★ 5

Kleanza is an outstanding trainer with a deep understanding of movement, strength, and body mechanics. She takes the time to tailor the workout to how your body functions, which makes every workout both effective and sustainable. Her approach is thoughtful, motivating, and backed by real expertise. I’ve gained noticeable improvements in strength, mobility, and confidence since working with her. I can’t recommend Kleanza enough to anyone looking for smart, personalized training.

Source: Google

★ 5

My first session at The Movement Lab was on December 31, 2024, and I’ll never forget it. I had never done strength training before, and honestly, I was super nervous. I’d heard stories from friends at other gyms who were injured working with personal trainers, so I had a lot of hesitation going in.
Then I met trainer Kleanza, and every single fear I had disappeared. She is absolutely phenomenal! Her workouts are intentional, challenging, progressive in intensity, and always tailored to my body and skill level. What really stands out is her deep knowledge of body mechanics and form, her genuine care for my well-being, and her incredible ability to push me safely beyond my comfort zone.
On top of all that, Kleanza is super kind and has the most wonderful personality—she brings so much positive energy to every session that I actually look forward to working out! Since training with her, I sleep better, feel stronger, and am amazed at how far I’ve come—I can now do push-ups, squats, and planks with more confidence!
If you’ve ever been nervous to start strength training, I can’t recommend Kleanza at The Movement Lab enough. She’s the real deal—kind, knowledgeable, and truly one of a kind!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working out with Kleanza for about 7 months now and I feel so strong! She’s very cognizant of any aches and pains, and will tailor the program to my current needs. We’ve slowly gotten heavier and heavier and I can visibly see my shiny new muscles.

Source: Google

★ 5

A safe, intelligent, and personalized progression toward strength and greater well-being. That's how I'd describe my experience with Jake at The Movement Lab. I'm coming up on my one year anniversary and I'm so happy to be stronger and more stable and capable than when I started. Arriving with my particular array of weaknesses and injuries, I was in pain and felt vulnerable and defeated. Jake listened and observed and got me breathing more effectively and moving more efficiently. I always look forward to my workouts! They are the perfect balance of perficiency and challange that keeps me moving forward toward less discomfort and more strength and vitality! Thank you, Jake!

Source: Google

★ 5

Working out at the Movement Lab was a transformative experience for me. Their consistent focus on proper form and steady progress led me to doing things I never imagined I could do.

Alex is *extremely* knowledgeable, patient, generous, and easygoing in his approach to progress without injury. He works with clients of all ages and abilities and is equally knowledgeable in how to get the best results. As a menopausal woman, strength training has become central to my health and wellbeing and I have Alex to thank.

I worked with Alex twice a week for two and a half years and would still be there if I hadn’t moved out of state. He even helped me find a StrongFirst certified trainer in my new city to continue my progress. My new trainer compliments my attention to proper form and my mindset and I gotta hand it to Alex for really teaching me so so much. I simply can’t say enough good things about Movement Lab and Alex. Changed my life! There’s no one better in Raleigh! 🙌

Source: Google

★ 5

Alex is awesome! I was having a lot of lower back issues- no strength, limited mobility, sciatic nerve pain. After just a couple months, that’s gone. I feel stronger and more confident playing with my kids, and have learned a lot about posture and movement to help prevent future issues. Highly recommend to anyone looking to recover from injury or just build strength for real life.

Source: Google

★ 5

Life-Changing Experience at The Movement Lab
I’ve struggled with chronic back pain for over eight years—to the point where basic self-care, household chores, and even walking became difficult. I tried everything from rest and physical therapy to acupuncture, PRP, and chiropractics, but nothing worked. Eventually, I was told surgery was my only option (which I refused).
Six months ago, I started working with Alex at The Movement Lab to explore whether PRI (Postural Restoration Institute) techniques could help. From day one, Alex took a whole-body approach rather than just focusing on my back. He explained that pain can sometimes originate from other parts of the body and worked with me to restore balance and proper movement patterns.
After the first session or so, I experienced pain-free movement for the first time in years—something no other treatment had accomplished. Now, six months later, I’m doing pull-ups, one-arm push-ups, sled pushes, deadlifts, and Turkish get-ups—all completely pain-free.
Alex is not only knowledgeable but also deeply invested in his clients’ progress. His approach has given me my life back. If you’ve tried everything else and still live with pain, The Movement Lab is where you’ll finally find hope and healing.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve had an incredible experience at The Movement Lab! Everyone seems highly professional and genuinely dedicated to their clients’ well-being. What truly sets them apart is their thoughtful, individualized approach because every session is carefully tailored to my specific needs and goals. And a special shoutout to Jake, who is an exceptional personal trainer with a deep understanding of strength training and kettlebell techniques. His guidance and personalized advice have made a huge difference in my progress. If you’re looking for expert instruction and a supportive environment I highly recommend The Movement Lab!

Source: Google

★ 5

It's hard to overstate the kind of change that training here had on me.

I trained with Jake for a bit over a year all told, and the only reason I stopped was because I travel a ton for work. Jake taught me everything I needed to get started and there is no more of a welcoming space for a novice lifter than the Movement Lab that I've ever found. I am one hundred and sixty pounds lighter because I emailed these folks back in November of 2023. My health is better, I can find clothes easier, every part of my life is better.

If you are just getting started on getting more physically active, there is no better place to start than the Movement Lab. Whatever your physical challenges, they will know how to modify exercises and adjust your training to fit your needs rather than beat you into a pre-made mold. They'll push you to improve but not punish you. More than anything they'll support you. At the end of the day, I can't say enough good things about Alex, Jake, and Kleanza and the space they've created.

Because of the expert coaching on my weightlifting form I received here, I've yet to really have any injury issues, but I can guarantee that if I ever did they'd be at the top of my list to work with.

Though I still ain't ever deadlifting to Sweet Caroline.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been working with Kleanza for about 6 months just one day a week and have made huge progress towards my goals. She has made very specific adjustments to my workout plan that have helped me improve balance, form, and overall confidence in very challenging exercises. Her attention to detail and patience is greatly appreciated!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Alex for about 6 months and cannot speak highly enough of him and the entire Movement Lab crew. I came in with pretty reduced mobility in my upper body, plus some nerve pain and tendonitis in my shoulder, and I'm not exaggerating when I say that training with Alex has been better than any physical therapy I've ever done (including the 6 months of physical therapy for this exact shoulder injury). Alex's knowledge of movement patterns and anatomy is so thorough that I can have a halfway-gibberish complaint, and he'll give a suggestion that solves it 99% of the time. And somehow I'm steadily progressing in all my exercises but rarely sore. The whole gym environment is welcoming and non judgemental, and the other trainers and clients are super friendly. This gym has been revolutionary for my injury recovery, my overall fitness and approach to training, and is worth every single penny.

Source: Google

★ 5

Both my husband and I have trained at Movement Lab for nearly 2 years working with Jake and Alex. They are both incredibly knowledgeable and supportive. We were both beginners to weight training and appreciated that Jake and Alex took time to understand our limitations, listen to our goals, and make sure we made steady progress at a healthy and sustainable pace. Movement Lab is a totally different atmosphere than any gym—the room does not have mirrors and only 2-3 clients are training at a time—which helps you focus on your work with privacy and
without distractions. Movement Lab trainers and the other clients are friendly and welcoming and it’s a very encouraging environment. Finding Movement Lab has truly changed our perspective on strength and the importance of weight training. We absolutely recommend Movement Lab to anyone looking for personal training!

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband started training at the Movement Lab a few years ago and after witnessing his improvement with chronic back issues, I wanted to try it for myself. I've been working out with the trainers at the Movement Lab for about 18 months and I feel the strongest I've ever felt. Even on the days my body has a various ache (thank you, toddlers!), the trainers know exactly how to address my needs and I always leave my session feeling better than when I walked in. I cannot recommend this place enough!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I tried four different trainers before finding Movement Lab, and it was a game-changer. From the start, it was clear that they’re operating on a whole other level when it comes to knowledge and expertise. I’ve seen great results since joining, and I’d confidently recommend them to anyone.

What sets them apart is their attention to detail—they prioritize technique and make sure I’m moving correctly before adding more weight or intensity. It’s a huge confidence boost to know I’m doing things the right way and avoiding injuries. Plus, every workout is completely tailored to my specific goals and needs, which keeps things challenging, effective, and even fun.

If you’re serious about your fitness and want a team that genuinely cares about your progress, Movement Lab is the place to go

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been working out with Jake since January 2024. The place and the type of training definitely lives up to its name, The Movement Lab. With Jake’s instruction I have made significant improvements, over coming past injuries and am without a doubt, stronger and moving better and with less pain! I can’t recommend them any more highly!

Source: Google

★ 5

I worked with Alex at the Movement Lab for 6 months and it was one of the best investments of my life. The Movement Lab is a gem for those of us that love functional movement and Alex is an exceptional teacher. After running for many, many years I'd developed an asymmetrical pattern and could not hinge properly. Alex worked with me in small increments until I could hinge and swing at the end of my time at the Movement Lab. We had to move to the Pacific Northwest or I'd be training at Movement Lab even now. However, I've been delighted that Alex's lexicon of excellent cues has stayed with me and I've been able to incorporate independent kettlebell work into my pilates routines twice a week. I am so happy for the time I spent at Movement Lab.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love training at the Movement Lab. The guys are very knowledgable about body mechanics and strength training, and help me train in a way that is safe, sustainable, and functional. They really meet you where you're at, and are very down to earth. I am stronger than I have ever been, at a level I feel certain I could not have attained on my own. Training here is not intimidating at all, as there are usually not more than 2 people training at a time. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Alex and the others at Movement Lab are great to work with. Individual sessions crafted for you specifically, and targeted at long term development over short term gains. Plus, kettlebells are fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

The best trainers in Raleigh! Alex, Greg, and team are extremely knowledgable, you'll learn more about your body and creating stable movement patterns to use in and out of the gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I come to The Movement Lab twice a week to train. We both have seen amazing increases in our strength and overall health levels. We are very thankful to have found trainers that not only care about these increases but doing it safely. We would highly recommend this gym for anyone looking for one on one training with very friendly and knowledgeable trainers in a clean and relaxed atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

I cannot say enough amazing things about The Movement Lab team. I've worked with two different trainers and continue to keep my membership. They are knowledgeable, caring, answer all my questions, and make sure my training is helping, not hurting me.

I have dealt with several injuries over the last few years and the team at The Lab is helping me get back on my feet (both literally and figuratively).

Source: Google

★ 5

I came to the Movement Lab looking to get stronger while managing some chronic pain. After some preliminary exercises, Alex recommended that we flip my priorities, focusing on my injury through strength and postural work. Turned out to be the right idea! I’ve felt better than I have in a long time (and have gotten stronger too) and Alex (and Greg, in the few times I’ve worked out with him) is super knowledgeable and fantastic. I’d highly recommend the Movement Lab!

Source: Google

★ 5

I am so glad I joined the Movement Lab community almost four years ago. I train with Alex and Greg twice a week. I have seen a big difference in my strength and overall fitness over the years that I’ve been working out at the Movement Lab. Alex and Greg are very knowledgeable and make sure that you train safely. When I started in May 2019, I could not do one push up or pull up and didn’t even know what a deadlift was. I now do push ups every week and I am progressing on my pull ups. I have gone from deadlifting single kettle bells to my PR of 215 pounds! 💪🏼💪🏼 They are such nice people too. I look forward to my workouts every week. I highly recommend them!

Source: Google

★ 5

The Movement Lab has been invaluable in pushing me toward my fitness goals over the past couple years. I first contacted the Movement Lab in the Spring of 2021 after starting a kettlebell program at home. I had videoed myself and knew something was wrong with my technique, but my untrained eye couldn’t see the specific issue. My intent was to go for a couple sessions to fix my kettlebell swing and then retreat back to my garage. My swing was fixed quickly, but I kept going back and don’t intend to stop. I have since learned a lot about strength and what can really be accomplished with what some would view as minimal effort. You won’t leave the Movement Lab dripping in sweat and you won’t be so sore that you regret the workout and dread the next. You will feel energized and ready for more. All my lifts have improved since I first started, but my progress with the pull up is the most shocking to me. I had never been able to do one pull up and made them a stated goal in the assessment phase. I started with multiple assistive bands to inch out one pull up. It took four months to do my first unassisted bodyweight pull up and then I progressed relatively quickly to 9. You can’t go wrong with the Movement Lab. They help you learn the skills to be strong.

Source: Google

★ 5

Both coaches, Greg and Alex were great listeners, extremely respectful of my time and proximity. I never felt like I wasn't heard with any questions or concerns, and they were very patient at all stages. My progress was better than I could have hoped for.
This cake is worth the bake.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is the most knowledgeable functional strength training place in Raleigh. I was beginning to lose the ability to trust trainers until I found Alex and Greg. They both understand the body and make a very intentional effort to progress every client safely. Their programs are thought out and effective. They understand alignment and anatomy of movement. The chances of you moving with bad form in front of them is unlikely.

I really appreciate how they keep a file for each client and track their progressions. They don't show up unprepared with random exercises they feel like doing that day. There is a method to this training. Highly recommend. This is an investment in your future body to stay happy and healthy.

Source: Google

★ 5

After researching several gyms with personal trainers I found The Movement Lab. The trainers take a very functional approach to working out. I tried for years to strengthen my core, but did not achieve that goal until I started training here. The trainers are very knowledgeable and can also provide nutritional assistance tailored to each client. The workout programs are specific to individual needs and progress as you get stronger and more agile. If you are searching for a fully functional, comprehensive and sustainable workout I would definitely recommend The Movement Lab. Don’t wait until the new year, just get started!

Source: Google

★ 5

The education I have gotten from Greg at the movement lab has had an immensely positive impact on my general health as well as my overall strength. He has taught me not only how to train for strength, but also how to monitor my movements to prevent future injuries. My body feels more connected and in-tune than it did working out the "old fashioned" way with single muscle exercises.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The Movement Lab is the way to go for your fitness journey! Alex is an awesome trainer. He cares about you and creates training programs that suit for your condition. I’ve been training with him since May 2018. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for some good trainers - whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced lifter :) Recently, there’s a new trainer Greg joined the lab. He has been a great addition to the team. I enjoyed training with both of them! If I never moved out of state, I could see myself continue training with these guys for many more years.

(Alex and Greg, you’ll be certainly missed! Hmu if you ever come visit Nashville 😬)

Source: Google

★ 5

I've worked with Alex and the MOVE team since 2015 when they were based in Boston. I like to joke that I followed them to North Carolina because I couldn't find better trainers! Strength training has reduced my running injuries and made me more confident inside and outside of the gym. And Alex has been great at communicating safety practices for COVID - I'd never go into a crowded gym these days but I feel very comfortable at Movement Lab. Thank you!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Alex is an amazing trainer. I suffered from lower back and knee pain every time I trained on my own, but Alex has helped me to get the results I want all pain free. He’s also helped me recover from a rotator cuff injury. I would recommend him to everyone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

They majorly helped me out with my Kettlebell Swings, get ups, and snatches in just one session. I kept injuring my back during the Kettlebell Swings and I had exhausted all my tricks. In just one session Alex was able to fix my swing and make it possible to do them again. The trainers are down to earth and friendly and not tough guy which I am tired of. Alex is the only Strong First II Coach in Raleigh and I really enjoyed my session.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have attended Movement Lab since June and the results of training for my health, strength, and conditioning have been nothing short of life changing. Truly. Not exaggerating here. It's been night and day.

I have suffered from a litany of old injuries and health challenges related to digestion and chronic fatigue...now, I am totally astounded and thankful for the rehabilitation and restoration that has occurred. I feel like myself again.

Even the first introductory assessment provided me with a key technical skill useful for everything from dead lifting to kettle bell swings (my neck positioning and core had been hyper extended and curved instead of aligned). I had studied technique for lifts, but hadn't realized what I was doing wrong. This is just one example of many technique tips and instructions that have made all the difference.

I have only since grown immensely, not only in strength, but in exercise intelligence and technique. Every class I leave feeling energized and stronger, challenged but not worn out.

Rehabilitating Injuries: I badly injured my knee in a basketball league this past October. After having been on crutches for a week, I wasn't sure if I would be able to continue training. The expert coaching at the Movement Lab allowed me to continue training in a smart and safe way. They augmented my work out protocol, and provided the necessary guidance to restore my knee - I didn't have to stop getting stronger, and in fact the healing process for my knee was only expedited.

In summary, the reason I have thrived at the Movement Lab is because the conditioning is functional and expertly taught. I could leave the gym and train on my own and be much better equipped with the technique and skills I have learned. The conditioning progression is challenging but invigorating.

The results:
- I can dead lift more than ever
- I can do pull ups more than ever
- I can now do one armed push ups and single leg (pistol) squats
- My muscle mass and cardio have increased greatly
- My technique for complicated movements - kettle bell swings, presses - have been honed
- I have more energy than I have had in 10 years
- Grown stronger, and more intelligent in my conditioning

Source: Google

★ 5

I recently moved to Raleigh from Baltimore and was super apprehensive about finding a new gym and trainer that would be able to offer and provide a similar training style, programming and experience I became accustomed to at my gym in Baltimore. Knowing that I have a deep seated love for kettlebells and anything StrongFirst, The Movement Lab was the first facility to pop up in my search for a new place to train (kettlebell wall mural?! I’m in!). I was able to reach out to Eirinn directly a few weeks before our move- Just as a way to indicate interest, introduce myself and give a little background about how I had been training and what I was looking for. Eirinn’s response was extremely sincere and welcoming, and provided thoughtful, genuine responses all my questions. I immediately felt at ease and couldn’t wait to visit the Lab! Fast forward 3 months of living in Raleigh and training at the Lab and WOW, am I grateful these guys moved from Boston to Raleigh to share their knowledge, expertise and passion for kettlebells, fitness and all things pertaining to health and wellness! I have learned so much since joining The Movement Lab- about myself, about proper movement, safe and effective programming, how to build strength and all things in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Everyone here- members and trainers alike, are all super friendly, motivated and genuinely enjoy their time spent at the Lab. I am always excited for my next training session and never leave without feeling accomplished or without a smile. Thank you Eirinn, Jonathan, Alex for moving to Raleigh and creating The Movement Lab!! And huge thank you to Eirinn, for always sharing her endless knowledge, encouragement, kindness and passion for what she does and of course welcoming me to a place that just feels so right for me!

Source: Google

★ 5

An awesome place with a great philosophy, functional focus and supportive trainers who truly care and want you to succeed - not just in the gym but in life. When you join the lab, you become part of the family. Thanks for everything Jon, Alex & Eirinn!

Source: Google

★ 4

I love my workouts here. Trainers are super friendly and supportive. They take the time to teach you the movements properly. Classes always make me feel strong and capable. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I really can’t say enough great things about The Movement Lab! I’ve trained with Alex for about a year and the coaching and knowledge I’ve received has truly been life changing! Erin and Jon are amazing as well and always super positive and supportive!!

Source: Google

★ 5

It is a very friendly place, where I got improve some specific exercises with around 300% in just a month. I recommend this to both beginners and also experienced people. They can take your training to the next level in a safe way.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is absolutely awesome!
After recovering from an injury I was really nervous to get back into the gym, and was looking for some guidance. Eirinn set up a one on one with me and we talked about my history, my goals, and my fears from being injured in the past. She is an excellent teacher, extremely knowledgeable, and very kind. I've been working with her for the past 4 weeks and the progress I've made blows me away! I would recommend their training for anyone, at any level. 10/10

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Alex for about 9 months now both individually and as a part of the MOVE Group. Working with Alex (as well as the rest of the staff since they've opened the Movement Lab) has been incredibly helpful to me regaining and developing physical and mental strength. Alex worked with me to understand my body and injury history and he developed a training regimen that has helped address some issues I had. I have also been growing stronger than I have been in a long time. Personally, I love the exercises that we do with kettle-bells, particularly ones that are variations and help build up muscles to support core lifts like OVHP, Squat, DL, BP, etc. I can't say thank you to the Movement Lab enough, and I highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for help to get in better shape.

Source: Google

★ 5

I can’t speak highly enough of Eirinn and the other trainers at the movement lab! I have been working with Eirinn for about 3-4 months and it has been life changing. After years of competitive sports, I struggled for over 15 years to find a routine that was maintainable and kept me motivated. Eirinn has changed that! Through a holistic approach to training Eirinn has not only helped increase my strength and confidence, but has provided guidance in goal setting and meal planning to make sure that I am able to grow in a healthy sustainable way. With convenient Friday and Saturday classes, the movement lab has become my second home where I enjoy being constantly challenged and am excited to see what’s next. I look forward to many more years working with Eirinn and the other trainers at the movement lab.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google