I have been a DMN8 gym member for just over a year (2023-2025). I am an occasional user, because I don't always live in Santa Monica. Also, I am not the typical DMN8 member, because I only use the gym individually, and don't take the classes or use the personal trainers there.
However, I rate this gym highly for the following reasons:
1. Location. This gym is very well located -- right on the main street, and close to the beach. This is key because sometimes I want to use the equipment before or after a run on the Promenade or at the beach. Also, terrific coffee shop next door for before/after the workout.
2. Cleanliness. This gym is modern in its design, fairly new, and extremely well-maintained. Equipment is clean and in good working order.
3. Size. This gym is smaller than the one I use most often, and because it is such a nice gym it is frequently quite busy. Gym protocol / etiquette is important, so that you don't interrupt someone's work, etc. Still, very workable and I assume the heavy use reflects success and profits, both of which make this a wonderful gym for the long term. I understand management is planning an expansion, to add showers, etc. which will be a great improvement.
4. Equipment. Free weights are sufficient in number, but the space in which to use the dumbbells and barbells is limited. Only about 5 benches. Squat racks have a bit more space, in two rooms. Sometimes I have to wait for a flat or inclined bench.
5. Clientele. I'm not a fancy person and probably stand-out only for that reason at DMN8. Plus I'm ancient. But this gym has LOTS of beautiful people exercising. Hey, it's Santa Monica. The good thing, in my experience, is that folks at DMN8 are committed and polite, not judgmental and not gawkers/gazers as in some 'beautiful gyms'.
6. Music. My one gripe with this gym is that they play their background music rather loudly. I quite like their music, it's just that I also love to listen to my own music and podcasts when I exercise. The high level of the DMN8 music makes that tough. read more