I was just browsing Instagram, 4 a.m. to be precise, and saw an ad for The Fort. Something about it sparked my interest so I entered my email address for more information. Later that day, at a more appropriate time (not 4 a.m.), Dan reached out and invited me to come see their facility on 21st street. They have two locations, one on 19th street which I've been told is more conditioning, and one on 21st street which is more strength training. Even though I work out regularly via boxing, cardio, hot yoga, krav maga, and lifting weights, I was nervous going to my trial class. I thought I'd be the weakest and look like a wimp in front of all these jacked and strong people at some CrossFit like moment. Fortunately, that was not the case at all! I trained with Kyle and there was no judgement at all (even though I was struggling benching feathers). To be honest, everyone is so busy trying to get the most out of their workouts that they are not concerned about what you are doing. The team is very welcoming and you are immediately motivated to get to work. The reason I wanted to give The Fort a try is because I wanted to get stronger, workout less, and lower my body fat %. I know I only took one class, but I can tell if I keep this up, I will definitely see results a lot faster than what I have been doing. I would say this is for anyone who wants to efficiently get in a workout, see results, and get strong in a friendly environment. I hesitated a bit because I am not a big fan of CrossFit and thought this was another CrossFit facility, but they really are not and they don't market themselves to be. I would say more of a circuit training setup that focuses on strength and conditioning. read more

"Challenge yourself in a unique class" I really enjoyed this Class --- definitely as a break from The Soulcycle, Barry's, or the other chain routines. Not to say those are bad but with the Sleds and Treads class you get something very unique and tailored. What's to cheer - Super small (under 10 people) classes with personalized instructions - Short class options --- great when you don't have time for a long workout ((~30 minutes) - Easy to understand equipment and clear instructions What's to jeer - Facilities are a bit sparse read more

This place is so friendly and up beat. The workouts are super hard, but the support and guidance I get from the small group training adds so much confidence, with the specific instruction for movement patterns and the camaraderie that grows quickly from the overall vibe of this gym. As a female client, I felt super comfortable right away. The staff is great, the friendliest of anyplace I've trained, and so knowledgeable. I guess it's the feeling of being on a team again, the way they run things here, even keeping track of our progress throughout the training program on the leader board, which is basically on all the walls, written with chalk pens. If you are athletic, and love to train, but maybe boated with your current routine, looking to be challenged, or meet other intense, type A athletes, this place is for you! See you on the leader board. read more

I don't think I could ever go back to a regular gym having been at The Fort for 3 years now. The space is perfect, the coaches are knowledgable and very supportive no matter your level of athleticism, and there's just enough accountability to bring out the competitiveness in all of us without ever feeling "shamed". Though looking better and living longer were my primary goals when I joined The Fort, I have been surprised by the strong sense of accomplishment that I have when I leave this gym every time I go. It's addicting. It took me some time to do it, but I was eventually able to convince my wife (girlfriend at the time) to give it a shot as well. She fully embraced every aspect of the gym (the training, atmosphere, coaches, attitude, etc..) and her gains were unbelievable. There's a 1 year transformation post on the Fort's instagram of her - see for yourself. I am not in any way incentivized to post this 5-star review. I am just a paying member of the gym and would love to see other people benefit from this awesome place and the awesome people that work there like I have. read more

If you've ever wondered how Hollywood actors completely transform their bodies for superhero roles, The Fort is essentially that. I started less than 4 months ago and last week a stranger asked me if I worked in fitness -- which I would have taken as sarcasm 4 months ago. The workout programs are fully based in science and the perfect level of challenging intensity. The small group model (never more than 4 in a group) creates accountability and community -- much more productive and enjoyable than 1-on-1 personal training in my opinion. The owners and coaches make sure you walk in with a smile and out with a (much sweatier) smile every single session. The only thing I regret is not joining sooner. Total life changer. read more

This is an awesome gym and one I actually like going to. I've been consistently trying to work out for 10+ years and have never been able to find the motivation. The Fort has helped me solve this with great programming and great coaches! read more

Tired of gyms where they pack people in like sardines? Well the fort is for you. Classes are kept intentionally small so that staff can give attention to clients . The community here is close and the workouts are challenging and change every month so that one never really gets bored. In addition, they keep track of how much you lift so there is no guesswork when you show up for a workout. So if you are seeking an elevated fitness experience this is the spot for you. I've been a member for 1 year. read more

The Fort is a one of a kind experience!!! I've decided to take my health and fitness more seriously and enrolled in my local gym, however was discouraged with the lack of direction and guidance. I was on Instagram one day, and came across The Fort. I loved what they post, but when I click their website link and read the back story of how The Fort came about and what they do I was amazed and excited. I went to meet with the Founder, and check out their space that same day and started the next day! The coaching, guidance, small group program, amazing gym equipment, clean facilities that the Fort has is top tier! And FYI, I traveled from Long Island to The Fort (Manhattan) 5am to be apart this winning environment, and people with a drive to better themselves. Best gym hands down! read more

just did my first session for my trial, excited to come back! Intense but worth it: the coach was excellent at showing me the ropes for each of the exercises and being patient! read more

I first visited The Fort in 2016, soon after they opened their doors a few months before. I didn't know what to expect so I was slightly nervous and hesitation to show up but I had heard the owners, Dan and Kyle, were extremely knowledgeable, the best of the best and that I would be like nothing I had ever experienced before. That day, is a day I will never forget. Not only did I have an exceptional workout, I learned how to properly deadlift for the first time, I realized how strong I was and even was able to put some serious weight on the bar in my first session. We started with a smart warmup that made sense for the strength we were preparing to do. After the main strength portion, we did some supporting movements and ended with conditioning which was challenging and rewarding at the same time. I left feeling like a different person. I joined the gym that day and started coming as much as possible. I developed strength, I lost body fat and improved my marathon time by 23 minutes. Now, fast forward 3 years later and my life is completely different. I am stronger, happier and still rely on The Fort for my daily dose of strength. If you're hesitant like I was to check it out, that's okay. Do yourself a favor and just see for yourself. You won't regret it. read more

The Fort - Gyms Near Me - New York, New York

I've been a member at the Fort for a couple months now, and I love everything about it! The trainers are best in class; they are knowledgeable, clear, attentive, welcoming and really want you to succeed. The programming is extremely well-designed, and the 4-week program format really helps to keep things fresh and exciting. There's something to challenge you everyday, and the work outs can be scaled for beginners. It's super fun and manageable, and I always leave in a better mood than when I came in - regardless if I'm lifting the lightest weights in the class. The trainers pay attention and encourage growth; your metrics are tracked so you keep yourself on track and push for gains. The 4-person class maximum at the strength gym is great because you do get the benefit of personalized instruction/supervision while benefitting from a team atmosphere. Everyone in the community is nice, friendly and works damn hard. I stumbled upon this gym on social media because I was looking to take my fitness to the next level. I was running and doing body weight/dumbbell workouts regularly on my own; I plateaued on my weight loss goals and knew that the way I was working out wasn't sustainable. I wanted to get stronger and leaner, and I was looking to train with a gym since I was intimidated to do barbells workouts on my own. I was debating getting a personal trainer, but I'm so happy that I found the Fort instead! The membership is worth it because you can literally replace your gym membership, personal trainer or other fitness classes with it. I lost weight almost immediately after joining and found the workouts to be so much more enjoyable than the repetitive and grueling cardio and strength workouts I was doing on my own. The Fort takes a more comprehensive approach to fitness and delivers an elevated workout regimen that produces results! Would recommend the gym to anyone! Their new run gym is also fantastic if you're a runner, love running or want to take your running to the next level. I tried one class there and felt like I should have gotten a medal at the end of it. It's an amazing workout and will challenge you mentally and physically! The sleds were new to me - they are super fun and definitely gets your heart rate going. The atmosphere is motivating and makes me feel like I'm at speed school or working out with a team. read more

The best gym in town! I love training here! The group atmosphere is motivating. Every trainer is professional and guides every exercise to ensure safety. I feel so much stronger every time I leave here. read more

"You Will Get Hurt" is their motto - literally. Let me preface this review by saying that I work out 5 days a week often with a personal trainer, I'm knowledgeable about working out and I'm in very good shape. I always vet new places to exercise/train and walked in here one morning to check it out. I met one of the co-owners and some trainers. It seemed interesting and I liked the vibe. I signed up for an early morning class. I arrived 10 minutes early and the gym was not yet opened. When the trainer finally arrived, he did not greet me or ask any questions. I introduced myself, asked for his name (Kyle) and gave a little history of why I was there. He didn't ask me my name, anything about me, assess me or tell me how the class was going to progress or what we were going to do. I liked the idea of a small group class so workouts can be intense but safe so I won't get hurt.   He looked me straight in the eye and said, "You will get hurt."  I thought this was a little odd but gave him the benefit of the doubt, thinking that he meant I will work hard, it will be intense and I'll be sore. He kept saying that I will probably get hurt. Still assuming he meant it would be intense, I proceeded. We did a stretch and then he said he was going to throw the medicine ball. Like I said, I'm not a novice to training. Kyle launched the ball right into my face.  I said: "You threw the ball in my face." Kyle: "You missed the ball." I said: "You threw the ball and hit my face" Kyle: "I told you you'd get hurt." I said: I'm leaving. Kyle: "Okay."  At that point, I realized something was not right about this person, I gathered my things and left. I realized I wasn't safe there on many levels. I want to alert people about my experience with this place -- especially women. read more

The Fort is the gym experience I have always wanted, but truly didn't think existed. The perfect blend of smart programming, personalized attention, yet rooted with great people bringing together an unstoppable community. You will push yourself to new limits every single workout and gain strength both in body and mind! read more

I've been training with the Fort virtually since last summer and have had the pleasure of going in person when I've been in town. The training here is tough, but fun; most importantly, it is highly evidence based, driven by data and expertise, which I appreciate. As such, you get results. While probably more expensive than a traditional gym, if you're serious about training for whatever purposes (for me, it is to make me a better runner and I just like a tough workout!), then this is the place for you. Dan, Kyle, Jess and the other staff care immensely about your workout and it shows. I started with them because I wanted to become a better runner and have found a whole new hobby (lifting!) that I enjoy, too. I guess you could say I also now really love doing burpees, as well. Anyways, I can't say enough good things about them and wish we had one in Nashville (HINT HINT). read more

I've been to a ton of gyms in NYC and this is by far the best place to train. It comes down to 2 things 1) the coaches- they know their stuff and truly care about every individual that walks in the door and 2) the programs - smart training that will help you improve in every aspect of fitness (mental and physical strength, mobility, endurance). Can't recommend The Fort enough! read more

This is my favorite place on earth. The program and workouts push you to be stronger physically and emotionally. The people and the community in the gym is positive and contagious..makes you want to be there everyday!! read more

The best gym in NYC. Smart, knowledgeable staff. Awesome community. The small groups really lend themselves to attentive coaching. And they deliver what very few other fitness facilities in the City can - results. If you want to get leaner, stronger, improve your movement and build confidence in a supportive environment this is the gym you've been looking for. read more

The Fort is one of the most incredibly thoughtful and meticulous fitness facilities I've ever been in. Whether you're a novice or an experienced athlete, their training programs will improve your endurance, strength and body composition with fun & challenging workouts. Small groups make each session feel personalized, and the culture and community is supportive and friendly. I can't recommend them enough! read more

I went once to see about their "Free Trial" and this place is in a basement, with management literally taking ZERO covid precautions. NOT ONE PERSON WAS WEARING A MASK. Not even the staff. Incredibly unprofessional. I couldn't go back after that. Also the workout was a big fat MEHHH. Coaches barely paid attention or taught my group anything. This was my experience. read more

I searched "gyms near me" after about a year of not going to a gym, and after I had recovered from surgery for 6 weeks. The Fort showed up and peaked my interest, although a semi-private gym was not something I had considered initially. Dan and Kyle and all the coaches are mad cool and helpful. I completed the trial and was hooked. It's intense and you get out what you put in. I have not once shown up to The Fort feeling confident, but I always leave feeling like a badass. I love the team-oriented aspect (and competition) that comes with working out in small groups. It's also great that there are two locations on the same street: one for conditioning and one for strength. Strangely (or, more accurately, predictably), I've seen improvements in all other areas of my life as well since joining: mental, physical, emotional, academic, professional, you name it. I consider myself self-disciplined, but that self-discipline waned on the daily since last January. Joining the Fort has made me relight that fire and feel it every single day, which is just so cool. I'm so grateful. read more

I joined the Fort upon the recommendation of a friend who had started a month before. My only regret is that I hadn't joined sooner. I've had a personal trainer for four years, been a member at Equinox, and tried out many other gyms in the city. Hands down the Fort is the best workout and community that I've had. I'm always excited to go to class, and in spite of how tough the workouts are, I never dread going. I love that arms feel like jelly and my legs feel noodles every time I walk out of their gym. The coaches are all so knowledgeable and encouraging and the other members I have been nothing but welcoming and friendly. I had no idea that there were so many genuinely nice people in my city. In my opinion my time at the Fort has been so much more effective than my personal training sessions. The small group setting is designed so that you are able to get individualized attention and form correction while maintaining accountability to the group. If you're looking for tough workout overseen by amazingly knowledgeable and supportive coaches with the added benefit of members who are part of a true community the Fort is the place for you. read more