Been coming to this spot for 5 years, minus a brief pandemic-related disruption. This is the perfect neighborhood gym. Steve and the trainers foster a safe and welcoming space to come train. I'm only leaving because I'm moving, but this place is such a gem. If you want a no nonsense gym to have the freedom to do whatever workouts you want, that is affordable, and has a friendly neighborhood vibe, this place is perfect. Really something very special. read more

I was excited to try out A Tighter U and my partner and I were lucky to get an hour workout with celebrity trainer and owner Steve Zim. The gym is set up ergonomically with the direct tvs above the machines so you do not hunch when working out. Steve introduced us to his own versions of lifting and stretching that produce more precise results than traditional activities. He was able to isolate certain muscles more accurately and even added in some humor while we did our reps. There are lots of different machines and weights and the room is airy and well ventilated so you are comfortable. I would highly recommend this gym for anyone looking for excellent results from a workout. read more

See all

Just wanted to update to say that I did in fact spend several months on the west side, and joined this gym. And I've missed it since I left. Steve is an amazing guy, and I got a chance to observe all of the trainers with their clients, and I'd recommend any of them to somebody looking to get or stay fit. This is the kind of gym I wish every town was lucky enough to have. read more

Steve genuinely cares. He's no fluff down to earth nice guy. Incredibly experienced and will get you results. Ive worked out at A Tighter U with both trainers Willy and Steve and it was such an empowering experience. Felt amazing about the results they got me. Super lean and curvy in the right places. My endurance improved. Highly recommend this fitness studio. read more

I started my journey with Steve about a year ago. This place has changed my life drastically! I was 5'1, 164lbs and obese. I now weight 120 lbs and have a healthy bmi but more importantly I feel better than I ever had in years. If you are tired of wasting your money and efforts at places that don't care about your personal growth you should run to this place not just walk. It takes effort to achieve your goals but this place is worth every penny and more. If I could give this place 100 star review I would. I highly recommend this place, trust me if you give it a try you won't regret it! read more

In my 20s I was diagnosed with an unusual heart valve. 4 or 5 years ago I saw a cardiologist who diagnosed mild stenosis in my aortic valve. I've been a member of A Tighter U for about 15 year or more. But in the last year and a half I've been working out every other day, doing weight training and cardio. A recent echocardiogram showed "normal" blood flow through the aortic valve. Bravo to A Tighter U. Working out can be life changing. A great gym. read more

A Tighter U is taking great measures to protect against COVID-19. Upon entering the gym, all guests must have their temperature taken, sign a waiver, and sanitize their hands. Everyone is required to wear masks the entire time they are in the gym. Each cardio machine is separated by plexiglass and creates a safe divide between guests. The gym is monitoring how many people are in at one time so it was not overcrowded at all. I felt so comfortable and safe in the gym! read more

See all

Had a good workout here when I was visiting. Not a girly gym but my boyfriend loves it! It's a cool place to workout if you are in Culver City. I also believe they some of the nicest trainers. read more

This is the best gym in Los Angeles, hands down. I tried big gyms like the LA Fitness around the corner, and their trainers tried pushing a hard sell on me, and it was the same bogus high-traffic hell hole where if you don't have 6-pack abs and are on a machine others give you a death stare to move. A Tighter U is everything this place is not! First, they have zero wait time for equipment and machines. The gym is super clean, and not crowded at all, not even after work hours! The staff and trainers were super friendly, and they didn't try to sell me anything at all. They asked what my goals were, and made suggestions. I am not a member, and after watching how amazing their personal trainers are, I decided to try that too. I have been working with Auston for 2 weeks now, every morning before work, and he is amazing. He uses Steve Zim's method of personal training (the owner of A Tighter U) and I already feel better. I have more energy and I am stronger. This gym is also really cool because they have treadmills with large individual TVs with Direct TV, and a massage therapist on-site. They also do nutrition counseling, and there is an even mix of men and women of all fitness levels and ages. The atmosphere is chill, laid back, and friendly. AMAZING GYM!!!!! read more

I like it because its local and the trainers dont pressure you to work with them.Its nice and small,but never worry because its not packed like the ballys around the corner.They even have a massage guy when u need it.Sometimes u have to pay for parking on the street if the back is full but thats only a couple quarters depending how long you like to work out.They close at 9 so get there early.One of the best decisions I made in my life.I lost over 90 lbs already with no trainer in a year.I could have lost more with a trainer.Steve is the nicest owner and he has the best staff available to assist you.I love this gym.If I cant make it here I go to my other gym (24hr fitness).i recommend this place to anybody who is starting off and isnt in the mood to get looked at funny because of where they are starting at.It costs money but its worth it. read more

See all

I'm writing this based on seeing my sister's results...My sister goes here and she loves Steve, the owner and her trainer. She also loves the other trainers and the small friendly environment. She has lost a ton of weight and looks GREAT! She started going to him when she had foot surgery and could not walk. She was afraid she was going to put on weight. She not only did not gain, she LOST and looks amazing! He was great with sports rehab and she ditched her lame physical therapists! She looks better than EVER and is eating right. Now if only I could get my OWN @#s moving!! read more

If you're a no-nonsense, get stuff done kinda person, this gym is your spot. It's a compact space but there's plenty of equipment and it's a very comfortable atmosphere. No waiting for equipment, people clean up after themselves and everybody seems to be focused on the workout. I've only worked out in the early AM (6-8am) on a 1-day pass status but I'm betting it's always that way. Steve's been on business a long time - he knows what he's doing. If you need a "gym" membership, check them out. read more

Great place to get in shape! Steve is great! When looking for a gym in Culver City or West L A. Check it out! Very clean and homey feel. Earl Trusty Ferrufino Interiors Budget Blinds of Culver City read more

I have been Training with Steve Zim since August and I couldn't be happier. I live in silverlkae and drive all the way out to here to work out if that doesn't say enough. In just a short amount of time Steve has helped me get on the right track to having my dream body, I've lost inches and fit back in to my old jeans. I couldn't be happier. The gym and the staff are an amazing community to be a part of. A tighter u is the best gym in LA hands down. read more

The hype is real! I know first hand. Trained with Steve Zim (the owner) for 6 weeks and lost over 5 and a half inches off my waist and 25 pounds of fat! He is the real deal. I have always felt very comfortable here. This is the first gym I ever joined and I couldn't have made a better decision. If you are looking for a proven trainer who will deliver the results you want, Steve Zim is your guy. As for some of the reviews bashing Steve for seeming arrogant?? I say this... He is one of the best trainers in the world, if not the best. I think you are confusing arrogance with confidence. But speaking frankly, it's a gym. Stop being so sensitive. read more

Steve and his crew, especially Brian and Rachel are the best. Several years ago I was in a major motorcycle accident... 3 week coma, major skull and facial fractures, spinal injuries, torn carotid... but thats another story. Anyhow, after leaving the hospital I had zero upper body strength and lost 40 pounds. Steve and crew were dedicated to getting me back in shape. I had 3 months to complete a physical agilities course to keep my job. For 3 months Steve and Brian worked with me to get me over my "wall," mentally and physically. I was able to pass the course thanks to Steve and Brian. read more

My regular gym. Steve, the owner, is a super nice and fun guy and my regular trainer, Rachel, is just awesome. I go throughout the week and so does the rest of my nuclear family. Highly recommended! read more

I've been a member of A Tighter U for going on 5 years. I also belong to Bally's but I haven't used my Bally's membership for awhile now. What I enjoy about Steve's gym is that it's not pretentious and everyone who goes to this gym is friendly, courteous and people are actually there to workout. A few of us at the gym have commented that it's the CHEERS of gyms, because everyone is so nice and like the theme song says "you wanna be where you can see, troubles are all the same, you wanna be where everybody knows your name." I can't say I know everybody's name but we all have the same troubles. We all struggle to eat right, we want to feel better about ourselves and we want to feel and look good. And the people of "A Tighter U" are committed to helping you achieve your goals. Here is the theme song for your listening and viewing pleasure... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD8ljNobUys CHEERS read more

A Tighter U saved my life. I know. Hard to believe. But let me explain: I've know Steve Zim and worked out at his gym(s) for years as we have worked together in the fitness industry for quite some time. A couple of years ago my son was having problems on the Culver City HS baseball team. Steve put him on a program that stressed core and back, as most HS baseball programs lack the proper equipment or otherwise fail to address this typical back inadequacy. Within weeks my kid's shoulder problems went away, and his game improved considerably. Seeing the boy's improvement, and knowing you should always be changing your fitness regimen, I started the same program accentuating core and back, with lots of floor work using body weight and/or dumbbells instead of most machines. For cardio I spent about 10 or 12 hours/week on a bike. That plus the core/back workout was getting me in the best shape of my 54 years on this Earth. Last December 15th, I was on a regular group ride when I was rear-ended by an errant driver on Westchester Parkway. The impact broke my rear rim into six pieces. I broke my neck and my back. The next thing I remember is waking up at home, five days later. So you're wondering how did ATU figure in any of this? Well, I'm about to tell you. I had several orthopedic professionals at UCLA/Ronald Reagan Medical Center tell me that had I not maintained the physical condition that I was in at the time of the crash, I most likely would not have survived. In other words, all that core/back work had strengthened my upper back and neck enough that the supporting tissues had held my spinal column together enough despite the breaks, that my spinal cord was not severed. Another 3/8" or so, and I would likely not be here. And if I was, I would not be walking under my own power, and probably not breathing under my own power. Long story short: Never underestimate the value of working out your core and back. When Steve tells you that's the way you should go, listen to him. Thanks for everything, Steve. I'm probably here and walking because of you, and I want you to know I appreciate it. And I appreciate all your help in getting me back to where I was before the crash. If you live in the Culver City area, you should check out ATU. I can't recommend them any more highly. read more

Awesome gym, went here a couple years back for a few months and is by far the best gym i've experienced. Not sure about now but, there was no initiation fee or contract just 75$ a month and had no issues canceling my membership when I was moving away. The bathrooms are fantastic like a home bathroom, they provide clean towels you throw into a bin when you finish. The gym can get a little crowded at times, but that just shows the quality you recieve. Although it's a small gym and sometimes get a little hot the staff turns on the AC and it feels great! Also there's a water fountain with cold water. I definitely plan on coming back later this year, I have yet to experience a massage from the therapist they have I've heard good things. read more

This is the best gym with caring professionals! I first approached this gym after my brother's motorcycle accident in 2013 that left him in a medically induced coma for 2 months and in physical and cognitive rehab for a year. Little did I know, almost 2 years later, the owner Steve and trainer Bryan would be training my brother in the fight of his life! He is a Culver City Police officer, and to get his job back after this accident, he had to, at 40 years old, complete the identical physical agility test he took as a 21 year old rookie out of the academy. Steve worked with him for months in the gym and at the site of the test - fine tuning his workouts specifically to his needs, and showing moral support the entire time. Steve even visited the site of the test on his own on several occasions just to survey the equipment and make even more specific adjustments to my brother's training. Today it all paid off! With his Culver City Police brothers looking on, his trainers pushing him forward - he was able to pass that test today. It could not have been done without the commitment of Steve and his team. So congratulations to my brother and a huge thank you to all of you at A Tighter U. Here is an article about A Tighter U's work with my brother in the LA Times: http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-cop-training-20150411-story.html read more

I remember working at a bank and having small interactions with Steve those small interactions led to the biggest change of my life. From having conversations about what I needed to do and educating me on nutrition to inviting me to come check out his gym to see what he can do for me. That was the start to the biggest change of my life. Being a better me mentally physically and emotionally. When you talk about someone who is truly passionate about what they do it's an understatement for Steve. He doesn't just tell you what is needed he shows you, explains to you the reason behind the why and he lives it breathes it and demonstrate it in every way possible. I went from not having any type of understanding about weight training and having misconceptions that if you do weights as a woman you will become bigger yet that was the complete opposite of what happened. He made me love being healthy love staying active and love working out. He made me care about the foods that I consume and even so that it has made me a better mom as a result. The impact that he makes on a daily basis is absolutely Priceless he changes people's lives in so many ways that all I can say is how truly grateful and appreciative I am for having encountered him his staff and his amazing gym. This was about 8 years ago and I have maintained my health in more ways than one and have still continue to be active. If there's one piece of advice I can offer is go in with the mindset of having an open mind and Trust the process most importantly trust his expertise and remember that consistency will only lead you to the best version of you. read more

I have been working out here for over a year, and I love it. My trainer is Chris and he does such a great job- I always leave the gym feeling energized and looking forward to my next session. I feel like he really cares about my well-being. My workouts are consistent with a little bit of variety, so I am able to progress but it is never boring! If you are looking for someone to get you in shape, loose some weight, and stay motivated, book a session with Chris. Also, you don't have to have a membership to work with the trainers, but it's a good option if you can afford it! read more

This gym is excellent! I had to take a long break from hard core training to rehab an injury and found this place on Yelp. This place has just about everything a person needs in a gym. Plus, it has a very pleasant atmosphere compared to the over crowded and impersonal gyms in the area (just look at the reviews on Yelp and you'll see what I mean). I highly recommend this place to anyone in the Culver City area. Steve is super cool, chill and very personable. Also, it's one of the few gyms where if you need to get a workout in with your kids, it can actually work. read more

Having NEVER set foot in a gym in my life, it is quite a life-changing experience to sign up with a trainer to develop a training regime. I "interviewed" other small niche gyms but they just didn't quite appeal to me on a personal level to sign up, didn't fit my "personality" I guess. Based on Yelp reviews, Googling and the gym's Website I stopped by to check it out. It's perfect for the Newbie that I am. I have a trainer that has designed a personalized program for me, the staff and fellow gymsters are all welcoming, unpretentious and personable, no posers here. I feel like I "fit in" even though I've only just begun my gym training and my tennis shoes are so new they scream "Newbie". Highly recommend! read more

Yeah, what Andrew said. Seriously, I LOVE this place. It's a comfortable place for a girl to work out, and there are just as many serious people here as there are people zoning out on the treadmill reading the gossip rags. Something for everyone. I've worked out with Rachel, Chris, Todd (gone now), and Josh (also gone). They were all able to suitably kick my ass or zone out in a chatty-workout. Whatever the mood was, they rose to the occasion. The trainers all really love what they do - they're creative, knowledgeable, and have a great sense of humor. This is a fun, comfortable place to be. Plus the back wall opens up to a sand-pit and lets the breeze & sunshine come in - ahhhhh! read more

Best gym in LA. Everybody from celebrities, to professional athletes, to people who live across the street, to the disabled workout here. And Steve knows them all by name, and treats everyone the same. Personal training packages are really affordable. People at the gym are really nice. This is the model of how a gym should be run. As long as this place is open, and I live within an hour, I will be a member. read more

This is a lifestyle! Really awesome, down to earth place whether you train with Steve or his other trainers, the place just motivates you. no gimmicks, just normal people working there and working out there, all tryng to be healthy. Do not get intimidated by training with a persoanl trainer, it's really the best and only way to do it, you learn tools to use on your own but you get addicted to having the trainers near your side. Equipment is ridiculouosly up to-the-minute, fun and different than anywhere else! Steve rocks and so does his place read more

Worked out my entire life and never was trained before this week. Trainers are very knowledgeable and it is all about doing the proper movements and they know how to motivate. The gym is very clean and has every piece of equipment needed. I dislike them massive gyms with too many people so this gym is perfect. Steve Zim is perhaps the best trainer in the US and his trainers have learned from the best. read more

I started working out here a few weeks ago and love it! Haven't been in a gym for a long time. I used to belong to Bally's but I hated working out there. Tried yoga for a while but it wasn't building muscle like I wanted to do. A Tighter U is small, personal, friendly, uncrowded and I can ask questions of the trainers and know that I'm getting good advice. Steve (the owner) even helped create a work out for me to get me on track to workout on my own. I love that he takes enough of a personal interest in his gym to come in pretty much every day. If you're looking for a lot of fancy equipment, this isn't the place. It's all very basic which is all your really need to get in shape. I used to walk into Bally's and be overwhelmed by all the computerized workout equipment. Everything here is straight-forward and accessible. This gym is also right around the corner from my house which makes it super easy to go after work. But even if I didn't live close by, parking is easy. I almost don't want to write this great review because I don't want it to get too crowded! Oh well! Here goes anyway! read more

Just over twelve years ago, I found A Tighter U where I began working with a personal trainer three times a week. Whether I worked out at 6am (which I did for many years) or at the more civilized hour of 9am (as I do now), this has been a happy, welcoming place which has made a major contribution to my overall health and fitness. The clientele ranges from professional athletes, to writers, actors and directors, to middle aged grandmas like me. Some of us have seemingly perfect bodies and some of us don't but all of us are welcome here and friendly with one another. I've had several trainers over the past 12 years and all of them have been very professional and cognizant of my particular needs and capabilities. Steve Zim, the gym's owner, sets a tone that encourages everyone to feel comfortable and part of a congenial group. Last week, the gym doubled its size, yet it still has the intimacy and warm feeling that has always been its hallmark. The fees are very reasonable and I've always said that whatever its cost, this is one of my most vital expenses...up there with food, clothing and shelter. I highly and unreservedly recommend A Tighter U for anyone who wants to increase or maintain their fitness in a really wonderful atmosphere. --Elizabeth Krown Spellman read more

this gym is so cool. i have been a member for 2 months and i dont regret it . boo to ballys. i love it that i can go straight from work and not worry about it being crowded. the staff welcomes you and lets you be. I havent had a trainer yet but the trainers always look like they are having fun with thier clients. Like Renee said its very comfortable for a girl to work out, i don't feel self conscious at all like other gyms. read more

this is a great gym. the personal trainer is very attentive and tailors the workout to my specific needs.

Steve and crew are great. The gym is about as perfect a serious small gym as you can get. Everyone is friendly and the vibe is definitely laid back. I've been going for several years and it's almost like family. read more

Best gym in the world! Steve, the owner, is extremely friendly as well as professional. I have been a member for nearly 3 years now and have seen drastic improvements in my athletic abilities. I currently train with Bryan who is extremely muscular and has a large mustache and is also friendly! (What a combination) Then there's James, very easy-going but also a militant trainer who will make sure you push yourself to reach your goals. There's also Josh, he's all smiles at first, but once you start your workout he gets straight to the tough stuff. Can't forget about Rachel and Rachell either-two other trainers at the gym that will be sure to give you the workout of your life! A Tighter U is more than a gym, it is a community! read more

Fabulous gym with recently expanded quarters. Steve is terrific - knowledgeable, reliable, professional and very personable. He hires people like himself - serious trainers who don't take themselves too seriously. Gym culture is warm and cooperative and new space is great. Have been commuting over half an hour for years to work out here. Worth every minute! read more

What you see on the YouTube videos is what you get!! I couldn't have made a better decision. Steve's so great- he's the best of the best and really personable! The Steve Zim Method is the real deal!! You won't be disappointed, just stick with it and follow through with what your trainer tells you. In addition, Steve's book, "Superhero Nutrition," is a great resource. I love how they want you to make this a lifestyle and not a diet that you will quit after a few weeks. I had the pleasure of being trained by Will (he's amazing). The first day he asked me what my goals were. He checked in with me to make sure I was good. I trained with Will for 6 weeks and lost 11% body fat. Whoo Hoo!! This is the first gym that I joined that they delivered all that they portrayed. I felt very comfortable here. I like how men and women of different ages and fitness levels worked out at the same time. I even got the pleasure of getting to talk to other trainers Rachel and Brian. They were so friendly. Also make sure you buy Hollywood Supps Amino acids and Hollywood Supps Melatonin, they were great for muscles, recovery and rest. If you want results A Tighter U is for you. I will continue to work out here ! read more

I have never in my life worked out at a gym, but I needed to get moving -- I do too much sitting in my car commuting, for one thing, and it's been years since I exercised regularly. I wanted to try working with a trainer. I've been working out at A Tighter U three times a week for about five months and it's been fantastic. Josh is an excellent trainer, positive, encouraging, sets hard but attainable goals, varies the workout and explains why we are doing things, and is always smiling. I'm starting to see results and I feel great, I have more energy, and I look forward to going, even at 6 AM. I never thought I'd be able to do some of the things I can now. The semi-private personal training is also more affordable than several other gyms I looked into. The other people who work out here -- from high school athletes to retirees, with a range of fitness levels -- are very friendly and some members have been coming here for years. Steve, the owner, is genuine and welcoming. He sets a great tone. If you are thinking about working out with a trainer but have felt intimidated: don't! Try this gym. I'm so glad I did. read more