★ 5

Opening visit was great. Great facility and person conducting interview and tests to determine training was great and very knowledgeable. Have joined and will begin training. Anyone looking for training needs to set an appointment here

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness is an amazing gym with excellent trainers and an incredibly encouraging atmosphere. Everyone here is supportive and positive—it’s more than just a gym, it’s a community. I highly recommend Forward Fitness!
Come join the fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined Forward Fitness in January 2025 and my life has changed so much; for better! Forward Fitness offers a program that is created for you and adapted as needed. In addition to my personal training session, the fit camp classes and mobility classes are great. I never took a mobility class before and now, I look forward to attending and I see the need to keep taking it. The fit camp classes are challenging, fun, and always different; it keeps me interested. I actually enjoy going to the gym now, which has never been the case for me. The teachers are knowledgeable, patient, and caring. I'm learning to workout and getting results every day. Another plus is that Suzanne is a dietician, she is not only helping me with my dietary restrictions but with wellness in general, and I am feeling much better. This gym is not only a gym, but a unique place that I feel part of, a sense of community. People are so pleasant, they encourage you and cheer you up. And there is more :) so I highly recommend Forward Fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you want a gym that you'll actually look forward to going to, Forward Fitness is the place! The coaches are all fantastic and really supportive, and the workouts never get boring.

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness is the first gym I have felt at home! The coaches are uplifting, positive, and keep things fun while pushing you to be your best self. The environment is small and personable as well so no one gets lost in the mix. I could not recommend this gym enough for anyone looking to start their fitness journey or change up their routine.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic coaching to meet your fitness and nutrition goals in group classes or personal training.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing small, private gym! Mike, Suzanne, Cati and Joe are knowledgeable, helpful and experienced personal trainers. In addition, Suzanne is a registered dietitian and offers valuable nutrition coaching and goal setting. The whole gym environment is supportive and friendly. The workouts (semi-private and group) are led by the trainers who give hands on feedback and adjustments during classes. I look forward to walking through the doors and always feel amazing when I leave. I highly recommend to anyone who wants to get strong and stay healthy!

Source: Google

★ 5

There’s a lot to love about Forward Fitness but the two main things are the coaches and the community.

The coaches take an invested interest in each members goals and capabilities. They meet you where you are and set up plans with realistic movements and milestones to ensure success. There’s also a focus on whole person health and wellbeing, not just how heavy a kettlebell you can lift.

The community of Forward Fitness members is amazing! No matter what class you’re taking, you’ll find yourself working out with positive, supportive and encouraging gym members cheering you on through your next accomplishment.

If you’re looking for gym that will keep you coming back and meeting your goals, this is the one!

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness is so much more than a gym. Mike, Suzanne and Cati are amazing trainers who take the time to get to know every member so that they can help them reach their goals. The classes will challenge you and the personal training sessions are designed with the members fitness goals in mind. The gym has fun events throughout the year that help the members get to know each other better and really foster the community spirit of the gym. I have been a member since they opened and am so grateful to have all the amazing people at Forward Fitness in my life.

Source: Google

★ 5

Mike, Suzanne, and Cati are amazing trainers, and I love being a part of the Forward Fitness clientele! It's such an accepting and fun environment, and the trainers and other clients make every workout fun. It has definitely changed my mindset from "have" go go to the gym to "get" to go to the gym and see my FF buddies!

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are looking for a supportive gym with great staff this is your place!! They create a fun welcoming atmosphere that is much better then a large, corporate gym. The trainers are knowledgeable, motivating and super supportive!

Source: Google

★ 5

No single place that I've chosen to spend my money has had anywhere near the positive impact on my life that Forward Fitness has.

Mike, Suzanne, and Cati are phenomenal trainers and they have built a wonderful community with all the support you need to focus on your goals and live a healthier, happier life.

I feel lucky to have stumbled upon this gym and I would recommend it to anyone, but even moreso to those who feel that a gym isn't for them. You just haven't found the right one.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love everything about this place! The classes are always challenging (in a great way) and there is a lot of variety. Class mates are friendly and approachable, and are always encouraging of fellow workout buddies. The coaches are all very knowledgeable and they each have their own method for teaching an exercise- which I find to be very helpful.

In addition to the classes, they also offer a number of additional workshops and focus areas throughout the year that you can partake in. On top of that (but wait…there’s more!) there is a nutritionist on staff that you can work with to help you in reaching your personal fitness and fuel goals in the best way for you.

Forward Fitness is truly unique - if you are looking to change up your routine, this is the place to do it. You will very quickly find yourself a part of the Forward Fitness family!

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness is the full package. A great gym full of support and accountability.

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness is a great place to go if you’re wanting variety in your workouts! Their friendly, knowledgeable staff can help you reach your fitness goals by focusing on your individual abilities to keep you injury-free in the process. Each trainer goes out of their way to make each member feel like family. Additionally, coaches check in with individuals regularly to assess progress towards whatever fitness goals they are working on, whether it’s making major strength and performance strides or simply building habits for a healthier life. For as long as I live in the area, I will remain a member of this amazing gym community!

Source: Google

★ 5

Joining Forward Fitness has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my health. The coaches are extremely knowledgeable, and they encourage each person to challenge themselves during each workout and safely push themselves to meet their goals. The positive and uplifting atmosphere that the gym brings makes me look forward to each workout. This gym has truly improved so many areas of my health & well being!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been going to this gym for 1 year now and can honestly say it is the best gym I have ever been a member of. The coaches are top notch, the classes are challenging, and the community of members is like no other. I highly recommend Forward Fitness

Source: Google

★ 5

Growing up, I was never in to working out. I rolled my eyes at gym class and was never considered very sporty. As I got older, I would go to the gym to work on treadmills/stair climbers/ellipticals and also watch Bravo. After having two kids, I knew this wouldn’t cut it. Through a friend, I found Forward Fitness. From the moment I first came to do my assessment, I knew I was in the right place. It didn’t matter what I could or could not do. The focus was on improvement, and whatever that meant to me. Mike, Suzanne, Neil, and Cati are such a wonderful training staff. I love going to every class and never dread a workout. Through the encouragement of not only the staff, but other members, I have been able to complete two 100 workout challenges! Forward Fitness has made me stronger, healthier, and happier.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

What an incredible place to train! I'm a little bit of a gym rat but I've never tried a boutique-style, small class setting. In fact, I never liked previous experiences with group workout class settings but, after my wife convinced me to try it out, I was blown away by the professionalism, knowledge, and focus on form / technique that the coaches bring (I finally learned how to properly deadlift without hurting my back!). I also really like the the focus on community and building challenges / team events that everyone to participate in.

The reason I'm writing a review now, one year after joining, is that I want to commend how the gym has handled COVID; not only do they take the appropriate precautions (masks, temp check, distance, cleaning), but they are also innovative with their workouts. The supplemental online classes feel like you're not missing a beat (for those who do not feel comfortable training in the gym), including using equipment you have access to at home (backpack full of weights for squats!). There is an optional nutritional program with Suzanne. There are accountability teams to check in on your mental well-being during these tough times.

The coaches (and fellow members) care; it shows in every class and the amount of planning work and encouragement (both in and outside of class) from the coaches. Give Forward Fitness a try - you won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I can’t say enough great things about Forward Fitness! They have experienced trainers that are very knowledgeable and provide a fun atmosphere to workout. The workouts are always varied and can be leveled up or down depending on the person. They can also cater to injuries which is helpful. Forward Fitness always has new challenges throughout the year to motivate the members. I would highly recommend Forward Fitness!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness is awesome and I highly recommend them. This is the only non-running exercise I’ve been able to stick with consistently, because it’s scheduled, they mix it up, they help me set and meet my goals, and they meet me where I’m at. In the process I’ve lost (and kept off) 25 pounds, acquired a love of obstacle course racing, and went from 0 chin-ups to 6 so far. Hooray for non-weight/size related goals!

Source: Google

★ 5

The Forward Fitness team has been critical to my personal and physical growth over the last 1.5 years. It's been wonderful to build a community of accountability partners, cheerleaders, and friends. Participating on the Obstacle Course Race (OCR) Team has been a transformative experience that challenged me mentally and physically. I would NEVER have thought myself capable of trying OCR without the support of the Forward Fitness coaches. The level of personal attention is exceptional. I look forward to many more years at FF!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a part of the Forward Fitness family since November and I have loved it since day 1! The classes are small and feel very personalized. The trainers are all very focused on making sure you are doing everything the correct way to make sure you are getting the most out of each workout. I have learned more in the few months that I have been at Forward Fitness than I learned in the year or more I spent paying for a big gym. I have never been more motivated and excited about going to the gym to workout. I am so happy that I found this wonderful place and I am so proud of how strong I have become in just a few months!

Source: Google

★ 5

Forward Fitness keeps you engaged and motivated to stay on top of your fitness and health game! Since joining after their first year in business, I have stayed dedicated to my fitness routine and managed to achieve many personal fitness goals. The FF team even helped build a recovery program specific to my needs after I underwent a major surgery - a true testament to the level of personal attention received when you are a member here.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been coming to Forward Fitness for over three years. The people here are a true community and everyone is supportive of each other no matter what level of fitness. I walked in after a 10 year hiatus and now I’m here 5 days a week. The workouts are challenging and change up regularly so I don’t get bored. The trainers all bring something different to the table: kettlebells, weightlifting, sand bags, nutrition, personal training plans. This is a place where you will be welcomed, encouraged to do your best and FF will help you achieve your goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

I can't speak highly enough about Forward Fitness. The trainers are great and the members are so welcoming and friendly. I would recommend them to anyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym! The staff is encouraging and wants the best for everyone. All the members are welcoming and friendly. Over the past couple years, I’ve not only continued to get stronger, but also created long lasting good habits. As a result, I’ve managed to reach my goal weight. I would recommend Forward Fitness to all!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing gym with great trainers who personalize your experience to meet you needs!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Joining the Forward Fitness community has been the best investment in my health I could ever imagine. Each of the knowledgeable, supportive, inspiring and encouraging trainers have helped me discover my strength, both physically and mentally. I've learned how to make better choices with my nutrition, in addition to consistently being more active. Fit Camps have become a part of my routine 4+ days/week for over three years now. I truly look forward to these quick, intense 45-minute sessions with fellow members that I consider friends and family. I've also recently found a passion for Obstacle Course Racing, and train with the Forward Fitness OCR team for 6-8 weeks ahead of each race. I can't believe how much joining this gym has impacted my life! I am thankful for the person they have helped me become, and the wonderful fellow members and trainers I've met since 2016.

Source: Google

★ 5

My sister is a regular at this gym, and during one of my visits to STL, she took me as a guest to one of the classes. I had such a great time. The trainer took the time to ask me about my athletic history as well as any injuries I may have, and throughout the workout he did very well in checking in with me and making sure my form was good in all the excersises to avoid further injury. This is definitely one of the most important things I look for in a class driven gym environment. If you’re going to tell me what to do, tell me and show me how to do it right, don’t just have me do it. I was very, very happy with this experience, and if I lived in STL I would definitely become a regular here, too. 1000% recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Mike Klaus rocks! Very friendly staff, clean workout environment for a great, one-on-one private workout.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

One of the best gyms I have ever experienced. The staff is very knowledgeable, and they really care about your technique, your results and progress, and being injury free. You will get in the best shape of your life with them.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve changed lots of my eating/fitness habits thanks to the awesome people at Forward Fitness! I love that it’s a place I enjoy going to! Great personalized attention and true dedication.

Source: Google

★ 5

Staff at the gym regularly supportive and knowledgeable. They go the extra mile and invest themselves in their clients.

Source: Google

★ 5

Better than you could ever hope for. That's how you will feel about Forward Fitness after giving it a try. Mike and Suzanne are great owners who know what they are doing and care about the community as well as their members (if there is a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new small business in Maplewood a Forward Fitness representative is likely there). Nick, Katie, and Hannah have a passion for motivating the members and pushing them forward in their lives. Maggie does a fantastic job at the front desk making all feel welcome and ensuring paperwork is taken care of in a timely and efficient fashion. The emphasis placed on preventing injuries and working with you to tailor workouts that build strength and endurance without putting you in danger of hurting yourself is novel compared to past gym cultures I have experienced. If all that doesn't sound like enough, Forward Fitness helped me lose over 50 pounds in 5 months. I could go on all day about how they can help change your life, but suffice it to say you aren't gonna find a better gym or more caring staff anywhere else.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working out at Forward Fitness about three months ago, and I absolutely love it! It is by FAR the best gym of which I have ever been a member. All of the staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. They are also extremely knowledgeable, not only on the exercises/lifts they are teaching but also in the way different parts of the body should move/function. This has been particularly helpful for me (and one of many reasons why I love this gym so much) because every now and then I have recurring injuries/muscle pain that come back from other sports I do, and all the trainers are helpful in being able to either modify parts of a workout for me or even giving me stretches or moves to do at the gym and at home to help relieve said pain.

I love the FitCamp classes, and I appreciate that they have new and fun workouts to do for each day of the week. This really takes the pressure off me of having to come up with a new workout every time I go into the gym. I used to dread that! I also appreciate that FitCamps are capped off and kept small because this truly allows the trainers to be able to keep an eye on everyone for form and provide appropriate and timely feedback if I'm doing something incorrectly. I don't have to wait until I'm injured to realize I was doing it wrong; rather, they catch it early on. The small classes also make this gym more personable than any other gym I've attended. It really is a community of people looking out for one another, and the trainers definitely want what's best for all their members. I genuinely feel that they are helping me get stronger and accomplish my fitness goals. I always look forward to working out with them, and I highly recommend checking them out!

Source: Google

★ 5

The best personal trainers in STL! Everyone is so friendly and they provide you with personal support and attention for you to achieve your goals safely and effectively. And they have a really tight-knit community with their trainers and clients, which is really cool to be a part of!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this place for so many reasons.. most obvious ..the great workouts.. the programs/fit camps are frequently switched so you are constantly learning and growing in your own set of fitness skills and it's not monotonous!!! Also lots of class times and flexibility for my schedule!

The trainers are awesome.. they are educated..and are constantly at workshops or providing workshops for us!!! I have learned how to breathe correctly.. who knew that was a thing?! I have been dealing with a back injury for 2 years and have gotten nothing but support and motivation.. and they modify the workouts but still push me forward even when I'm ready to stop. It's truly about making you a fit, healthy person mentally and physically.

The welcoming sense of community... all age ranges and athletic abilities.. and absolutely no judgement .. within your first few workouts you will feel like you have been there for years! So great!

So besides the above mentioned reasons the gym itself is super clean and bright and inviting! So I give it all the stars and highly recommend checking it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Mike and his staff at Forward Fitness are second to none. They helped me form a fitness regime structured to my needs, my body and most importantly....my schedule.

They helped me see that I had it in myself to drop 20+ lbs and keep it off! Their assistance has helped lead me to a have a healthier life and has made it possible for me to enjoy a much more active and fun filled lifestyle with my family of 5.

I would recommend them to anyone looking to better their health OR up their game with some of their more advanced workouts.

AAA+++++

Source: Google

★ 5

My favorite gym! I am so glad I was introduced to this place. Finally accomplishing my goals because of the steps the trainers have taught me. All of the trainers are wonderful! Best gym around.

Source: Google

★ 5

Very attentive and professional staff with fitness expertise that is unmatched in the area!

Source: Google

★ 5

I found Forward Fitness while searching for a personal trainer to work with me on some muscle imbalances due to a hip condition. Mike completed a Functional Movement screening and he and Nick completed a training course to get me started. Soon after my first meeting, I started Physical Therapy (in efforts to prevent surgery). Forward Fitness staff worked with my PT to ensure my workout program was complimentary to my PT sessions and respected any limitations. I quickly felt I like I was getting more out of Forward Fitness Semi-Private sessions than from the PT sessions! When I realized surgery was inevitable, Nick and the Forward Fitness team worked with me toward carefully building strength while working with my structural limitations and challenges from my hip condition. I completed my last session with Nick on 7/14 and had hip reconstructive surgery on 7/17. By the end of the first week, my home PT informed me that while I am the oldest patient he's treated after this procedure (most patients are in their teens/20s, I'm in my 40s), I am the STRONGEST! My surgeon anticipated I'd be on crutches for a few months, with very limited weight bearing on my operative side; however, I have been making progress ahead of schedule and started walking with only one crutch at 5 weeks post op! I owe a great deal of gratitude to Nick, Mike and everyone at Forward Fitness for helping me prepare for this surgery and setting me on a wonderful course for recovery! I am excited to return to Forward Fitness soon, to work on getting stronger than ever!

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely the best around when it comes to true care of their customers! Cannot recommend them enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I love that they screen clients for future injuries before you exercise there. I also love how it feels like a real community. I also get a great workout!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great small boot-camp style classes with knowledgeable and helpful instructors.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I highly recommend Forward Fitness. The trainers are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Classes are varied in content from day to day, which keeps things interesting. The class sizes are small enough that the instructor can monitor everyone for form. Several classes are held each day, so nearly anyone would be able to find an accommodating time for their schedule. The gym is small enough to be personal, and the members are regular people.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you are looking for a place to help you achieve your healthy lifestyle goals, Forward Fitness is the place. The staff is passionate about helping you recognize where you are and design/ implement a plan that will help you get where you want to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined Forward Fitness almost 4 months ago. I signed up to do the Fit Camp classes. They are awesome.

Here are some things that I love about Fit Camp classes:
1. They are in a safe environment - it's indoors (I'm fairly intolerant to heat and prone to almost passing out) & there's a rubber floor (SO much better for your feet and joints)
2. They have amazing playlists of music. It usually varies in style.
3. The teachers seriously watch out for your form. They TRULY want you to do things in a way that doesn't injure you. So many gyms say they care about your form but don't correct it when they see you doing it wrong. So expect to get some little tips in a totally friendly way. Also, if you have any injuries you can tell them. I sometimes have to ask for modifications because of a previous injury and it's not a big deal.
4. They have lots of class time options. And you can sign up online. Love.
5. The classes are 45 minutes. Heck, if I can break a good sweat - swell up some muscles, and be in a better mood (hello endorphins) in 45 minutes - I'll take it.

It's smaller and more personal than the typical big meat market gym. And being "personal" doesn't mean that it's awkward either, because it's not. It's friendly :) If you like people knowing your name, people smiling at you, and people caring about your fitness journey - it's here.

Source: Google