This is my review for Tucker at Powerform! I've been working with Tucker now for nearly 3 months. He came on recommendation from 2 of my friends and I've now referred another of my best friends to him as well, and so glad we're all getting trained by him. From day one, he's been engaged, incredibly enthusiastic and clearly loves what he does. I appreciate his energy and creative approaches to agility, flexibility and strength exercises. He's attuned to form and adjusts weight accordingly based on what he sees in you... and he's a fantastic communicator. I have definitely left each session feeling accomplished and having learned something new! read more

I started my time at Powerform after having my second daughter in April 2023. As someone who has typically engaged in Pilates, the idea of weightlifting was intriguing but intimidating. Max, the owner, was quick to respond to my online inquiry and was able to set me up with two trainers- Mikkie and John. He took time to chat with me about my goals. Shout out to Max for his excellent communication and thought processes for connecting you with particular trainers. John - within seconds, I immediately felt comfortable with John. He always lays out the groundwork for you so you know what to expect. His warmups always get me motivated for what's to come. I love that he is so encouraging and always keeps me on my counts during reps. John is extremely personable, and I truly enjoy our conversations. Mikkie- she has refined my squat game like no other and has pushed me to lift more than I ever expected to. She pushes me in the best way and always gives me opportunities to excel. I truly enjoy her style of training. As a mother of two young children, working out at Powerform has been transformative, to say the least. This has been my time out of the day for myself both mentally and physically. After many years of aimless workouts, I finally feel like I know how to spend my time to get the results I want. I feel stronger than ever, and that is thanks to the wonderful staff at Powerform. Highly recommend! read more

I never thought personal training was my kind of thing, then the pandemic hit. In 2021 I wanted to start doing oly lifts somewhere outside my living room, but with way more attention to technique than a large group setting. The search was daunting until I recognized Max! I knew Max long, long, ago from a gym far, far away (not really, it was in Oakland) We discussed my goals and he set me up with trainers for 30 minutes twice a week. Two years later, I can say with confidence that the whole crew is top notch. Every time I've had a session with a new-to-me trainer, I've come away with more knowledge and perspective on movements I was already pretty comfortable with. A lot can happen in 30 minutes! Max: the boss! First and foremost technique focused. I was apprehensive about barbell movements and he patiently adjusted the cues for me until it made sense. Also introduced me to squats and bench press. All the foundations, all the discipline. Dave: an absolute legend. Solid focus on full body strength and doing just enough for gains while ensuring I avoid injury. Loves deadlifts possibly more than I do. Mikkie: also loves deadlifts possibly more than I do, but gave me to different, yet complimentary, technique cues than the other trainers. She also made me a true believer for resistance band work to increase overall strength and mobility. Diante: I await the day I can train with him. Every week, I'm envying his incredibly creative work with his clients. Until then, he's my biggest booster and an invaluable source of nutrition information. And my current besties: Alysia: she's known me for years, so she knows precisely when I'm BSing and when to push me. Her steady guidance has seen me through PRs and also with resilience through injuries. She also has excellent taste in 90s music, shoulder bags, and ice cream. John: when he's not giving me absurd names for exercises I swear are made up, he's throwing a complex at me composed of movements I'll never remember. By the 17th time, I'll finally get it, and realize: John was right, all while making sure I did everything right. He's full of surprises, all of which make you stronger. Love y'all, Powerform. Thank you for letting me play with all your iron while making sure I don't hurt myself. read more

My partner and I have been coming to Powerform for a few years, we love it. We have been training with Diante who is awesome - his energy, positivity, and commitment to helping us achieve our goals has been outstanding. We have been coming for an hour a week and whilst we could do more, just this small commitment has led us to both feeling fitter, looking better, and improving our health. The set time and day has encouraged us to work out when we otherwise may not. The routine that Diante sets for us changes every few weeks, and we learn exactly how to work out correctly, for maximum benefit and to avoid injury. He's always quick to correct our form when needed. I cannot recommend Powerform and training with Diante highly enough. read more

Powerform - Gyms Near Me - Oakland, California

My journey with Powerform started in February 2021 and I will never look back. This place feels like my second home where I'm here nearly 3-4 times a week. It's a place where you truly feel like the trainers are interested in the best for your body. I'm not new to working out -- but when I joined Powerform I felt like I was now beginning to understand HOW to workout. Suddenly my body started to transform and feel more powerful compared to the 10 years of mindlessly going to a gym on my own. My amateur fitness goal was to do 1 chin up. Just one. From the moment I uttered that this as my goal, the trainers literally said "WE WILL GET YOU THERE"....and guess what? I achieved that goal within 2 months. If you're looking to.... - Build a Butt - Mikkie - Achieve high level of athleticism - Diante & Alex - Nail every rep to perfection - Max (the owner of Powerform) - New to Fitness (need a motivating coach)- John, Connor and Priscilla - Challenge yourself for every minute of your workout - Alysia & Stephanie - Just fucking lift weight - Dave What are you waiting for? read more

I worked out here twice a week for most of 2019 and the parts of 2020 that the Covid rules allowed. I had never lifted weights before but the trainers were very welcoming and were happy to teach me the basics. Max, the owner, is an awesome trainer who is easy to talk to and really cared about making sure I was progressing. He's also great at finding solid people. I had regular sessions with a couple other trainers and some one-off substitute sessions with another two, and they were all professional and pleasant to work with. Getting stronger and more limber was a good start to counteracting the damage done from being hunched over a computer for over a decade. Thanks Powerform! read more

This is an amazing gym. Training is tailored to your goals and I've worked with 4 different trainers here and they are all so awesome.

Been coming here for about four years now. Love this gym. Two days a week for 30 min is all I've done and had consistent progress. Great coaches and a great community. read more

I've never taken fitness seriously or stuck with a workout routine, but since joining Powerform I train with Jesse twice a week and have definitely been noticing the results. Jesse focuses more on weight training and knows how to push us during our 30-minute sessions without making a novice feel intimidated -- I also appreciate how he emphasizes stretching in between sets. There are many other great trainers at Powerform who I've trained with when I've had to reschedule a regular session. And since everyone has their own style, I definitely recommend training with a few of them to ensure you've found a compatible trainer (Max is super helpful with that!). Powerform also uses Vagaro to schedule workouts, which is convenient when I have a last-minute conflict. read more

I've been going to Powerform for over 6 months now and couldn't be happier with my training with Max. From the beginning he assessed what my long term goals were and has pushed me to get there. Having never really spent time at the gym I didn't know what to expect, but our program is constantly changing and the workouts stay interesting- never boring. Max is always concerned with going as hard as we can without risking injury and very helpful when it comes to explaining how our workouts impact each muscle group, as well as helpful tips on diet and recovery. I researched all of the gyms I could find in the East Bay area and Powerform is the ONLY gym that had trainers who were actually world class weightlifters. Most gyms are run by people with online certificates and outrageously expensive group classes, but the walls of Powerform are literally lined with trophies from heavyweight lifting competitions. Moreover, the prices at Powerform are the most reasonable you will find for one-on-one personal training sessions. Do yourself a favor and do your research when it comes to finding a gym with trainers who actually have serious experience in weightlifting and know, and care, how to help you achieve your goals. read more

I've been working out for over three years here, both when it was owned by Dave, and now under Max, the new owner. I have been consistently pleased with every trainer -- Alex, Jesse, Dave, Katie, Stephanie. I share one session with a friend, and another private, once a week. In every case, the trainers know my history, my needs, my weaknesses, my goals. They pay close attention, answer questions, and push me just the right amount. Max runs the business well, and is flexible and accommodating. Plus everyone is nice, fun to be around with a great sense a humor. A+++ read more

I have been coming to Powerform for 3 years now, and I still keep coming back, even after I moved to SF. I've witnessed the gym transformed from previous owner (Dave) to current owner (Max), and how the facility, set up, operations, social media presence, referral program, etc have all improved greatly! But all these are secondary to the real reason why I keep coming back - the trainers and the workout I get. They are the best at what they do, and I get my butt kicked every single time I come here. I've worked with 4-5 trainers, and they are all very knowledgeable, able to explain the science behind the exercise, knows how to observe you to gauge how hard to push you that day. I always leave my session exhausted but feeling accomplished, and I'll keep coming back. read more

If you're looking for a sustainable way to get strong and stick with it, this is the gym for you. Love everything about PowerForm - the flexible and personally tailored approach, the welcoming and approachable atmosphere, the low-key vibe, the diverse trainers who really get to know you and make it fun. I work out twice a week with Alysia and Kathleen and have also had great experiences with Max, Dave, Jesse, and Larry. Everyone is super knowledgeable, kind, and supportive. I never felt intimidated when I first started and I've seen major improvements in my strength and fitness in just months. The 30 min sessions are intensive but easy to fit into my hectic schedule. Highly recommended. read more

I've been going to Powerform twice a week consistently since May, and that's without a doubt my longest consecutive workout streak of my life. I do semi-private sessions with my girlfriend, and started with a free session that helped me understand what the gym entails. The reason I keep coming back is the friendly and smart trainers (I work out with Jesse regularly but have done one offs with many others in the gym) and a very nice and welcoming environment (we don't go a session without having fun conversations with Max and crew). The attention to detail the whole gym has is nice too, I feel like every workout is catered to me and my progression, and I've seen definite results and strength gains that make me excited to go back every time. Their scheduling system also makes it very easy to reschedule/cancel appointments when life events get in the way, and they're always very understanding and happy to make tweaks to help you get in your sessions. read more

I had the opportunity to pick up Stephanie's shifts in early August & just wanted to let the world know that she is a LEGENDARY trainer with how she scales workouts for each of her clients, the efficiency, & overall programming! I was in awe with how much Stephanie is able to give to her clients in such a short period of time, she is able to give each client 6 exercises for 3 sets each in 30min time which is magical because each client told me they love training with her because of her efficiency! So I highly recommend choosing Stephanie to elevate your goals! We are all phenomenal but Stephanie is the !! read more

$320 for 10 sessions, in a private gym with 1 on 1 attention. That right there should get you looking Daves way. He's been state and world champion in the Deadlift many times, and has a wall packed with trophies to prove it. Dave is a BIG guy with a funny soft manner about him. He knows how to get the most out of people, sometimes with gentle coaching and instructions to barking for you to knock out one more rep. He is nice, without being pretentious like the trainers you'll pay a lot more for at 24 hour fitness or where ever else you may go. I'm starting with third cycle with him now, which consists one 30 minute session twice a week. I used to be a body builder, where we would work out for an hour or more, until we totally killed ourselves. Dave believes in strength training, not body building, and yes there is a difference. You'll work on your core a lot more, and you'll never do the same exercise twice in a week, or even twice in 2 weeks. He constantly mixes it up, keeping your body guessing and forcing it at adapt. I've gone from deadlifting hardly 200lbs when I first walked in, to over 400lbs in the 3 months I've been working with him, and I've lost 12lbs to boot. And the real trip is, most of Daves clients aren't like me at all. Over 1/2 of his clients are over 50 and over 1/2 are female. You would think with a world class strength trainer you would see more, ummm, muscle heads in there, but that's not the case. The person before me is a young lady, maybe 25 or so, who just moved here. I'm 38, and then the lady after is me 72 years old and is a life long Oakland resident. Just when you think you got the scoop, nope, Daves not done. He'll give you pointers and tips on everything from getting the right matres and the importance of sleep, to which supplements you can get that are worth the money (no he doesn't sell anything in his gym). The gym is also open on Saturdays when Dave himself trains, and it's open to anyone who wants to come in. I've done it a few times, and it's been totally worth it. Bottom line, I'd pay twice what he charges for what I get. Personal trainers at 24 Hour? Pfft! read more

I've been a member of fancy gyms, including the Bay Club in SF. In many ways, this is the opposite -- no nonsense, high intensity, high information at very reasonable prices. Dave, Michael and Jake are all serious athletes and filled with complementary knowledge on strength and aerobic training as well as stretching (Michael, in particular, has solved problems that sports medicine doctors couldn't.) read more

Old school gym house with modern updates, great for those who want a clean run of weight training! Love these guys!

Ive been going to Powerform for about four years. Its one of the few gyms that allow you to have one on one personal trainer time for 30 minute intervals. I don't have time for an hour. This is strictly weight lifting which I didn't take seriously until I had a baby. Getting your core strength back, reducing potential for injuries while increasing strength is more important then I can express. I'm sorry I didn't take it more seriously in my 20s and 30s. But its not too late! The gym is small, efficient and there's little down time. You are there to work out with your trainer and then get on with your life. I used to dread going because it was so hard. Not anymore. (I admit I still get pretty excited when the next client walks in the door signaling Im almost done. FYI there's no clock on the wall.) The benefits however have shown me that I like what's happening to me AFTER the workouts. I like that I know Im protecting my bones, getting stronger and that makes the rest of my life somehow easier. Riding my bike, walking around, even exercising more during the week is easier because I do weight training at Powerform. Its worth every aching minute...even with less then stellar motivation on my bad days, I can still do 30 mins! read more

I recently started training at Powerform and it's awesome. The gym has exactly what you need: weights, weights, and more weights (plus about a zillion trophies and one very charming snake who I think is pretty much the coolest). Dave knows his stuff inside and out, and cracks me up with his running commentary, plus he strikes me as a genuinely kind person. The workouts are on point - Dave's got my back on keeping form, so I feel free to give all I've got without fearing injury. There's a reason Powerform is all five-star reviews on here. There's nothing fancy or superficial about it - instead, Powerform is efficient without any of the frivolous saunas/ridiculous machismo/other crap you get at some gyms. It's got a good, well-loved feel to it though, which is kind of what you want in the place where you're going to be laughing and gritting your teeth through some of the most challenging stuff your body can do. Whether you're new to working out, getting back into shape (me!), or already built, if you're looking for a gym/trainer, go for it. This place is as near perfect as they come!! read more

Dave delivers awesome results for a reasonable price in amazingly short training sessions. I only see him 30 minutes *a week* but I'm as strong as I've ever been. He really knows how to make efficient use of your time. He's also really good at pushing you enough to get constant improvement without completely exhausting you. I highly recommend you go see him if you want great results without any BS. read more

Trained here while I lived in Rockridge. The trainers are knowledgeable and fun. They accommodated my injuries. I'm an out of shape 62 year old and felt very welcomed! read more

I used to train at 24-hour fitness. I had a good trainer, but found 3 - 1 hour sessions per week to be expensive and time consuming. And I always felt like they were trying to up sell me and get me to spend more money all the time. Dave and Mike at Powerform are fantastic! I have 2 - 30 minute weight training sessions per week and it has been just as effective as when I was going 3 hours per week. Since the gym is basically open from early morning until the evening, they are very flexible with the hours. Dave loves dogs too, so you can bring your pooch to hang out while you train and it ain't no thang. Prices are extremely reasonable also. Looking for an efficient and affordable weight training session to amp up your metabolism over the holidays and into the new year? Check out Powerform! Your muscles will thank you. read more

Affordable and Fun! Most other places are $60-$100 for an hour, and in that hour is 15 min of warmup/warmdown and 15min of stretching. I'm an adult and can do that on my own. Dave charges $30 for a half hour and you get every penny's worth. Private gym to yourself, non-stop work, no filler, and a great personality. Dave doesn't charge enough really. Dave is a fun personal trainer. Not intimidating, he'll converse, joke, instruct, or be quiet, whatever seems to work for you! Dave really makes 6am workouts fun! Finally, Dave gives you what you ask for. I went in asking for some specific help, and he didn't try to sell me anything I wasn't asking for. If you know what you want he's great. Even if you don't know what you want, he's fun to talk to about what he can do. Check out Powerform for a nice kickstart to fitness. Very affordable and loads of fun! read more

I've been working mostly with Max and Kathleen and it's been a fantastic experience. I've gotten stronger and I'm lifting heavier, I've learned a lot more about form and my body's mechanics, and I feel a real sense of accomplishment in the progress I'm making. All the trainers are knowledgeable and supportive, and even since I started 8 months ago Max has made improvements to the gym and equipment. I always look forward to my sessions. I'm really happy I found Powerform. read more

"If you want to change the shape of your body free weights, along with expert assistance is the fastest and best way to do it. So if you're tired of the chrome, silly machines and jerks at your gym you can't do better than Dave and Jennifer at PowerForm. I hope to see you there. " read more

Today was my last day training regularly at Dave's gym because I am leaving the East Bay to take a new job. I started training with Dave a year ago. I was recovering from a broken ankle--two surgeries and months without being able to walk on my right leg. A few months ago, I deadlifted 300x8. I couldn't believe how much my body has changed and the progress I've made on my lifts training with Dave. Thanks to Dave, I've gained confidence, coordination, and overall fitness. He's a mentor, a coach, and a skilled trainer. Stephanie, one of the trainers who works for him, is also fantastic. Make an investment in yourself and try Powerform. You won't regret it. read more

Been working with Dave for years now. It's been great. Dave runs a tight ship and is a non-nonsense trainer with decades of experience.

Both Dave and Michael are expert at formulating a weight training program that suits individual needs. I also found the atmosphere enjoyable, relaxed, and the attention to detail was important for avoiding injury. Great trainers who also are good human beings. P. Black read more

Carrie R 05/02/2013 I am 76 years young. As a result of working with David, I now have a World Record in bench press and three World Records in dead lift. I had not done either of those lifts prior to working with David. He is a world class trainer for all ages. I highly recommend him to those who want to make real progress in your lifting capabilities.. read more

Trained with Michael for lower back pain and overall fitness. He combines personal training using weights and physical therapy using stretching and flexibility. He has a easy going personality and very serious about his discipline. Also like the one on one environment at the gym! read more

I've been working with Michael for more than a year and he is by far the best trainer I've ever had. He's very knowledgeable about physiology; he's great regarding stretching, cardio, and strength-building. As a senior, I need to concentrate on all three areas and Michael keeps me focussed and on track. The gym is not fancy but the training I receive there is top-of-the-line. In addition to his skill level & professionalism, Michael is smart and down-to-earth, easy to relate to and very serious about his work. I heartily recommend him as a trainer. read more

I have been training at this gym for about 4 years. I love Dave Mike and Krista. This is a small no nonsense kind of place. Dave takes you from the basics to whatever you can handle. He has me deadlifting 170# w/ the goal of 200 pds. I keep coming back and find that for someone at the high end of 50 I am firm and toned(especially the bat wing area). I would highly recommend this gym if you are serious about getting fit!!! read more

OMG = I started training with Dave and Michael a couple of weeks ago and I have never had so much fun in going to the gym. I look forward to my twice a week 30mns sessions...They are really pushing you because they know you can. They listen to your body...be honest with them and they will be honest with you. Best money I have ever spent...Can't wait for my next session. read more

I hate gyms but I love Powerform. Nothing beats a one-on-one training session. It's you and Dave and a whole lot of weights. Dave knows what he's doing. I said I wanted to "get muscles" and we were off to the races. Knowledge is key here and everyone knows what they are doing, they listen, they help, they correct and they motivate. I have worked out with Dave, Jennifer, Alex and Stephanie and they are all excellent. I have been going here for almost 2 years and I have no intention of stopping. Come in, be honest about your goals and follow their lead. My 5 star review does not say enough about how much I love this place! read more

I started working out with Dave when I was 50, well over ten years ago and long before he had his own place. I was a classic exercise failure- had joined many gyms with the best of intentions and never stuck with it. I figured if there was a person there waiting for me, I might actually show up and work out. He started me out on a program that was challenging enough to feel I'd done something but easy enough for me to feel like I could do this. All these many years later, I'm still showing up am stronger that I was at 50 and even have definition in places I didn't even know could be defined. The strength and endurance I got from Dave made me feel I could take on other things I had wanted to do but that had always seemed like too much effort like hiking and biking. The big takeaway here is that IT'S NEVER TOO LATE! This is a no-glam, no-nonsense, no frills place, no one will try to sell you anything (nothing there to sell, anyway) and your body will thank you. read more