★ 5

I have absolutely loved my time at Skybound. I've completed 22 sessions with them over the last six months and I have noticed so much improvement of my strength and endurance. The instructors and the fellow class attendees are incredibly welcoming and encouraging. I love that the exercises are all scalable, so if you're a beginner, you're able to always find an entry point to the exercises and work your way up from there.

Cat and Evan are both amazing instructors and I would recommend Skybound to anyone in the area looking for a motivating and well organized fitness routine.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve worked out on and off for years. I find staying consistent at this gym very easy & enjoyable. The Skybound team keeps the classes challenging & engaging without being intimidating. After 50+ sessions I’ve noticed considerable improvements in my mobility & strength. The inclusive environment makes progress a priority!

Source: Google

★ 5

skybound is the best!! they make strength training so accessible and way less intimidating than other gyms. i can’t recommend them enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound is very beginner friendly with encouraging atmosphere! Evan and Cat are great coaches to come up with those group classes that are suitable for different levels, and Ember for emotional support lol.
I want to lose some weigh and body fat which weight lifting is a great idea, but I didn’t know much about muscles. Taking weekly class at Skybound helped me grasp many techniques to finally develop a workout routine. 8 months passed now I’m 8lbs lighter plus muscles look great when I climb, maybe 6% body fat reduction. Still hitting higher PR every month!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training at Skybound Fitness for a year! As a small business owner and mom, I had gradually let self-care slip and wasn’t staying on top of my fitness, or if I was, I wasn’t doing the right things. The friendly, and down to earth trainers, like Evan and Cat, have created an inclusive atmosphere that keeps me and others coming back. I’ve noticed a change in my mom bod that I haven’t been able to accomplish on my own. I feel stronger, leaner, and more agile, which is saying a lot as I’m in my mid-40’s and was feeling like my body was falling apart. The convenient time slots allow me to pick and choose which times work with my business and mom schedule. I’ve been really impressed with what Evan and Erica have built and I’m happy to be a part of the Skybound community. Give it a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to Skybound since January after a very long hiatus from working out... it’s been the perfect way to get back into the swing of things. I really enjoy the small class feel, with a great balance of strength and mobility work. The coaches are supportive, and the community of people makes every class enjoyable. It’s a place I look forward to coming to each week.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have truly enjoyed Evan's class over the past six months. I have met a lot of coaches, but Evan is certainly the best coaches by far. He does understand body mobility and know how to teach and encourage others. Always thanks for his kind help and professional coaching.

Source: Google

★ 5

It’s been almost a year since I joined Skybound Fitness, and the progress has been incredible! I started with a 10 lb deadlift and now lift 85 lbs. Squats used to be a struggle, but I can now do 20 bodyweight squats with ease and 75 lb barbell squats. The trainers, Evan and Cat, are encouraging, the workouts are fun yet challenging, and the community is uplifting. I feel stronger, more agile, and more energized than ever before. Skybound Fitness has truly transformed my fitness journey, and I’m excited to keep pushing further!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have had such a positive experience working out at SkyBound! Evan and Cat are so knowledgeable, caring, and supportive. I have a lot of hyper-mobility pain and weakness so I wanted to focus on strengthening those areas. The plan that Evan put together made me feel so much stronger and like he really listened to my concerns and goals. Skybound is a wonderful gym with wonderful people!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've joined gyms before, but I've never liked them. I'd keep telling myself, "I'll go tomorrow," or, "I'll start again on Monday." And of course, I repeated that cycle every single week.

When I joined Skybound, I just thought I'd gain strength from it. I wasn't sure how long I'd be there for.

Within the past few months, I've gained more confidence, mental growth, friendships, and a sense of community. The team is incredible, knowing when to push you and also knowing when to let you rest when recovery is needed.

It's a place where my little wins feel like big ones. Very grateful for this gym. You guys are awesome!

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound is an encouraging, safe and welcoming space for all. Whether you are a total beginner or even an expert, the coaches help push you to define and meet your fitness goals. For the first time in my life, I actually look forward to going multiple times per week and testing myself to see what else I can achieve. They are a small, locally owned business that walks the walk of building community and actually caring about their clients.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really enjoyed my group class at Skybound and felt very comfortable training with Evan. The exercises were fun and challenging! Being someone who struggles with maintaining a regular workout schedule, this was the perfect class to get me back into fitness for my self-care! Ember, their dog is the perfect greeter too!! I would recommend Skybound to anyone who is looking for a personal trainer or personalized workouts that are inclusive for all body types.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great space. Greater team! Evan, Erica, and Cat are doing a phenomenal job. They regularly hold events outside of their workout programming for the community like the summer field day. If you’re interested in functional strength training in an inclusive community then check it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Such a great gym and I have been there since they open. I used to be a person hate going to gym since it’s hard to continue by myself and it’s boring.
But with skybound, I am always supported by the people training with me and the coach Evan and Cat are also very patient and knowledgeable!
I am so happy I have a gym to go that is so close to me. This is the place where skybound start their journey and so do I.
I didn’t come here to climb higher or work harder. I am just here to make sure I have a stronger body to support the thing I want to experience and where I want to go. Thanks Skybound to support me all the time! :)

Source: Google

★ 5

I have really enjoyed my time at this gym. The workouts are thoughtfully planned and designed to help you actually see results which keeps me motivated. One thing I really appreciate is that I'm never worried about getting injured because Evan does an excellent job checking in, correcting form, and making sure everyone is moving safely.
The class sizes are just right, small enough to get personal attention but still with a great group vibe. The community is super positive and welcoming, and I love that the workouts are tailored for all fitness levels. Evan always provides modifications based on where you're at so whether you're a beginner or more advanced you’ll feel challenged in the right way.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a supportive and results-driven environment!

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound is the first gym I really enjoy going to. The team there make the environment very inclusive and welcoming to all levels and bodies.
I have noticed a huge improvement in my day to day mobility and strength as well as my confidence and appearance. I work long hours at a desk and my posture and back issues have subsided.
I feel more focused and invigorated to tackle my day.
I cannot recommend a better gym with better instructors!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to skybound for about six months now and it has honestly been so much fun. I have never enjoyed going to the gym before and I’ve never lifted weights, full stop, but Evan and Cat (the coaches) are so welcoming and make it feel accessible. And everyone who I’ve met there is really welcoming and supportive too, it’s just a lovely little community!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been doing group strength training sessions with Evan (and a few with the other coach Cat, as well) at Skybound for the last seven months, and it’s been a great experience! I’ve seen real gains with my strength from pushups to squats and more. I started out once a week and have added a second day so I can make gains even faster. The vibe at Skybound is great—it’s very positive and encouraging with people at all levels and places on their strength and fitness journeys. If you are looking for a supportive, upbeat community and coaches, I highly recommend Skybound!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to this gym for 7 months and I absolutely love it. The two coaches, Cat and Evan, are super supportive and helpful. I’ve had so much fun going to classes and made big progress

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with Evan and Cat since April coming out of an injury and trying to incorporate lifting into training for high-performance and elite athletics. I have always struggled lifting on my own or outside of a team environment, where I originally learned to lift, and Skybound is now the best two parts of my week! Small group one-on-ones gave me the confidence to lift heavier and with a focus on sprinting and speed.

It's difficult to describe in words the impact this gym has had on me. Not only am I happier, stronger, and faster, but I've made new friends, enjoy weightlifting, and get to spend time with people who make me laugh and challenge me to try 5% harder, even on days where I'm worn out. It's always special to walk in, greet Ember and Erica, and know I'm about to have a good 60 minutes regardless of the rest of the day.

Source: Google

★ 5

Getting started with strength training was really intimidating for me. I can't even count how many times I'd gone to the gym, looked at the machines and the free weights....and all the people who seemed so strong and confident in what they were doing...and just decided to stick to the treadmill again.

However, I had been learning quite a bit about how important lifting heavy weights are for aging healthfully. And honestly...I'm still a little salty about being the only kid who couldn't even come close to completing a chin up in PE class. So over the winter, when I walked by Skybound on the way to the T, I decided to stop being anxious about weights and look into their program. I signed my husband up for a couples introductory session, we immediately signed up for our first month, and....

....I'm so glad I did. I've done a lot of adult "beginner" sports classes where the other folks claim to be beginners, but played tennis on the high school team...or could easily dash off a 400 M IM during our second learn-to-swim class...or were lifelong ballet dancers competing in my "newcomer" category of ballroom. I was terrified that, yet again, I would be holding back other people with my lack of skill.

But this is one of those classes where it's not like that at all. There are people of all levels, but Cat and Evan are both really great at coaching a spectrum of experience at the same time. Even more importantly, they are both great about genuinely celebrating your victories. And my big one, so far, has been getting several steps closer to conquering that chin up (after almost 5 months, I can do several real ones in a row with the help of my trusty friend the green band!).

One of the things I like most about the program at Skybound is that there is a huge focus on learning to do things properly, with eyes on long-term health, injury prevention, and real-life application. I've learned so much about how to use my body properly for things like dead lifts, squats, and shoulder presses, and love how we do mobility exercises as well, always looking at the long-term benefit of each movement. The routine changes monthly, so we're always working in new, interesting ways.

I never imagined I would enjoy picking up heavy things this much. I feel stronger, healthier, and much more confident since starting...and have noticed improvements in my other activities as well (better frame for ballroom dancing, more strength on my bike, and more connection in my tennis strokes). I'm glad I found Skybound, and look forward to someday nailing that chin up completely solo!

(Also, Ember is the best - I hope to someday come close to how beautifully she does high knees during our dynamic warmups).

So, to conclude - if you're reading reviews, I'm guessing you're deciding whether to sign up for a class to try it out. My recommendation? Jump off the fence and onto their website...I highly recommend it!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is a great addition to Malden! The people are kind and welcoming, and the approach to training is well thought out. The instructors helped me modify exercises when a particular movement was too difficult or too easy for my current level. For me, it was a great balance of new challenges in a supportive environment.

Source: Google

★ 5

Evan and Cat are both very professional and kind instructor! I have making great progress since I've been here in March!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been attending skybound classes for months and loving it ! Well planned out workouts and friendly environment! Both Evan and Cat have been so helpful - they listen and address any questions and concerns individually even in group class.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a dancer, I was looking for new cross-training options. I knew nothing about weightlifting, but learned so much over the last few months and have seen a huge improvement in my overall strength and stamina. I love how encouraging Evan and Cat are, and how the environment is welcoming to folks of all backgrounds, abilities and fitness goals. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The basic details: Skybound's weightlifting classes are run by Evan or Cat and you will see tremendous results regardless of your ability, the class you attend, or the instructor you have. Each class is structured similarly: Static and dynamic stretching, then two three-movement three-set supersets, then one three-movement two-set superset, then an isometric core hold. Classes always start and end on time. Both Cat and Evan offer multiple versions of each movement to add or reduce resistance.

The personal story: I went to my first class in December 2024; it was a Thursday evening class with Evan. We began with stretching, then moved to the first superset: bench press, split squat, and overhead pulldowns. I could NOT do a single split squat and before I could flag down Evan to tell him, he swooped in to quietly offer, "Hey, if you need more stability, grab onto the pole next to you."

This simple, kind act was one of the main reasons I went back again. No denigrating, no humiliating, no chastising for being unable to complete the action unassisted. This attitude has been embodied by both Evan and Cat each and every class. For each movement, they offer alterations that "provide less resistance or more resistance".

I have been going at least once a week since that class in December, and I plan to continue going for the foreseeable future. I have had measurable increases in strength and mobility, decreases in pain and stiffness, and fun with each visit.

Source: Google

★ 5

Evan and Cat are absolute gems—part coaches, part motivational ninjas. They're experts at the gentle push, helping you make steady progress without ever feeling overwhelmed.

The workout space itself is a total mood booster—bright, full of good energy. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to show up, move your body, and maybe even smile while doing squats (no promises, though).

The community here is such a bonus. Everyone’s kind, welcoming, and just the right mix of chill and fun. I actually look forward to my 2–3 sessions a week—making it easy to stay consistent.

Whether you're brand new to lifting or just looking for a positive, encouraging space to get your workouts in, Skybound is the spot.

And last but most definitely not least: Ember, the Chief Happiness Officer. She’s a snuggle pro and hands-down the best part of any workout.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place - and Evan (along with his dog, Ember).

First, the space is awesome. They've painted a cheerful blue wall with stripes, so even in the bleakest months, the space is a respite from the soul-sucking dreariness of MA. Along with an adorable aesthetic, every element of the space is clearly thoughtfully planned for efficiency and flow.

Second, the people are nice. The client base is diverse in many ways, including (but not limited to!!!) age, ability, and experience. Evan aims to establish an actual community, and in a very short time, he’s created an atmosphere where people encourage each other and are kind.

Third, I love the workouts. And, I’m not a person who historically lifted more than you would in barre or Pilates classes. The exercises are varied and balanced. Evan provides strong instruction and helpful adjustments. He clearly enjoys what he does and is invested in seeing us get stronger and healthier. I can’t imagine who wouldn’t enjoy him and SkyBound more generally.

In summary, join!

Source: Google

★ 5

It's been so easy to make strength training a part of my routine because I have so much fun every time I come here. Evan and Cat are so helpful and fun, and the environment is really positive. I'd never done strength training before I came here but after a few months I look and feel so much stronger than before!

Source: Google

★ 5

As someone who was intimidated by the gym and had no idea what they were doing I can't recommend Skybound enough! Evan & Cat are so friendly and welcoming and have fostered such an amazing community. Attending group classes are great because you still get personalized attention but have the ability to meet and talk with others. If you're reading reviews trying to gauge whether to try this place out take this as your sign to take the leap!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training here since they opened and I have felt huge improvements in my strength and agility. I feel stronger and I really notice how my form gets better over time. When I started couldn’t do a single push up and I’m on 10 now! Evan and Cat are always there to correct your form and help you push yourself. Plus, you get to pet Ember who is the nicest dog you’ll meet! 10/10

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym!! I've been consistently going for a little over a month and can feel/see the physical improvements I've made. I feel stronger and have a bit more stamina. Coach Evan spends time with each client to guide them on their goals and he creates a really welcoming vibe for people of all levels at the gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

年轻、专业、有责任心的教练，灵活的训练时间。我在2个月的训练中，体力得到提升，工作和学习更有活力。异国他乡，找到这样的教练很幸运。

Source: Google

★ 5

10/5 stars, highly recommend! Skybound is a great gym for all levels - whether you're brand new to lifting, looking for some accountability or are looking to hit some PRs. Evan and Cat are knowledgeable and create a really encouraging environment, pushing you (safely) to ensure you get a bit stronger every time. I'm not new to lifting, but am new to doing it as a group activity and Skybound has allowed me to test my limits more than I would on my own. Come for Ember 🐶, stay for the community and the 💪💪

Source: Google

★ 5

Very nice training studio in the neighborhood. Evan is really helpful and knowledgeable!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great instructors, very responsible and easygoing. The studio is not big, so instructors can pay attention to everyone. The equipment is all new! Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

I like the dog! 🐕😍😍

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been going to Skybound for a few months and I love it! I felt very comfortable from day 1 -- Evan and team have created a truly inclusive and welcoming culture focused on learning and growth. I have been to a lot of fitness studios over the years and cannot stress the exponential value from these Skybound classes. I highly recommend giving them a try! And don't forget to give Ember, the sweetest dog ever, all the belly scratches at the end of class!

Source: Google

★ 5

grateful that a gym like Skybound is in Malden. I get a great workout in an hour, whereas a gym I would get distracted and lose track of time. I like the small class structure and Evan is super encouraging.

Source: Google

★ 5

Evan and Cat are super nice and incredibly supportive! They made me feel comfortable with my current limits and encouraged me to push my boundaries just a little bit more when I thought I couldn’t!!! Definitely got my endorphins going.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is great, check it out!

I’ve been going to classes at Skybound a couple times a week since shortly after it opened. I had been meaning to get into strength training since forever but Skybound’s convenient location (short walk from Malden Center T, lots of parking one street over) and friendly vibes finally got me working out regularly. Evan encourages you to be accountable without being pushy and coaches in a way that keeps you safe while also helping you achieve noticeable gains. I’m definitely seeing improvements in my functional fitness and the way my pants fit (which wasn’t even my goal!). Plus you get to hang out with Ember, the sweetest dog in the North Shore.

Source: Google

★ 5

As someone who has been lifting for over a decade with a few personal trainers here and there – the group training sessions at Skybound have been great to motivate me and get over my fitness slump. They are also more fun and less intimidating than one-on-one training sessions in my opinion! Evan and Cat are great coaches, and both take the time to correct your form and to encourage you to push harder. Evan also has a freakishly good memory of how much weight/how many reps you did last time, which shows his dedication to his clients and his genuine desire for you to be better! I like how the Skybound team adjusts to different levels of experience too – there are always options to perform an exercise to modify for difficulty or any injuries/soreness. I’ve been coming here for about 8 weeks now and can see (and feel!) that I’m getting stronger. I also see the effects on others too, especially those who have just started weightlifting. So if you’ve always wanted to get started at the gym, or if you’re lazy like me and really need a coach to tell you what to do and hold you accountable, I’d definitely recommend trying out Skybound! Also, the gym dog is the best dog in the world – Ember is reason enough to join!

Source: Google

★ 5

Took a few classes here and loved everything about it! The classes have been very approachable, and the environment is great. Evan and his team make sure that everyone is comfortable, challenged, and overall having a good time. I was happy to find modifications for both beginners and more experienced weight lifters alike. Skybound is definitely a huge value add to the Malden Square area, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants an upgrade to their fitness life!

Source: Google

★ 5

The fact that I have to wake up at 6:30 AM to attend group classes here and still keep coming back is pretty much the highest praise I can give as an extremely non-morning person. Evan is knowledgeable and attentive, and creates a welcoming environment. I look forward each class here.

Source: Google

★ 5

We ended the year trying to get healthier and stronger and we are very lucky to have found Evan to guide us through. I had a lot of back pain and struggled to get into shape and less than two months later I have no back pain and I have a lot more energy. THANK YOU!

Source: Google

★ 5

The environment is great! Everyone is friendly and encouraging, to first timers and experienced members alike. Evan is great at providing motivation and pushing me to tackle that extra rep or those extra 5 lbs. I’d definitely recommend trying out Skybound Barbell Club, especially if you’re new to strength training.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working out at 28 years old, struggling with chronic pain and a lack of confidence in my body. As a queer, neurodivergent, Vietnamese, assigned female at birth, and 5’1 (yes, I am hella short lol), I always felt out of place when it came to fitness. I tried various methods to manage my pain and improve my health, but nothing seemed to stick. I weighed 171 lb at the time, but honestly, weight was never the issue—it was feeling lost in my own body and unsure how to navigate the pain that had dominated my life.

That's when I found Coach Evan at SkyBound Barbell Club. Working with him has completely shifted my perspective on fitness, pain management, and my relationship with my body. From day one, Evan was patient, understanding, and willing to meet me where I was, both physically and emotionally. He helped me address my fatphobia, cultural considerations around food (as I didn’t want to lose the ability to enjoy Vietnamese and other Asian dishes), and a complete lack of knowledge about nutrition—all with respect for my identity and values.

I’ve now been working with Evan (both in-person and online) for over two years, and the results speak for themselves. I can now engage in physical activities without experiencing the chronic pain that used to hold me back. I’ve gained strength, I can deadlift (155 lb) more than I currently weigh (134 lb), and, most importantly, I’ve learned how to heal from the trauma of fatphobia and start loving the body I’m in.

Coach Evan and his team (Erica and Ember) have created an environment where I actually look forward to working out. The gym is filled with positivity and support, and the encouragement I get—often from grown men and other coaches—makes me feel seen and proud of my progress. On my travels, I’ve even had people call me "rugged," which, to me, means strong and capable, especially when I’m lifting my carry-on into an overhead compartment!

What’s more, Coach Evan’s patience and sense of humor make even my worst days feel lighter. He’s there for me, even on my most depressive days, offering hope and a laugh when I need it the most.

SkyBound Barbell Club has been an essential part of my healing journey, and I am forever grateful to Coach Evan, Coach Erica, and their beloved furbaby, Ember, for their dedication, care, and support. If you're looking for a gym that truly cares about you and your journey, this is the place to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have really enjoyed attending the strength training workshops here! The coaches are encouraging and knowledgable and every session is challenging but rewarding. Absolutely hyped to see how far I can progress with the coaches support.

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound is just what I've been looking for! I've been wanting to focus more on weightlifting in a group environment and this gym is a great fit. Everyone is supportive and focused which makes working out here enjoyable and motivating. Evan is an excellent trainer, he's extremely knowledgeable and has a keen eye for form, which has helped me get the most out of each lift. He’s encouraging and always offers personalized tips. After several classes, I can tell my strength is growing, my technique is improving, and I've even hit a few PRs.

Whether you're looking to get stronger, perfect your form, or just find a community of like-minded people, Skybound is a fantastic choice for beginners to advanced lifters.

Source: Google

★ 5

A great place to go no matter where you are in your fitness journey or how experienced you are! The owners have cultivated a warm, inviting atmosphere that welcomes all fitness levels. The class sizes offer great energy for those who prefer the energy of groups but are small enough that you get personalized advice. I've been waiting for a strength training club to come to Malden and I can't be more pleased at the one that's here. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound is a lovely boutique gym with all the weightlifting equipment you need for strength training at a variety of levels (beginner to advance). The space is vibrant and cozy. Evan and Erica both have really warm energy. It's also a bonus to be welcomed by Ember (the Chief Happiness pup).

As a trainer, Evan is personable and motivating. He was attentive to my fitness level/goals, striking a nice balance between meeting me where I am and pushing me to challenge myself.

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound Barbell Club is incredible! After just one session, I could feel a real difference – and I’ve been working out consistently for over a year now. Evan and Cat are not only highly skilled but also the sweetest, most supportive trainers you could ask for. Perfect for anyone serious about building strength with people who genuinely care. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent studio. I highly recommend. I'm only two weeks in and I can already see some results! Evan, the owner/instructor is extremely knowledgeable in fitness. He's fully engaged throughout the entire class. He offers great feedback, recommendations and suggestions in movements, form, weights, etc. which is so nice. This studio is beginner friendly which is awesome. You don't need to know anything about fitness to take a class. Evan will help you throughout the entire process. If you're nervous about starting, don't be, you're in good hands!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaches that push you to do better then you think you can. And the best CHO in the business

Source: Google

★ 5

Best place to build some real muscle
Trainers are great, friendly
Love this place
Must suggestible@Friends !!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Skybound is so different from the other gyms, the colors, lighting and equipment is a vibe. Additionally Evan is an amazing coach, he really focuses on enjoying the journey and not just the results, which in turn makes my fitness journey much more enjoyable than a grind. 10/10 would recommend to anyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

I used to find traditional gyms pretty intimidating—the thought of using the machines wrong or dealing with gym bros hogging equipment kept me away. But all that changed when I found Skybound.

For years, I struggled with tight hamstrings and hips, which eventually led to lower back pain. Thanks to Evan, that pain is a thing of the past. Now, I feel stronger, more flexible, and confident in my form and technique. The group classes are just the right size, and the supportive atmosphere makes every workout a positive experience. The whole gym—staff and all—is so uplifting that I look forward to my next session!

Source: Google