter and journey in Olympic Weightlifting. This is the place to be!!! #agreeablegray#Timisawesome

Source: Google

★ 5

When you first enter the gym, the first thing you notice is Tim. He has the face of Tormund Giantsbane (Game of Thrones) and body of a typical strongman, yet when you see him workout he has the mobility of a weightlifter.

I originally powerlifted for a few years and wanted to transition to weightlifting. As it is highly recommended to get a coach when starting weightlifting, I was recommended by mutual connection to train under Tim who had recently opened Raww Barbell at the Northbrook, IL location. After a first consulation/visit to Raww Barbell, I could immediately tell that this was someone that would me progress and train properly in weight training. After only a month of training, as all the reviews do say, Tim is a passionate and energetic coach who genuinely seems to care about the his students and does want to build and grow a strong weightlifting community within his gym.

Whether you have any experience in any strength based sport or not, I think Tim is a coach that will put in the effort to help you grow.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Tim is the best coach in the business. I started going to him as a beginner and he has taught me proper technique and made me feel so confident. His energy and passion for coaching is unmatched. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome coach!

Source: Google

★ 5

I had the privilege of training with Tim for about 5 years when he first opened RAWW Barbell in Austin, TX. Tim is a phenomenal weightlifting coach and truly cares about his lifters/members. Not only will you get stronger, but your technique will greatly improve and you will have an absolute blast while training. Regardless of your weightlifting experience, Tim is who you want coaching you so go check him and RAWW Barbell out!

Source: Google

★ 5

For years I’ve been training on my own for awhile and saw pretty good results. Once I started training with Tim, I saw a huge jump in strength and size. He helped me with workouts and my diet. Now my shirts don’t fit me.
Tim is the F*%ing Man

Source: Google

★ 5

I did Crossfit for several years and decided to take some time off to improve my strength and weightlifting technique. I have been training with Tim for almost three years now and I love it! Tim provides great individualized coaching, and the group training is fun yet pushes you to improve daily. I have been to several different gyms and it’s hard to find a coach, program, and community that meets this criterion. The atmosphere is special, and I feel fortunate to be part of it. If you’re new or an advanced lifter I would highly recommend checking out RAWW Barbell!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is an amazing gym! The programing is on point and Tim has an extremely high coaching IQ. This is coming from someone who has has a CFL2 and USAWL1 and has been coaching for years. If your looking for PRs and to learn more about the sport this is the place to be!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Tim for over four years and am continually impressed by his skills and presence as a coach. What's even better is the world class community and atmosphere that has been built at Raww Barbell. The programming is wide ranging and supports athletes of varying skill levels and goals. I leave each workout knowing that I worked hard, but I also probably laughed and smiled a lot too. Hitting PRs is awesome and happens a lot around the gym, but training smart and with longevity in mind is even better.

Source: Google

★ 5

I moved across the country and came to RAWW off a recommendation from my old weightlifting coach. Easily one of the best recommendations I have received in my life. Beyond the effective and authentic coaching from Tim Rawlings and Maddie Longobardi, the community is hospitable, supportive, and fosters friendly competition, which every weightlifter knows is vital during tough training cycles. I would encourage anyone who enjoys weightlifting to drop by.

Source: Google

★ 5

I took a break from going to a CrossFit gym to focus on my olympic lifts a few months ago, and I've loved every class so far! From day 1 I felt welcomed at this gym. Tim is an incredible coach who truly cares about his members. Not only does he check in with with me to see how I'm feeling before class, he also knows my numbers and what I should be able to lift on a given day better than I know it myself. If you're interested in getting stronger, improving your olympic lifting technique, or just curious about the sport, don't hesitate to reach out to Tim for a drop in! You'll hit PRs and make great friends along the way! :)

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working out at RAWW Barbell for about 3 years now. I'm so proud to be a part of this amazing gym community and to have the opportunity to work with a coach like Tim Rawlings. Tim is truly the most knowledgeable, supportive, and caring coach that I've had the pleasure of working with. Also, I can't believe how far I have come in strength and technique over the last 3 years. The magic is in the programming. I always feel challenged and have seen myself progress month over month. Not to mention, Tim is also great at taking the time to listen and cater to the individual needs of his athletes. If you're looking for great coaching, top-rate programming, and a welcoming and supportive community - look no further.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym, Tim is the man.

Source: Google

★ 5

I trained with Tim for 4.5 years at his OG RAWW Barbell location in Austin, TX. I had basic weightlifting knowledge and technique before I started training under Tim. After just weeks of consistent coaching from Tim, my technique and strength improved dramatically. He has an eye for detail and a way of communicating weightlifting cues that click with the athlete. His respect and passion for the sport is genuine, he is invested in his athletes and truly cares about their progression. His skills set of being able to teach weightlifting as well as perform at high levels himself is a rare find. I continue to train with Tim remotely and am still learning from him.
He provides an awesome training environment, has elite level equipment, and has a clean, well organized space. If you’re looking for the best, you’ve found it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have known Tim for a couple of years now and have learned so much from him. Not only weightlifting things, but things that apply to everyday life. If you are in his area go train with him, even if your not a weightlifter you will learn a lot.

Source: Google

★ 5

Training with Tim is one of the most productive and enjoyable experiences you will ever have! He is truly a master of his craft and is dedicated to making an inclusive space for all levels. And trust me, you’ll have fun while you get really strong. Even if you’ve never touched a barbell in your life, do yourself a favor and go see Tim!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve known Tim for over 10 years now and have trained Olympic Weightlifting with him on/off during that time. Tim creates such a fun and inclusive lifting environment at his gym! He has a way of teaching that makes you feel comfortable regardless of how much lifting experience you do/don’t have.

I’m selfishly so glad he’s back in Chicago and can’t wait to train with him at his new location!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym even better coach. If you’re looking for someone to really push and show you how to lift correctly/ get stronger this is your place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Best coach in the business!

Source: Google

★ 5

Is gud gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve trained with Tim for years. Not only is he experienced and extremely knowledgeable, he is attentive, passionate, and FUN! For beginners to experienced weightlifters, I highly recommend Tim and Raww Barbell.

Source: Google

★ 5

At 65 years old I never thought I would regain my muscle. After working out with Tim I have already regained my physique and I feel stronger than ever. Tim constantly reinforces proper technique which makes me feel safe while lifting weights. I used to be nervous to lift weights but now I’m confident and the results are amazing! Lifting weights is the key to great physique, feeling strong, and youthful but it can be intimidating for some. That’s why Tim’s expertise in weightlifting is so important. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I trained with with Tim at RAWW Barbell in Austin, TX for nearly 5 years and learned so much from him about the sport of weightlifting. He is very technique focused in his coaching approach, and it was clear at competitions that the RAWW Barbell athletes were better than the rest. Tim fosters a fun training environment where everyone becomes close friends and is invested in one another’s progress. Great equipment, clean gym, best coach, amazing friends! Chicago is lucky to have one of the best.

Source: Google

★ 5

RawwBarbel is my all time favorite gym! Best trainer ever!

Source: Google

★ 5

Best trainer that I’ve ever worked with. Also one of the nicest guys I know.

Source: Google