Ritual Barbell (Former Badger Den Strength)

Madison, 2716 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53704 | ★ 5 (94 Review)

📞 +1 608-668-6165

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Gym Fitness center Personal trainer Weight loss service Weightlifting area

About the Club

A Class-Based Functional Strength and Conditioning Gym.

Each class is tailored to the individual - newbies and veterans can workout side by side and each get an appropriately scaled work out.

Compound Barbell Movements (Squat, Bench, Deadlift, Press) are our bread and butter. We develop athleticism with unilateral strength exercises and a wide array of movements in our conditioning workouts.

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 Ritual Barbell (Former Badger Den Strength)
 Ritual Barbell (Former Badger Den Strength)
 Ritual Barbell (Former Badger Den Strength)
 Ritual Barbell (Former Badger Den Strength)

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Reviews

Mable Kinzie

★ 5

Shawn is singular in her focus on *every single person* who walks in the door, paying attention to their goals, their capacity and challenges, and their execution. And she remembers these things about you, so the next time you arrive, you can continue to work, together, on your strength-building program. I’ve also experienced wonderful personal training with Mark, who helped me build confidence as a weight-training newbie—yes, I *can* do this. I feel lucky.

Source: Google

Caroline Chen

★ 5

I've been weightlifting on and off for years, but as I got older, my rate of injury also kept going up. I wanted to find a gym that could teach me to lift safely, while still challenging me. I found both and more at Ritual Barbell, and I'm never looking back! Since joining, Shawn has helped me blow past PRs that I was previously stuck on for years, and I have less joint/muscle pain than ever before. Shawn's expertise in kinesiology and applied exercise science shines through her coaching, and she is always willing to advise and tailor workouts to your needs.

Ritual Barbell is also such a welcoming and LGBTQ+ inclusive space. It houses an awesome community of folks from all different walks of life. I've been intimidated by other weightlifting gyms that seemed to tout machismo above anything else, but Ritual is nothing like them (plus, no mirrors!). I couldn't recommend Ritual more!

Source: Google

Steve Staden

★ 5

Truly the only gym I’ve been able to stick with. Shawn is an incredible coach and has created a great atmosphere for all. Highly recommend if you’re looking for something new and other gyms didn’t work for you.

Source: Google

Michael Maziarka

★ 5

After being in the Army, I swore off going to the gym because I felt burned out. I started going to Ritual (formerly Badger Den) and working with coach Shawn in January 2018. He plans each session so that it's easy to follow and new every day/week. Shawn makes every hour I spend at Ritual worth my time and I highly recommend checking this place out if you're looking for a new place to train.

Source: Google

Kate Burkart-Paulson

★ 5

I’ve been going to Badger Den for over 9 months and really love how much stronger I’ve gotten! It’s a really welcoming community, and flexible enough to fit into my life between work and family. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

Spencer Schlenker

★ 5

Shawn is so knowledgeable and supportive! All you have to do is show up for classes. The workouts are all planned out and she (or another coach) is always there to keep you on track and monitor your form. I started about six months ago and I've made so much progress!

Source: Google

Aaron

★ 5

I have been coming here for a month so far with about two years of martial arts experience and one year of kettlebelling/plyometric workouts. Shawn and her coaching staff are incredible. They are all extremely attentive and aware of everyone in the gym. It truly feels like personal training despite the group setting. Plus, you get to go at your own pace.

The initial tuning gives a lot of choice to the member on how heavy you want to lift. Shawn has so much insight on the long term, and you really have to think long term for this. Doing the lifting techniques the right way is emphasized above all else.

For class size, there's only a dozen or less people and there's always somewhere to do your squats, bench press, deadlift, kettlebell swings etc.

Friendly people, convenient times, and great location all add to that.

Source: Google

Carter Angelo

★ 5

I am so glad I decided to join Badger Den! It had been years since I had done any weight lifting and I had no idea what I was doing. Shawn is a fantastic coach and really takes the time to make sure you are comfortable with the exercises and movements. Everyone here has their own goals and fitness journey so it is a very welcoming and encouraging space. It's been over a year now and I'm very happy with the progress I have made.

Source: Google

Melissa Henke

★ 5

I decided to give Badger Den a try about a month ago as I knew I needed some motivation and accountability to get some strength training in to go along with my cardio regime. Shawn and the members of this gym have been so amazing since day one. I never have to worry about asking questions, or not knowing what I'm doing or not being able to do something. There has been amazing 1:1 instruction and exercises are modified based on where you are at and what you have going on in life. It's so supportive and everybody has been so kind! I actually look forward to going which is something I never would have thought was possible with a strength training program.

Source: Google

Mark Walker

★ 5

I hate them so much, but my body is loving it. Great, encouraging coaching at all my sessions. Thankful for positive approach and feeling good after a couple weeks. I will be back! Sore but thankful.

Update 2024: Still a member and I wanted to say, commitment to building up my strength has allowed me to run in over 6 Spartan Races these past two years. I’ve lost a bunch of fat and have gained muscle. Great community and training program that fits to your goals.

Source: Google

Abby Davidson

★ 5

Chill vibes, incredibly thoughtful and well planned programming that cycles every few months. Come for the weights, stay for the 90's/00's jams. Worth coming from the other side of town for.

Source: Google

Claire Tseng

★ 5

Cannot say enough good things about this gym. I am NOT a gym person and had been too intimidated by gym/fitness spaces to attend anything consistently until finding this space. The culture is supportive and welcoming. The coaches are focused on form and I truly feel like I have learned much more about my body and what I can do. Special shout out to Shawn (owner and coach) - she is SO attentive and intentional. Extremely timely and specific feedback. I feel challenged in the best way. Recently, when speaking with Shawn about all the things I appreciate about the gym, she said she has “created a safe place to fail” and I could not agree more. My perfectionist heart has done a lot of healing in this space while my body has been getting stronger!

Source: Google

Ashley Massart

★ 5

Love Badger Den! Shawn is an excellent coach…super motivating and helpful. The gym is very welcoming and everyone is so supportive.

Source: Google

Audrey Wood

★ 5

I came to Badger Den about six months after suffering a back injury at work. I was stiff and weak and had a profound limp. Shawn worked with me to gently ease into increasing my movement tolerance and strength with her expertise in kinesiology and movement in general. I was surprised at how quickly I improved with her regimen.. My back is still not perfect but now it is protected by the strength I’ve developed at Badger Den. Beyond my back, I feel better and stronger than ever and am feeling grateful for the unique gym space and community that is Badger Den. It’s truly wonderful!!

Source: Google

Max Greenberg

★ 5

I came to Badger Den looking for a place that provided the support without judgment necessary to make strength training part of my routine. I found exactly that. Shawn is extremely knowledgable and personable, pushing you and holding you accountable while understanding that life also throws curveballs from time to time. A warm and welcoming place for any skill and familiarity level with weight lifting. Could not recommend more strongly.

Source: Google

Christopher Long

★ 5

Absolutely love Badger Den and so glad I finally found it. Shawn has created an amazing atmosphere that is incredibly welcoming and that will help you push yourself to whatever level you're looking for. As someone who previously dabble in CF, I like the class/group style of workout but also the fact that it can be done at your own pace and schedule. It's a really cool mix that for me strikes the perfect balance. Shawn and the other coaches are always around coaching, providing tips, and making sure you're working in a safe and effective manner. It's the closest thing I've ever had to personal training but at a much more affordable price...I've been surprised at the value, it's been money very well spent!

Source: Google

Sam LeBlanc

★ 5

Shawn does incredible things here. She is so knowledgeable about strength and movement and it shows in the thoughtfully designed workouts and one-on-one coaching. The workouts are self-paced and can be tuned to suit beginners and those dealing with injuries all the way up to very experienced lifters. It's all about effort level - doesn't matter if you're squatting with a 25 lb kettlebell or a 325 lb barbell.

What really sets this gym apart is the community. Shawn makes sure everyone that everyone knows each others' names and there's a strong culture of cheering each other on. I highly recommend giving it a try!

Source: Google

Katie Werner

★ 5

Ritual Barbell/Badger Den is a great place to improve strength and to meet wonderful people.

Of special note: after an ankle break, Shawn provided me with some special programming to complement my physical therapy to help keep me moving and improving - above and beyond!

Source: Google

Meghan Blodgett

★ 5

As someone who always thrived in team sport environments, I struggled to find the motivation and direction to get back into strength training on my own. Badger Den has provided the perfect combination of excellent coaching, supportive community, and enough flexibility to fit workouts into my life.

Source: Google

Sam

★ 5

Source: Google

Midge Cross

★ 5

I had the best experience with this gym and the programming. Shawn is an incredibly knowledgeable and caring coach, and the community is supportive and welcoming whether you've been lifting forever or are just learning proper squat form for the first time. Each hour long class is self paced, which is great because you benefit from the coaches and group support in your lifting but you can also take more time where you need it. I learned so much about form and proper bracing that I'd never considered! Check it out, you won't be disappointed.

Source: Google

Kena Davis

★ 5

I remember when I first started this class Coach Shawn said to me, “We make Beast in here”. I didn’t understand it then but I most definitely understand it now! Imagine a little secret dwelling where people are transformed into the best version of themselves. It’s Badger DEN. Coach Shawn creates detailed calculated workouts that will change your LIFE! It is The BEST!

Source: Google

Leah Ershler

★ 5

I highly highly recommend this gym! Everyone is so friendly and supportive, the coaches are great and I feel like a part of a community here. If you’re looking for a friendly neighborhood gym to strength train at, this is the place!

Source: Google

Emily Mills

★ 5

A great, neighborhood gym for people looking to get stronger in a friendly, welcoming, no-frills space. Customized programming focuses on meeting you where you're at, making adjustments as needed, and good form over banging out reps. Shawn the owner is incredibly knowledgeable and observant, and works directly with new members to make sure you feel comfortable and supported. One of the few (if not the only) LGBTQ-owned gyms in Madison.

Source: Google

Whitney

★ 5

I cannot speak highly enough of my experience at Badger Den Strength! From the moment I walked through the doors, I felt a warm and welcoming atmosphere from the coaches and members.

The coaching at Badger Den Strength is nothing short of amazing. The trainers are not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly supportive. They take the time to understand your fitness goals and tailor workouts to your individual needs. The personalized attention and guidance have been instrumental in helping me achieve my goals.

The gym itself boasts a welcoming environment that makes you look forward to every workout. The sense of community among members is wonderful, creating a positive and motivating atmosphere. It's more than just a gym; it's a place where you feel connected and inspired to push yourself to new heights.

What sets Badger Den Strength apart is their versatile workout program that caters to individuals at any fitness level. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, the trainers ensure that each session is challenging yet achievable. The variety in workouts keeps things exciting, and the progression is evident, regardless of where you are in your fitness journey.

If you're looking for a gym that combines top-notch coaching, a welcoming environment, and a flexible workout program tailored to your needs, look no further than Badger Den Strength. My fitness journey has been transformed, and I can't recommend this gym enough! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Source: Google

West Foster

★ 5

Best gym in town. Super dedicated coaches and a friendly, inclusive vibe.

Source: Google

Eliza Hamilton-Poore

★ 5

Badger Den is the best gym I've ever been a part of. I was completely new to strength training when I joined, but Shawn and the other trainers tailored a program to fit my needs and learning curve. The environment at Badger Den is welcoming and inclusive. As a woman, I was a little nervous about joining a strength gym, but once I walked through the door all those nerves went away. Over half the people training there on any given day are women, and the men who attend are supportive. It's a safe environment for everyone.

Source: Google

Charles Monroe-Kane

★ 5

Not only is this a great gym with LOADS of personal attention. I feel safe and taken care of. This is not some muscle gym. This is a healthy space with well-rounded exercises. I started with ZERO experience and little strength. I now feel/am stronger and healthier.

Source: Google

Tyler D'Spain

★ 5

Badger Den is a hidden gem. They have struck an excellent balance of personalized coaching and affordability. Shawn’s guidance has greatly improved my comfort and confidence with my compound lifts. Each workout is designed with care, maximizing strength gains while reducing the risk of injury. If you’re looking for an inclusive, affordable, and fun spot to get the most from your body, Badger Den is the spot.

Source: Google

Tom Loeser

★ 5

Expert coaching. Supportive atmosphere and an interesting mix of people at the gym. Highly recommend. I learned a lot and got stronger in ways I would not have figured out on my own

Source: Google

Caitlin Wienkes

★ 5

Amazed by the drive for community. I've been a member for a little over 2 weeks. I feel so welcomed and motivated to keep this workout routine in my life.

Source: Google

Dennis Hume

★ 5

Great local gym with a dedicated and friendly staff. A lot of thought goes into each workout and you will see improvements. The members are equally supportive and help keep everything fun even when the workouts get challenging.

Source: Google

Alex Jaskulski

★ 5

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Zachary Wyatt

★ 5

Badger Den is fantastic. The workout for each day is created by the team, so you just show up to a class and put in your reps. When you're new, you'll be led through the routine. Once you know what you're doing, the coaches get out of your way, stepping in to correct form or cheer you on when you're going heavy. With its small community of positive individuals, it feels every bit like an old school neighborhood gym instead of a "club" chain.

Source: Google

Charli Muchow

★ 5

Hands down best trainer I’ve ever worked with and I’ve trained with many. Shawn is masterful at what he does. I’ve struggled to find consistency in workouts for over 8 years and finding someone who actually cares about your progress was just as hard for me. I started coming here in April of 2022, 1-2 days a week. I didn’t think I could handle more days with this type of workout. Upon sharing that with Shawn, instead of just agreeing and letting me be on my way, he got curious. He asked my goals and dispelled all my fears around the gym. Since then I’ve signed up as a member, coming 4x a week and I’ve never felt better. If you want to succeed in the gym and know what it feels like to feel your best, come to Badger Den Strength. You won’t regret it.

Source: Google

Duffy L

★ 5

The Badger Den is a game changer. I worked out and lifted on-and-off for years and struggled with lower back pain. The defined program focuses on major lift progression and is interlaced with functional exercises which is all supported by hands-on guidance during small classes. I saw serious progression in strength, mobility, and pain reduction over my first year. There is also just a great vibe at the gym. I am lucky to have stumbled upon such a place.

Source: Google

Shae Erlandson

★ 5

I am truly in awe of this place. Some of the best personal coaching I've ever received. Everything was personalized. You can tell the coaches really care what works best for YOU and still want to push you to do your best. Super comfortable and accepting environment. As much or as little freedom as you need to get your best workout

Source: Google

Molly McNab

★ 5

Shawn and Badger Den have been the best gym/exercise experience I've had in years. Shawn is an incredible trainer because he not only has extensive knowledge but can translate it and communicate it extremely well. He makes lifting weights equally accessible to newcomers and experienced athletes. It's a friendly place to work out, with a perfect blend of personal training and independent exercise.

Source: Google

Joe Southward

★ 5

Great place, great atmosphere, great company.

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Adam Steffes

★ 5

Badger Den strength training has literally transformed me into a dramatically healthier version of myself.

Shawn's programming and instruction are the best I've ever experienced. He is always willing and able to troubleshoot injuries and answer my questions.

Shawn and the other coaches create an atmosphere that is friendly and welcoming to individuals of all levels. Getting started is easy, and getting stronger is addictive.

Source: Google

Jessica Hite

★ 5

Best gym experience I've ever had (and I've tried tons of gyms and workout programs). Excellent attention to proper technique and form. Highly recommend for both beginners and seasoned athletes.

Source: Google

Noé Hernández

★ 5

Amazing gym and a great place to get into shape!

Source: Google

Michael Fidler

★ 5

The Badger Den provides an incredible value for the monthly membership. Not only do you get access to Shawn’s progressive strength programming and personal feedback/coaching on technique, but you are also welcomed into a community of like-minded individuals that are supportive and encouraging. Shawn is also an attentive, motivated teacher with in-depth answers to all of my questions that I continue to ask. It’s the best place I’ve been to in Madison to train and get stronger.

Source: Google

Crystal Shepherd

★ 5

Shawn & the other coaches are amazing! As soon as I joined, everyone was incredibly welcoming and supportive! Shawn uses smart programming that can help ANYONE improve, whether a newbie or seasoned-pro. The coaches always make sure you're lifting safely with proper form, so you never feel scared to challenge yourself. The group classes are on the smaller side, which is great because you can always get specific help from a coach (it often feels like a 1:1 class!). Plus, they're always willing to help modify the plan to make it work the best for YOU. Would totally recommend this place to anyone who is looking to get stronger and meet some great people.

Source: Google

dominic dimarco

★ 5

Badger Den is far and away the most supportive, inclusive gym community I've ever been a part of. It doesn't matter your age, gender, experience or current fitness level the staff/coaches will assist you in every way to help you reach your goals.

I can't say enough good things about Shawn and his team of coaches. If you've been going to a gym for years or have never been in your life, you'll find patient, expert coaches at Badger Den.

Source: Google

Kimberly Gehrmann

★ 5

As someone who started working out at Badger Den Strength with little to no experience lifting weights, I cannot recommend them enough!

Shawn creates an atmosphere that is welcoming while encouraging you to push your limits. He provides detailed instruction about the micro-movements/form of each exercise in a clear manner which enables you to understand the exercises and the muscles they are targeting. He also creates daily workouts with enough variance to stay engaged throughout the hour as well as after months of training.

If you are interested in improving your fitness beyond the group classes, I spent ~10 weeks learned to box with Shawn in personal training sessions. I went from no knowledge of how to throw a punch to understand my strategic advantages as well as how to move through a short take-down series.

Give Badger Den Strength a chance and you won't be disappointed!

Source: Google

Renee Sinden

★ 5

Shawn and his staff have made such a difference in my fitness! I'm a 52 year old female. I came in struggling for 1.5 years with a torn hip labrum. No amount of PT helped my pain levels or enabled me to get back to squatting or running. Shawn's patient and structured approach has been nothing short of a miracle. By following his instructions I have been able to get back to squatting and deadlifting and am happy to say that I'm back running again for the first time in a year! Thank you, Shawn and Team!!!

Source: Google

Kevin C

★ 5

I am so happy to have found Shawn and this gym. It's my idea of what a "team" should look like along with the leadership and training that is always present during our group trainings. I highly recommend this gym to anyone - just come ready to work!!!

Source: Google

K S

★ 5

I was a newbie to strength training before joining BDS and I’m so glad I did. Shawn is super knowledgeable and the gym is welcoming to all and has a great sense of community. I’m in better shape now than I was 20 years ago and feel more confident in my skin - the programming here works!

Source: Google

Meg Doll

★ 5

Shawn and the community at Badger Den Strength is the gym I have been looking most of my adult life. From day one I felt welcomed and fully supported by everyone Shawn especially. The programming is amazing!!! Shawn does an incredible job putting together well rounded programs. One would never get bored at Badger Den Strength. It is the best part of my day!!!

Source: Google

Jackie Bianchi

★ 5

Shawn is one of the smartest and experienced coaches out there. Listen to him. Stay dedicated. You’ll get the results you want.

Source: Google

Graham Thatcher

★ 5

Shawn is a great motivator who is willing to work with all levels and bring out the potential in everyone. He is creative and always coming up with new themes to keep things interesting.

Source: Google

Nancy Newberg

★ 5

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Jess Guffey Calkins

★ 5

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Dean Matuszak

★ 5

Great place to workout and get top-notch training.

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Eleanor Terry-Welsh

★ 5

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Daniel Janni

★ 5

Coming from a crossfit background I wasn't sure what to expect. I found amazing programming, attentive coaching and a great community at a lower price than my old gym. I cannot recommend the badger den enough.

Source: Google

Bob Heymann

★ 5

Fantastic coaching and workout. I can’t remember the last time I had that much personal attention in a class. Kudos to Shawn! Look forward to going back.

Source: Google

Sarah Balgooyen

★ 5

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Dan Rutz

★ 5

Can’t recommend this place enough! Personal attention from coaches who emphasize technique, safety, and commitment to fitness. Shawn knows everyone by name and makes you feel welcome whether it’s your 1st or 500th time in a gym.

Source: Google

Andi White

★ 5

Badger Den is a great place to achieve your fitness and strength goals. Shawn is really knowledgeable and the other members are all really welcoming and supportive.

Source: Google

libby peterek

★ 5

I've been going to Badger Den for over a year now. I love the classes, the people who I work out with and Shawn is a fantastic trainer. He knows how to push you just hard enough. It reminds me of highschool sports and I like that. Class sizes are small, people are friendly, and you will get strong. Strong enough to lift your nieces and nephews and fast enough to outrun them!

Source: Google

Karyn Schubert

★ 5

My advice - you should definitely give Badger Den a try if you're interested in gaining strength, learning and improving technique, and feeling like a badass in general. They have free trial classes on Saturdays. There's literally no reason not to try it out.

I've been working out with BDS since this summer, and am very glad I did. I'd never lifted with barbells before. It was intimidating to start and occasionally frustrating to learn, but ultimately is incredibly satisfying to see my strength improve week after week.

Shawn does an excellent job providing instruction and motivation - especially when he can tell its needed. He modifies moves to fit your comfort level, but also helps push you to improve (in a positive way).

In short, BDS is a real fitness gem. You should totally work out there.

Source: Google

Mike Huberty

★ 5

I've always considered myself a fairly active guy, but as I get older and as a father of a young toddler, it's harder to keep that energy up that I had in my 20s and 30s. I had been taken some personal training at a local gym previously as well as did classes at Orange Theory Fitness. So I've done it before and I had some fitness in my background and thought I "knew" how to lift weights. I joined Badger Den because I was curious about the new gym in the neighborhood.

Two years later, I'm in the best shape of my life, I've gotten rid of the back pain that was plaguing me at night, and I've got more energy than I've ever had before. Badger Den Strength has been the most important factor in that. From the variety of workouts we do to the nutrition counseling to help make sure I'm eating right to the support of the small group classes where it really feels like "everyone is in it together" to the personal attention we get from the coach, I finally feel like I "know" how to lift weights. But more important than that, I feel great. It's a program that fits into my schedule and that's consistently challenging while still being do-able.

Plus, for the kind of workout you get and all the training attention you get, it is a great value for the monthly membership. There are all skill and fitness levels in our classes, but the common denominator and the only thing that mattters is everyone is giving it their all.

Badger Den has challenged me to be my best and I heartily recommend training there to anyone looking to get in shape or even just make a positive change in their lives.

Source: Google

Breanna Nordseth

★ 5

This is a great gym! Shawn is an excellent an knowledgeable trainer. The classes are fun and friendly.

Source: Google

Anne McHale

★ 5

Love these guys and the atmosphere of the gym- I feel welcome and supported even though I am not the most consistent or in-shape gym goer. Every work out is very customizable, although some (Elements classes) geared more towards beginners/ slower pace.

Source: Google

Emily Zoeller

★ 5

The feedback is what initially attracted me to badger den. Over a year in, the coaching has continued so I continue too!

Source: Google

Vincent Peiffer

★ 5

I heard good things about Badger Den while passing through Madison and decided to drop in for a class. Not only was I impressed by Shawn's keenness to quickly assess my ability and scope the day's workout to my needs, but I was also struck by the community and welcoming-nature of everyone else at the gym. I will absolutely stop back in if I'm ever visiting Madison in the future.

Source: Google

Lake Hick

★ 5

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brandon

★ 5

Agreeing with very positive reviews below, this is one of the best functional training gyms I’ve ever been to in the world. Personalized, upbeat, encouraging coaching that pushes athletes to the next level. Encouraging others to check it out!

Source: Google

Zach Hanes

★ 5

I started here just a few months ago with no strength training experience, and I love it. Shawn is a great teacher and motivator. There is a friendly and supportive community built around this gym that you're not going to find anywhere else. I'm thrilled at the progress I've made so far, and I'm excited for how much further I can go. I can't recommend it enough.

Source: Google

Shannon Sontag

★ 5

Excellent training with a focus on technique and overall strengthening, without neglecting flexibility. I've gotten so much out of my membership here, with the added sense of community to boot!

Source: Google

Stephanie Burnham

★ 5

I have been going to Badger Den Strength for about a year. Shawn's coaching and thoughtful programming have helped me get stronger than I've ever been. I could not have done this on my own. He's also helped me dial in my nutrition and change my body composition. I think it's more than worth it and only wish I'd found this place sooner. I'd recommend this gym to anyone looking to improve their fitness, whether you have little experience working out or have an athletic background. There is programming for everyone. Everyone a the gym is really nice and supportive. It's a great community.

Source: Google

Laura Lewein

★ 5

I started at Badger Den after I tore my acl and was looking for personal training to help me continue to exercise/ keep motivated while recovering from my ACL surgery. I really appreciated how Shawn kept me motivated and helped me find exercises I could do while my knee was in a leg brace. I have also been coming to the group classes and Shawn is really great about helping me tailor the workout to what I am able to do with my leg. Shawn is very knowledgeable and I highly recommend checking out this awesome local gym!

Source: Google

Scott D.

★ 5

Shawn believed in me even when I didn't. I never achieved gains like the ones I gained while working with him. You can't put a price tag on that. If I ever relocate back to Madison I know where I'm going to work out. 5+ stars.

Source: Google

Sam McDermott

★ 5

Such a great place, Shawn always help me and is very supportive and motivates me to be my best self.

Source: Google

patrick downey

★ 5

I can’t say enough good things about Sean’s gym. I am a 59 year-old man who let things slide for a while, had some chronic pain, worried a lot about various injuries - in fact, over the past 10 years I HAVE injured myself working out with weights and started to shy away from... all kinds of physical things. I decided to try something new and joined Badger Den Strength in July. Fast forward: this morning (before work) I deadlifted not only CONSIDERABLY MORE than I ever have before, but considerably more than I ever THOUGHT I could lift. I lift more than I ever have before every week. Thanks Sean!!!

Source: Google

Christian Burnson

★ 5

I love going to the Badger Den! Shawn has helped me increase my strength, technique, and confidence in a short period of time. I would totally recommend giving Badger Den a whirl for people that want a new angle on fitness or want to get back into weights! A totally accessible, welcoming, and judgement-free space!

Source: Google

Josh Rice

★ 5

It had been several years since I had incorporated any weight training into my exercise regime, so I wasn’t sure what to expect coming into my first class. I quickly realized that Shawn’s program was a different breed. His functional approach to strength and conditioning is a fantastic example of how training can be fun, challenging, and super rewarding. The workouts are set up to allow members at all levels of fitness gain stregth and confidence while progressing toward personal goals. He prepares each class so that every movement has a purpose. I really appreciate the attention to the warm up, cool down, and recovery aspects of the training.

Source: Google

Ben Farral

★ 5

The workouts change regularly and are great for all around strength and conditioning. Shawn provides good one on one attention and the workouts can be customized to each member's skill or fitness level. He's always willing to teach new moves and concepts and encourages members to track and work to improve their numbers.

Source: Google

Adrian Abeyta

★ 5

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Megan Bjella

★ 5

Shawn is a skilled coach and trainer. I've been to other gyms and tried online programs, and I've had the best experience at Badger Den. The community is supportive and non-competitive, yet it's definitely a place you can get pushed-- in a good way. I appreciate Shawn's keen eye for form; he's always offering feedback and encouragement, and has tons of knowledge to share. The programming is intelligent, combining strength and conditioning with mobility and corrective lifts to address strength imbalances and build more efficient movement patterns. So glad I checked it out!

Source: Google

Cynthia Burnson

★ 5

Shawn is a great trainer! Great workouts customized to where you are, and lots of individual attention. I feel so much stronger.

Source: Google

Jenny W

★ 5

Shawn is a great coach and I've gained a lot of strength since starting at this gym. The strength training is consistent and deliberate and there's a nice mix of metcons to keep things fresh.

Source: Google

Caroline Sullivan

★ 5

I appreciate Shawn's ability to focus on each person that comes to his gym on an individual level. He takes the time to understand what you want to work on and learn and it makes your experience a lot more personal.

His Saturday morning free classes are the best deal in the area and the perfect way to try out the gym and meet new neighbors. It's an incredible workout and I leave absolutely exhausted but feel AMAZING!

Source: Google

Tim Sullivan

★ 5

Source: Google

melanie walker

★ 5

I really enjoy all that I’m learning about the body during my workouts. Also, I like how Shawn is very intentional and precise with his coaching.

Source: Google

Paul Kosmerl

★ 5

Great training community in the group classes, and the coaching is tailored to the individual so it feels more like personal training. I'm making gains on my strength goals while also getting great overall conditioning.

Source: Google

Sonja Burnson

★ 5

Source: Google

David McDavid

★ 5

Shawn really knows his stuff! He adapts each workout to fit the individual and the results are awesome!!

Source: Google

Bryan Nothem

★ 5

Shawn trained me in college and lost the most weight I ever lost with him. Great trainer and motivator.

Source: Google

Rachel Maziarka

★ 5

I've been going to the Badger Den since February of 2018, and can see results already! Shawn is a great trainer and tailors the work out to your level and needs. I like that every work out incorporates both strength and conditioning, and that there are a variety of exercises to keep it interesting. I will definitely continue to go - I'd recommend anyone of any fitness level to check it out!

Source: Google

Chris VanSlambrouck

★ 5

Great trainer, great local

Source: Google

Vannessa Rodello

★ 5

Shawn is great and motivating. Love having my workout planned out and just being told what to do and how to do it to be successful.

Source: Google