Discovering Project 13 Gyms has been the most impactful and rewarding aspect of my fitness journey over the past 2 years. Results - One of the reasons I keep coming back to this place is that the workouts are simply highly effective. I was going to other places 4 or 5 times I week and still not seeing results. Those places might make you leave feeling sweaty and tired, but that doesn't always mean you will see results in terms of muscle growth and strength. The workouts at P13 are built around the core movements and lifting heavy, without trying to keep up with every new fitness fad or trendy new thing. They keep it simple and effective, with an emphasis on the primary compound lifts such as squat, deadline, and bench press. Community - The community at this gym is unlike anything I've ever seen. It's a mix of people from all experience levels, personality types, and ages that come together and bond over their shared love of fitness. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. Because of the nature of these workouts, which often involves heavy sets and periods of rest in between, you'll find yourself chatting up with others during rest breaks or spotting each other during a bench press. This helps foster a great community that often hosts great events informally and formally outside the gym. In the past, they've had bowling outings, hikes, wine nights, trivia nights, board game nights and more. It's great to way to meet new people or spend time with your workout buddies outside of the gym. Trainers - the two instructors (Jared and Michael) are amazing. I'm impressed and how quickly and easily they remember everyone's name and get to know each person so well. While there are a lot of advanced lifters at this gym, they do an excellent job of making beginners feel comfortable and avoid risk of injuries in their workouts. These classes are small, so I love that I can ask A LOT of questions about form, training methods, etc. without disrupting the class or bothering them too much. Other random tidbits: Equipment used - they have a ton of equipment available, which is like being a kid in the toy store. This helps keep the classes interesting with a ton of variety. Some of the equipment used include: barbells, kettlebells, dumbbells, benches, pull up bars, boxes (for box jumps or step ups), assault bikes, ski ergs, rowers, pull up rings, sleds, resistance bands and straps, and I'm sure more that I'm forgetting. Schedule - the schedule is easy to follow as each day is always dedicated to a certain type of workout regardless of the time, such as Monday is legs and Tuesday is upper body. This helps ensure that your muscles get the appropriate rest in between and helps you get on a consistent schedule. If you're not sure if this place is right for you, you can try it out on ClassPass or checkout their website for special intro offers. read more

See all

I've lived in the city for a long time and have worked out my entire life and this is the best gym I've ever been to. I'm the strongest I've ever been and had the most fun getting here. (I think 3 -4 years) The programming is thoughtful and the weight lifting movements are safe, not jerky. They focus on form, not speed. ( I can do 11 real pull ups!) There are all types of people, bodies, ages and athletic levels here and we work out together. It's so much fun I come here 5 days a week. Community over competition. I love the instructors, Michael and Jared, so much and they are such knowledgeable and caring people. This is quite literally my favorite business in the USA and It's keeping me in SF. Whatever your fitness/ health goals are, this is your place. read more

Thomas And Michael run the gym..it's Thomas's gym and Thomas is really great . His workouts are varied and different and he has his methods. he runs classes everyday no excuse..patient diligent focused ..great gym anyway of the week Upper body lower body conditioning it's great read more

I've been to a lot of gyms over the past 30 years living in San Francisco - from the now-defunct ClubOne in the 90s to about a thousand spin classes, TRX clubs, strength gyms, YMCA, open water swim clubs, Bay Club, etc. A great gym has a great community that inspires you to work out regularly under the guidance of committed fitness professionals. Project 13 does that better than anybody. I started there before covid, took the long break, and am happy to be back. The coaches/owners Michael, Thomas and Jared know everyone's name, their goals, any injuries to be accommodated, and understand why their members are there. There is zero attitude among existing members and everyone welcomes new people. The workout is challenging and varied with alternating upper and lower days and conditioning days, including the incredibly fun Team Conditioning session on Saturday mornings that is as fun a ziplining through the jungle in Costa Rica (if you like team cardio mixed with kettle bells, wall balls, squats, loud music and camaraderie). The street appeal on Bush between Van Ness and Polk does not reveal the clean and inviting gym you find upstairs, so no one should judge this place on a drive-by. Like many people, I could workout at home, but usually don't. There is some synergy that happens at Project 13 that creates many loyal and committed members, and it is all run from the top down by folks who care about anyone that comes to their gym. read more

Project 13 is a gem in this area. Nate is phenomenal. I was visiting and came for two classes, and the strength and conditioning programming is challenging and fun. As a visitor, the community immediately jumps out as a big highlight and everyone is really nice! Can't wait to drop in again! Cool to see that the space seems to be growing. This space is a delight. read more

Joining this gym almost 3 years ago -- amidst and through a pandemic -- was one of the best decisions I made when I moved to SF. Coaches Thomas and Michael are attentive, detail oriented, yet chill/not pushy all at the same time. I've tried it all (Barry's, Orange Theory, etc.) and this gym, it's community, and coaches exceeded all my expectations. Every day is different and focuses on either lower, upper, or cardio. One of my favorite parts about this gym is the focus on strength, cardio, AND mobility. It's truly a great place to work out and Im thankful to have found it a few years ago. Thank you, Thomas and Michael! read more

Top-notch trainers, engaging classes, welcoming community, and a great workout. These folks really care about their members - they aren't just numbers to them. Can't wait for them to expand to more locations! PS: The online HIIT classes during COVID are great! Love the weekend workouts outside as well. read more

Great people, knowledgeable friendly trainers who put a lot of care and attention into individual attendees (form check - check). I always feel GREAT after working out here. I tend to not feel competitive or goal-oriented with my workouts, but they find a way to ignite my motivation to push myself harder. And not in a forced manner like other culty gyms. They're just real people giving participants metrics and benchmarks as guidelines, and I think the class size is perfect - not so big that you feel lost and invisible, and not so small that you feel singled out. Only gripe is with the locker room/shower...no fancy hair dryers or soap/shampoo/conditioner/sanitary products/hair ties/towels, so either bring all your own stuff or don't plan to shower here. Despite that, I still give this place a glowing 5-star review because the exercise and people are phenomenal. read more

I've been coming to Project 13 for about half a year now, and I'm loving this place. Thomas and Nate, who are the founders, are some of the best instructors that I've had. They are super nice and have impeccable memory (they remembered my name after meeting me just once and remembered my previous injuries). During the workouts, they explain everything in great detail and demonstrate how movements should be done. They are quick to correct your form and also offer up alternatives in the event that you have an injury or cannot do the movement for whatever reason. For lack of a better description, I would say the exercises here are similar to Crossfit, but without so many explosive movements. (No big emphasis on handstand pushups, snatches, box jumps, etc). If there are explosive movements like snatches, it's more of a strength portion where the focus is on form, and not on doing as many reps as possible. If they are trying to go AMRAP, then they are likely having you do it with dumbbells and at a lower weight. My observation has been that perhaps Nate and Thomas are aware of the injury-prone nature of some Crossfit exercises, so they have modified their programming to avoid that. Their workouts alternate among Upper Body, Lower Body, and Conditioning, depending on the day. Conditioning days will be cardio work on a machine (row, ski, or bike) and some body weight movements. Upper Body and Lower Body days have more of a focus on those areas, obviously, but they also offer up two different types of workouts on those days: - a workout that is VERY upper/lower body strength focused (the males who attend usually do this) - a workout that is more total body with a slight emphasis on upper/lower body (the females who attend usually do this) Example: (for upper body day) Heavy barbell bench presses for those who want to focus on the upper body OR push ups + dumbbell bicep curls who those who want more total body work They incorporate a couple mobility exercises at the end of each workout, too. The mobility exercises are supposed to help you with the workouts that are done at Project 13, and also, to counteract some of the tightness/mobility issues that we get from living our everyday modern life. They genuinely care about your overall health! Also, everyone who comes is really friendly and not standoffish as I've found at other gyms. People will usually come at the same time everyday (what up evening crew), so you start recognizing the same faces and learning names. read more

This is a great gym! Truly welcoming. Extra thanks to Michael for answering my many questions! Their classes allow you to have that personal training experience in a group setting. The workout is as hard as you make it, and they are very knowledgeable and accommodating of injuries. The gym is upstairs off the street which is nice, and the bathroom and shower are clean and spacious enough. Overall the class had a great chill, non-competitive atmosphere which I appreciated as well. Thanks P13! read more

Great little place to do weightlifting classes! Michael is a really cool and attentive coach. I feel like every time I go my form and technique improve a bit. It can get challenging but I always feel good after. read more

The depth of care, intention, and energy the owners, Nate and Thomas, put into the programming and community at P13 is unparalleled. As a chiropractor, I trust these guys to take care of people who want to push their limits without getting hurt. They promote a comprehensive program that strengthens your body with training sessions that incorporate lifting, core stability, mobility, and cardio. The physical benefits are a gateway to even deeper layers of the work as it opens into mindset, nutrition and a huge emphasis on community. The world needs more people doing life like these guys. They give, love and serve out of abundance and the world is better off with P13 building better humans. read more

I joined as a member in early January 2019 and I am hooked! It is truly a welcoming community with all the members on their own path, but encouraging. I love how each day focuses on different parts of the body and throw in a bit of conditioning! I truly feel stronger than ever and you get that personal training touch that you usually do not get in other group workout classes! Nate and Thomas are super patient and will do everything they can to ensure you get the best out of certain movements. If you have an injury or anything, they will accommodate you. Saturday mornings are my favorite because no matter what, the class will have you leaving feeling like you can conquer the world and ready to rock the weekends! read more

I'm so glad I found Project 13. I feel like Coaches Nate and Thomas have made the effort to get to know me, and all the members. They give the specific technical cues and encouragement (or caution) that I need. The programming is a great mix of strength (barbell, dumbbell, kettlebell, med ball) mobility and conditioning. I've also loved the members - glad I get to spend an hour every day with such friendly folk. It's not just hard work. It's fun. read more

I'd give 6 stars if I could. I followed these trainers from their last location because their training and community is better than any else in San Francisco. If you're looking for a new gym in SF, look no further than Project 13! read more

Thomas & Nate are the most genuine, passionate, and skilled individuals I've met in this industry. They are more than trainers - they are mentors, friends, and coaches who push you to be a better version of yourself in and out of the gym. As someone who has been focusing on fitness for a few years I felt like I was still struggling to find a place where I could feel supported and challenged consistently. I tried the one-off bootcamp classes, spin, yoga, running for a bit but I really could not find the community I was craving (as much as some of the places like to tout their "tribe" in their branding). Project 13 gyms is real, it's genuine, and it's challenging (in a good way ;)). I've pushed myself out of my comfort zone several times and but I've only seen good things come out from it. If you were like me a year ago, you may be intimidated by all the weights and machines but trust that showing up will be completely worth it. read more

What can I say that hasn't yet been said? Nate, Thomas and team have put their heart and soul into making P13 a great place to find challenging workout and a thoughtful community. If you're new to strength training you're in good hands. If you're an old pro then come for the workouts. read more

I had trained before with Nate and Thomas at their last gym and was excited that they were opening their own location! Project 13 is a fun group training environment where no two days are the same, making it sustainable, challenging, and exciting to workout here. Each workout starts with a 10-15 minute warm up to ensure safe training. After that you work through various sets to improve cardio and upper and lower body strength. I personally am dealing with a back injury and Nate and Thomas are quick to offer modifications and exercises that will help make me stronger. Highly recommend checking this gym out! read more

This review is LONG overdue! I started working out at Project 13 in February 2019 with a bad back injury, a lot of extra weight and no confidence in the gym. Nate and Thomas instantly welcomed me in, made an effort to get to know me, and took my injury into consideration with every movement the group was doing and modified for me. With their help, I regained strength in my core, lost 25 pounds, and am comfortable in the gym again. Nate and Thomas have created so much more than a gym. The community they've created is one full of people who just want to be the best version of themselves. There are monthly happy hours, book clubs, dinner parties and even the workouts are a good time. To sum it up.. the workouts are hard. Nate and Thomas are highly educated, passionate trainers, make working out fun, and are just genuinely kind people. The community is engaging and full of awesome humans. Project 13 is a rare find! read more

Great spot. Nate and Thomas have a special thing going here! After years of Crossfit, I was looking for a gym to lift heavy things and do challenging workouts with a community vibe without the unrealistic movement standards. They've nailed it! read more

I took my first class yesterday and I am going back this morning. Definitely check out this place if you want a fun, personalized group training experience! The community seemed really connected and I look forward to going back more! I definitely can tell you coming from someone who worked in fitness for 13+ yrs, these guys know what they are doing and will get you RESULTS If you commit to being consistent! read more

The best gym, community and workout you'll find in SF! Being new into city - and trying a lot of different gyms - joining Project 13 has been the best decision I've made since moving. Nate and Thomas are not only the nicest guys in the business - they also live and breathe what they do and no one does it better. Their passion is contagious both within a group and individual setting - with consistent focus on providing you the best experience possible every time you're in the gym. Their workouts are as equally thoughtful as they are challenging, and applicable for everyone. Don't hesitate! read more

It has been a great year working out with Nate and Thomas, and the P13 friends. Each training session is filled with positive vibes, focused training and a fun experience -- their energy is always inspiring and catching! Their training philosophy is oriented around connecting our mind and body in order to gain strength, mobility and endurance--while giving you a solid work out on the row/bike/ski/weights. They really get to know you and your goals (even if its to get in a sweaty work out). They also have great movement tips and skill-building on social, which has helped me with flexibility. read more

Believe the hype. I've checked out a bunch of different gyms since moving to SF a few years back and Nate and Thomas take the cake. They just opened up a new studio that's even nicer than their previous awesome studio. Nate and Thomas know every member by name and new guests are welcomed with open arms and taught the proper way to do the exercises, preventing injury. Every class is different and the energy is always high and lots of high-fives and cheering for each other. Give it a shot! read more

I love project 13. I have been working the founders, Thomas and Nate, for over 3 years and really love the workouts, challenge, and environment they've created. All workouts are different and are the perfect mix of cardio, strength and mobility work. Their goal is to individualize each day to your personal goals and train for longevity read more

Joining Project 13 Gyms was one of the best decisions I've made. My first workout with Nate and Thomas wasn't even at their current location, but at Lyon Street Steps. It was one of the best workouts I've done, and it was then that I realized this was the type of training I needed at this stage of my life. Nate and Thomas are very experienced in all types of training, and they will help you achieve whatever fitness goals you have all in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment. Their motto is "Building Better Humans", and I can truly say that I've grown not only in my fitness, but also with my nutrition, sleep, and mental health as well. They have monthly happy hours and other networking/social events to really solidify the great community they built. The first class is free! I highly recommend checking this gym out! read more

Meeting Nate and Thomas and working out at Project 13 has been life changing for me...After playing sports in college, I spent the last 9 years working out at 24 Hour Fitness and until I joined Project 13, had forgotten how I missed the camaraderie of working out with great people that push you to work hard and get better everyday. Nate and Thomas have built a great culture that reminds me of what it was like while I was playing at USC...amazing coaches who care about you and push you to work hard while in the gym but also challenge you to think differently about your habits, sleep and nutrition to reach your ultimate goals. read more

This gym hasn't even opened yet and I'm already compelled to write a review! These guys (Nate and Thomas) are passionate, super motivating, and go out of their way to build a community that feels welcoming, whether you're a newbie, or someone that's been lifting for years. A testament to their passion is the fact that the community they developed, helped to literally BUILD the equipment in their new gym. Cannot wait to train with my fit fam and become a better (more fit) human in the process. Check out this place, trust me you won't be disappointed :) read more

I signed up for an unlimited membership before even trying out a class because of all the great things I had heard about the coaching. It's been a month since I joined and I'm beyond thrilled that I did ! Thomas and Nate offer the right amount of support, encouragement, and push! I always leave the gym having learned something and feeling accomplished. The programming is a good mix of strength mobility and conditioning. Also all the members here are super friendly and welcoming! read more

Project 13 is an amazing place! I recently joined after training at a previous gym and the difference is palpable in many ways. It is clear that Thomas and Nate genuinely care about every person who walks through the door - whether it's your very first visit or you're a long-time member. Nate and Thomas are enthusiastic about each class and provide a positive, supportive, and motivating atmosphere. Both Nate and Thomas are very conscious of form and ensuring everyone is comfortable with the workout. They always offer modifications or alternatives if a certain movement is not for you. I also appreciate the attention to detail in terms of programming. Every 6 weeks has a different focus, so you can track your progress and improvement. Previously, I was working out and felt like I was improving, but had no way to really know - thanks to Project 13, now I do! I've also noticed that I never watch the clock to check when the class is over. Each class always keeps me engaged, challenged and focused. Finally and importantly, the culture at Project 13 is warm and welcoming. I look forward to being a Project 13 member for many years to come. I wholeheartedly recommend Project 13 and suggest that you try it out! read more

Best gym/fitness studio I've ever been to! This is one of few places that makes me feel a little like I'm back in the varsity weight room or conditioning workouts in college - working hard and smart along side a team with quality, knowledgeable and motivating coaches. Nate and Thomas have done an amazing job establishing a genuine and welcoming community. Workouts are fun, varied, effective and can be tweaked based on ability and fitness. They also follow a program that is great for members but also works well for those who come occasionally. Another great thing about P13 is the diversity (including age range and gender balance) - the crowd here is definitely more diverse than what I see at most other studios and I think it's indicative of the inclusive community here. I can go on with the many other great things but you just have to give it a try yourself! Only con is it's not closer to my house :) read more

I love this gym. The gym owners and the members are friendly, and the workouts are intense in the best sense of the word. You're constantly moving from stretching, to a pre workout warm up, the workout, then a cool down workout of sorts. This is a full hour of movement and activity. I wouldn't say it's hard in terms of degree of difficulty, but the programming has you sore the next day. I'm really happy I started here, it's been my favorite gym in San Francisco over the past three years (I've tried 5). read more

I stopped in here for the first time recently and I confirmed the 5 star reviews are well-deserved. Thomas and Nate are the owners and the coaches of the gym and it shows that they care. Great equipment, personalized workouts, and a friendly environment. Little things go a long way - like having everyone introduce themselves, and constructing workouts with a partner. It felt like an hour of fun, not a workout. If you're considering it definitely come try a class. read more

Project 13 has become my sanctuary of stability after moving to SF from Sydney, Australia. Nate and Thomas have built an amazing community that is welcoming and supportive. They also provide the best coaching and fitness programming I have experienced: a great balance of strength, conditioning and mobility. In the past I have trained in group classes like F45 and with personal trainers, none of it compares to the experience at P13! I am no athlete, but I am always amazed by how much my fitness if improving and truly believe I can achieve any goal I set myself under the guidance of Nate and Thomas, and with the support of the P13 community! read more

I hadn't really lifted weights since I was in high school, and had been intimidated about joining a gym. Project 13 has made my gym experience really great! The community and, Thomas and Nate are very supportive. I get individualized guidance ensuring that I'm doing the exercises right so as not to hurt myself. Since joining I feel healthier and stronger! read more

During the COVID-19 pandemic I've been fortunate to be able to participate in Nate's online live HIIT classes twice and I really have enjoyed them! Great variety of challenging exercises, feedback, and an excellent workout. I also appreciate that the workouts are challenging without leading to injury. read more

I am so happy that I have come across Nate and Thomas (the coaches). They are fitness experts and have done so much to help me get healthier. They offer a workout that is second to none and customize it for my injuries and limitations. If you are in the market for a new gym, look no further! read more

Project 13 is the best! It's everything you want personal training to be, but with a great community of people and even better programming that absolutely works. Unlike many gyms, it's a judgement free environment filled with encouragement and genuinely kind people. I love it and look forward to going every day. You will too! read more

It's difficult to articulate into words the kind of impact Nate and Thomas' coaching has had on my life. I've been training with them for over 2 years and not only am I leaner and stronger than I've ever been, but I have developed a sincere love for exercise, increased confidence in my body's capabilities (still can't believe I can do pull-ups now!) and made some of my closest friends along the way. What makes Project 13 stand out in the sea of SF gyms is the people. Joy is a core pillar of what Nate and Thomas have created and I am confident that anyone who attends a class at P13 will agree - it's been 2 years of 5 days/week training and I know I still do read more

I was lucky enough to stumble upon Project 13. P13 embodies the aspects of a gym that I look for: good community, good equipment, good programming and great coaches. Nate and Thomas go above and beyond to make your experience at P13 exceptional. Programming is excellent, provides good mix of cardio and strength conditioning. Members themselves are wonderful people that make the experience enjoyable. read more