★ 5

I love working out with Hardshell Fitness; everyone is always friendly and welcoming, and I feel supported by the people involved in my fitness journey. I started lifting with Ben in the fall of 2017 as a member of the Hardshell Barbenders Special Olympics team, and I feel as though I have gained both excellent lifting experience (I love telling people about my PR for Deadlift), and a number of great friends. I think I have become more confident in my appearance and my ability to lift; also, I find that lifting with the folks at Hardshell Fitness gives me joy and allows me to feel good about myself while also getting stronger physically.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined hardshell 3 years ago because it’s in my neighborhood. In that time I have gained not just strength but community and confidence. It’s been the best place to work out I’ve ever been a part of. The trainers are kind and caring and the owner, Ben, strives to create and environment where folks can be themselves.

Source: Google

★ 5

Been going to this gym for 4 years. Love the space. Workouts are efficiently planned. Trainers are knowledgeable and friendly. They have a great philosophy and focus on supporting the community.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love how accessible and clear the instructions for class are, this is a true neighborhood come-as-you-are gym. I feel blessed to have access to this community, and Ben is highly-skilled as an instructor and a wonderful human being to boot. Come try it out, you will feel more human, more connected, and of course, stronger.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym. Welcoming atmosphere for all folks and all bodies who are looking to get strong amongst good people.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Started here recently. Awesome people. Good work outs. 11/10 would recommend.

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★ 5

Awesome Iron Powered Humans! Ben cares deeply for the people he is in community with and you can feel that when at the gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is an excellent place to work out, and an amazing community. I’ve had trouble going to gyms consistently in the past, but I actually look forward to my workouts at Hardshell! The trainers are all skilled and supportive, and also just lovely people. The gym and the community are very welcoming. Can’t recommend highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been coming to Hardshell for a little over a year now, and I can't recommend it highly enough. I initially started with personal training to get the swing of things (kettle bell pun mostly unintended) and then started attending classes. Sign-up through the app is easy and coming here has helped me get into a regular fitness routine that I've wanted for some time.

Like several other reviews mention, Ben makes a concerted effort to make it feel like a community. All the coaches are great and create a friendly, supportive environment. It's a great neighborhood gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

An oasis of sanity.

Source: Google

★ 5

Going on my second year here. Training with Ben and crew has been a game-changing experience, I'm stronger in my sixties then I've probably ever been. Hardshell is friendly, rigorous but also adaptable to individual needs. They really meet you where you are and questions about form/technique/modifications are welcome and answered. This is also a supportive community that really feels like a community. Welcoming of all genders, body types, ages, abilities, and identities. I've never felt like I fit in at other gyms. This place feels like home.

Source: Google

★ 5

Tremendous staff - supportive and knowledgeable! Super inclusive and warm community that welcomes everyone no matter where they are at! Coming from several years of belonging to a CrossFit gym this is an amazing place to find the challenge and support I am looking for!

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is the best! It's a great environment with wonderful coaches. I couldn't ask for a better place to train.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing community-centered group fitness classes. Such a special place to pursue your fitness goals at your own pace with others. Having hardshell to return to over the years has been a lifeline for me. Queer affirming and great for people who don’t always feel welcome or comfortable in traditional fitness spaces. The mental health benefits of working out with people in community are just as important if not more than the physical health benefits for me.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I found HardShell in Oct 2021, slowly emerging from one of the lowest points I've ever been at in my mental health. I've been a consistent person in group classes since. I keep coming back because the community, leadership, and lifting heavy shit contribute so damn much to my emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. Every workout, trainers work first to support everyone in being their whole, real, selves, and to connect with ourselves, each other, and the iron from that foundation. As I careen past my 4 year HardShell anniversary, I'm 4 years more sober, resilient, open, connected, and supported. I've got nothing but deep love and respect for the humans, culture, and work done here. Check it out.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I recently moved from out of state, and I chose Hardshell because it’s conveniently located to my home. Strength training has always felt like a chore that I force myself to do, so I didn’t think much of it. But after just a couple months, I’m finding that I’m actually looking forward to the group classes, and I’m thinking about upping my membership to go more often. The community is diverse, welcoming and inclusive. As a queer woman, I feel very much at home. I’m feeling stronger and healthier already. The owner Ben sends good emails with lots of community happenings—like a book club I’m definitely going to join! If you’re new to the area and looking for friends and community, this is a great place to start!

Source: Google

★ 5

Best place ever!

Source: Google

★ 5

Finding Hardshell Fitness quite literally changed the trajectory of my life.

I first started training one-on-one with Eli in summer 2023, having spent decades with a complicated, often painful relationship to exercise. From the very beginning, Eli approached our work with empathy, humor, and expertise. I never felt judged or pressured; only supported. Under his guidance, I grew stronger, more confident, and developed a healthy, joyful relationship with movement for the first time in my adult life. That transformation has carried me through some of the hardest chapters of my personal life with mental and physical resilience I didn’t know I had.

I transitioned to small group training with Ben in summer 2024. From day one, Ben has made me feel seen, safe, and strong. The care and attention he brings to each session -- from thoughtfully adjusting workouts based on individual needs to offering support between sessions -- reflects his deep commitment to every member's growth and well-being. Training alongside the other folks in my group has been equally powerful. They’re not just supportive workout partners. They’re kind, funny, grounded people who reflect everything I love about the South Minneapolis community: authenticity, mutual respect, and a shared belief that we’re all better when we lift each other up.

What sets Hardshell apart from any other gym I’ve experienced isn’t just the top-tier coaching (though that’s a huge part of it); it’s the culture of care and community that infuses every corner of the space. This is a place where people come not only to train, but also to heal, to grow, to laugh, and to rebuild. That sense of purpose extends far beyond individual fitness goals. Hardshell walks the walk when it comes to community engagement. Whether it’s sponsoring Barbenders (a Special Olympics powerlifting team I’m proud to help coach) or creating space for important conversations about social justice and inclusion, at Hardshell your personal progress is celebrated right alongside your contributions to something larger than yourself. It’s a gym, yes, but it’s also a hub for human connection and collective strength.

If you’re looking for a gym that meets you where you are, helps you get where you want to go, and walks alongside you the whole way, this is it. Thank you, Ben, Eli, and everyone at Hardshell for being a source of strength in all senses of the word.

-Sarah H.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this place! Changed my life for the better. Good community spot. Learned a lot. Ben is a good dude.

Source: Google

★ 2

This gym is discriminatory and ageist. Owner and trainer (very physically inflexible themselves), align against customer without owner having even met customer. White Bro culture at its worst. We don’t support this in my neighborhood.

Haha. Ben does remember me. Notice the invalidation and snark. This is the problem. Show some maturity and address valid concerns, instead of telling critics you hope they have a better day. Grow up.
Maybe my honest review will speak to many reading these reviews. Maybe it’s the one that isn’t so positive that could give you an opportunity to grow, not the one that strokes your ego. Btw, I’m not the only one in the n’hood who feels this way. I’ll suggest others who feel the same write reviews as well. You don’t get to act like this in our neighborhood. We like businesses that treat all our neighbors with respect and kindness, and that care about customers concerns enough to address them in person. We dislike lack of accountability, cowardice, rudeness, invalidation and misogyny. Hope you have a better, more respectful responses to criticism in the future, and that you find a neighborhood that feels like home. We don’t need disrespectful businesses here. Take a yoga class. It increases both mental and physical flexibility. Too much lifting can contribute to aggression. Have a nice day:)

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic neighborhood gym that encourages physical and mental wellness. Highly recommend.

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★ 2

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★ 5

Holy Hannah how have I been coming here for 3+ years and not left a GLOWING review? Shame shame shame on me. Ben and the whole crew at Hardshell have created such a magical space. Sure you’ll get strong coming to classes, but you’ll also feel so accepted and supported that the fitness GAINZ are secondary to the sense of well being and inclusion you’ll get here. Everyone is encouraging and welcoming and it is just everything you never thought you’d find at a *gym*. Can’t possibly say enough good things. Come play!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is a fantastic, inclusive, supportive gym & community with a holistic approach to strength training. Couldn't recommend it highly enough. No matter your goals, the knowledgeable trainers and helpful peers will help you reach them, and you'll get stronger and make friends along the way!

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place! I was drawn to the convenience of the weekday 7 am and noon classes. I discovered there’s a real neighborhood and community vibe, and frequent gym events. There’s cozy Christmas and natural lighting, no glaring overhead lights here 🙌

I hate classes where the instructor is doing the workout along side you, shouting instructions you can’t comprehend. That doesn’t happen here. The coaches check in with everyone throughout the class and are able to offer individualized instruction. The workouts vary but also build upon each other.

I’ve been going twice a week for six months and feel stronger!

Source: Google

★ 5

We do our Power Lifting for SOMN in season and do weekends training during the summer with various training exercises to switch things up!😉

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out at HardShell for the past 3 months and have loved it so much! It truly is more than a gym-- it is a place for community. I am so impressed by how knowledgeable, compassionate, and judgement free the coaches are. HardShell truly embodies empathy, resilience, and community. I am looking forward to see how much stronger I can become!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love Hardshell! I'm not someone who works out in a gym often but they are so welcoming and kind that they've changed my expectations. As a woman, I typically don't like being told what to do by men but Ben and Eli are a different kind. There's not even a hint of toxic masculinity in this gym. I love going to Leigh's workout class and even going just once a week I'm getting stronger. I could not recommend this gym enough to everyone from newbies to expert lifters. You'll leave feeling inspired and pumped to get pumped!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaching, great people, a great workout, and opportunities to help the community all rolled into one! The workouts are a mix of conditioning, strength-training and skill-building, and everything is scalable to your preference or ability. And it’s fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

I don't even know how to begin to describe how much I love this place but I'll try:

1. It's welcoming to anyone. Everyone is friendly and there is a sense of community but no one judges if you are like me and have days where you just want to work out without really talking to anyone.
2. There is NO talk about your weight, shape, size, and what food you should or should not be eating. It's such a healthy approach to fitness.
3. All the instructors are supportive and helpful without shaming or yelling. When I started I had to use the lightest weights possible, but not once did I feel shamed. On days when I'm tired and just don't have a ton in me, I get told "good job showing up" instead of being yelled at to "go harder".
4. Even during class you get some one on one instruction so you can lift safely
5. There are sometimes dogs there and you can pet them
6. Hardshell cares about the Minneapolis community.

Before hardshell I used to hate working out, especially in front of others, but I begrudgingly did it for my mental health. Now I actually enjoy it and am truly sad when I can't get to class. I'm really really glad I found this place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Owner and trainers make obvious effort to make everyone feel included and it's felt. Glowing community within the gym, they support other local business in the surrounding neighborhood, there's also the ability for sliding scale on certain services making sure anyone can learn if they want to. I've come here weekly for almost a year now, starting from literal zero, and outside of the changes I've seen in my strength and confidence I feel as though I've made friends along the way. Too many positive things to say, highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

My personal fitness really tanked after I got a desk job, and I found that I had little time and motivation to do at-home workouts. I had never done any sort of weightlifting before, but Hardshell is really conveniently located for me, so I gave it a go. It took me a few weeks to get into it, but I haven't looked back!

All of the coaches I have worked with at Hardshell (Eli, Greg, Ben, and Leigh) are incredibly empathetic and knowledgeable. They work hard to train proper weightlifting form to prevent injury. They do a great job working with all different kinds of bodies and provide personalized advice based on every individual's needs. The language they use is very intentional, for example: "more tension" or "less tension" rather than "harder" or "easier". While this may seem minor, it's really key to creating an environment where I am less judgemental of myself.

As many others have mentioned, the gym is a wonderful community. I also feel safe there as an openly queer person. The membership pay structure is flexible and affordable. I feel so much stronger and comfier in my body ever since starting my training at Hardshell. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is AMAZING! I was a multiple team sport athlete through college, worked out some in my 20s, and got absolutely crushed by motherhood and adulthood in terms of self-care in my 30s. I’d try things, none would stick. I’d hate it, the culture would be absent or toxic, it would be too expensive, I wouldn’t feel like I belonged. Then I found this place! Ben and his team are phenomenal. EVERYONE belongs. We’re all getting strong. It’s about community and strength and resilience and kindness and inclusivity. A little over a year since joining and…The workouts WORK and I notice real time benefits in my life. When I get off my routine, I return. Some days I lift hard and some days I just show up-both are worthy here. The community is awesome. It’s saved my physical fitness journey for the second half of my life!!! Truly! Come join us.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been with Hardshell for about a year and a half now. It’s been a great experience and I’ve never felt better physically. It’s been beyond my imagination what kettle bell weight training could be. Super supportive staff and clientele no judgement just be as strong as you can be.

Source: Google

★ 5

HardShell is more than a gym, it's a community cornerstone.

I've been working out at HardShell for the last 3 years and it has been instrumental in my fitness journey. They offer flexible scheduling for classes through an easy to use app. All of the instructors are experienced, kind, and helpful. They routinely offer specialty classes that are fun and excellent ways to change up your routine.

If classes aren't your jam, the gym offers "open gym" sign ups so you can reserve space to workout on your own.

Most importantly, because of this gym I have met so many neighbors. HardShell regularly hosts social events for both gym goers and then community at large. Ben emphasizes building community and ensure we all leave the world a better place.

Whether you are just starting your fitness journey or a seasoned lifter, I highly recommend HardShell.

Source: Google

★ 5

awesome community oriented space. I go once weekly and its changed my mobility and strength substantially. my quality of life is better because of this place :) :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic gym, great people. Supportive, inclusive and high quality coaching.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been going to Hardshell for over two years and it's been an amazing experience. The staff are super-welcoming and knowledgeable. I'm a queer, middle-aged, fat lady and don't often feel really welcome at the gym. Eli and Ben (and the entire team) made me feel really welcome and helped me redefine what fitness means for me. That validation has reopened a lot of doors-- I feel so much more confident and comfortable moving my body than I did when I started.

I also really love seeing how many "hardcore" lifters also go there--it's fun to be a part of a gym that honors all the different kinds of movement there can be, from people who are just getting started to people who have been doing it for a lifetime. It motivates me to find my own personal goals when I see people with their own, wildly different goals--everyone on their own journey but doing it together!

I live in the neighborhood and I also love what the gym does as a good neighbor--family-friendly parties and fundraisers, radical education, and lots of kindness and looking out for each other.

Go to Hardshell, it's the best!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

A wonderful and welcoming gym! Awesome instructors and classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Leigh leads a super fun group workout on Thursdays. Supportive, fun, and challenging. Had a great time highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is an amazing little gem in Minneapolis. It's more than a gym, it's a neighborhood hotspot and community builder. Come here to get a workout and leave with new friends.

I have enjoyed the class workouts for the past 3 years and all the coaches are top notch. They help everyone understand modifications if needed and program a variety of movements. They make strength accessible to everyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the most inclusive and affirming gym I've ever joined. I love the gym's commitment to its community, and how coaches help nurture connections among members. Workouts are thoughtfully designed and challenging (with plenty of options for members to meet themselves where they're at), and coaches are knowledgeable and encouraging. I'd recommend the gym to anyone I know!

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is, overwhelmingly, a fantastic gym. Ben, Eli, Greg, and Leigh are terrific coaches, and the community is stellar. 5/5, would recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been going to Hardshell for about 4 months. My experience has been better than I could have expected. Hardshell is a welcoming and judgement free gym that wants you to feel comfortable being your authentic self.
I first began personal training with Eli, who has been nothing but great. I was hesitant to get back into the gym as I do physical labor for a living and have serious back issues that cause me to be cautious for fear of re-injuring my back. Eli has taken all of these factors into account in my personal training, and has put a focus on proper technique that is not only practical in the gym but also practical in my day to day job.
The environment for classes are equally as positive in my experience. Class are filled with all sorts of people with different experience levels, ages and goals on any given day. The trainers always emphasize that the classes are go at your own pace. They empower people to ask questions and to feel comfortable in the space whether it's your first time stepping foot in a gym or you've bene attending classes for 2 years.
I could go on about how great everyone is that is involved with Hardshell. Instead I'll just say that if you're looking for a gym that will work with you wherever you're at in your journey and whatever your goals are, then I can't recommend Hardshell enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is a super inclusive, empathetic, and fun place to strength train and build community. As someone who hasn't had great experiences at regular gyms, I started personal training with Eli at Hardshell in December of 2022 and haven't looked back since. I've also taken a 6 week course led by Leigh, and it was fantastic! I really appreciate that the programs are built to have you go at your own pace but still create challenging workouts each week.

I also really like that Ben and his team are so plugged into the community and share news, updates, and ways to help our neighbors. I'm so happy I found Hardshell last year and have the opportunity to be a part of this kind, thoughtful, and strong community!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ben Swarts is far more than an amazing trainer. He is a relationship builder that cares for the hearts and souls of his members as much as he cares about their health and strengthening their bodies. This is so much more than a gym. It is community.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love the community feel, outdoor workouts in the summer and giving back to the community. People know your name and I feel welcome, included and supported at this gym. Oh, and stronger!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I started with personal training with Eli about 2 years ago, and this is the best gym I've ever been to. It's a community that actually lives up to it's mission - building Strength, Resilience, Empathy and Love. I hadn't worked out in at least 3 years, yet have always felt welcome. It's clean and has great equipment - I actually have some muscles now! More than that, I feel better about myself on the inside too. A big thank you to the team: Eli, Ben, Leigh & Greg for a really good experience. I haven't met a single person there who wasn't kind, and I think that speaks for itself!

Source: Google

★ 5

Having moved to the city, I found Hardshell after having a great fitness community for 4 years - south of the river.
Completely the right decision.
Welcoming, inclusive, expert and supportive guidance as I continue to work on my healthspan, and my own fitness goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

I knew I needed to move more, and I needed to just start with something. I drove by Hardshell, checked it out online, and emailed for more info. I got a response right away, set up a meeting to learn more. and started meeting with a fitness trainer 1:1! I was really nervous that first time, but Eli is great! He's been very encouraging and helps me see my own progress. I really enjoy the atmosphere of the gym, very laid back. Best of all its, affordable!

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the best gym I've ever belonged to - kind, caring, accessible classes that meet you where you are.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really love this little gym with a big heart. I have been taking classes at hardshell for about four months and it's been really great being a part of the community Ben and Eli have built here. I have found myself getting stronger, movement becoming easier for me, and my relationship to movement improving. I love how community driven they are; talking about things happening in the neighborhood/community is a built in practice at the gym. Classes are accessible to folks at many levels of fitness as it mostly is go at your own pace. They are great at giving accommodations if needed, and are great at getting to know participants in an individual way. Finding a gym that focuses on functional fitness and strength, instead of pushing intentional weight loss/diet talk is so refreshing. As a person living in a larger body, I feel safe and welcomed in this space. I'm a tough critic of gym spaces and I give Hardshell a solid 5 stars!

Source: Google

★ 5

An absolutely delightful gym experience! Can’t say I’ve ever said that before. The way Ben, Eli, and team operate Hardshell gave me significant pause and wonder why more gyms don’t open class with community announcements, introductions and structure class to be accessible. Hopefully more gyms will catch on to these opportunities for community and accessibility, but no one can ever be Hardshell!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great people and fun workouts.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ben and Eli are simply the best - attuned, creative, kind, positive, well-informes, and not intimidating! I fell into a rut early on during the pandemic and have been training there since; I’ve never been stronger plus I’ve made some amazing like-minded friends as a bonus!
Ben and Eli truly want success and accessibility for all, regardless of ability, age, starting point, knowledge. You are not just a number at this gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've only been going to Hardshell for a few months, but so far I love it. The coaches are great, the people are great, the programming is great. 5/5 would recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started going to Hardshell a little less than a year ago and am so happy to have found such a welcoming place in my neighborhood. I started with some personal training and moved to the group classes, which are both fun and challenging. Everyone at the gym is super friendly, and I always feel like I get personal attention when I have questions even as part of the group classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardshell is the best gym I've ever trained at. Ben and Eli foster a kind, inclusive community and maintain a clean, well-equipped space. Group classes are super fun and there are ample open gym slots to get solo workouts in. Ben has been programming for me for just over a year now and I've seen huge improvements in my strength, mobility, and skills. Can't say enough good things about Hardshell!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is the most open and welcoming one I’ve been to! Folks of any fitness background will find community here. I really appreciate that you will always have your own rack if you come into open gym to lift, so no waiting around to get your work done.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love being a member of Hardshell so much! I switched to this gym during the pandemic because of the opportunity to train outside. I've been going there a little more than a year, and even though I've been a physically active regular gym-goer for most of my life, I am noticeably stronger now than I've ever been and I love the feeling. It's been high gains for a modest weekly time commitment. And the people who go there are generally great, I appreciate seeing them regularly, and Ben and Eli are thoughtful, smart, attentive trainers who make a concerted effort at building and maintaining an inclusive space.

Source: Google

★ 5

Over the past year, Hardshell has turned into one of my favorite places in south Minneapolis. It's a gym to get strong for life-- the workout classes are functional, challenging, and accessible for everyone. Trainers Ben and Eli are not only great at helping you hit your goals, but are the foundation of an amazing community centered around this gym. I couldn't think of a better place to get strong, have fun, and make new friends.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started attending Hardshell in May 2022 after moving to the neighborhood. This gym is such a special, welcoming place! The coaches are kind, thoughtful, knowledgeable, and have created the gym to be a space for EVERYONE. I was skeptical about kettlebells at first, but have grown to love them and the muscle I've gained in the process! Come check it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

More than a gym, a community. Before joining, I had never lifted weights and was very intimidated about the whole process. When I joined, Ben welcomed me and my family into an amazing community. I learn something new every time I go to a class and I am stronger person. The community is amazing, welcoming and non-judgmental, something that I really was looking for. If you want to get strong among a diverse group of people then this is the place for you.

Source: Google

★ 5

I am old and fat, to put it bluntly, and I have been incredibly welcomed and supported at Hardshell. (The complete opposite of body shaming.) Ben went out of his way to find adaptive tech for my arthritic hands, for instance. Also--most importantly to me, the gym is a lot of FUN!
Thank you, Ben! --Francesca

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I never was able to keep with a gym routine until joining Hardshell. It has the best strength and conditioning classes and personal trainers! The two coaches, Eli and Ben, are top notch. I had an existing injury when I started training sessions with Eli and he worked with me to strengthen other parts of my body while keeping my injury safe. I also love that classes are mainly outside and everyone is open, friendly and helpful. I highly recommend checking this place out!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve frequented a lot of gyms but Hardshell is my absolute favorite! I’ve been a dedicated member for almost a year now for good reason. Hardshell talks a lot about resilience, community and empathy and they truly demonstrate these values on the daily. I can’t emphasize enough what an amazing community Hardshell holds.

Ben and Eli are always working to accommodate every persons needs with the perfect balance of empathy and encouragement. I always feel supported by the trainers as well as the other members. I look forward to every class I attend and I know I can always work at my own pace and never feel pressured to compare myself to others or push myself to burnout. This is a sustainable kind of training program that will patiently guide and listen to you without sugar coating anything. I feel strong and capable and intend to keep Hardshell as a permanent fixture in my life.

I feel lucky to have found this community and I always encourage everyone to come join me for a class! 10/10 would recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym!! Amazing community, kind and talented trainers. Small class sizes. Scheduling is easy and flexible. What could be better? HIGHLY recommend!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place! Very encouraging and good place to work out. I look forward to my workouts here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Such a wonderful gym and community. Primarily class-based instruction with lots of 1:1 interaction with the trainers and a super welcoming community of members. As someone who was a bit intimidated by joining a gym, I have felt supported every step of the way while growing stronger and improving my relationship with my body.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Before coming here, I was never great at getting into a good gym routine. The small group format and fantastic training have been a huge motivator. Ben is a great coach and gives constructive advice without judgment. The community of the gym is inclusive and welcoming, and Ben is continually looking for ways to invest and give back to the neighborhood as well.

Source: Google

★ 5

This has been an incredible first experience with kettlebell and strength/conditioning training. Ben goes above and beyond to make you feel included right from the start - and to top it off, he's an excellent coach and motivator. I've become so much stronger with his guidance and the support of the community he's built. Bonus - I've made new friends too!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ben does a great job as a coach and a creator of culture. He always demonstrates each movement for the class and takes the time to answer individual questions throughout the workout. He creates an environment that allows people from a variety of backgrounds and fitness levels to feel welcome and safe.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is hands down the best gym experience I've ever had. Ben is a patient, empathetic, inclusive, practiced coach who gives individual attention to every member (and, I suspect, to every person he interacts with.) This place is more than a gym, it's a community. The equipment is easy to use, clean, and in great shape. Ben does an incredible job of teaching us how to use weights and equipment in an equitable and safe way. There are in-person and online options for classes! In short, this place is epic. Come check it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

I was sold by the tagline to this gym including "empathy": it really is a community first, excellent place to get strong second. Ben is a sensitive, patient and kind community leader and teacher, and has created a deeply safe space for all genders, orientations, bodies and abilities. I'm grateful for this place!

Source: Google

★ 5

Trainer has made me feel welcome and my needs seen to. Clear low pressure options for training/classes, great friendly environment with the rest of my class. Would recommend to a friend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent gym and great people!

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★ 5

This gym is one of a kind. We are a community of empathetic, strong individuals that enjoy working out outdoors. There are all skill levels, no egos and a general sense of belonging. Come join us, I’m sure you’ll like it as much as we all do.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic place for training and community! Ben is such an incredible professional, I’m learning so much every time I go to a class!
I have been taking different classes in the past, but always ended up with sore lower back or knees. Ben explains everything so well and helps you to get the exercise exactly right for your body and level.

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely incredible gym with a warm and friendly community. The most empowered I've ever felt in any workout context. Impeccable equipment and resources but definitely the greatest asset to the gym is owner/coach Ben - truly a one-of-a-kind human being who gives their all to building something extraordinary.

Source: Google

★ 5

LOVE Ben and the training we do here. Inclusive, safe environment that trains people and makes them strong.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with Ben since August 2020 and with just three classes a week I have improved my lifting skills and gotten a lot stronger. Currently classes consist of mostly kettlebell workouts (outside when weather permitting) and programmed barbell lifting (a great beginner option). His kettlebell classes are fun, varied and are challenging (if you want them to be) at any age or fitness level. While Ben has a vast knowledge of fitness he is always excited to learn more so that he can serve his community better. He takes his values of empathy, resilience and community seriously and has been able to uphold them and continue the community safely even during covid. Hardshell fitness is more than just a place to work out, it's your "third place".

Source: Google

★ 5

I started lifting weights at home about 2 and half years ago and, although I had made significant progress, I wanted to find a personal trainer who could help me continue to get stronger, improve my form, and become more educated about the ins and outs of lifting After searching online I found HardShell Fitness in my neighborhood. I chose to work with Ben because he has a ton of knowledge, is a exceptional coach, and is an all-around genuine and kind human being. Over the past 6 months of working with Ben he has helped me develop a new program, provided form feedback on all the major lifts, and has been available for in-person and online consultation. I've made incredible progress under his direction (Calculated 1 Rep Maxes: Squat +60lbs, Deadlift +51lbs, Bench +30lbs). Additionally, I had been working through some injuries and Ben has been able to adapt my program to meet me where I am at. If you're looking to get stronger, be part of an awesome community, and reach your fitness/wellbeing goals then this is the place for you!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Ben for years, and have been impressed with his commitment to inclusion. If you want a place where you can surpass your fitness goals and be a part of a fun community this is the gym for you.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you live in South Minneapolis or the surrounding areas and you want a community that's going to help you grow while getting stronger and healthier, Frost Iron Training is THE spot. Not only is the owner, Benjamin, incredibly knowledgeable, but he's compassionate, caring, and he fosters a community of world-class people who genuinely care about each other.

Under Ben's guidance, I've personally lost around 30 pounds, I feel WAY stronger, more confident in my skin, I have health + fitness habits and routines that make my life infinitely better, and I have AMAZING friendships with our members.

There's nothing like working out with people who cheer you on and want to see you succeed. People who are excited to see you. People who want to make the community a better place to be for ALL. This is just a fraction of what you have to look forward to when you join Frost Iron Training.

Ben and his guidance has changed my life for the better, and I'm so grateful for his leadership, guidance, the tools he's taught me, and for the community he's cultivated!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ben's group classes are so good I brought my mom. We both got great workouts, even though our fitness goals are completely different. So excited about his new gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ben has created a space that is encouraging without the hype, safe without the boasting, and welcoming to all. As a coach, Ben is focused on your strength but holistically, how do your goals fit in with your life. It seems silly, but I honestly never thought about training that way.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training with Ben and HardShell Fitness for quite a few years now and love it. The workouts are a great mix and Ben really stresses to meet yourself where you are at for that day because each day is different. He clearly demonstrates the exercises as well as modifications in case something is sore or your abilities are just not there yet for the full on movement. There is also the great community piece that Ben has built. It great to see everybody root for each other and lift each other up. I hope I can continue to train with Ben and HardShell Fitness for many more years.

Source: Google

★ 5

I got involved at HardShell Frost Iron Training in the fall of 2016. From the first day on site for personal training designed to prepare me to start Kettle Bell classes, I felt welcomed with training that challenged me, yet did not exceed what my untrained body was able to do. Now four and a half years later, I train two times each week in the class setting at levels that are always challenging yet provide options that respect where I am at that time or as I learn new things. I have also met incredibly welcoming and encouraging people through the gym. Additionally, Ben’s personal attention to each person within the class setting makes HardShell Frost Iron Training unique. I love training at HardShell F.I.T. and have gained strength, mobility and balance there. As a retiree the skills I am gaining working with Ben are critical for me and will greatly impact the quality of my life as I continue to age. Indispensable!

Source: Google

★ 5

An excellent workout from a coach that's focused on you as a person.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love working out at HardShell Frost Iron Training! Ever since I started sessions with Ben 3ish years ago, I've felt supported in my goals. His workouts are challenging without being miserable--a bonus for someone who always thought she hated exercise--and I've made progress in both my strength and overall health. Plus Ben is just a really encouraging, enthusiastic person; I enjoy our time together. HardShell has been an important part of my life and I'll probably keep going forever. 10/10 A+++ would recommend

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google