It's been 4 weeks since I started here at The Most Hated Gym and I have to say, it's been a great experience so far. First week was an intro. After that it was, are you in? I was in. Mike, Gautam, James have really eased me in to a type of training that is new to me. It is unlike any other experience I've had. Mike checks up on me! Yes! He'll text "how are you feeling?" "Are you sore?" It really helped me because it's at that beginning stage your like, I didn't do much, but I feel it and... did I really have a muscle there? Can I do this? Well, Mike cares, I need to show up to the next session... and, sure enough, I showed up. Even when I told my mom she was like, "you are still continuing? Good for you!!!" (Guilt works for the first few weeks but then You just want to go. It becomes habit). For a person who is currently out of shape, I'm doing things I remember was easy when I was in high school (jump rope, squats, sit ups) and now at 42 I'm like, "You want me to do what?!" I'm not at the level like those who have been coming to class for months/years, but I'm getting there. Little by little I have felt improvement! Jump rope slapped my face, now I can do 25 without getting tangled. What one thinks is intimidating is eased by the attention I get from them on my form. The trainers are paying attention. Even though you are working out with others, you definitely feel like you are in a one on one training. Everyone is of all shapes, age, and level. Not once have I felt judged. Guaranteed, you will end the hour in a sweat. Also, being very new, I wanted to educate myself on how to eat, my form, even sitting at a desk job all day since my lower back has been killing me. I was emailed info on how to eat, had my form corrected when I was doing it wrong and learned how to stretch so my lower back issue is minimized, if not, go away. Even when I couldn't get up, I got a helping hand. These group of trainers TRULY love what they do and are there to support you and keep you motivated. They are all high energy and they really set the tone of going the extra mile because YOU want to. You are not in an environment to want to make excuses for yourself. I know, if I was in any other environment, I'd be like, "I need to stop." Where as here, I'm like, "You know, I think I can handle another round." This has become my place 3 days a week and hopefully, 5 days. What's great is that they will tell me where my level is at and instruct me. I even shared my goal of wanting to do the Spartan Race. Eventhough it was my hidden secret of wanting to do it, Mike was like, LET'S DO IT!!!! The fact he got excited on my little secret has given me the confidence that I'm not alone in a hefty goal and he's willing to help me achieve it. Like its even possible. The thought that my out of shape body can possibly participate... WOW! BEST ENVIRONMENT AND SUPPORT EVER! So, in this journey, my next post will be when I make it there. 12/9/2017. Till then! read more

Love this place definitely feel apart of there family ..Only Gym that's done that for me and I been to tons of them ... lost a ton of weight and gain tons of muscle ... Mike and Alison are the fucking shit period .... P.S Hi Alison now that's my baby insider lol read more

UPDATED REVIEW: I'm still loving Steel Barbells. I've been there for 5 months and the huge difference I see in my physicality and strength is just insane. I go 4-5 times a week and all the trainers are amazing - Mike, Harvey, Brandon & Berto all have different and effective training styles. Every day is different and I literally have not done the same workout twice - they are great about changing it up. ORIGINAL REVIEW: I was not a gym person until I started at Steel Barbells, I desperately tried to be and failed at all the trendy gyms I went to. In all the times that I have attempted o get into shape and have not been successful, everything changed when I walked into Steel Barbells. First, Mike and the other trainers are all fantastic. Mike is infectiously positive and he really cares about every person who walks through the door. Having been super nervous to even start working out again, everyone at SB put me at ease. Everyone who comes to the gym is ridiculously friendly and there is no judgement. As a sometimes shy person, especially in a gym where I feel generally out of place, everyone has been extremely welcoming and encouraging. Second, this is the only gym where I have seen results in my fitness and health. I have never been so consistent in my gym attendance and never so willing to go every night. On top of that, this gym really encourages healthy eating to everyone. I have always been into paleo, but modified it (I really didn't think I could give up cream in my coffee or cheese) and I cheated a lot. For the first time ever I am doing strict paleo and since starting and pairing it with working out, I am now down a pant size. Not to mention, as a Type 1 Diabetic (Juvenile/Insulin Dependent) my blood sugars have never been better and my energy levels are insane. I did all the heavy lifting, literally and figuratively, to start seeing results but going to Steel Barbells has given me the motivation and tools to reach my fitness goals. read more

Two years later and still going strong!! There have been many changes at CrossFit Steel Barbells, but only ones of improvement. Michael Lopez is a crazy, high on monster energy drinks, sometimes in your face so you want to slap his face nut job, but you can't help but love his enthusiasm and good heart to keep pushing you to be a better you. The facility has now expanded, more equipment to use, and not to forget the amazing coaches!! Still a great place to come workout. No judgement, no pressure, only friends cheering on friends. Thanks Michael for letting me be part of the Steel Barbells family ^_^ read more

A great place to get exactly what you need to get done then bounce! I love how private it is and I get to train with my trainer without having to wait for a machine to open like other gym such as LA fit. It can get pretty hot in there that's the only negative thing about this place other than that it's a GREAT place! And I recommend that you at least check it out! read more

Most Hated Trainer - New to this haha - Trainers Near Me

Steel barbells is amazing. The trainers are super friendly and damn good at what they do. They make sure your form is correct and teach you about posture and the muscle groups being targeted while supporting you and encouraging you to attain personal goals. If you want results, this is where you need to be. The atmosphere is electric. You arrive ready to train, and leave almost in a body bag. But feeling soooo good! There are small group trainings which are perfect as you still get the personal touch that is totally lacking in larger gyms. Not many gyms can say they have a staff to client ratio of 4:1. And often smaller too. The 2.30 training session is my favorite. Hard doesn't even begin to describe it. Ultra competitive and 30-45 mins of full body workout! I sometimes have to bring children with me while I train, and there is a safe space for them with activities. It's right there where I train, so I can keep my eye on them at all times too. The gym equipment is new and versatile, allowing for multiple uses. Weights, medicine balls, cardio machines, bars, rings, all the right stuff to whip you into peak physical condition. Even a mirror to gaze at yourself in, if you're that way inclined. Or to monitor your form. Steel barbells is simply focused to train your body with none of the distractions of televisions or loads of people. The studio isn't cluttered with lots of different equipment. Instead it has what you need for an all over butt kicking body transformation. But it really is the trainers that need to take the credit. Words don't do them justice. You need to experience it first hand. read more

I was really scared to try strength training, but once I met with Mike, the owner, and did the introductory sessions I began to see what a supportive environment Steel Barbells is. Not only do these instructors know their stuff, they care. As a newbie, I would walk into classes and the instructors would know my name before I even introduced myself. When I started, I was in such bad shape that doing even a slow yoga class was incredibly painful and difficult. With each class, I began to gain strength and flexibility and my stamina improved greatly. The terrible pain in my knees improved and I started to be able to enjoy my yoga classes once again. I even went roller skating for the first time in years! What a gift! If you're feeling low about your physical condition and discouraged about starting the journey back to health, please don't hesitate to try this gym. It may seem daunting with all the weights, terminology and, yes, the classes will kick your ass, but you will be supported and encouraged every step of the way! 5 enthusiastic stars! read more

I was invited by a friend to join their group over the weekend at an event called Gladiator Rock and Run. The event was located in Pasadena, so I thought Heck Yes, I'm down to get dirty and do a Mud Run. That's when I met the Super heroes from Steel Barbells and their fearless leader Micheal Lopez. Right away they made me feel welcome to the group. Micheal is a great guy, motivating, cheerful and easy to get along with. The truth is that I work out 3 to 5 times a week for about an hour + a session. And I treat it like work, so yes, sometimes.... most times I hate it! I'm tired from a full day of work but I know that I'll feel so much better after the workout. But still I struggle against excuses daily. Point is that everyone at Steel Barbells have so much fun working out! I could tell that Micheal have created such a great vibe with his gym. I am reform and am driving from Pasadena to the Valley once a week, to be part of this team/gym. The motivation, the friendships, the results are priceless! So if you are a local, I totally recommend checking them out. If you a little further, like me.... it's steel worth the drive. All shapes, and sizes welcome. I look forward in training with them for a December Race in Malibu. read more

Crossfit Steel Barbells is not your ordinary gym such as 24, LA FItness that are decorated with distracting flat screens, or a place for you and your homeboys to come hangout socialize. It's a place were you come to get shit done. It's a place where you are going to find out what you're truly made of. A mind game of sorts, in which you are going to question your limits, or ask yourself, "CAN I DO ONE MORE REP?" I have personally been going to commercial gym all my life and that is all I really knew. I heard about crossfit didn't really understand it at first with its lingo and WODs. I asked a personal friend and now part owner/trainer STEVE SHOBERT aka "The Bear" of Crossfit Steel Barbells, if he could show me what it was about... First session consisted of: A) EMOMx6 power clean x3 @ 135 B) Front Squat 5,4,3,2,1 @ 135, 145,160,170,180lbs + 100m sled push @ 90 lbs rest 2 minutes 30 racked lunges @ 95lbs 10 strict pull-ups 30 thrusters @ 95 lbs 10 strict pull-ups 30 American KB swings @ 50 lbs rest 2 min 100m sled push (19:28 was my time) I'm pretty sure I died that day lol.... Anyways it was by far one of the hardest and most satisfying workouts I had ever done, but knowing that I finished and conquered it, gave me so much satisfaction that I immediately wanted more. If you want to learn new techniques, check if your forms any good when it comes to lifting, or just want to challenge yourself. Then you have found the right place. Ask for STEVE SHOBERT best trainer/nutritionist there that will help you reach your goals and push you to that boundary that you've never been to, and did I mention, "He gets shit done.".... as you can see read more

For years, i've been telling myself "One day, im going to try crossfit!". I have been on and off with the gym for years, never seeing any real changes or results. One month at the gym, 6 months on my couch. That's how it has been for me. The time finally came, I was fed up. A buddy of mine told me about his crossfit experience and I finally threw in the towel. I looked up crossfit on yelp and found Steel barbells. Loved the reviews and gave it a chance. On my first day, Mike told me about the importance of eating properly and guided me to a healthier living. What separates Mike from the rest is the time he spends with each and every person. Whether there's 15 people or 5 people in a class, expect the same treatment from Mike. You will not be ignored. If you're doing your deadlift wrong, expect to hear about it! It's been almost 2 months and im seeing major results. The workouts really kick my butt, but absolutely worth it. I'm eating better, feeling better, losing weight, and getting stronger. All the fears I had of joining a crossfit gym are all in the past. I can't imagine where i'll be a year from now! Steel Barbells is where it's at! 5 Stars all day!! read more

This place is great! I was hesitant about doing any Crossfit sort of workout since I've heard funky things about people hurting themselves and as much as I would love one of those fancy six-pack things, I didn't want it THAT bad. I prefer to break a sweat rather than a bone. In fact, I didn't even start coming here for Crossfit. I first heard about Steel Barbells through friends of another place I was working out at. I was just meeting there to take a bus to do the Spartan Sprint last year. That's where I got a chance to meet all the great trainers and clients. What I found was not just a bunch of people that like to work out, but a community of people that also do stuff together outside of the gym. Since then we've partied at a lounge, gone wine tasting in Malibu, had a BBQ, and spent a day at the beach! Everyone at Steel Barbells is fun and welcoming and never tried to pressure me to join their gym despite me joining them at all these events. I had never before felt so welcome at a place I wasn't even a member of. Eventually I was just too curious. So I decided to sign up for a class to check it out for myself. That's when I found out it was Crossfit. I was still a bit hesitant, but I thought I would give it a try anyway. The trainers didn't just throw me into classes. They spent time coaching me, helping me get down my form, and get used to the exercises. Despite the fact that we were moving around weights, jumping, and running, the trainers made me feel safe and took away that fear I had of doing Crossfit. I've now been doing it for about two months and I love it. It's a great workout, and there's a fun twist to it: competition. You're not just working to improve your best, but you're also racing other clients. Sometimes we get into teams and compete with each other. All of the competition is fun and not taken too seriously, so there's no fear of losing. We encourage each other to do better, and we're with them when they're struggling. And I've been on both sides of that. I've been the one that needs the help, and I've had the chance to help others. It makes the experience much stronger and more exciting rather than just doing a bunch of reps and watching the clock. I highly recommend giving Steel Barbells a try. read more

I love this place! Steel Barbells is a no-frills let's get $hit done gym. Don't get me wrong, they have fun and a good time, but you will get your butt kicked and body worked. They offer crossfit type classes and are always mixing up the workouts so you're never doing the same repetitive movements. Michael and the other trainers are great. They really care about you and you're not just another number on their membership roster. Sometimes on Saturdays they even have carne asada bbq's after class. That qualifies for the best gym ever in my opinion! In short, I fully recommend and endorse Steel Barbells. If you are not sure where to go, or if crossfit intimidates you, I highly suggest you try this place out. They care and want to help you succeed. read more

I highly recommend STEELBARBELLS for anyone trying to get in shape at any level. There isn't any pretension or workout aggressiveness there. The amazing coaches have built a supportive & welcoming community-They are helpful, motivating and fun. The workouts change daily and are well planned to make each workout feel fulfilling and kick your butt at any level. Love the fact that the clientele is diverse in terms of age and athletic backgrounds, and the classes cater simultaneously to people of varying athletic and physical abilities.Every single person there will inspire and motivate you to work harder! STEELBARBELLS gotten me in the best shape of my life (and it's still getting better) and improved my health extremely. I'm addicted to the workouts- I look forward to coming here EVERYDAY!  STEEL BARBELLS is life-changing. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE THAT HAS PUSHED ME AND KEEP PUSHING ME TO STRIVE. They've continuously found ways to challenge me and make me a better athlete. read more

If you want to get into great shape, and have fun doing it, check out the Steel Barbells! - Spacious studio conveniently located by the 101 & 405 behind Sepulveda - Equipment is new and there are only a few people around (which is great if you don't want to work out in front of a large crowd like in most gyms) - Atmosphere is super fun with blasting music and huge mirrors to watch your body transform - Variety of gym equipment and exercise classes - Everyone is very friendly and supportive (including the other clients). - There is no scene. But what I really love about is the Steel Barbells is the 2.30pm class on Mon, Wed and Fri. It is a fun yet challenging bootcamp where we work on various strength building exercises combined with cardio, warm-up and stretching. Don't be fooled if this sounds easy - because it's far from it. You don't want to just participate - you want to beat the scores and be the best on the team. Can't recommend this place enough! read more

This place is worth a 5 STAR REVIEW for sure. I have been coming to Crossfit Steel Barbells for the past 3 weeks, and I absolutely LOVE everything about it. The atmosphere and energy is phenomenal. Michael is such a nice, energetic and ALIVE person that really knows how to push each individual to there highest potential while making working out FUN! Oh, the music is always fun and upbeat as well. The group workouts are intense & and extremely fun. You not only get to get a full intense workout for yourself, but you also get to compete in smaller groups with each other. This is by far my new workout spot! read more

From the moment you step into this place you know it's not your "typical" cross fit gym. The vibe here is ... just so positive. You walk in and are immediately treated like "family". No pretense here just a lot of people working toward their fitness goals and cheering one another on as these goals are met and exceeded. I have known Mike now for many years and he's always been super cool to me (even though I wasn't his client back in the day). When an opportunity came up to do a 6 week boot camp at his gym I jumped on the chance to work outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself. I am doing just that. The boot camp I am doing is with Harvey and he is awesome. In a week he not only recognizes my limits but is helping me exceed the things I "presently struggle with". I look forward to every session I have with him ... even though I am slightly scared ;) I was also provided with nutrition guidance and if I have questions I can ask and get straight forward answers without feeling self conscious about asking. Any time they have a boot camp, going forward, I will jump on the chance to participate. read more

I've known Michael and have worked out with him and at his former gym steel barbels for about 6 years , maybe longer .. can't recommend him more .. he's professional and caring and pushes you to do better .. the workouts are difficult and push your body to change . read more

I took a few months off crossfit due to work . My brother recently joined this gym , he said it was a great community . He was right! mike the owner has a great community here everyone is cool friendly. I took Brandon's class and Harvey's they are both great coaches . I'm glade I came here ! Actually I'm glade I joined Come try this place out!!!! read more

Steel Barbells is simply a place where I rejuvenate my mind , body , and soul. Mike Lopez aka Most-Hated-Trainer has created an environment that makes working out fun and enjoyable. The workouts are always challenging and different. Steel Barbells strives on getting new and innovative equipment on the regular. I like this because it challenges my body and keeps muscles from plateauing. Something I really appreciate is that Mike makes sure perfect form is sustained throughout the workout. Not many trainers do this and it's very important. One, it helps keep the focus on the targeted muscle. Second , injuries are prevented. Both classes and 1 on 1 training are a must. Thank you Most-Hated -Trainer for transforming my body into one that feels and looks great. I'm looking forward to the beach this summer..... :) Cheers!!! Steel Barbells gets my highest rating. A definite must. read more

What I love about this gym is that it's a no-frills facility: I walk in there knowing I will get a serious workout and I don't have to deal with someone at the front desk or sales dept pressuring me to extend my membership or buy expensive/mandatory workout gear with their logo on it. (I've been to other facilities where I had to buy the gear and had to be worn during class...uh, WTF!) They have everything you need for circuit training. The plyo box is shin-friendly (thank goodness!) which is a great feature if you're learning box jumps. And there's a small kids pack n play area so I can bring my son once in awhile. Everyone here is friendly and very positive and encouraging. The Saturday sessions are great, the trainers definitely know how to push you hard and make it fun. This is definitely one of the best kept secret (gym)s in the valley. Now that you know...Shhh! read more

I started with Steel Bar Bells and Michael a month ago. My body and mind are in love with this workout! We started by breaking down my eating habits, workout habits, & physical capabilities. From here Michael strongly suggested I start a meal plan while with my training. I listened and have dropped 6 pounds. The workouts began by learning the correct way to do things. Who would have thought my squats for the past 30 years have been wrong!!! And these adjustments have been amazing. I can push my body so much further doing simple exercises with a more educated approach. The results are showing. I can take a photo next to my 19 year old sister and look good next to her in a bikini now! Everything has just "tightened up" working out here. The gym, I just love. Its expansive, athletic, versatile, clean, and encouraging. Its a large warehouse setting with top class equipment. Everyday is different, so you never know what you're in for. I like this method because it keeps it interesting and kept me going. The exercises are usually interactive sets of squats, lunges, pullups, push ups, kettle balls, ball bounces, rowing, running, cross training, biking, weights, "inch worms" and tons of laughter;) Honestly a great workout. You know that Michael and his staff spend thoughtful time planning workouts that are fun and produce results. He coins himself the most hated trainer, but I leave loving his training! I sweat my ass off, and feel like I worked really hard after each hours class. I go home counting some days, "WOW I did 60 pull ups today WTF!"!!! and I didn't even realize. In the group classes the people are great. Everyone has seen results so they show up pumped and ready to go. You feel an overall enjoyment and commitment which is great in this group setting. I enjoy both my group and one on one training sessions. Michael is just awesome. You know he knows what he's doing and believes in it. He hones in on each individuals body and adjusts the workout to be best for each person. And as hard as he can make the work out, he keeps it light and fun. This is the kind of guy that you know cares about what he does and the people around him. The best mix in a dedicated trainer. SATISFIED CUSTOMER here, SteelBarbells is in my life to stay for sure. By far the best health decision and workout I have found in LA in the last 6 years. read more

This is the best Gym in all of California !!! Trust me I've been to all of them. The music is off the Hook and every trainer has positive energy . I'm down 2 dress sizes since joining a little over a month ago. It's so nice to have have finally found a place that is open extra early , clean and HUGE!! The Owner Michael Lopez treats you like family and constantly motivates you. If you are looking to shed some weight (like me) or just get shredded this is the place for you . Steel barbells where everyone is SuperHero in Training P.s Water is $1 and Beer is Free lol read more

If you're anything like me and new to CrossFit I can tell you it's not as intimidating as you might think. I was introduced to Steel Barbells through Mike who I found with a little help from Google. I was nervous to start my sessions with him since I've never done anything like this before, but he always makes me feel comfortable and is very good at tailoring the program to fit each person's fitness level and goals. He is made of pure awesomeness and has a fantastic positive energy which inspires me to give it my all during every single workout. Plus the other trainers and people who work out there are amazing and super supportive so not only will you get in shape but you'll have fun doing it! Simply put Steel Barbells is the best! I've only been working out there for about a month, but I can already feel and see a difference. I had been doing activities like yoga and hiking to stay in shape, but was looking for something else to add to my weekly regimen and am thrilled to have found such a wonderful place. read more

I was pretty nervous about getting back in the gym after sitting around in lockdown for 2 years, but I am so stoked with what I'm getting from my time with @mosthatedtrainer! This dude runs a tough but incredibly supportive program, and even though you really do hate it some days, you never want to quit! 100% recommend this guy no matter what shape you're in! read more

This is a great place to get your ass kicked - all the trainers are fantastic and understand the process/progression of getting you into the best shape of your life no matter where you are starting. Mike especially knows how to make the workouts fun while at the same time keep them intense and varied enough to make you challenge yourself. Just get here and let them kick your booty into shape!! read more

If I could give a 10 Star I would do it! I've been gym hopping all my life,never found a right place,membership here membership there,free personal trainer session and then it becomes a sales thing which becomes a turn off,they catch you and before you know you are stuck with a contract,personal trainers my ass,or they flirt with their clients or they are on their cell phone all the time,wtf.... Consider Steel Barbells as a credit union vs a bank,it's a small community where everyone knows each other from the time you step in vs a bug gym where you are just a number, smelly locker rooms,more staff than people working out and then you wonder why equipment is not taken care of or "Out of order" for days,sweaty benches etc.... I came in with a goal drop sizes not particularly weight but work in my condition and guess what,I can do sit ups,squats and monkey bars which I wasn't able to do when I started 2 months ago! Shout out to Harvey who not only encouraged me to go to the limit but also became a friend and same with owner Michael Lopez,it's all up to you,want results,come here,no gym rats here....no,I take that back, there's one gym rat doing sit ups, have to come in to meet him read more

Most Hated Trainer - Trainers Near Me

I have a confession to make: I bookmarked Steel Barbells almost a year ago but only recently joined....what a mistake!! I truly wish I had called sooner. Michael Lopez is known as the "Most Hated Trainer" (see separate yelp page) and runs Steel Barbells. This is not a commercial gym, but rather group training focused on building functional strength. More importantly, it's a a tremendously supportive and fun environment. The coaches are great and the sense of camaraderie amongst everyone at the gym is fantastic. The workouts are constantly changing and evolving so you never get bored. Finally, SB is very accommodating to those who aren't interested in traditional gyms -- as evidence of this, I will point to my wife, who for years had a 24hr membership that went unused. She was on-board to give SB a try and now I find her going to classes on her own! To quote her, "we are constantly in pain but we still go back!" The facility recently expanded and I hope they will continue to add additional classes to the schedule. If you're like me and on the fence, I urge you to call Michael and check out Steel Barbells....just don't wait a year!! read more

I joined this gym in July 2015 after several years at another gyms in West Hollywood and experience with coaches from other gyms around the state of CA and in other states on trips, etc. I can say without reservation that this gym is amazing. Working with trainers and groups we often are a bit ignored, I have found. Not at this gym. Since coming here I have improved exponentially because the coaching is first-rate. The coaches are VERY attentive to proper movement. Mike is number 1!! Finally, this gym gets it right in the whole fitness community realm: they have frequent occasions for gym members to meet up and participate in the kind of crazy events that build community and camaraderie. I highly recommend it to everyone who is looking for an old-fashioned fitness gym that cares about its members. The location is perfect, the group is warm and welcoming, and best of all I really enjoy myself here. read more

Healthy cookies, 90s playlist, fun atmosphere, and free tampons in the bathroom...I was instantly sold on Mike and Steel Barbells when I walked in. I've been doing the group workouts to prepare for my third 5K with the gang. Mike is all fun, games, and dance moves until it's time for the workout to start, then it's down to business. Steel Barbells is more than a gym, it's a family. If you're not intimidated by sweaty balls and dirty snactches, it might be the place for you. ROCK ON!!!! read more

Steel barbells is the best!!!!! The classes are perfect for when you want to get in, get out and still get an amazing workout. The workouts are different every time and are always challenging you to your extreme without hurting yourself. The environment is always fun, friendly, and competitive. The competition is actually what drives you to do that last set when your tired or go at a faster pace then you regularly would if you were working out alone at the gym. There is always loud music and a range of people from all walks of life checking their drama at the door and coming in and having a great time!!!! The only thing I can say as a forwarning : YOU WILL BECOME ADDICTED and nothing else even compares! Have fun! read more

I feel like the guy in the late-night infomercials, "I am in the best shape of my life thanks to Steelbarbells!". When I first went to Mike I could barely complete the baseline workout on the rower, squats and push-ups without passing out. Now, almost a year later I can complete 1500m on the rower and do things I never thought I would be doing at this age. I've lost weight, I have REAL muscle on my body and I need to buy SMALLER pants! Mike does an intense 30min workout that's fun and demanding. He will often tell us what the goal is and I think that it's impossible but somehow at the end of the session I can put that challenge in the "DONE" column. I have never worked with a trainer and never thought I wanted to do, but I know I would not be this fit with out working with Mike. read more

This facility is so great!! I have worked with a couple of their trainers and they are all VERY dedicated! It's just so much better than some chain gym. You're not going to be wasting any time here. You will understand how to reshape your body if you are dedicated. I started working with Michael Lopez just 7 weeks before my weeding with some very stubborn inches to lose. I still have a couple weeks and I'm so excited to put that dress on! Can't rate this facility high enough! read more

Let me just start by saying that I'm in love, although it's beyond challenging and I face the fear of not being strong enough or capable, I always leave here extremely content, satisfied and accomplished...sure I can't walk the next day or sometimes lift a pencil but somehow I keep coming back for more! I found steel barbells through yelp, while attempting to search for a yoga class, and came across this powerful super hero cave, found it to be very intriguing, two days later I called, and spoke to Michael aka (most hated trainer) had I done a bit more research and known it was a cross fit facility I most likely wouldn't have called or made a same day appointment, I'm a professional medical massage therapist and am well aware of what my clients go through with cross fit training when they come see me to heal their soreness away! However everything happens for a reason, and it was the best decision I ever made! My initial visit with Michael was basic stuff, in which I obviously had no clue to what I was doing, I'm talking basic squats, lunges, push-ups ect. Heck, I still suck at jump rope, but that's because I'm uncoordinated, it's a work in progress, however, Michael made me feel right at home with his easy going, funny, and caring personality that I didn't think twice in signing up. I've now been attending for close to 3 months not only have I become more active than ever but also stronger, he has great knowledge and intuition on adjusting a workout for me, very patient yet makes you put in work, it's a no-frills kinda gym not your ordinary gym which is why I love it! I took Michael's advice on the paleo diet,and let me tell you, it has worked amazingly well in combination with the training! Best results I've ever had, so far 30lbs down and I have no intentions on stopping here! I wake up with the urge to be active everyday, and although I train at 5:30 am which is too early for someone who isn't a morning person, I must say I love getting it done early. The energy in this gym is amazing, exhilarating, empowering, and fulfilling! There are several other trainers, Steve shobert who I've also seen is truly amazing as we'll, all with positive, encouraging and passionate hearts for what they do! I'm here to stay! Thank you Steel Barbells Super Heroes! I'm eternally grateful for your services! read more

My experience here has been great so far. I'm new to the whole crossfit scene but I find much more of a challenging physically and mentally compared to regular body building exercises. Steel Barbells has convinced me that crossfit is way to go, in order to reach my goals on getting lean and shredded. In a month that I have been coming I fell all around stronger and I have been getting a lot of compliments from fiends and family :) The trainers here are great they take the time with you in order to show you that your are exercising right with the right form. I never would have known that I had been doing a lot of exercises in the gym wrong had I not found Steel Barbeels... read more

An amazing Crossfit gym, and I've been to a few...that don't stack up to Steel Barbells. The initial one on one to gauge my Crossfit level was unique and appreciated. EVERYONE at Steel Barbells are kind and encouraging. No bellyachers, or slackers. WODs are always challenging, but not insane or made up to injure you. Mike is a most fun and engaging Crossfit trainer, and oh so unpretentious. When he's not leading the class, he has very capable trainers filling in. Parking is plenty. Equipment is enough to go around. Members are cool. Highly recommend for a safe and friendly intro to Crossfit for newbies, or a valid Crossfit workout for vets. read more

Love Steel Barbells! I'm not sure why, I'm always sore and in pain after my workouts! But, it's the good pain that gives results! I was skeptical to try crossfit after reading about many people getting injured. All of that was cleared up after my first few training sessions at Steel Barbells. All of the trainers are knowledgable, encouraging and patient. They push you to do your best but never to the point where you feel your safety is at risk. This place is fun and has a positive vibe! read more

If you're looking for a well-stocked gym that will help you focus on getting in the best shape of your life, Steel Barbells is it. While you won't find a fancy juice bar or a basketball court (for which you would pay extra and probably rarely use), what you WILL find is a roomy and convenient training space which serves its exact purpose. Steel Barbells was founded by longtime trainer Michael Lopez, and I've personally witnessed how he has slowly built this gym into the training space he always wanted to provide for his clients. Not only is Michael Lopez a great trainer, he's also one of the most supportive and generous human beings I've ever met (and I say that as a lifelong cynic). That combination may matter more than you think, because even when you've had a bad day or feel low on energy or are re-thinking your commitment to fitness, Mike will not only greet you with a smile, but help push you to do things that will surprise yourself. I know I have! I first met Mike back in 2006 after going on my own to the gym off and on since I was 19. He promptly showed me that almost everything I thought about working out -- especially form and the amount of weight I was using -- was just flat out wrong (good for me, bad for my ego!). But as the weeks turned into months and I remained committed, not only did my body change, but so did my attitude, my eating habits and, most of all, my confidence. It's nice getting hit on! I'm now attending the cross-training classes offered at Steel Barbells and have boosted my endurance and strength levels even more than when I was training one-on-one. But don't worry about not keeping up -- he'll work with you one-on-one until you're ready to join a group. Most of all, Mike's enthusiasm -- EVERY SINGLE TIME -- is so infectious and the other students so supportive of each other that believe it when I say you'll likely finish a session and think to yourself, "Wow, I didn't know I could do that!" Exactly. If you're serious about losing weight, building endurance or even becoming that athlete you always wanted to be, you owe it yourself to give Steel Barbells a shot. People drive from 50 miles away to train there! I PROMISE you you won't be sorry. read more

This is THE place if you want to get a great workout. I use to go to 24 hours LA fitness had many trainers, and let me tell you something, you don't know what you are missing out!!!!! Steel Barbells is the place. Thank God I found this Place. Mike is really a nice guy and all the other trainers are great too, the gym is HUGE and the vibe is AWESOME!!! You don't fell that you are at the gym, well you know you are about to get you butt kicked but you really are having fun with cool people. I love this place! read more

Forget the regular gyms. I got hooked on Mike's training approach several years ago and it transformed how I thought about fitness. Sure, he calls himself the Most Hated Trainer because he makes you work like a beast but his coaching is fun, he cares about your limits and you WILL look forward to the variety of challenges he gives you. Don't bother if you're not gonna put in the time or the effort... he wants you to be committed and focused if you're going to see results. Really can't recommend him highly enough. read more

Love this place! I've only been going for a month and I'm already noticing my body change. Mike is so motivating and really pushes you! I am so impressed with his knowledge and ability to teach. I had no idea what I was doing when I walked through those doors and Mike went out of his way to explain everything and model it for me. It shows he really cares, especially when he texts you the next day asking how your body is doing. :) The classes are great, too! It's truly a Steel Barbell family. Everyone that goes there is so encouraging and helpful!! I highly recommend coming to try it out..no matter what kind of shape you are in or what experience you have. If you are in great shape already or have some weight to lose, Mike will find a way to push you and make you even stronger! read more