★ 5

This really is a fantastic gym. Staff are friendly. Members are not intimidating nor is the atmosphere. Have been using this gym as a transition from post-knee-surgery physical therapy. Union Fitness has all of the right tools and helpful staff when I have questions. Shout out to trainers Ashlee and Tristan. Very helpful.

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 5

Cool gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I don’t have the Money for a Gym Membership but this Gym on a Day Free Trial was great and met every One of my interests including the separate Facility / Area with a Sled for Training Power in Explosive Movements and Leg Training. Inside, the Squat racks were fabulous how They are set up next to another Indoor Astro-Turf Area with Strength and Conditioning Equipment like a Trap Bar, Slam-Medicine Balls and Free Weights at a Wall-Length Mirror. On the other side of that Weight Room is a Pit-Shark which is rare for any Strength and Co detaining focused Gym let alone any Gym.

The Olympic Plates are nice and very nice Quality and I really liked the Split-Loaded Leg-Press for my Leg focused Training for Bicycle-Racing.

I really liked the layout of The Gym. The Entrance is Historic Northside (Charming) and a totally different and unexpected World as soon as You walk in to the foyer: Extraordinarily well-lit, bright, airy and makes use of organization in it’s Spaces first in Cardio in the front Area before entering in to the “more hardcore” Weight-Lifting Area that has a naturally good energy to it with less ambient Lighting but an Authentic atmosphere that is quintessentially “Old Pittsburgh”. The Day that I was there, it was raining which for Me is just enjoyable anyway as I love the Rain. A Trainer opened a Door a crack to get some Fresh-Air in to the Gym which made the Assault Bike even more enjoyable with the Thunderstorm and clean Air breezing in (Just a nice surprise).

I could spend all Day there, if I had the Time with the only criticisms being:

- I wish that it was 24/7.

- Having a few Treadmills in the Weight-Lifting Area would be nice as it did feel packed at a busy Time in the front.

- A Boxing Bag or two would be icing on an already great Cake.

That’s about the only negative(s) that I can think of and which and again are meant to be respectfully constructive.

I think that this Gym in the Peak of the Winter with Snow in the ground would be epic in again that time that reminds Me so much of growing up in Pittsburgh and hanging out and Skateboarding in that very Area near CCAC.

All in all a real Gem and “Something Special”, I would say in the World of many Gyms in a very compact Region.

I would love to see an out-Door Area with a Tire / Sledgehammers especially for in the Winter-Time but again am speaking to my interests.

Thanks for the Free Trial and hopefully I’ll see You again to actually sign up for a Membership!

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 5

Helpful, welcoming staff and fantastic setup. This place has all the weightlifting equipment I could ever ask for. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and I'll be coming back again.

Source: Google

★ 3

I love this gym. It’s small, well equipped, and the staff is great. But for the love of sweat, someone needs to address the guy who shows up every morning apparently unfamiliar with deodorant. The place reeks so badly I’ve stopped coming in the mornings. This isn’t different from someone ripping one in every corner. To the guy, yes you know who you are, please invest in a $9 stick of clinical strength deodorant. Don’t be gross.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 5

Nick at the front desk is a rockstar!

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 1

It feels like management got annoyed with having to wait for powerlifters at commercial gyms and are now taking out their frustrations on the powerlifters at Union. There's no business reason to alienate your most reliable customers this way.

Without the strength lab, the gym is hotel quality. With the strength lab, the gym is a great place for more serious lifters. Inevitably, to management's horror, these people will develop friendships and will share equipment. This is *extremely good* for the business - powerlifters often take 2-5 minutes between sets, and when they work out together then the equipment is always in use.

I really cannot stress the last point hard enough. For example, 4 powerlifters who want to deadlift will take up to ~90 minutes on one platform if they are all lifting separately. If they are working in, the deadlift platform will only be occupied for ~60 minutes. This means the gym can now accommodate more lifters and bring in more revenue! Unfortunately, this does come at the staggeringly high cost of hearing people enjoy themselves.

The new management strategy is baffling. The only way their actions make sense is if they want the gym to fail so it can be replaced it with a canine confectionary or some similarly silly bougie bs.

Source: Google

★ 5

The gym is fine, better than most actually. Not sure what the other posters are talking about but that's their right. I actually think it's gotten better lately, no more groups of 5 people hogging a squat rack or bench press for 90 minutes! It was messed up that they could hog that equipment that long while they took 10 minutes between sets to talk and film each other lol. I guess those who weren't in that "cult" see it as being better now.

Source: Google

★ 1

Terrible customer service here. No one ever at the front desk always a sign saying someone is around but never get a chance to speak to someone. No phone calls answered and no email response. Some of the front desk staff looks bothered to greet you IF they are sitting there.

Source: Google

★ 1

Edit: Cancelled my membership after being a member since day 1. Faros Properties overall lack of oversight seems to have caught up with them. Rather than focusing on member retention and growth, they chose to terminate a large number of staff (specifically some of the key coaches and pillars of the community) and introduce additional fees for services that should be included at such a high monthly cost.

The gym itself has decent equipment especially if you’re a powerlifter, but it’s $75 to use that section of the facility and don’t expect to get a spot if you’re on your own. The fitness center offerings are sub par compared to local gyms .5 miles away. Haven’t taken a class in a long time so can’t comment there.

***Original Review from 2017***

My wife and I have been members at UF for a year now. It is by far the best gym in the Pittsburgh area in terms of knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly staff as well as brand new top notch equipment (The entire gym is outfitted by EliteFTS and cybex with all Texas bars, two monolifts, calibrated plates, and much more). If you’re looking to just get in a workout, or become a competitive powerlifter this is the place for you.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great gym! Friendly staff, very clean, and a wide array of equipment to use. I really like the strength lab and group classes they offer. I’ve been a member of many gyms over the years and this one checks all the boxes for me.

Source: Google

★ 1

Let’s begin with if I could give less than a star I would. I would give them not even a half more like no star.

Management is terrible, they have no experience or knowledge of the fitness industry. Making other full time employees carry all the work load and giving them no credit. It used to be a great place when the old staff was there. Amazing knowledge and help and support. Now the place is like a retirement home gym. Everyone from upper management gives members nasty looks and are very judgmental, and are kicking members and old employees off the nova place property when, there is actual crime happening on the property from other people in the community. I think the security guards should be focused on the actual security of the property and not people that upper management dislikes.

The upper management has none of their priorities straight and just keep trying to save their image, instead of helping unite this community with fitness. They have actually destroyed the community. Very sad to see

Source: Google

★ 1

My husband and I have been members of Union Fitness for over a year now, and have enjoyed every minute of it! The staff is nothing short of amazing, and the equipment is all top notch. We train mostly in powerlifting (Union offers the BEST bars, benches, monos, machines!), but Union is wonderful for when we want to take a group class, spin, or just play around with all of the different equipment that they offer! If you are looking for a new gym/gym family you won't be disappointed with Union Fitness!!

Edit- Don’t bother anymore 🤮

Source: Google

★ 1

Member 2017-2024
June ‘17-Joined after moving from CA in 2016. I worked at Nova Place at the time the gym opened, I was going 5 days/week & commuted for years by bus at 4:45am from Highland Park to make their 6am classes all while knowing there was an LA Fitness a mile from my house charging a fraction of the cost- I stayed for the people, the culture and experience.
While there were a number of mgmt restructures during my tenure, I never left due to them maintaining a consistent culture + commitment to having highly educated/experienced staffers who focused on morale & quality training.
Feb’ ‘20- world shut down. I paid an advance to a non-UF bodybuilding trainer to help me prep for my first show - I was stuck with no gym. UF made equipment rentals available at no cost, hosted virtual trainings, and still checked in regularly to ensure my goals were being met. When the gyms opened back up, they’d stop in on my sessions, offer pointers & continued support. I doubt I would’ve kept at it for the entire YEAR of prep had it not been for them.
‘20 was also a year of civil unrest- UF didn’t shy away from supporting the community. Mgmt hosted an event where proceeds were donated to Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh & additionally made available discounted rates for those in the community who couldn’t afford the going rate.
Same mgmt openly supported efforts of inclusivity by hosting annual Pride-themed bootcamps where even the UF’s logo was the LGBTQ+ flag.
Since that mgmt’s exit I’ve seen nothing mirroring the same level of representation of any under-represented groups (which had been customary & called out in social media + blog posts). If UF was committed to being a non “big-box chain” that is “locally owned, independently operated” where investments being made “are guided solely by what serves our members—not corporate agendas” were true, you’d think there’d be a spotlight on the aforementioned given 25% of the North Side of the PGH neighborhood is black, & while notably smaller, 3% of PGH identifies as part of LGBTQ+.That manager furthermore hosted a number of member-centric fundraisers based on those in need- I specifically recall in 2019 a class being hosted for a member who was recovering from their brain cancer treatments.

I haven’t seen much tangible community outreach recently; the silence is loud.

May ‘21: Did well in my shows but my world was falling apart due to personal matters; while navigating those waters, UF was there. Coaches & members knew me on such a personal level that I felt I could share in my struggles & feel I wasn’t alone. Aug’ ‘21: things were better personally, I partnered with UF on some programming to help in my off season- they were great. Nov ‘21 my husband unexpectedly died. The rally of support I experienced was unreal. The gym MGR partnered with Bike PGH to do a benefit ride for my husband that my family will never forget.
While not a full timeline, the above paints a picture of what caring for a community actually is. Responses to these reviews are well tailored & PC (kudos to mgmt responding- incredible integration of GenAI- the level of professionalism maintained while deflecting is unmatched), they’re unfortunate and put into question the honesty and integrity of those who chose to speak up.I anticipate consistency and will likely get the cannoned responses others got, perhaps about me not being a “recent” member, that “changes to a space I’ve cared about can feel personal and sometimes difficult to process”- blah blah blah- save the gaslighting.
A business can choose to elevate whatever customer demographic they choose, but it’s convenient to avoid true community support when your business is managed by a corp foreign registered in DE. Don’t sell yourself as caring about the community when you were founded on principles of being a for-profit (Nova Place revitalization project of 2016)- Faros wants their $100M + investment back- make that the tagline.
Changes are being made to align financial goals & serving a demographic of those whose pockets better represent meeting them.

Source: Google

★ 1

I guess in union there is no longer strength sad to see a once great place fall apart. #notmyBurgh #notmygym

Source: Google

★ 1

Equivalent to a hotel gym. I think the Comfort Inn up the road might be rivaling this joint.

Source: Google

★ 1

I loved this gym when I first joined. It was the people and the coaches who made it truly special — welcoming, motivating, and full of genuine community spirit. Yes, it was overpriced, but the incredible coaching staff and supportive environment made it worth every penny.

Unfortunately, that all changed with the new management. They’ve made it painfully clear that they don’t value the voices of the very people who built this place — the members and coaches who poured their hearts into creating something meaningful. It's now obvious that the focus has shifted entirely to money and control, at the expense of everything that made this gym unique.

The vibrant, supportive community has been completely dismantled by leadership that sees members as dollar signs instead of people. If you take a tour now, you’ll immediately feel what’s missing. There’s no soul left — just an expensive shell of what once was. And you’ll wonder, as I did, what made people drive up to an hour just to be part of it. The answer was the community. And sadly, that’s gone.

It’s disheartening, disappointing, and honestly, shameful. I almost never leave reviews, but this needed to be said. If you value more than just equipment and price tags — if you’re looking for connection, support, and real leadership — look elsewhere. This place under current management is not it.

Source: Google

★ 1

I was not more than realistically a guest pass user who was excitedly brought here by my partner, when it was an option for us to workout in tandem. I live over an hour away, and coming here on the weekends to train was such a huge benefit. My personal goals were achieved at a rate not possible with my home equipment. The community was something I was lucky enough to scrape by on before everything became an excessive level of unneeded change and corporate politics. This really felt like a gym that could've had the atmosphere all the actual online influencers wish that gyms had. I can't imagine you'll ever have genuine interest or community driven events that ever bring people together with a management that focuses on saving face, rather than genuinely addressing issues long term members speak about. These people don't have a vendetta against you, despite it all, these reviews are just that; a review, based on personal experiences at the subject location, whether you like them or not. Union was once a downtown powerhouse that people would travel to and brag about with fervor. I genuinely hope people do come here and achieve their fitness goals. Your floor staff is not to be blamed for the management that reduced this from a Union to "the gym by the church."

Source: Google

★ 1

I won’t belabor the point about management moving the gym in a different direction, that is their choice. This gym used to have a strong community of lifters who trained for various iron sports. If you are looking for a place to power lift and you want to train alone for the most part you are fine. The equipment remains largely fine and better than most commercial gyms but in need of some more regular maintenance. However, the direction the gym seems to want to move into is more of a boutique/commercial gym that doesn’t cater towards athletes who like to train seriously. Instead its’ specialty bars, monos, etc will be unused. The machines that it does have are limited and hotel gym quality. Frankly this gym seems to be going through an identity crisis right now. It will be interesting to see how it shakes out in a year. Either way I won’t be there to see it as it has lost the community and attitude towards training that made it one of the better Pittsburgh gyms over the past 6-7 years.

Source: Google

★ 1

Unfortunately retracting my 5 star review and reverting to 1 star. What once was the premier gym in the city of Pittsburgh, the Union I loved has been systematically dismantled by the new leadership team. We didn't know how good we had it until it was gone. I cannot recommend this gym to anyone looking for a serious place to train.

Source: Google

★ 1

*EDITED TO REPLY TO MANAGEMENT’S REPSONSE*
The responses from this business are unprofessional at best. The damage control they are attempting to perform due to valid and understandable frustration from longstanding members is mind boggling.

The response from this business over and over has been “well then let’s have a sit down conversation about things” as if that wasn’t attempted! Members have been reaching out for MONTHS and were met with silence, justifications, or belittling replies. One member was even mocked in an email reply that she wasn’t meant to see. A prominent group of powerlifters, now called “the clique” by management, have been blamed for a “smear campaign” rather than management actually taking a good hard look at themselves and acknowledging that there might just be a justified reason for over a hundred members to have left since the beginning of 2025, INCLUDING members and staff who have been there for years.

I stand by what I said in my initial review, even if management wants to disregard it as hearsay. When you interpret feedback as criticism, and respond defensively for months without acknowledging your community concerns, you shouldn’t be surprised when a slew of members write negative reviews. This gym was our home and you’ve tarnished it. That’s on you, not us.

*original review below*

This gym used to be my second home. I stopped going for personal reasons long before the management change, but because of the amazing community and second family I found at Union, I’ve been kept in the loop of what’s going on. Some of my dearest friends are current/former members and staff. I’ve heard about what’s happened and can no longer support this facility. I’m leaving a public review because over the years I have recommend this gym countless times. I cannot in good faith do that anymore because what I used to love (a thriving and inclusive community, quality equipment, and staff who are respected for their expertise) no longer exists.

Source: Google

★ 1

6/20/25 edit to go from two-stars to one (as I've since cancelled my Wellness Plus membership based on their reply) and provide some additional context based on recent experiences and management's reply to my original review:

You know those trainers they referred to as "truly exceptional professionals who remain committed to supporting our members every day"? They fired one of them today. If that doesn't confirm that all of their other replies were hollow and meaningless, not sure what does.

Also, these one-star reviews are not a coordinated attack, but it's a lot easier for management to continue to avoid any responsibility or accountability for their actions by chalking them up as such. I don't even know half of the people that left the other negative reviews, but I do agree with them. We are adults that are capable of formulating our own opinions, and there are clearly several of us that have noticed the decline. Rather than taking a step back and evaluating, management has just chosen to accuse us of being the problem and disregarding our individual experiences as some group effort to discredit them.

I was also accused of a "targeted attack on staff via public platforms". I reached out for proof and was told it was because I mentioned that managers were gossiping about a paying member via e-mail. Not sure what type of mental gymnastics needs to be performed to twist that statement into me "attacking" staff, but I can't say I understand anything that's coming from management currently.

Also, what direction are you moving in? I certainly don't recall any communication to members about a new vision or direction the gym was planning to take, nor any outreach to said members to solicit feedback. Just another attempt to deflect accountability - add it to the list.
---------------------------------
I’ll be “generous” here and give two stars, solely because the trainers that are left are absolutely fantastic. I particularly work with CJ, Mary, and Meech and absolutely recommend them not only for their extensive knowledge in fitness and recovery, but overall engagement and personality. The classes they run are the only reason this gym has any semblance of community and “union” left.

As recent reviews have already stated, management is completely out of touch and squandering every last bit of reputation this gym formerly had. What was once a pillar of the community has rapidly diminished solely due to poor management. Union formerly frequently hosted meets and community events, all of which have seem to fall by the wayside. Vending machines have been removed without explanation leaving only water fountains behind. Community events are few and far between, if at all. Unique and specialized services such as physical therapy are being phased out in favor of office space. Refer to other recent reviews for a host of other issues that I don’t need to repeat.

Thanks to those employees left that actually do give their all to try to hold the community together.

FYI, if management would like to learn how to send emails gossiping about members WITHOUT copying said member on the thread, let me know if I can offer some Outlook 101.

Source: Google

★ 1

I used to love coming here. The members were great, and the powerful classes were always a great time. After being intimidated by the gym scene for so long, I felt welcomed. Used to recommend this place to everyone.
Sadly, a couple of years ago, had an issue with sexual harassment from a member that would not be addressed by management because upper management tied their hands.
So, I abruptly left.
I was considering returning until finding out that the staff and members I enjoyed were leaving en masse. I don't know what happened, nor will I inquire or speculate. This review is solely from my personal experience and should've been posted a while ago.
Good luck to the new staff and management. Hope you achieve whatever goal you're trying to reach.

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 1

Management is a disaster. Go ahead and read through these comments, look at the amount of support each comment has gotten and then the unhinged and egomaniacal responses and ask yourself if you want to walk into this place to gain health. Prices were always high but my PT Ethan was worth the price, no problems. He remained professional and I was never given specific reasons why, but he chose to leave the gym and then so did I. Management that just took over is strange, ego driven, and has turned the place into some cold weird environment where they pump potpurri in through the air vents and give people headaches, have the staff eating lunch on the gym floor so the GM or whatever title can have her alone time in the break room turned personal office where she apparently finds more ways drive people away. So just dont go.

Source: Google

★ 1

I joined union fitness early 2019. The gym I was going to had to close for renovations with no eta to reopen and I needed a place to train to prepare for a competition. In the early days I saw a gym that truly cared about its members. All of the employees were personable and were truly interested and cared about the well being of its members. Not only that, I found that the members were great people and have turned into some of my best friends outside of the gym.

Fast forward to now. While there are a few employees now that still care, the new crew doesn’t have a care in the world for their members. New management has ran countless members out and current employees are not happy with the way things are being ran.

Equipment is always broken, I have personally fixed the cable machines more than 5 times, deadlift bars twice, lubricated machines that were not maintained so that they would work. I also brought my own chalk bowl to the gym (which is still there) after Covid reopening happened. The deadlifting platforms may be new but they are built poorly and falling apart. Ez curl bar bolts fall out of the bars and I can go on and on, but that won’t matter as our opinions don’t matter.

The gym has gone to great lengths to try and save themselves from these poor reviews. They have made fake member reviews (thanks to the staff for telling me) which is comical.

What was once a gym rich in culture with great employees and gym goers has turned into a corporate ran facility that doesn’t care about what needs the gym goers have.

If you are looking for a high quality gym within reasonable distance to Union goto Cellis fitness, powerhouse or elite custom fitness. You’ll find people that care about you more at these places and have better quality equipment / upkeep.

Source: Google

★ 1

Union Fitness has become less community-focused over time, with once-popular events like bootcamps and powerlifting meets no longer carrying the same energy or being offered at all. Frequent management turnover has added to a lackluster and confusing experience, and the $75/month price, as well as the $17/day guest pass fee feels steep compared to other gyms with similar amenities. Still, the gym does have the bones of an okay space and a good location near spots like PNC Park and Allegheny Commons Park. If Union Fitness doesn’t put the fit in fitness for you, check out Fitness Factory, Exercise Warehouse, Powerhouse Gym, or Celli’s. They are more fairly priced options and have stellar equipment whether you’re looking for a monthly membership or just visiting the Burgh for a weekend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely love coming to this gym! Ive been working out here for a couple years and it just keeps getting better! New management has put in the time and effort to learn exactly what the patrons want. I look forward to working out here for years to come.

Source: Google

★ 5

This has been a decent place to workout consistently, I don’t think I’ve ever had an issue. Decent equipment. Decent people.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Union Fitness isn’t just a gym — it’s a community. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, motivated, and inspired. The staff here are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely passionate about fitness. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned lifter, they meet you where you are and help you push to the next level.

The equipment? Top-tier. Everything is clean, well-maintained, and there’s always enough gear to go around — no waiting around or fighting for space. The variety is amazing too: strength training, powerlifting, cardio, turf area, recovery tools — they’ve got it all.

The vibe here is what really sets it apart. No ego, no intimidation — just good people working hard and hyping each other up.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this place. I have been working out here (on the erg) for the past year. The facility is clean, the staff are friendly, and the price is great. If you're looking for a gym, check out Union Fitness!

Source: Google

★ 5

Fun, clean, accessible, and really close to where I work and not to mention affordability.

Source: Google

★ 5

Gym staff are nuanced, knowledgeable, and excited to get to know members. I have chronic pain throughout the left side of my body, and the Movement classes (along with learning proper form in #Powerful) have reduced my day-to-day pain levels. It’s also three minute walk from where I live, so the location makes attending a no-brainer for me.

About a month or so into attending, I asked if some personal information that affects how I’m addressed could be updated in the system, and not only was it immediately updated, the coaches that I interact with regularly made the language change smoothly.

I was originally intimidated when I started (had recently grown out of my apartment gym but was nowhere near comfortable in a new space), but I quickly was able to make acquaintance with gym-goers with similar routines.

Life has been doing its thing lately, so I haven’t been in for a few weeks, but I’m excited to get back into my routine!

Source: Google

★ 1

75$ a month and no lat pull down machine is crazy. Also who needs 3 reverse hypers?
For a while this was my happy place. I didn’t care I had to pay for parking. The whole staff was great and union was inviting. Then it turned into La fitness with no equipment.
Union wasn’t meant to be corporate but I guess I don’t understand “business”.
Union had community and that’s what made it a good space. Now it’s at best an apartment gym with monolift squat racks and powerlifting bars.

Source: Google

★ 1

I’m writing my third review because my previous two were hidden from public view. Instead of taking accountability for their unprofessional behavior — including emails that blatantly dismissed my concerns as a paying member and were, frankly, demeaning — this gym has chosen to keep sweeping things under the rug. Not cool.
I’m deeply disappointed in the trajectory of this gym. What was once a space rich in community, culture, and acceptance has, under new management, become cold, disconnected, and honestly dull. To make matters worse, it appears that someone in upper management left a fake 5-star review to boost ratings instead of actually doing anything meaningful to retain members.
To be clear, no one expected the gym to become powerlifting-only — in fact, it’s well-known that many of us heavy lifters were some of the most welcoming and kind people you could meet. Sure, we took up space, but we always made room, apologized, and respected other members. Many of these lifters even spent their own money improving equipment or helping those new to the gym feel more comfortable.
Union Fitness gave me some of my best memories with some of the best people — before certain individuals were hired into leadership. Now, driven by capitalistic greed, the atmosphere feels anything but welcoming. If you’re unlucky enough to cross paths with the Business Development Manager, you’ll immediately understand where that austere, unfriendly energy comes from.

Source: Google

★ 1

Lack of Equipment (no lat pulldown or low row), prices are insanely high for such a small gym that has limited hours, parking is anywhere from $4-15 a day!!!!!! It was nice when you could cue your music up for a heavy set of lifting or something but that's about it.

Source: Google

★ 1

Edit 6/12/25 - Unfortunately, I can no longer recommend Union Fitness. Union used to be a community-oriented gym, but after seeing the writing on the wall, I chose to cancel my membership as the place I called a second home stopped feeling like one. Seeing almost all the coaches and staff I used to talk with daily be pushed out by upper management was a huge disappointment. I still get updates about changes being made. Can you imagine paying somewhere in the neighborhood of $75-120 a month for a gym membership to be told you need to shell out an extra $10 a month to use the lockers?!

This place used to be something special. Now it’s just another (expensive) corporate gym whose management seems to have nothing but disdain for the staff and members that built this community. What a disappointment.

—— Previous review under the old staff/coaches and GM below:

Union Fitness delivers a top-notch gym experience unlike anywhere I have been before. From the moment you step foot in the door, it is obvious that staff and members alike care about this place. The facility is clean, equipment is in working order, and they even provide extras in the locker rooms like hair ties, premium brand styling products, lotion, hair dryers, etc. They partner with local practitioners to offer on-site massage therapy and physical therapy services. Finally, they care about the greater north shore community. From street clean-up efforts, to free bootcamps at coffee shops and breweries, to highlighting other local businesses in the health/fitness space…Union brings people together in pursuit of health and the greater good. If you want to surround yourself with friendly, kind, knowledgeable, strong folks, Union is the place to be!

Source: Google

★ 1

I’ve been a member of Union Fitness for about 1 year. I joined because it was the closest thing to a powerlifitng gym that Pittsburgh had. The equipment is outdated and limited. A lot of members bring their own bars due to the lack of high quality bars. The deadlift platforms were cheaply replaced and are falling apart after about 1 month of use. The gym is extremely expensive but if you want powerlifting equipment within city limits this is the only option. The machine selection is also extremely limited and there are only very basic machines.
Recently new management has began commercializing the gym. They got rid of the vending machines, removed the mural in the strength lab, began charging “locker rent” to store your items, and have destroyed the sense of community that once existed within the gym. Long time employees and members (including myself) have quit due to these changes, leaving the gym feeling desolate.
I’d recommend Union if you want a commercial gym vibe that is 2x as expensive as any commercial gym while having less than 1/2 of the equipment. Otherwise I’d say go anywhere else.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m a current member of Union Fitness and I’ve been really happy with the recent changes under the new management. I am actually appreciative of the updates that are happening and they have been nothing but positive and refreshing. It finally feels like the gym is not run by a group of entitled powerlifters and wannabe influencers anymore and I feel more included in a broader fitness community now.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 1

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★ 1

Union Fitness charges ridiculously high rates for a gym that has incredibly restrictive hours and does not put effort into equipment selection. The recent replacement of the deadlift platforms was an embarrassment, as whoever picked them out had no knowledge of the equipment and cheaped out on the replacement. As a result, the platforms are rapidly breaking after a month of use. Additionally, overnight locker usage has been changed from a free service to a paid addition, no matter your membership level. Some membership levels cost well over $120. After asking if this would be considered, the general manager acknowledged that it could make sense, but that it would not be implemented initially and that it might take up to 6 months to re-evaluate this within membership tiers. I cannot comprehend evaluating this could possibly take so long.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 1

Source: Google

★ 1

I first joined union in 2018. I ended up moving and returned later in 2023. This gym has always been clean and fostered a welcoming environment with members from diverse lifting backgrounds. As someone who has seen a lot of faces in management, the new leadership appears to be making zero effort in getting to know the members and what is important to them. They cannot seem to keep quality staff and the morale of the gym is extremely poor. For that reason I will be cancelling my membership.

Source: Google

★ 1

The gym used to be amazing. Faros management doesn’t even try to hide their lack of respect for the members at this facility. Why have it? Find a gym that cares.

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 1

Union Fitness was once a standout community gym known for its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff. Unfortunately, recent management decisions have significantly altered the culture of the gym. Long-time employees and members have departed, and the strong sense of community that once defined the space has noticeably diminished.
In my view, these changes appear to reflect a broader shift in priorities by upper management and Faros Properties. Rather than continuing to foster a unique, community-driven environment, there seems to be a push toward a more generic, corporate model—comparable to larger chains like Planet Fitness.
While the remaining non-management staff continue to do their best to maintain a positive experience for members, the overall direction of the gym feels increasingly impersonal. Regrettably, I can no longer recommend Union Fitness to those seeking a true community gym.

Source: Google

★ 1

I used to absolutely love this gym — it had a welcoming atmosphere, a strong sense of community, and staff who genuinely cared about members. Unfortunately, since the new management took over, everything that made this place special has slowly disappeared.
The new team seems far more focused on profit than people. Longtime staff members who created the gym’s positive culture are gone and the friendly, supportive vibe has turned cold and transactional. After months of disappointment, I finally decided to get a membership elsewhere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Have been going to UF the last two years and it is the best gym I’ve been a member of! The staff is so awesome, knowledgeable, and inclusive. I have been doing the classes and have met the most amazing people there as well. You can join this gym whether you’re starting your fitness journey or are a dedicated powerlifter. You will feel like you’re a part of a community. So thankful that I get to be a part of it. Addition: Can’t emphasize enough that this gym is for any and all levels of fitness!!

Source: Google

★ 3

Nice boutique gym, friendly staff. Lack of maintenance, the only two cable machines don’t work well, probably cables stretched out. Could do a better job cleaning the floors too. People hogging benches and machines while on their phones is also a problem. Perhaps posting some reminders on being considered and thoughtful may prevent it. With some minimum care and maintenance this gym could be a 5 star.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing staff and facility!

Source: Google

★ 2

Good proximity within north side - so walkable. Overly blue collar vibe - seems more tailored toward folks who wish to be power lifters vs professional corporate folks who desire a general workout out after the workday is done. My take.

Source: Google

★ 5

Union Fitness is the best gym to train at in Pittsburgh. Period. All the top athletes go there and they have the best community 👌

Source: Google

★ 5

As a traveling powerlifter, this place was perfect for drop-ins while I was visiting Pittsburgh.

Everyone who works there is super nice.

There is ample equipment - I never felt like I needed to fight someone for a squat rack.

They also have deadlift jacks and platforms, a ton of special bars, and really everything you could want. (Well, I couldn't find an EZ curl bar? But I bet there's one somewhere and I just wasn't looking in the right place.)

Source: Google

★ 5

The staff and members are amazing 👍🏿. Everyone here takes their health and fitness very seriously. You are surrounded by progress, gain, and motivation all around you. Get tough 💪🏿

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym and community. The head personal trainer is very knowledgeable and handsome! Would so recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Very nice staff. Friendly and welcoming. It's not ever crowded when I am there. Lots of new (or fairly) nee equipment. Overall a nice place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I had my first experience with Union Fitness last week - attending the #powerful lifting class. The class was challenging but great. The team is welcoming and very knowledgeable - I highly recommend Union for fitness classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Union is always clean, inclusive, offers great classes— but what really stands apart from other gyms is the trainers and staff. The staff and trainers are next level friendly, helpful, and dedicated. You can count on someone you recognize being around to answer any questions, offer a piece of advice if asked, even just a friendly conversation between sets. The staff and trainers are where it’s at.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m from Iowa and stopped in for a quick workout/day pass. I was exceptionally pleased with the service and the facilities.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

I walked out of my home to find 4 of UNION fitness’ employees vandalizing my vehicle on east north avenue this morning. If this is the caliber of delinquents they hire here I would stay far away. I will absolutely be contacting the authorities to identify the individuals involved.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is a little more on the pricey side if you include the strength lab, but definitely worth it! (You get unlimited yoga and cardio classes as well!) Even at busiest times, you can find all the equipment you need! Also, the gym is really clean! My fiancé and I have been going here for a few weeks and we love it. The only improvement they need - add a stair master 😩😩 that would be great haha. But besides that, I would highly recommend coming to this gym - lots of weight equipment, cardio machines, classes and it's very clean!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is an absolute gem. I've been going to the "powerful" classes every weekday for the past 4 months and have seen incredible progress. All the workouts are fun, challenging, and well thought out for the hour we have. The instructors are top notch in what they do, with special shout out to Dylan who always goes above and beyond to empower everyone in our class to bring their best everyday.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The cleanliness and friendliness make this a 5-star gym! My partner and I stopped by from out of town and used this gym for several days. On separate occasions we were helped by Vicky and Curtis who were both super cool and friendly! Seriously, given that my partner and I shared we were just visiting, there wasn't much incentive for Vicky and Curtis to be as kind as there were. So, thanks y'all—your kindness is much appreciated!

Along w/this, I was impressed by the amenities and thoughtful details throughout the gym. For instance, the women's locker room had a full stock of period products and hair tools should you find yourself in a jam. All for free. I've been to many gyms along the East Coast and have yet to see something like this! The gym itself is very clean and has a good amount of power/squat racks, benches, floor space, etc...

If we decide to move to Pittsburgh, this'll be our gym for sure!

Source: Google

★ 5

10/10 experience

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I had previously expressed dissatisfaction with the availability of movable benches and the gym culture, and I am happy to say both are no longer pertinent.

First, it looks like the gym management went out and bought an additional bench or two, which has improved the availability of benches dramatically.

Second, on gym culture, I had a number of passive aggressive comments come my way which I chalked up to a group of regular patrons who are possessive of the equipment.

However, it turns out these weren't just random individual patrons. About a month back all of a sudden the usual gym crowd was maybe 1/3 of its typical size and none of the patrons who had made passive aggressive comments were in attendance. I had previously assumed all of these people were working adults and that their wearing of Pitt gear was just coincidental. However, assuming it wasn't a coincidence that all of them suddenly were absent I looked up Pitt powerlifting, found their instagram, and yup all of the people who acted passive aggressive are members of this powerlifting club. Not to mention their members made up 2/3 of the 5-7pm peak hour attendance.

First, what athletic team piles into an independent gym at peak hours? I was involved in college athletics, and we either used our own space or reserved another space in advance. I would never imagine packing into the school gym, nevertheless an independent gym whose clientele is going to be working adults with heavily constrained schedules. Now I understand why I saw a couple of people back in Jan/Feb who were clearly at aleast late 20s or early 30s come in and then leave exasperated there were no benches. These may have been (previously) regular patrons surprised to find their gym taken over by a college athletic team?

Second, it's an individual sport. They couldn't have spaced themselves out into a 5-7pm and 7-9pm block? That would have resolved all of the constraints with gym equipment. Most of them left by 7pm so it's not as though they were bumping up against closing hours. Given that they are students, I would expect that their schedule is flexible enough to accommodate that. All of this was aggravated by the fact that these people were there every day. I come in maybe 3 random days a week and the same Pitt powerlifters were always there, no matter what day. It was doubly aggravated by the fact that their workouts seemed to correlate. There were clear team bench days, squat days, etc.

On top of all that, to act like they own the place and make others feel unwelcome?

Fortunately for Union Fitness, the gym seems to be filling with people not associated with Pitt powerlifting over the last month since that group stopped coming in such overwhelming numbers. Pitt reopening gym facilities may make it a moot point going forward, but if they stick around I would recommend management sit down with them and stipulate how they better share the space. I am surprised that they were even allowed to come in as a group like that. My understanding is that most gyms exclude athletic teams coming as a monolithic group to avoid the exact situation I described above. Inevitably there's gonna be an us vs them sentiment that sours the experience for others.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is great! Staff is always friendly and ready to help. The place is clean and have disinfect wipes to wipe down equipment afterwards. I like how everyone is kept to themselves and respect each other.

Source: Google

★ 4

Felt there was limited space and the will up charge to use certain machine to call it the strength room. I do like the multiple rest rooms areas and the time I was in there not alot of people. I will give this a go for 6mos trial.

Source: Google

★ 5

Quiet and clean. I can always work out it peace when I'm there

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Out of every gym I’ve ever belonged to - I’ve never experienced a gym as clean, friendly, and welcoming as UF. The staff goes above and beyond. I have never felt so comfortable in a gym before. The classes they offer are fun and engaging. Regardless of your fitness level - the instructors make you feel great and offer support. So happy I finally pulled the trigger and joined!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the only gym where people have masks on when they work out. The doors are also usually open, so I feel safe working out here. It's also very clean and the people are courteous. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

Good equipment, good people, good vibes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome facility and equipment! Very helpful and friendly staff. Great hospitality, felt right at home when visiting. HIGHLY recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Perhaps the best gym in Pittsburgh. There's very much a community at Union Fitness and the equipment I need is always available when I'm there. The only downside is that there isn't a pool, but you can't have everything!

Source: Google

★ 5

Always clean, people who workout are often respectful, and staff is friendly! Great workout spot before work!

Source: Google

★ 1

Too expensive for the kind of gym it is. Closes too early 9pm. Not a very good experience so far.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member for about 2 months now and I just finished a 10 pack of personal training sessions with Cayt. I am so pleased! First of all, Cayt is extremely knowledgeable, has great cues, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and worked confidently around a shoulder injury of mine. I'm stronger and more knowledgeable. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another series of personal training in the future, and I look forward to working out here for a long time.

Source: Google

★ 5

Nice clean facility and cool strength lab area if you pay for the higher membership, but parking is a bit of a hassle.

Source: Google

★ 4

Nice gym, a little on the busy/crowded side in the strength room.

Source: Google

★ 5

Really enjoyed this gym for the 1+ year I was a member. Lots of great equipment and great, super helpful employees. I would still be a member, but I now have a free gym within my work building.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym.

I stopped by while visiting Pittsburgh and was surprised by benefits of this gym. The facility caters to all types of people and various forms of exercise. They have a large cardio area as well as a secondary room that contains several deadlifting platforms, squat racks, and a large power rack.

There is ample space for beginners and advanced athletes alike.

I would definitely recommend checking it out.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 2

Source: Google

★ 5

Small, clean gym with good quality equipment.

Source: Google

★ 5

Friendly staff, wonderful facility, and options for anyone! As someone who has no background with CrossFit or any power lifting workout style, I have loved my experience at Union Fitness. The "Class Intro Pack" is a great deal, at $15 for trying each of the six different fitness classes! I have taken a few different classes, such as Cardio Lab and Fatbell Revolution, and have enjoyed them all! The facility is clean, modern, and in a great location, especially for North Side residents or workers. The variety of membership options, class times, and instructors makes it a gym for people of all levels of fitness and lifestyles.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great facility and extremely friendly staff.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been going here nearly 6 months now and love it. The locker rooms, towels, and equipment are all clean. The staff is very friendly as well.

Source: Google

★ 3

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★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place! UF has two main areas: a fitness center (perfect for those who fear gym-timidation) and a strength lab with heavy lifting equipment and a turf area (#powerlifters), along with a studio for spin and yoga classes, group strength training classes, customized programming and personal training, showers and towel service, and extremely personable staff members! UF opened in Fall 2016 so its not even a year old yet, all the equipment is brand new! It's definitely a great place to learn new techniques, try new challenges, and make new friends!

Source: Google

★ 5

Really nice facility, new equipment and I love the group classes!

Source: Google

★ 4

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★ 5

Source: Google