This is a fantastic gym. Several months ago we were looking for a new gym because the "big box"…read morestyle gym we were using was very overcrowded and incredibly dirty all the time. Anytime Fitness in El Cajon came up on our radar on the advice of a friend. This AF is squeaky clean, has a wide variety of equipment, to include accessories like gliders, lifting belts, and fractional weights. The location is secure (as are all AF). You need to buzz yourself in with an app on your phone. This gym is rarely crowded, and when it is, people do not hog machines and are always willing to let you work in sets. The people who attend this gym are focused and serious about their health. The "culture" is one of respect, focus, and cleanliness. People take care of the equipment. Weights get re-racked. If you live in East County and need a place for a solid workout this is your gym.

A relatively mid size gym with all the equipment needed to get a good workout. Very cleanread more

Daniel started working with me when i was close to 200lbs and we got me down to 150's. Although…read morethyroid issues caused increased gains I was still in the smallest clothing size as an adult, 8! After a 6 month hiatus and size 10 and increased weight we are back on track. The thing about Daniel is he will study what will work for the individual he is working with and if he can't figure something out he is not opposed to reaching out to other fitness professionals and get you the training suitable for you not the next client. He understands we all have different needs and will not box you in with anyone else's workout. If you are looking for someone to help you reach your goals and have fun doing it, to make you feel fitness can be fun and not a chore and to help you understand how to perform exercises correctly....Daniel is your man. You won't be disappointed.

From the owner: Dunlap Fitness is a mobile personal training company. I bring the workout and equipment to you, to…read moremaximize your lifestyle change goals, without the stares or judgement of a large gym. This service includes nutrition guidance, weight loss, post-rehabilitation exercise, mobility enhancement, general fitness, and sports performance. Gracie jiu-jitsu self-defence lessons can also be incorporated into the sessions if desired.

Found this gym out of luck (I'm from out of town) Owner Pete was very friendly, gym was very clean…read more- EXACTLY what you want out of a gym 10/10 experience

I absolutely love this gym . The equipment selection is great , it's super clean and staff are…read morefriendly . Pete and Devin are so knowledgeable about fitness and make it a great environment

I had the incredible opportunity to work with Coach J for a 12 month virtual program. She is well…read moreeducated and a vet in the fitness world. She doesn't sugar coat or beat around the bush when it comes to pursuing your goals and doing the hard thing -- she's truly your biggest cheerleader. She coached me through mental obstacles during the program and helped me overcome them. She also didn't just prepare me to go through the program successfully, but also taught me how to continue taking care of my health after the program was completed. I was able to drop from a size 18 to a size 12, lost and kept off 15 lbs, and lost 9.5 inches off of my waist. I'm so grateful for the impact she made in my life and I suggest her for anyone I know who is serious about improving their health.

GREAT ALL AROUND THE BOARD, my go-to trainer when needing an extra push in my workouts! Helps me…read morewith my strength and conditioning and keeps my form right to see the best results! 5 STARS!

Heather is a wonderful personal trainer. She's professional and personable. She can definitely make…read moreyou sweat. I've noticed an increase in my strength and endurance because of my workouts with her. If you need advice on anything fitness: proper form, workouts, diet, etc. Heather's the one!

From the owner: Here at Momstrong Fitness & Health Coaching, I am helping women navigate the path to lifelong…read morehealth and wellness through fitness, nutrition, and education. I work exclusively with women right here in Santee, and specialize in moms and the fragile postpartum period. I understand the limitations that come with being a mom! Children are always welcome when you come to training, while your older kids can join in if they want. Younger kids can be safely secured in close view. I want you to feel excited when you come to workout, not like you’re simply completing a task. That’s why I pride myself in Momstrong Fitness & Health Coaching's amazing community and amazing services. Our personal training and group fitness classes are exhilarating, uplifting, and high energy!

I joined Hardcore Fitness of El Cajon shortly after having my second child at the beginning of…read more2023. Now, in 2026, I'm still here, and that says a lot about this amazing place. Hardcore Fitness is far more than just a regular gym. From the moment I joined, I felt welcomed and supported. Every trainer has encouraged me throughout my fitness journey, especially Athena, Giovanny, Hesham, and Jose. Each of them has made a significant impact on my growth, confidence, and success. What truly sets this gym apart is the genuine care the trainers have for their members. If you're dealing with an injury, such as a shoulder or knee issue, they will always provide alternative exercises and modifications to help you continue progressing safely. They want to see you succeed, no matter what challenges you face. That dedication, support, and sense of community are why Hardcore Fitness of El Cajon holds such a special place in my heart. I'm incredibly grateful to be part of this fitness family.

Well... let me start with a confession: I've spent years avoiding private gyms like they were…read moreextended car warranties. We had a perfectly good home gym. I also work out at the fire station consistently. Life was structured, predictable, and free of the "let me show you around" tour. Then last summer happened. I decided to temporarily join a gym. You know, the classic three month commitment that absolutely never turns into anything longer. This was mainly to support my daughter as she headed into her high school soccer season while rehabbing from ACL surgery. So I reluctantly agreed. Signed the papers. Mentally prepared to count down 90 days. Then we met Brittany, the gym manager. Problem number one: she was actually great. Super friendly, respectful, and did not hit us with the usual high pressure sales pitch. Honestly, she could have sold ice to a fire crew without trying. Next thing you know, we are signed up and showing up. And here is where things went sideways in a good way. Hardcore Fitness El Cajon is nothing like the other gyms we have tried. Brittany sets the tone. She is not just behind a desk, she is in there working out with everyone else, keeping the energy high and making the place feel legit. Now the trainers. Diego. This guy is dialed in. I am there at 0530, barely functional, and he is making rounds correcting form at every station like a fitness sniper. I used to hate being coached. Now it actually helps and somehow does not annoy me. Hesham. Equal parts coach and stand up comedian. Keeps things light, keeps you moving, and somehow makes you feel like a champion even when you are questioning your life choices mid workout. Gio. Pretty sure his mission is to make everyone sweat out their entire life story. I hear he writes the workouts now, which explains a lot. Respectfully brutal. Johannes. Top tier coach. He worked with my daughter during her knee rehab and did an outstanding job. That alone says a lot. Athena. High energy, funny, and very easy to stay focused around... or at least try to. She brings a ton of motivation to every class. I know I am missing a few, but the entire staff is solid. What really stands out is the community. No ego, no weird vibes, no cliques. Does not matter who you are or where you are from, everyone gets along and puts in the work. And here is the part I did not expect. For the first time, I am actually consistent. Not "I worked out twice this week so I deserve a reward meal" consistent. Real consistent. And I am seeing results. Strength is up, agility is better, and apparently I now have what can only be described as beach muscles. I am not entirely sure when that happened, but I am not questioning it. So here I am. A guy who avoided gyms for years... actually recommending one.

Super great training if you're looking for a well balanced routine. Strength training,…read moreconditioning, HIIT, CrossFit, weight lifting.. truly a little bit of everything. Trainers are great, I could especially vouch for Nick and Joey! Trained with Jen once, also super great. They all give that tough love that you need but mega polite all while doing it, can't go wrong :)

The best in town! This group of trainers all have their own flair and style but the workouts always…read moreconsistently kick your ass in a good way! I always come out feeling stronger mentally and physically! I've been training in a group setting with Nick & Cara for 6 years now and they really have a great way of doing things! I've been training in a group setting with Joey, Chris & Jenn for almost 2 years and they all bring something different to the table! I love the feeling and push I get with all of them. They really want you to succeed and know when to push you harder and also when to pull back. The amount of Knowledge they have about training and nutrition is something I haven't experienced at any other gym! I love working out here and I'm excited to go to the gym, it never feels like a dread to go! In the last few months my strength & form have drastically increased and gotten better! If you're looking for a place that's got that non corporate gym feel with amazing trainers who care about you, this is the place! I feel so lucky to be a part of something so special! Thanks for being the best guys/gals!