This place is great. It's open 24/7 and has a variety of equipment you can't find at other gyms. They have an amazing community of members who are supportive of each other and put their weights back responsibly. The new location is much bigger and I never had to wait for a rack or machine. I got trained by coach Diego and had a great experience. I used to get hurt all the time training by myself and would hit plateaus. Diego taught me how to train hard and fixed my form/weaknesses. I hit PRs on all my lifts and stopped getting injured. I would recommend coach Diego to anyone who wants to get strong read more

Years of lifting and trying to get stronger, I said Ive had enough when I wasn't progressing and making any gains as much. Always wanted to join a powerlifting gym so I met up with Chandler to do an assessment on form (Bench/squat/DL) just the first day and I was already amazed on the technique that he modified on how I was performing the bench press. From there on I knew that this guy knows what he's doing and from all the years of experience he has in lifting and teaching others. Highly recommended. read more

Backyard Barbell - Gyms Near Me - San Jose, California

Just as others have stated, it's a no BS, straight to the point lifting and coaching. If you're serious in getting your technique/form improved while gaining in your lifts, I highly recommend this place. Diego has been my coach and has been flexible with my work schedule and my program. read more

Best weight training I've ever had. Started 11/19, and with some help from Diego and the training crew, I'm well on my way to learning more than I ever knew before!!! Top notch coaching as far as I can tell...even with Covid-19, I'm working out at home now, and still progressing with my coaches help online!!! Thanks to everyone at Backyard Barbell!!!! read more

I got into powerlifting a little over a year ago. I was recommended by a friend when I moved to the area, to check this place out. I went in and happened to run into the owner Chandler. I was welcomed but not in the typical money hungry-join our gym it's the greatest-we have all these amazing things you won't find anywhere cheeseball way. He took time to talk and ask about what I was looking for in a gym. We talked prices and memerbships, (in a way where I wasn't being sold which is refreshing) and about what's realistic for what i could afford. We set up 3 different appointments (all free) to see where I'm at with lifting. Hugely helpful and I'm seriously a better lifter because he took the time to help. If you like to yell when you lift, talk a lot of shit in between and sarcastic jokes, all while getting seriously strong from the programming, this is where you find it. Whichever coach is there at the time (Brian, Rob, Chandler or Jeremy) they always help. Nothing short of 5 stars. read more

I started weight training the beginning of last year and while I was progressing well I wanted to get some PT to help with my form and decided to visit Backyard Barbell. After meeting Chandler and Diego I was very interested in seeing what I can learn here. I signed up for training with Diego and am very pleased with the results. He definitely helped me with my form, very supportive, and helped me hit some new PRs. If you're serious about lifting and training, this is definitely the place to consider going to. read more

This is THE place to go if you want to improve your lifts and improve as a powerlifter. I started my journey with the owner, Chandler, and he is extremely knowledgeable and fantastic to work with. He will call you out when he needs to and hold you to high standards all in the name of making sure you improve as a lifter. Later I shifted to working with Diego who was equally fantastic to work with. My lifts improved immensely and he worked with me both while I was lifting well and while I had some injuries. Truly knowledgeable and will make sure you are lifting properly and safely. You can't go wrong going here for both general lifting, powerlifting, and personal training. read more

All the other reviews (except for 1) are accurate. This is a serious powerlifting gym. If you want to get strong and learn how to lift heavy weights properly then this is the gym for you. For me, doing these types of exercises safely with coaches who know what they are doing is the most important thing. The coaches here are better than at any other gym I've been to. Since it's small, you'll always have someone making sure your form is perfect. And if it's not, they'll give you tips on how to improve. The members here are great too. Everyone is really friendly and encouraging. I can't recommend it enough! read more

I have been a member since last May, and have enjoyed every minute of my time as a member here. The coaching here is really top notch. Coach Chandler, the owner, is extremely knowledgeable, and goes above and beyond for all of his lifters. When I first joined, he assessed all of my lifts and then wrote a program specifically for me, and he has continued to do this throughout the year I have been here. Coach Rob and Brian are also very helpful, and work very hard to provide everyone with feedback or help with their program. They will give you direct and honest feedback, in a sincere effort to help you improve. While they are extremely supportive, do not expect them to coddle you: they want you to make changes and grow. If you want to hire a coach/trainer that's only going to tell you exactly what you want to hear, go somewhere else. The gym's feel and culture is extremely positive, and full of friendly, supportive people. It isn't uncommon for people to stop what they're doing, and watch or cheer you on if they notice you doing a high effort set. People introduce themselves if they see someone new, and put things back where they belong, it's a wonderful thing! read more

BLUF: A small gym with a plethora of powerlifting equipment and several platforms. No BS and a place to get your lifts in. Over the last few months, I have begun to incorporate a lot of powerlifting movements and compound lifts into my workouts. My gym back in NY offers many platforms and racks to get in my clean and jerks, deadlifts, snatches, ect. but I couldn't seem to find any gyms back home (in San Jose, CA) where I could drop weights, use chalk, and dig deep without someone telling me I was being too loud. I went in for a free trial and after warming up, I asked Chandler to check out my deadlift form. Once I completed the pull, he told me the goods and the (many) bads. It was at this point that I knew Chandler was someone that I wanted to get more knowledge from and this was the place I've been looking for. Even as a prospective customer, I didn't get any fluffy words or false advice but rather honest feedback about what I was doing wrong. Also, as I am only in the Bay Area a few weeks at a time, he was also willing to work out a payment schedule only based on the weeks I was back home. Awesome dude and a great place to get some quality work in. read more

Coach Chandler knows his shit. I love the culture and environment he has fostered within Backyard Barbell and as a fellow gym owner am truly impressed with what he has accomplished in the industry at such a young age. If you want to learn the true fundamentals of lifting Coach Chandler will definitely set you straight. When I need help with my own lifting techniques I'll hit him up a few times just to dial everything down. Even Coaches need Coaches. He's one of the very few Coaches I trust to train my other lifters. You will develop true strength and grit when you decide to start your journey to becoming stronger at this gym. You will also learn a ton! read more

I've wanted to write a review earlier, but I thought it would be best to write it after working out at this gym for some time in order to give an honest assessment. In my opinion, this is by far the best gym in the South Bay if you want to get strong, get great coaching and be in an environment where getting results is expected. The equipment is awesome, where you can use Safety Squat bars, Duffalo bench bars, a belt squat device, etc. that you can't find at your regular gym. Just added are new kilo competition plates for the lifters training for meets. Even though the gym has hardcore equipment, the place is very inviting and the members are very respectful , humble, and come from all facets of life. You have engineers, housewives, tattoo artists, students, and they all have one goal: to get really strong and kick some butt. The ratio is around 60/40 male to female, which is a high ratio compared to other gyms of this type. But don't get fooled thinking these are spandex bubble heads worried about chipping their nails, Check out the Backyard Barbell website and you can see these women are serious with the iron. Chandler the owner is a fantastic coach and is very effective in helping all the members reach their potential. He's help me get so strong that my current warm up sets are where my max workout sets were from a year ago. So in summary, if you want to get some serious bang for your buck, get awesome training and be in an environment where you look forward to working out, then come on down and get a membership. I promise you will get stronger than you ever thought possible. read more

Backyard Barbell is a great gym for those that are looking to gain real, useful strength. The gym is a no frills, muscle making factory with no distractions. Chandler does a great job of scheduling clients in order to adapt to their personal schedules as well as have them workout with other gym-mates of similar skill set. I definitely enjoy working out with the team there. Awesome gym. Highly recommend it! read more

I am not the "standard" powerlifter (in my 40s and not a gym rat), and was very apprehensive trying out a gym like this. Yet this place completely changed my mind! The coaches are welcoming and I've never once felt judged or ever felt like I didn't belong there. I have trained with Coach Chandler for several years now, and even returned after back surgery-- at which time he modified my program to make sure I could continue to train. If you feel uncomfortable parking in a parking lot where there is a futon shop, then this place is definitely not for you. I've never had a problem with the music level, and I have been able to use the Eleiko bar, even in the owner's presence. I highly recommend this gym-- it offers a great opportunity to learn how to safely and effectively lift weights. The clients are really diverse, yet everyone is supportive and friendly. It's a great small business to support in our area. read more

I was visiting San Jose, and Chandler let me drop in for a very reasonable rate. Giant chalk bowl, great crew, and no Smith machine. What more do you need to know? Doesn't get any better. read more

Great gym. You can pick things up and put them down. You can be loud. The owner, Chandler, is a great guy. read more

Great little gym with all the equipment you need. Perfect environment to support your goals no matter how big or small. Very friendly group of members. read more

I've always been interested in Powerlifting, and Backyard Barbell taught me so much. After a quick meet up and tour of the gym, Chandler was very helpful in getting me set up with the right coach. I started working with Diego 1-2x/week and quickly became more comfortable with the equipment, proper techniques, and my personalized program. He took the time to listen to my goals, concerns, where I was at with my fitness level, and where I wanted to be. Not only did my numbers go up (higher than I expected), but he was always encouraging and flexible with my work schedule. At Backyard Barbell, everyone was so welcoming, and the gym definitely has a family vibe to it. Even working out on my own, I knew I could ask the coaches (Chandler, Diego, Brian) or other gym members questions, advice, etc without feeling any judgement or intimidation from seasoned lifters. Definitely a great gym with awesome coaches and real results. read more

I was looking for a place where I could learn how to lift heavy stuff. Simple. None of that force-fed, cult-y, weird stuff I found at the other local barbell places. I asked coach Chandler to show me how to deadlift, and he did, when I first walked in the door. Simple, no BS. Sold! Now, I'm learning lots about powerlifting, which I knew nothing about prior. and I couldn't be more pleased. read more

Backyard barbell is amazing place. I was a novice lifter that really wanted to be strong and someday compete in powerlifting. I came in with pretty low numbers on my bench, squat, and deadlift. Now on all of my lifts have gone up to 20-50lbs and are still improving. Chandler is a great coach! He corrected my form and with his coaching and programs, I'm getting hella gainz. I'm happy to say that I'll be competing confidently in October. I definitely recommend this place for your gainz! read more

Backyard Barbell is a great gym with wonderful people, and the owner is a fantastic coach that really knows his programming. This is the place to go if you really want to learn how to lift. I've only been here 2 months and all of my lifts have gone up by 20-30 lbs and they're still on the rise. I definitely recommend coming to check it out if you're interested in lifting! read more

I just joined several months ago and to be honest this is probably one of the best investments i have ever made in my life. Lol to be honest coach chandler is freaking awesome and super knowledgeable and he really knows everything about powerlifting. He'll push u hard to meet your goals and honestly he is just inspiring and i coudlnt ask for a better coach! So many times where i get scared but just seeing how everyone pushes themselves to their max inspires me to work harder and be the best i can be. Pure hard work in this gym. Two trainers Rob and Brian are amazing!! Love them so much, they dont sugar coat anything, super straight up because at the end of the day they want u to do well. All in all i love this gym! The members are super friendly and the girls are amazing, probably the best cheerleaders u'll have when u do your max. Hehe read more

I came to Backyard Barbell as a semi-experienced crossfitter looking to focus on strength gains for a while. Six months later, I never intend to go back to crossfit. Chandler is without a doubt the most knowledgeable coach I have ever worked with. The nuances of his programming and comprehensive knowledge of every last point of technique are inspiring. More importantly, the programming works. I have historically been a hard-gainer with my strength lagging far behind my conditioning, but after six months here I have put on a ton of muscle and huge gains on all of my lifts. Contrary to my initial fears, the culture is also incredibly supportive and laid back. This is most certainly an elite powerlifting gym, but there are tons of newbies here as well, and everyone feels welcome. If you have any interest in getting stronger, you should check this place out, regardless of your experience level. read more

Time for an update! Backyard recently moved to a new location and things just keep getting better! More equipment and more space means more room to get more strongerest! This gym boasts a great crew of seasoned members along with those of us still learning. It's a great mix and a great place to come smash some serious weights. I'm still so thankful to have this crew and Chandler staying after my form and helping me get better and better each week. Anyone interested in learning, improving or broadening their backs...erm, lifting aspirations should definitely come check this place out! read more

I was visiting from out of town for a week and was looking for a gym that would let me do some basic barbell lifts. Chandler let me drop in for a couple of training sessions. This is a great no BS gym. While I didn't train with Chandler one-on-one, I was able to watch him train other clients. He's super friendly and knows what he's talking about. He even helped improve my low bar back squat bar positioning. Chandler and this place reminds me so much of the trainer and gym that got me started with heavy strength training in Boston and is definitely going to be my go-to gym when I visit again. Skip the commercial gym and its machines, come here and get strong. read more

Chandler's an incredible coach who has created a gym with a great atmosphere. I'm working three basic lifts (bench, squat, dead) through Chandler's methodical coaching and enjoying the results in the way my body looks and functions. read more

Great straightforward powerlifting gym. Squat racks, deadlift platforms, good equipment. I dropped in for a one time fee for a squat session. They were very welcoming and generous with showing me around. Really happy with the gym and the chance to train without distractions. read more

This is the best powerlifting gym in the Bay Area and that is an undeniable fact. Brian Kemp is the best trainer! I was lifting on my own for a few years but hit a plateau that I couldn't seem to break (squats: 135#, deadlifts: 90# and bench: what bench?) I started training with Brian about 10 months ago and just did my first meet. Hit a PR on all three lifts-- squats 215, deadlifts 260 and bench 105. Everyone at this gym is chill, helpful and super awesome. I've never felt or looked better. Highly recommend if you want to lift seriously. read more

This review is for Coach Brian at Backyard Barbell. He has trained me for about 14 months. I have enjoyed and received great benefit from Coach Brian's guidance. His considerable knowledge in the mechanics of movement and his expertise in powerlifting have allowed me to exceed my expectations in powerlifting. I am an atypical powerlifter - female and over 55. Coach Brian's skills enabled him to tailor my program such that I made substantial gains without injury. He made me feel welcome at the gym and capable at powerlifting. read more

This is my go to spot whenever I'm in the Bay. Chandler worked with me earlier this year and help me make significant strides in my strength and Olympic lifts. He still helps me to this day. The gym itself has a platform, squat stands, dumb bells, bench, gym rings, bumper plates, and etc. I highly recommend working with Chandler if you are serious about getting stronger. read more

Best gym I've ever been to! Chandler is a great coach and mentor and I'm stronger than I've ever been!!!

No fuss no muss place to work out and workout hard! Owner is one of the most knowledgable trainers focused on form and results! Super fun experience every time! read more

A simple review of Backyard Barbell. The GOOD, the BAD, the UGLY. I've been a member for Backyard Barbell for about a 1 1/2 year now and my my, my fatass got fucking STRONGER than I thought possible . My ass is about as round as it gets! My review is a little overdue so I decided to do it now. I will be doing a simple, direct review of the GOOD, the BAD, and the UGLY of Backyard Barbell. THE GOOD: 1- IF YOU GET PROGRAMMING AND GET COACHED BY CHANDLER, YOU WILL GET STRONG.I'm not talking about getting just open gym. GET PROGRAMMING AND GO TO TRAINING HOURS.YOU WILL LEARN A SHITLOAD, AND WILL GET FUCKING STRONG. Pay the little extra to get that programming done and the little coaching ques and I'm 100% sure you will get strong. Ultimately it's up to you to put the work in. If you're doing open gym, you're pretty much only experiencing 50% of what Backyard Barbell has to offer. You aren't harnessing all the gains you can be gaining. It's pretty much like you're eating a burrito but like, you only have the tortilla and you're pretty much only eating the tortilla and leaving out all the beef and good stuff out. 2. Fine You don't want programming and training hours. Brought the beef and the good stuff yourself? Open gym is dope as well if you know how to train by yourself already. Hours are 7am to 8pm most days except weekends. They have all the equipment a powerlifter needs. Bands, chains, dildos, safety squat bars, texas bars, competition bars, oakie bars, competition bench, etc (ALL the good shit, and jk they dont have dildos). If you're a lone wolf or have some other coach that gives you programming online, you can feel at ease when it comes to equipment. 3. Are you a beginner? PERFECT! YOU'LL LEARN HOW TO SQUAT, BENCH, AND DEADLIFT IF YOU GO HERE. DEFINITELY! WHAT POWERLIFTING GYM LETS THEIR MEMBERS PERFORM THE BIG 3 WITH SHIT FORM!??! Chandler is very welcoming, very handsome with his dirty blonde hair, and VERY patient. Don't worry about looking like an idiot you're first time lifting. Everyone's been there before at this gym so we all know where you're coming from. We're not a commercial gym where we judge the fuck out of you(except squat dept). We want to make you stronger, not have you disgrace the name of Backyard Barbell. We are sometimes called a team. We are sometimes called a club. Call us whatever you want, but what we ultimately do here is get everyone stronger at all skill levels. The BAD: Are you a bitch? This gym is probably not for you. Half-ass workouts? Yeah we get it, everyone goes through tough times and has to half-ass a workout from time to time, but if you do it all the time, this gym is probably not for you. Everyone slays there workout most of the time. Some of us compete. Some of us just want to get strong. What we all do is work hard and put in the work. The UGLY: There's this member named Andrew Bui who recently is away because he's getting into the Marines. His face is ugly as fuck. He's not going to the gym right now but when you see him, you'll know what I mean. Even though his face is ugly, if you see him work out, he looks adorable because he works harder than most people at the gym. My personal story: 1 1/2 year ago, I came here with a 405 squat, 275 bench, and an injured lowered back without any knowledge on how to properly deadlift. Now, I squated 501lbs and deadlifted 540 lbs easily in a competition with more in the tank and I could bench 315 lbs for reps now. You can count on this gym to piece everything together and brush up on all your weaknesses. I am probably the MOST consistent inconsistent member right now because a lot of shit has been happening the past 6 months with life, but even then, I still saw results . I've learned a SHITLOAD from the head coach, Chandler, about recovery, programing, training methods, technique, equipment, and a bunch of other shit that I wouldn't have learned in school, youtube, or random strength articles. He's helped me understand why I do the things I do in training in order to overcome my weaknesses and get stronger. Overall, I wouldn't be stronger both mentally, physically, and emotionally if I didn't go to Backyard Barbell. read more

Backyard Barbell is an amazing gym for those focused on increasing strength and muscle. In just three months I've added 10 pounds of mostly muscle, while adding alot of weight to my main lifts: 65 pounds to both my squat and dead lift, and about 40 to my bench press. The workout program has constant variations of the core lifts which keeps it fun. There is a ton of great equipment and new things are added each month. The best powerlifting gym in San Jose hands down! read more