For people like me who realize the need for physical engagement in their lives, though have never been drawn to the gym world, Physical Culture Collective is the place for you. After only a month's training with Gavin and Zach, I am absolutely hooked. It is easy to celebrate the results in outer appearance-- muscles I didn't realize I even had are now visible, I receive compliments from my friends in how much healthier I look and I feel stronger and more physically capable to perform everyday duties like riding my bike long distances, lifting heavy objects, climbing stairs, and so on. Though what I most celebrate is the mental clarity and heightened confidence I have gained in better knowing my body, its capabilities, and how to better move in accordance to my past injuries (I have a few!). Both Gavin and Zach take the time to get to know your body and create a program suited for you and your personal needs-- they don't just tell you what to do, but they tell you why in an educated and engaging manner. Both coaches push you without making you feel forced, to the point that makes you want to push yourself. There is no cheesy jargon or overly enthusiastic jock talk, but natural, holistic motivation. The space itself is inviting and aesthetically pleasing, (the men and women changing rooms have showers in each) with a simple lay-out and thought-out interior design created with love (the ladies will especially appreciate this). Classes are available throughout the week in: yoga, Muay Thai, Strength Conditioning and Jiu Jitsu. The location is accessible being right off the JMZ Broadway stop, though I ride my bike from Williamsburg in 10 minutes. PCC is a gem of an establishment run by stand-up, personal people. It being a collective is what I most appreciate as it brings together like-minded individuals who are all there out of pure passion for physical engagement and healthier living that isn't machine driven but people driven. If you are looking to live healthier, learn your own strength and how to align your body with your mind and spirit, this is the place to do it. read more

Physical Culture Collective is easily the best martial arts gym I've been to in NYC. Not only are the folks here devoid of the crap that makes a lot of other gyms kinda shitty (upselling, social cliques, way too much emphasis on getting KILLER ABS, macho men, massive attendance pressure, etc), but they're also some of the best trainers in the industry. PCC offers Muay Thai (kickboxing), Jui Jitsu, Strengh and Conditioning and Yoga from the most qualified, kind, patient and inclusive trainers you can possibly imagine. The gym is SUPER nice, clean and welcoming. The showers are great and PCC kindly provides towels and an assortment of other products; I've definitely been to my fair share of gyms in this city and have never felt so comfortable and at home. As a young woman I feel extremely lucky to be able to work with female coaches like Naomi - who is so sweet you almost forget she could destroy you - but also with the male coaches who take women's self-defense and training VERY seriously. Their focus on technique, safety and strategy is mirrored by their practicality when it comes to exiting a bad situation as quickly as possible, and I feel a lot safer with the knowledge that Gavin, Ariel, Naomi, Zach and Carlos have imparted. These guys really care about the work that they do and genuinely want to see people happier, healthier and more confident. There is no embarrassing emphasis on weight loss, but it is rather treated as a welcome side effect. PCC's class schedule is SUPER accessible, and with all of the classes they offer, you can easily get your strength and cardio in each week without getting bored and losing motivation. Long story short, these guys are amazing, and I love the PCC family! read more

Words don't do justice to the experience that is walking through the doors and training, in any form, at PCC. Gavin, the owner and instructor, has created a space full of positivity, energy, and inclusion that simultaneously challenges everyone to work their hardest and become the best versions of themselves both physically and mentally - it's like nothing I've experienced before. I am so incredibly glad I joined PCC - it has changed my life. Whether interested in Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, kettlebell/weight training, or fitness in general, PCC is a place for all levels of athletes (from beginners to the very experienced) to train and improve their skills. Do NOT be intimidated if you have no background in martial arts - you will be welcomed with open arms to the PCC community by Gavin, instructors, and fellow classmates/gym members - everyone at PCC wants to help each other learn and improve their athletic skills. The sense of community at PCC is like no other. Gavin's passion to teach others and to build a community for people who share a love of fitness is genuine and unmatched. RUN, don't walk, to PCC - email, call, walk-in - take an intro class if you're a newbie, take an advanced class if you're experienced, have a conversation with Gavin about your intentions and he will LISTEN and advise you so that you meet all your fitness goals. This is a gym that enables you to simultaneously work out, have fun, challenge yourself, find peace, learn and develop skills, and improve your physical and mental health. Highly recommend! read more

Moving to NYC and starting work was a tough adjustment from college life and I found it hard to stay motivated to workout with two major shoulder injuries limiting my lifting. After doing a little bit of boxing in school, I decided to check out PCC's Muay Thai as an alternative to working out. What I found at PCC wasn't a gym but a community full of passionate people who love fitness and martial arts. Both the Muay Thai and BJJ programs are taught extremely well. Jiu Jitsu in particular is very intimidating when you're a beginner, so the fact that all of the people and coaches are open minded, friendly, and willing to help is critical to the success of the program. There are other classes, such as Odd Objects, which is a fitness program that involves kettle bells , sand bags and many other movement based exercises that the coaches change every couple of weeks. So 10 months into discovering PCC, I attend BJJ , Muay Thai and Odd Objects classes regularly. Thanks to the coaches working with me, my shoulder strength and endurance has significantly improved since my injury and I have leaned down, losing nearly 30 pounds since I started. Regardless of whether you're a newbie or a seasoned veteran; whether your goal is to lose a little weight or to compete.... PCC is the place to be with an amazing group of people behind it all. read more

I feel really honored to be a part of this community. Coming in with no experience I was quickly brought up to speed by the coaches and helpful training partners. The core culture is focused on functional play and fun. Their specialty is helping you discover your love of movement, martial arts, and fitness. Having struggled through work outs, and yoga in attempts to improve my physical health I'm surprised and extremely pleased to have found a passion in Muay Thai. I bring it back to the coaches, members and overall culture that has been created here. Positive, motivated individuals bonded through sweat and the desire for self improvement. Prior to this gym I experienced a lot of fear and anxiety while feeling extremely self conscious. Its incredible how much I look forward to coming here and how it has improved so many aspects of my life. The personal coaching and attention to individuals is felt every class. They consistently suggest modifications if you're low energy, recovering from injury or struggling to reach your goals. Im extremely impressed with the approach at PCC as well as the results Ive experienced in my overall well being. Side note- This place is totally a NYC gem with the right amount of fun and funkyness that regular fitness folks might call "uhhhhh...weeeird!" read more

I met Gavin years ago while training BJJ. Shortly after, I began training with him on a regular basis both in a group and individual setting. I've also trained with Jenny, Zach, and Ariel who are also part of the Physical Culture Collective team. I never thought at 40 years old my strength and conditioning would be stronger than it was at 30. I also still train BJJ and this is where the gains I'm making through training at PCC really show themselves. The incredible and effective workouts I do with Gavin have been tailored to my meet my specific overall health, martial arts and sports goals. If I get injured Gavin switches things up to aid recovery. Before a big snowboarding trip we work the areas of my body to keep me solid on the slopes. When I have a BJJ related tournament we focus on the areas that will enable me to bring my best game to the mats.What I find unique about training at PCC is my program is always evolving. Gavin and his team truly love fitness and are constantly increasing their knowledge and shaping their training methods to reflect this on what seems to be an almost daily basis. While this is optimal for gains it also keeps training fresh and interesting which in turn is quite motivating. read more

As corny as it sounds, this gym has changed my life for the better. At 29, BJJ and Muay Thai have become my primary hobbies. This gym took my interest in physical culture and made it into my way of life. I spend roughly 2-3.5 hours here a day, about 4-5 times a week. Exhibit A) I didn't set out to quit drinking, but training has killed my desire to get drunk or stay out into the early morning hours. After all, I most likely have to train the next day. Exhibit B) BJJ first teaches you how to grapple with your ego. This is a daily struggle. This gym is quite simply whatever you want it to be. If you're looking to lose weight or gain muscle then the gym and coaches will accommodate. If you're looking to learn practical self-defense techniques that you can use in daily life, then the gym and coaches will accommodate. If you're looking to fight competitively, then you will be surrounded by incredible fighters. The vibe is familial and caring. Everything is clean. No meathead mentalities. No sexism, racism, or homophobia. I recommend this gym to anyone for anything. You will 100% get your moneys worth (and maybe more). read more

Been training in Muay Thai for a couple years now and am super grateful that I stumbled upon this gym. Every day I train at PCC I take something away from it, which over the past few months has really made me a better practitioner, fighter, and also an overall centered person. Somehow Gavin has directed his coaches in making a gym that supplies highly (and I mean Highly) technical training, while at the same time being relaxed and completely enjoyable. Gavin and his crew put everything they have into making training a fantastic experience. Gavin's compulsiveness toward making sure the gym is immaculate and clean, his changing out his gear and equipment to make sure nothing is ever shabby, all of it is a reflection of the soul of this gym. It is a place where one can go to learn and have fun while at the same time staying in shape. Gavin if you read this, thank you so much for doing you! read more

Rarely do you get to a place that hits the mark in all departments. Physical Culture Collective is aesthetically pleasing and functionally perfect. Modern, spotless, engaging, comfortable and a fitness nerds dream. You're going to experience very educated and enthusiastic instructors and trainers. There's nothing pretentious here. It's just a place to grow as an individual and take yourself far beyond your limits with some great guidance. Instructors will take the time to explain the "why" in the exercise and the reason you have to move beyond your comfort zone. Mind, body and spirit satisfied and money well spent. There's a little something for everyone here. If you're a beginner they will get you started. If you're advanced they will step up your game. I actually do not live close and it was completely worth the 35 minute train ride. read more

I wanted to try kickboxing for a long time but stayed away from martial arts because of the rigid, boys' club feel every place I encountered had. Eventually my desire to try kickboxing led me to looking around and PCC's free trial class was a low-stakes way for me to figure out if I could get into Muay Thai. I love the gym space and the teaching philosophies at PCC. I never feel neglected or looked at as an outlier for being a woman; the teachers treat me just as any of the male students and give me just as much personal attention. Gavin and Brent are fantastic at making sure you safely challenge yourself while keeping an eye on the details of your technique. They seamlessly integrate learning for students of all skill levels within every class. The training is great for building skill in Muay Thai and for walking away feeling stronger in every way. read more

Can't say enough good things about PCC. Gavin Van Vlack is one of the best trainers you'll ever work with - he not only understands strength and conditioning, but he really gets how to make it fit with your chosen sport. Before I trained with Gavin, cardio/conditioning was my biggest weakness. I'd do a jiu jitsu tournament, and lose in the second round because I didn't have the gas tank. I started working with Gavin, and that all changed. He got me in shape, and he taught me how to keep myself there. Over the years he's built a great team of strength and conditioning trainers, as well as top-notch yoga instruction with Jenny Livingston and a-game BJJ with Ariel Medina. Overall, the facility is great, the people are talented and cool, and the experience will be worth your while - check it out. read more

Due to the corona crisis, physical culture collective give people the opportunity to train online with them at various hours throughout the day every day. I myself live in Belgium and am now able to train 3 times a week with them at the 1:30pm (7:30pm my time) with them. Super fun workout where trainer Gavin helps every single person working out to become a better version of themselves. Doesn't matter how far along you are in Muay Thai. Thank you so much for pushing me to my limits and for giving me the chance to train with you. Even at home on the other side of the world this format works perfect! As soon as we're able to travel again I'll come to the gym in person to follow your class. So all in all: YOU need this! Send them a message and start training from home. An Maes read more

Physical Culture Collective is one of the best facilities that I have ever trained at. Gavin and Zach are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable coaches who have helped me to become stronger, more mobile, better conditioned, as well as smarter about how I approach my training when I am on my own. The jiu jitsu instruction is also of the highest quality. In addition, at Physical Culture Collective they have created a great vibe. From the members to the staff, everyone is incredibly friendly and welcoming. I travel regularly to New York from out of state, and whether it's training with Gavin or Zach, or attending a jiu jitsu class, a stop at PCC is absolutely essential. Hands down, it's always a highlight of my visits to New York. read more

The heart and soul of PCC reflects that of its creator Gavin Van Vlack - this is a place where professionalism, patience, kindness, humility and dedication are the order of the day. There are no egos here. EVERYONE is welcome and treated with respect - beginners and experienced alike. Gavin is constantly improving his own skills as well as those of his training staff, and teachers here have endless patience and kindness with students. You can learn as much as you want to learn here. Good people, fun classes, ridiculously good training programs. Absolutely no haters, negative people, arrogant jerks or Cobra Kai kids. Totally worth it! read more

I've trained at more than a handful of martial arts gyms in the city and PCC really feels like a unique place. The muay thai coaches (Naomi, Gavin, Zach, Carlos), are all genuinely interested in teaching their students and bettering the program. The vibe is very inclusive and inviting. There really aren't any meathead jocks or egotistical bros that go there. Its an awesome spot, particularly if you've ever wanted to train a martial art but were too intimidated to walk into a gym. PCC takes all kinds and encourages everyone to find what works for them, whether its functional movement training, jiu jitsu, or muay thai. Highly recommend. read more

This gym saved me in so many ways. In one way was the physical. I practice Muay Thai and during times of struggle it forced me to focus, and released many endorphins. Secondly was community. I've met so many amazing individuals who are all there to better themselves with each class. The instruction has been so incredible, varied And relevant. The team is always building off of skills we had learned and drilled in the previous weeks. This gym takes it nice and slow. If it's your first time, be prepared to sweat and hurt in places you never thought possible. But we're nice, come say hi :) read more

I've trained with Gavin and his trainers for years. They've helped me stay at the top of my game, push the limits of my body, and help me along the road to recovery after debilitating sports injury (muay thai is a hell of a sport)... Gavin himself has trained top athletes all over the world as well as help everyday people reach new levels of awesomeness! The facility is great and continuing to evolve, the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is open and friendly. Whether you live in the neighborhood or are traveling in from outside BK, PCC will change your life! read more

Legitimately one of the Best Gym Environments I have ever experienced. If your considering changing the way you feel about your self , your confidence, and your relationship with your body as a powerful force of nature; come check this place out. The Muay Thai program is a fantastic combination of intense cardio that is actually massive amounts of fun. I've been apart of their amazing community for a year and can see all the positive changes in my mindset and appreciation for my body and mind. Become the best version of yourself here and meet some of the coolest people in the area. read more

I have been training here since the beginning of the year and could not be happier with my experience here. I came in as a complete beginner and the team here has helped me progress more than I could have ever hoped. Everyone here from the students to coaches are the nicest and most helpful people I have ever come across. It doesn't matter if you are training to fight or just want to get in better shape, this is an incredible place to train and I highly recommend to anyone and everyone that is thinking of trying it out. You will come for the workout but stay for the community. read more