I started working out with TWR in late October of last year after availing myself of the Yelp offer on this page (which you should as well). After my fourth workout, I was sufficiently impressed to sign up for a year. It probably comes as no surprise given the number of 5 star reviews here, but, yes, these guys are that good. When you first walk in the front door (after trekking up three surly flights of stairs), the hive of activity that awaits you can be a little overwhelming. There are literally bodies in motion all around you. It will become clear in time that there is a method to the madness and that the apparent chaos is organized and carefully orchestrated. As others have mentioned, TWR's strongest suit is its trainers. Ron, DB and Matt are incredibly personable, caring and dedicated to their craft. Even as they push you to new lengths in incredibly-challenging and creative workouts, you will find that they truly care about your personal well being. I was also surprised at how closely they are able to keep tabs on me given their large client base. Matt always seems to know exactly how much I lifted in a move from last week, DB always has an eye on my form (even when I thought he wasn't watching) and Ron always knows if I've eaten cleanly for the week or not One anecdote that will illustrate how much these guys care -- I was out of commission for about 10 days with the flu in early December and after a couple of days, I started getting e-mails from the guys checking up on me. And when I was back on my feet, I could see that they were genuinely happy to see me. The last thing I'll say about TWR is that the atmosphere is very unique. There is a real espirit de corps and family environment with all of your fellow trainees. There is definitely a feeling of being in it together, which is spectacular and very motivating. And the manner in which TWR trains -- each trainer trains multiple clients simultaneously -- means that their per session rates are VERY price competitive (probably less than half the cost of most personal training alternatives). Hope that convinces you to give TWR a shot. It's one of the best things I've ever done for myself. read more

I originally started training with Ron 4 years go for my wedding. I had also been putting off a scheduled knee surgery and waited until my wedding and honeymoon were both over to have it done. In the year prior to the wedding, Ron helped me to get in shape and completely worked around my bad knees. He was amazing at finding ways for me to lose weight and build muscle without further injuring my bad knees. After my surgery I didn't know what would happen once I recovered. But during my recovery, for the first time in my life, I found myself really missing exercise, but especially the training with Ron. I wasn't just burning calories when I was working out, I felt good all over. It improved my confidence, my self esteem and my general mental wellness. So after the surgery, I came back to Ron, and the two other fabulous trainers, D.B. and Matt. It has been over 2 years this time around and I can do so much more than I ever could before. I have lost 14 pounds, and gone down 2 pants sizes. More importantly, I have been able to keep it off. The best part is that I actually enjoy exercising. Before Ron I had never exercised in any kind of formal way. I hated exercise and could only force myself to take brisk walks to try to lose weight. At Train with Ron the workout is different every time so there is nothing to fear or dread. Even when I am tired at the end of a long day, I look forward to going. I love the small group dynamic because it is never competitive and always supportive. I only compete with myself as I get stronger and become more adept at certain "Moves".The trainers care about you and work around your specific needs, while challenging you to get stronger. It really is a community of people working out together. You get to know everyone, and help them to celebrate their goals and achievements. Train with Ron has absolutely changed my life in so many positive ways. I only wish I had discovered it earlier! read more

My story -- I was always someone that had shied away from gyms in general, crowds in general, and had never lifted weights or been on a regular fitness routine. Then a few years back after shedding some weight by eating frozen TV dinners I tried Lakeshore Athletic club personal training. Although an OK start to strength training, I never felt comfortable that the trainers I worked with really pushed you hard or knew what was truly effective for results -- there was always a lot of second guessing going on. In stark contrast the trainers at Train With Ron clearly have depth of experience and are also clearly trying to better their own techniques and knowledge -- nothing feels stale nor do they seem to ever be bored training you. Unlike other places I've been to all the trainers are equally great to work with such that I don't care who I wind up with when I show up. The workouts are intense and you always have a large amount of endorphins following one because of that intensity (if you have ever run a 5k you know what I'm talking about). I myself had lost some weight on my own but never had figured out the long term solution to lose the last 40 pounds to reach my final goal weight nor had I figured out a good way to be "fit for life". Now I'm well on my way -- only 20 lbs away from an ideal weight/body fat %. (having started at 265 lbs and now 200) My body in general is clearly significantly stronger and my mind is clearly working better as a result of that. For someone who is more of an introvert -- it is nice that it is a small intimate environment where everyone is so tired/beatup by the trainers that everyone pretty much ignores everyone else and gawking is kept to a minimum :) The people here work hard without exception, and when you finally are able to take a breather to socialize the clientèle that TWR attracts seems consistently friendly and cordial. read more

Not quite sure how to even start to "review" Train With Ron and their incredible staff. Mo & I have always worked out at gyms & have seen personal trainers "in action" at the various gyms, but we never quite saw their purpose. However, this all changed when we ran into Ron 5 years ago & decided to give TWR a shot. Well, we're still there & can't even begin to express our gratitude, admiration, and appreciation for all three trainers. They each bring a unique style to training and regardless of who you train with, you'll always leave feeling your best (physically and mentally) and anxious to come back. They watch your every move to be sure your form is correct & they're constantly motivating you with their words of encouragement. Yes, they challenge you, INDIVIDUALLY, somehow they have the incredible ability to push you to YOUR limits and know exactly what you need. Going to TWR is like a good drug....you can never get enough yet all side effects are fantastic for you. Between the two of us we've had numerous injuries where we thought we wouldn't be able to train while healing. However, Dale, Matt, and Ron worked around each and every limitation/injury and we consistently got amazing workouts. We've trained for God knows how many sessions these last 5 years yet we've NEVER EVER had the same workout. Training here is like being with your family. It seriously is a small community where everyone is welcoming, constantly encouraging, and friends. read more

I have been working out at Train with Ron for 3 years now. I am 38 years old and have worked out my entire adult life. The results and the friendships I've attained from Train with Ron are unlike anything I could have ever imagined. Ron, DB and Matt are the three best trainers I've ever had and i've had many. They all posses unique skills and combined they can transform any client into the ultimate physical specimen. I've seen so many clients male and female alike attain amazing results it's really inspiring. At TWR it is not your usual gym with people wearing headphones and random trainers. It's 3 of the most quality people you will ever meet, motivating groups of clients who in turn motivate each other in a fun environment. Everyone under that roof becomes a friend, trainer and client alike. I've tried P90x. I've tried the Insanity workout. TWR has given me better results in a setting I look forward to being in. So weather your someone who wants to add a kick ass workout to your routine a couple days a month, or someone who wants to get the best unlimited training deal there is and achieve the results you thought only Hollywood celebrities can get. I can't recommend TWR enough!! read more

If you are looking for a way to raise the bar on the quality and effectiveness of your workouts, I highly recommend Train with Ron. I started training at TWR for 6 months ago...once a week with Matt as part of the Pure Steel (upper body weight training) program, and then quickly moved to twice a week to diversify my workouts to include lower body, cardio and core. I have always been an avid weight lifter, but in the recent months I have developed musculature and strength that compare to my college athlete days of over 20 years ago! The workouts keep me challenged and motivated to achieve new goals on a regular basis. This is not only due to the content of the workouts, but all 3 trainer's (Matt, DB and Ron) ability to work with each client to provide an hour of exercise that matches the level of an individual's fitness as well as their personal objectives. I have to admit that there were things I saw other clients doing in the early weeks of training that I thought I could never do...but now I can! Thanks to the guys, I have a renewed sense of enjoyment for making every workout count and setting the bar a little higher each month! read more

This is the best workout ever! I started going to Ron before my wedding to look good in my dress and I've just celebrated my 5 year anniversary and have never felt or looked better. Now my husband goes too. It's not just for fitting into a dress anymore -- it's for life long health. I would NEVER push myself or keep myself going for an hour at that intensity. Ron, DB and Matt are really supportive and the other clients you train with are motivated too and the energy there is just really great. I can do so much more with them than on my own. Also I can do some awesome stuff like, last year I did 100 mile bike ride "without training" for it. Because I workout with Ron twice a week, I got on the bike and rode all day and it was super fun! I don't think I would be able to jump on my bike and ride 100 miles if it weren't for Train With Ron. Ron's 30 on 30 off "homework" is an extra bonus. He gives you workouts to do on your own. Even though they make all my cardios hurt, I notice that my cardio is improved when I do them. I could go on and on...I just love Train With Ron. read more

You know that hidden stash of clothes in your closet that you dream of wearing if you could only lose 5 or 10 pounds? Clothes that used to fit a million years ago that you simply cannot depart with because you have an emotional attachment to how cute they are and expensive they were? Well, I do, and my fiance has repeatedly accused me of going shopping, when what is really happening is that I am now able to shop in that hidden section of my closet. What happened? Train With Ron. In preparation for my wedding, I go to TWR 2 or 3 times a week for the past 5 months or so. (I also go to hot yoga once a week, and occasionally also do this thing on treadmill that TWR introduced me to...) Prior to TWR, I had never been to personal trainer for all the typical reasons - cost and intimidation. The price was amazing for the bulk package that I bought, and the trainers are the best. Every session is different, and I have lost a lot of weight, and gained considerable muscle. If you are even considering training session, do yourself a favor and check out this facility. read more

I found TWR about 3 years ago when I was looking for a personal trainer. I wanted someone who was affordable and in a facility that I wouldn't have to pay dues or an initiation fee. I found Ron online and we set up an appointment. I have been going ever since. Ron, DB and Matt are absolute quality trainers. I had spine surgery a couple years ago and was sure I was never going to be in top shape again after that. I was wrong. Ron, Matt and DB took me slowly from baby steps to a full press work out. They always seemed to know when the time was right to give me just a little heavier weight or a bit more cardio. Another thing that is great about TWR is the clients. We are there to work and help each other. I have never been to a gym where people were so nice. That is the type of client base TWR attracts. I actually look forward to the challenge of working out. These guys are professional, they believe in what they are doing and are always a pleasure to be around. You won't be disappointed in the results. read more

Train with Ron is a vastly unique workout experience. Unlike the "usual suspects" in the personal trainer/health club world...TWR offers a challenging program that can be tailored for any degree of difficulty. No idiot muscle head pretending to help train you while really just wanting to show off...TWR is quite the opposite. Every session is different and avoids the typical pitfalls of complacent routines that prohibit your body/mind from gaining strength and seeing results! Ron, DB and Matt are constantly creating customized programs to keep fitness fresh; from a weightlifting regimen to cardio endurance competitions to weight loss contests. When you have a trio of trainers that range from professional athlete to triathlete to world class sprinter...you know you are in extremely capable hands but amazingly it is not an overwhelming environment. Instead, these three guys are so down to earth and friendly while focused on helping you improve your individual fitness goals. This is a must try training experience! read more

I've been training with Ron, DB and Matt at Train With Ron for over two years and I can't recommend them highly enough. Prior to TWR, I would work out with a trainer for a few sessions here and there whenever I needed to change up my routine, but I never saw the value in paying to work out with a trainer on a consistent basis. TWR changed all of that for me. After a couple of months at TWR, I canceled my gym membership and began working out at TWR exclusively. Ron, DB and Matt all are top rate trainers and genuinely good guys. They put a lot of thought into the workouts and they change the routines every day to keep you interested and motivated. Whatever the routine is for the day, they will push you to your edge wherever that happens to be for you. For all of the intensity of the workouts, the environment at TWR is very friendly and inclusive. I have worked out with men and women of all ages and fitness levels and I think all of them would tell you that they have benefited greatly from their time at TWR. read more

When I started with TWR, I was recovering from multiple injuries and was embarrassed at how little I could do, compared with how I could perform before. If Ron was surprised at how weak I was, he never showed it. He continued to push me to achieve more until I got stronger and was always encouraging me. Before long, I was completing workouts I never would have been able to do before working with him. His workouts are tailored to your ability level no matter where it is, and each one pushes you to your limit every time. I appreciated the way he was able to modify workouts for injuries. After a recent bad experience trying a sketchy "boot camp" style gym in Andersonville, I really came to appreciate Ron's consideration for his clients', their schedules and his timely communication. Ron never makes you feel like he's sacrificing quality for quantity. TWR is a larger private gym than many training facilities I've seen in Chicago, and one of the only gyms I've found that offers free parking. read more

Whether you're a high school athlete trying to make it to the next level, a professional athlete, a young professional, a law enforcement professional, or a retired senior citizen, these trainers will make any of your fitness goals attainable! The staff are professional and friendly and there is a lot of camraderie among all who train here. This is a sports performance facility, not a gym. There is no waiting for equipment. You get incredible workouts to push you based on your ability. There is no feeling of being lost in the crowd as you workout with a trainer and up to 3 other members. I have no personal or professional affiliation with the owners/staff and have not been promised anything for writing this review (I just train at the facility!). Bottom line is this is the best place to get you in shape, meet great people, and is reasonably priced. Try one session at TWR and I know you will validate everything I'm saying! read more

I started going to Train with Ron in late 2007 based on a friend's recommendation and years later, I am still hooked! Every workout is challenging, fun and unique. The trainers (Ron, DB and Matt) are great guys who encourage you and work with you to set fitness goals. Prior to TWR, I tried out personal trainers at both Cheetah Gym in Bucktown and the West Loop Athletic Club. I had such terrible experiences with these gym trainers that I nearly gave up on personal training. I am glad though that I gave TWR a shot because it's a totally different experience. There are no bored, apathetic gym trainers here! I have realized great results in terms of endurance, strength and weight loss. I've also found that it is more affordable than gym trainers and clients have the option to either purchase a package or pay-as-you-go. Make an investment in your physical health and contact TWR for an appointment today! read more

Very simple - you don't need to look any further if your looking for personal training. It doesn't matter what stage your at - beginner, advanced or in between or what age you are. Go for a few sessions and you will never look back. The trainers are great - every workout is different and you will feel so much better about yourself after just a few sessions. Also - it is the best deal around - plenty of options to fit what works for you and absolutely no contracts, memberships or attempts at upsell. Plain and simple - this is personal training at its core with no gimmicks. I met Ron in December 2008 after being recommended by a friend and have been going since and seriously have never felt better both physically and mentally ..."Mens sana in corpore sano" .... I recommend without hesitation TWR to everyone. Go for it. You will be so happy you did. read more

I can't say enough great things about my experience at Train with Ron. I started working out here in 2007 to get in shape for my wedding and have never looked back! I was in awesome shape for my wedding and love to look back at my honeymoon pictures. Today, I work out at TWR twice a week and I've never considered stopping! It is the best thing I do for myself. The workouts are always challenging, and the trainers pushed me to a fitness level that I didn't realize was possible. I am strong!! I also feel better, have more energy and am more confident due to my workouts. Every time I leave the gym, I know that I've gotten a great workout. I would recommend TWR to anyone interested in getting in shape or challenging their current level of fitness. The trainers are very talented athletes and are also really great people. You will love Train with Ron! read more

I started training at TWR three years ago and can honestly state that it is one of the best decisions I have made in my life! Not only are Ron, Matt and DB devoted to you achieving your fitness goals, they are also three of nicest guys I know! They've never given up on me even when there were times I thought I would. Their sincere interest in my health and well being has helped me get to a place where I love my workouts, look forward to them and am currently in the best shape I have been in years. And folks...if you must know...all trainers are not created equal. I was in New York for a little over a year and tried working out with a few trainers out there and it does not even come close to the challenging workouts and genuine commitment you will receive from the TWR guys. Do yourself a huge favor and book your first session with TWR right NOW!!! read more

I started Train with Ron in December 2007 and am completely satisfied with my decision. I had trainers in the past who helped me reach my fitness goals, but those guys were nothing like the trainers at TWR. I attend TWR 3 times/week and am challenged to push myself extremely hard every workout. I know that my endurance, strength, and overall fitness level have improved dramatically and I look forward to seeing what new workout the guys will come up with for me. In addition, the environment is unlike any other personal training studio I have ever attended. All the clients get along well and I have become good friends with some extending outside of the gym. That's always a big plus when working out. I would highly recommend Ron, Matt, and DB at TWR if you are looking to really push your limits and get into great shape. read more

Looking for a GREAT workout?? This is your place!! I used to play sports for a Division I University and our workouts were tough but I was in great shape. So, I was looking for a similar experience (without the huge cost) and Train with Ron was a great find! All three trainers are knowledgeable and keep things fun. They are great and modify workouts for your level of training. When I was pregnant, they were able to modify my workouts to help me stay in shape and more importantly, helped me get back in shape after our baby arrived. Overall, Train with Ron is a great workout experience that encourages you to keep working hard and meeting your goals. My husband and I have both been coming to Ron, DB and Matt for almost 3 years and it was one of the best decisions we ever made! read more