Filled out the online inquiry and received a quick response to fill out a form with basic info…read more The form asks about info like goals, injuries,... I have a few injuries that impact some flexibility but generally don't limit me (for example, I play competitive tennis and used to box semi-competitively). I also stated I was just looking for general conditioning but hoped that through the strength training I could improve my structure (for example, my shoulders pull forward a little because I need to develop my back a bit). A week passes and I don't hear a thing. I send a follow-up and very quickly hear back with an e-mail response stating that they aren't a physical therapist and won't take me on as a client. I'm somewhat surprised but sent a response clarifying I wasn't looking for a physical therapist just a trainer and seeing who they could recommend. Again, I didn't hear back...I've moved on. I ended up finding an amazing trainer who I've been working with the last few months and the progress has been great.

Let's get real... I hate working out. I do not look forward to training here every week yet I keep…read morecoming back. It's probably due to the fact that it's my first time in my life that I'm actually training at a place that employs professionals (which means every week I get my ass kicked). I've done my fair share of training through various corporate clubs and the quality of trainers can not even come close to those that work at Rich Barretta. I've had the opportunity to work with two of the trainers here and both are extremely friendly, creative with their workouts and knowledgeable. Each week I'm presented with an entirely new workout. I've never repeated any exercise in the 3 months I've been training and the new muscles I've discovered thank me (or hate me) for that. The facilities are clean and intimate. Since it's a private studio, there are no distractions (other trainers talking to your trainer, waiting for equipment, not having enough space, gym members staring at you, etc.). I feel really comfortable working out here and I'm not embarrassed to try some of the exercises my trainer wants me to do since there's no one around watching me. The prices are reasonable as well. If you're looking to train somewhere, I would 150% recommend going here rather than with a trainer in your gym.

I was referred to Zach through a friend. I was interested in improving my posture and relieving…read morechronic back and neck pain. Since I started working with Zach I've noticed huge improvements in my posture, range of motion and confidence. Zach has the perfect balance of knowledge, professionalism and vested interest in his clients. I highly recommend him!

I've been working with Zach for about 6 months now, and I'm so thankful I found him. Training with…read moreZach feels less like a typical gym session and more like spending time with a supportive buddy who happens to be an expert in fitness who pushes me to my limits. Zach is able to find a balance to ensure that every session is not only challenging but also incredibly rewarding. That balance is crucial. Also fwiw, I was recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease (multiple sclerosis) so working with a trainer who can adapt and modify workouts for me has been extra important. I highly recommend giving him a shot if you're looking for a personal trainer in the area. You definitely won't regret it.

Matt's energy is infectious. He is one of the friendliest and kind hearted persons you will meet…read more The liv method is a refreshing approach to working out and is orchestrated by an individual as unique as the program. It's been great knowing you Matt!

In brief, Matt fixed 25 years of poor lifting form in about 10 sessions and I feel better today…read morethan i did 10 or 15 years ago. I started seeing Matt to cut a few pounds and to break out of a lifting plateau, but during the initial consultation, Matt noticed my flexibility was poor, so he put me on an endurance and mobility program. At first, I found it tedious, boring and a distraction from my goals. But in about 2 weeks, I started to feel less sluggish and the chronic pain in my lower back started to decrease. About 6 weeks into the program, I noticed a measurable increase in muscle endurance. After about 10 weeks, I literally couldn't believe how much better I felt. For example: --It used to take me two full days of limping to recover from a rec soccer game; after Matt's program, I could do a full leg work out the very next day. --Chronic low back pain was gone --Persistent calf cramping was gone --I dropped 10 lbs --Soccer performance was improved Also worth noting, Matt tailors his motivational techniques to each client. I noticed that when he trains my friend, he barely raises his voice; whereas he screams at me to challenge me. In other words, he tells you what you need to hear to get through the workout and he understands that not everyone is motivated by screaming and yelling. I recommend his services without hesitation.

3 reasons I train at the Dogpound every time I visit New York:…read more1. The vibe here is unique! It's a family and it's a baddass one 2. Trainers are extremely knowledgeable. I learn something new every time I go and that's priceless if you are really interested in improving your performance. 3. Equipment selection is just perfect! Wouldn't change a single thing. If you are serious about your fitness game, this is where you should be working out! Try it out and thank me later.

These guys and girls just know how to kick you butt. Aside for that, they motivate you to want to…read morekick your own butt. They, above all others will make you feel like the change will take place by "smashing it" not alone, but together...they will be there for you, they will drive you, they will push you, but ultimately make you want to take yourself to that next level. They will 1000% push you harder than you have ever been pushed. But also, they will joke with you, they will focus on you, they will make you feel like you can break through a wall. In addition, they will be able to do any and all exercises that they ask you to do and they could prob each do it 100 times, perfectly. That, in and of itself, will make you want to do it and do it right. They are some of the nicest, most driven, down to earth people...expert trainers...motivators...friends, in the business. Go here. Change yourself. Thank yourself. Make some friends for life and enjoy that change for life.

Unfriendly owner and staff. Was not comfortable with how they spoke to me and treated others.read more

The kindest staff, best trainers and most pristine impeccable facility. I get excited every time I…read morehave a session bc I love it there so much.

I have been here now for 5 months and I intend to continue…read more I am in my eighties and have never really lifted weights before. But I am now! The trainers are great with lots of attention to me. I have been in gyms where trainers are staring at the tv while the clients are working. Not here. Try it! You'll like it! Richard Barthelmes NYC

Best training gym in NYC from beginners to serious competitive athletes. Thanks John, Dave and team…read morefor keep in me in shape to play competitive hockey.

Went to the Speed Lab class a few days ago for the first time. I wanted to throw up after the…read moreclass... In the best way possible!!! The workout was intense and the instructor was very encouraging. I'm still sore and it feels great! Not the prettiest of studios but definitely one of the best workouts.

I spent a month training at SoHo strength lab while visited NYC and loved all the trainers there!…read moreThe vibe is so relaxed/chill and everyone is so friendly. I learned so much and had the opportunity to work with three different trainers which exposed me to so many different exercises and approaches. Will definitely be back whenever I return to NYC.

Alex is an exceptional personal trainer. Every session is tailored, challenging, and fun--I've seen…read morereal progress in strength and confidence. Great accountability

This woman will motivate the hell out of you. I've tried with others before and they fall off after…read morea little bit. She does not. You can tell she's a born coach through and through. She's never let me get down, no matter if I've had a bad week or if my body isn't growing as fast I want. She's always available for questions about anything and quickly responds. It might be a small thing to some, but a big thing to me, I finally feel confident enough to wear a white t-shirt in public after her coaching. Do yourself a favor and take the plunge with her.

Attended several of these classes via classpass!…read more If you're looking for a HIIT class that whoops you, this is the class you want to take! Even at beginner, it's intense! Let alone at intermediate... I was seeing stars! Non stop action but such a great workout! Always come out of the class feeling 10x stronger. Friendly staff and attendees!

Tried this gym off ClassPass. The strength class was effective and the people were nice. I wish the…read moreinstructor was better about correcting form and going around making sure we all know how to do the moves. Gym was clean and I liked the basement with all the amenities. Personally think the gym is a bit too overpriced.

Before this, I'd spent my life religiously avoiding exercise. Needless to say, my 30+ year old self…read morewas like that scene of Neo waking up from the Matrix the first time with zero muscles. At one point, a masseuse even asked if I was born without trap muscles because she couldn't feel them and then expressed doubt that I could lift a bottle of water over my head. This was obviously alarming, so I emailed Encore with the request of averting imminent death with a side order of vanity. And deliver they did. In the first month I saw visible changes in tone and body shape. It's been 3 months now and I feel better: more energetic and overall happier (either it's those endorphins or I'm just glad to not drop dead at any moment from a lifetime of inactivity). I also feel pretty great in a swimsuit. Throughout this, Damien has been a great guide. What I appreciate most is his experience and presence allows for the most efficient use of my time by removing decision making on my part. If I were doing this alone or in a group class, I'd waste time trying to figure out if my form was correct, if I was using something too light/too heavy, etc. Without his help I'd have spent a few fruitless months trying to work out and then give up after not seeing any results. Beginning exercising here was the best decision I made last year, and I'm slightly mad I didn't find Encore sooner and start this earlier in life.

Really, really great-- clean, friendly staff and easy to get workouts done.read more