I really enjoyed working out here for all of 2025! It's clean, the people are friendly, and you really get a sense of community here. When you join, you get guest passes to invite friends and family to join you. And it works! One friend liked it so much, he joined the gym. We started lifting together. But then we were told personal trainers were not allowed. That's cool, this is my friend tho. But we understood why. There are other trainers doing their job, it can be distracting hearing someone nearby pontificate about squat form. So any discussions about lifting turned to a whisper "Hey man, your squats off. Try this." "Wrist looked a little limp. Try this." But despite that, we got a final warning email that threatened to kick us out if we continued working out together. That was disheartening. And the more I think about this, the more confused I get. You encourage friends and family joining with guest passes, give them a discount, then are scolded for working out with friends and family? I reflect back on the year, and realize this has been happening right in front of me. Familiar faces were always solo, duos a blip. The 5 people who still Yelp, I implore you to consider, what constitutes personal training? What constitutes advice? Is it the certification of a Pharos approved trainer? They say it's a matter of safety, but I think it's just code for "This is a community that wants you fully invested in their classes and coaches, not each other." So I'm writing this review to warn anyone thinking about joining that potentially may work out with a friend. Your heads may be next. Overall: The space? Great. People? Great. Equipment? Great. Pricing? Steep as fuck. 4 1/2 stars! read more

tl; dr? Love it. Great people, great equipment. Has everything I need. *** September 1, 2024 was my first day back in "the gym"---that is to say, any gym---in many years. I played sports thru college, transitioning into competitive triathlon, but was hit with very serious medical issues and surgeries and treatments took me *OUT* in the 2010s. I thought I'd never get back to my normal self, threw my time/energy into work, and resigned myself to a life on the sidelines. I'm fortunate to have a partner who was having none of it, knew I deep-down wanted and needed to get back, so he bought me a membership. I blushed and grimaced at the price I knew he was paying---I grew up on public assistance, so to *me*, this place is wild---but I accepted the gift, starting going, and never looked back. On my 1-yr anniversary of coming to Pharos, I emailed them this-- "I cannot believe it's been a year. Truly. What a difference it's made in my mental, physical, and emotional well-being. I found sleep, again. And while I continue to emphasize *former*, as in "former athlete" whenever my past comes up, I feel like I'm regaining some of what I lost with my health battles. You're part of that. I'm in remote Yup'ik/Cup'ik territory (AK) for a cultural gathering---here since Tue night---or else I'd be getting it in at Pharos Echo Park today. Thank you, all, so much. m" --but in talking with a phenomenal staffer, the inimitable Sue Shaheen, felt moved to write an actual review and share more publicly about the journey I've been on because Pharos has been a central part. Maybe all of these things are corny to say and share, but they're true. I have always felt welcome and comfortable at Pharos, and that's something I did not expect when I began. The anxieties and intimidation I had about going to a gym and "starting all over" were my own, about my own internal insecurities and the fact that I was a shell of who I was, mentally & physically (I'm 5'6 and wasn't even 100lbs when I started back. I was pretty broken! I still wear a mask every day for health reasons, but no one's weird or aggressive about it.). From the first folks who helped orient me---Kevin & Andre---to other trainers, coaches, and staff I've met over time--s/o to Sue, Joe, Abigayle, Alan, Nick, Cynthia, Alex, Kate, Micheli, Jesse, & more (please forgive any misspellings!)---everyone has been encouraging and supportive. Comrades using the gym have been warm and kind, as well. There's nothing quite like having someone you've never talked to, catch your eyes and go, "hell yeah, GET IT!" as you're struggling for that last rep. It's a good place with good people. As for equipment, there are tons of machines and free weights, which are more than enough for me; I'm here to lift and I don't need fancy. Still, if you compare my photo of the area they call "The Base" (the only space I use) to a photo of the same space here on Yelp from 2021, I think you'll see there's equipment that's been added, and it always feels like they're attempting to grow more. I'm an early morning person, and btwx the variety of machines/weights and the fact that there's no real "crowd" at that time, I never get stuck waiting for my next move/set. When necessary, again, b/c of the variety of equipment available, it's very easy to adapt a workout or move for a particular target muscle to what's available. Is everything perfect? I imagine not. I'm not using the facilities to the max, I'm not taking classes, I don't care about the music, I don't need saunas and pools and ice baths, and I'm just generally not a demanding person, so maybe I'm not able to thoroughly critique every aspect of this gym. But I don't need perfection. I need basic equipment that's functioning and available, and for the athletic space I'm sharing to not be overrun with cops & military. I have everything I need at Pharos and I am grateful to them every day. read more

Pharos Athletic Club - Gyms Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Really enjoyed the class I took! I took a HIITclass that I found on Classpass. It wasn't a lot of credits to book the class, so the price was great for me! The place is HUGE and there's a variety of workout types you can do! Multiple floors, multiple setups, etc. For the HIIT class, we did a variety of workouts and they provided all equipment. It was a nice push, as most people were super fit! It definitely pushed me, and I will 100% be returning. My instructor was extremely kind, helpful, and supportive! He really kept my head in the game! The place was clean, and more importantly, the BATHROOMS were clean! I think it's worth it if you have a classpass! I don't know the regular pricing! But again, I'll definitely be returning when it makes sense or I'm in the area! read more

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The best gym for WHATEVER kind of workout you enjoy. CrossFit , mat Pilates , boxing , circuit training , heavy lifting ... name it and it's there. Clean, schedule accommodates everyone. Thanks for your midday classes, Pharos. All the couches are wonderful, personally, I found Carlos EXCEPTIONAL. He is talented to explain things for beginners while making it challenging for the advanced. read more

Been a member since 2018. Highly recommend the group classes, especially the Train or Hybrid classes with Alex. read more

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This place is the best community gym. Alex bring the vines for his train class. Amada core class is amazing. Alll the teachers and staff make this place a real community. Can't wait for all the new equipment upstairs for train. read more

Pharos Athletic Club - Alex. Take his train class - Gyms Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I really like the feel of community at this gym. I started going with ClassPass and ended up joining as a member because I really liked the workout classes. At first, I was hesitant because I used to pay $20 monthly at another gym (I know crazy lol), but I looked at the gyms nearby and most are $200+ monthly. The main difference for me was that not only do they have a lot of classes with a variety of HIIT/strength training/core, they also have a sauna, showers, and a full gym plus coaching. Every coach I've done a class with has been awesome! They make it fun and definitely push you. Each day is a different focus area and the Train Heroic app gives you an idea of what you'll do that day, which I appreciate. I've done classes with Carlos, Joe, Alex, Dan, Lindsey, and Aaron for BUILD & TRAIN, and I've done Recovery & Core with Katherine, Maddie and Amanda. All great. Super attentive and helpful. Definitely recommend! Not necessary for the review but I don't think Robin is there anymore & she was awesome for Booty Gains. Overall a great gym! read more

Joined Pharos in 2021 because the owner (Pieter) is the only certified Gym Jones instructor I know of in LA... and have stayed because of Coach Alex who programs intense/fun classes, and will also patiently coach you through all moves to ensure you don't hurt yourself! read more

Coach Alex keeps us all at Pharos! So many incredible people come to his classes!!! Best energy 10:15 train classes will get you ripped! read more

Pharos Athletic Club - Alex!!!! We love you! - Gyms Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Disappointed After a Year. Not Worth the Hype or the Price. I was a member at Pharos Gym for a full year, and I really tried to give it a chance but unfortunately, it consistently missed the mark in ways that became impossible to overlook. First, let's talk about value: it's way too pricey for what you actually get. The facilities are seriously lacking. The bathrooms and locker areas were always in rough shape, not well maintained or ever cleaned properly and that just sets the tone for everything else. Basic gym etiquette seemed completely ignored. Members worked out barefoot, some even brought barking dogs into the gym, and no one ever seemed to care even after I expressed concern several times. It felt very unhygienic most of the time. The general atmosphere wasn't much better. While there were a few standout staff members, most seemed uninterested, unenthusiastic, and, frankly, like they didn't want to be there. Not the kind of energy you want to walk into for a workout. The only reason I stayed as long as I did was because of the amazing coaching from Aaron, Alex, and Dan. They were the bright spots in an otherwise frustrating experience. They were genuinely invested in their members progress and truly cared. To top it all off, the constant construction and heavy traffic around Glendale Blvd and Sunset made getting to the gym impossible at times. I really wanted to love this place, but in the end, the poor maintenance, lack of professionalism, and high cost made it clear it just wasn't worth it. Hopefully, the leadership steps up and addresses these issues, because the potential is there, but it's definitely not being realized right now. read more

Awesome gym with awesome staff!! The only drawbacks is the insane loud music blasting always !!! Blasting in the morning and night !!!! Majority of those working out have ear buds perhaps trying to drown the loud music blasting !!!!!! read more

This place has everything you need and more to get a great workout. I recommend the classes the classes they offer too!

Pharos is more than just a gym--it's a community that transforms you both physically and socially. When I first joined, I thought I was just signing up to get stronger and learn about weightlifting, but I got so much more. Not only did I see my body become stronger than I ever thought possible, but I also made friendships that I know will last a lifetime. The coaches are incredible--knowledgeable, approachable, and truly invested in your progress. They helped me break through mental and physical barriers I didn't even know I had. The programming is challenging, but the support and camaraderie make every workout something to look forward to. Pharos is the place to be if you're looking for a gym that pushes you to be your best self while fostering genuine connections with people who share the same goals. Highly recommend! read more

Pharos Athletic Club - Gyms Near Me - Los Angeles, California

So far have only had positive experiences. This has been important to me especially because I stopped working out for 6+yrs for various reasons so returning was really intimidating. Shout out to Coach Katherine Grant-Suttie for always walking around and checking our form during the exercises. read more

This is place is truly unique and wonderful, I am honestly impressed at how much work they have put into making this gym into so much more than just a gym, the amenities , equipment and rooms are all top notch. it is clearly a passion project for the people behind the scenes. None of the trainers here ever seem like they are phoning it in. They are super nice and helpful but it doesn't feel forced or insincere. All the members seem great as well. definitely good vibes all around. This is a great gym for people who want to take lots of classes and vary their workouts between different activities and levels. read more

Huge shout out to Dan!!! If you need personal training he is the absolute best. He will have you laughing while he kicks your butt. My fiancé and I have been doing private sessions with Dan to get ready for our wedding and I am so impressed at his ability to personalize workouts that meet both of our needs, even though our movement histories, strength levels, and goals are widely different. We look forward to working out with Dan all week and are noticing some serious results in our bodies, both aesthetically and athletically. Thank you, Dan!!!!!! Pharos in general is a 10/10 gym. The group classes are VERY challenging but I think the teachers make them accessible for everyone who shows up, too. The facilities are always super clean, never crowded, and good vibes all around with the staff and members. An east side gem! read more

We have not yet been to the Los Feliz location but we love the Idyllwild location. Top quality equipment, great space with large yoga studio upstairs and stretching room. We visit every time we come to Idyllwild. read more

They have the best massage therapist there named Django! He completely fixed my shoulder and neck pain and even gave me homework to do to help me progress in between sessions. I can't wait for the next one! Thank you so much! read more

Awesome staff. Awesome gym. It's expensive but it's worth it. Machines are super nice and everything is really well-maintained. Not too many members and if you know how to time it, you can basically have the place to yourself read more

Tried this gym out... it's the most basic gym i've ever been to in my life.. nothing to offer if you're just looking for simple equipment. No sauna, no amenities, not even that clean... yet somehow it's the most expensive gym i've ever seen. If you go for the classes that's different but they should have a split membership for just the basic gym. For double the price of equinox without any of the perks... it's just not worth it. read more

My saving grace during the pandemic. Such an incredible place to workout socially-distanced with an incredible community of exercise enthusiasts. My girlfriend, our pup, and I are there daily, and couldn't ask for a better gym. Thank you, Pharos. You are the best. Couldn't recommend more. read more

Pharos Athletic Club - Gyms Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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(Only) good space to work out in the neighborhood that isn't a cinderblock that smells like pee. One star off for being way overpriced. Another star off for the staff who have control of the stereo system always blasting the worst Britany Spears or some crap house music louder than your headphones even with nobody but you in the room you're doing your thing in. Come the f on. Nobody's laughing about ironic bad taste. read more

Listen, I've never been a gym person, I've never liked working out, I've given so much money to gyms I never used in the past because I didn't know what I was doing and I sure as hell wasn't going to ask anyone. Pharos absolutely changed the game for me, and without sounding super cliché and cheesy it honestly changed my life. I'm EXCITED to come to the gym now, and I'm still in shock about it. Pharos gives you support, it gives you community, it gives you infinite paths to walk down for whatever level you're at. They have classes for almost anything physical you could think of, yoga, weightlifting, gymnastics, stretching, cycling, cardio, no matter what level you're at or what your fitness goal is there is a place for you at Pharos. And the coaches! I can't gush about the coaches enough. You can tell they love what they're doing, and they care about you getting the most out of your workouts. They don't just put a workout up on the screen and watch while you do it, they show you every single step, they correct your form when needed, they help you modify movements when you have injuries or physical limitations that make certain things hard for you, they're the reason I come to class. Other than the newfound need to get super buff. As a woman the gym can be an intimidating place sometimes, but I never feel like that here. Half the people here are women and half the coaches are women too. Shout out to my favorite coaches Katie, Zoe, Lizzy, Sarah, and Emylee: they push you to do your best and again, are the reason I come to class. Anyway, quit your gym and come to Pharos, it's worth every penny. read more

The space is good, there's an outdoor option, and having towels for both guest and cleanup was quite a pleasant surprise. It's simply a treat right now to be able to workout somewhere. read more

Great facility and staff, one of the better non-commercial gyms I've been to in the area. You pay more than you would at a LA fitness or Golds gym, and in return get a much, much nicer experience. Management is responsive and has always been happy to answer any questions I had over email. Worth the price! read more

Started coming here after my ankle surgery last March to get back in the swing of things. Awesome coaching staff here and the community that is supportive to push you to do your best. The classes and the coaches are well worth the money as they are attentive to form, knowledgeable, patient and overall great people. I encourage people to by come and experience the community and fun atmosphere that PHAROS has to offer. Keep up the great job Piet, Emylee and Jeffery! read more

Feb 2019: I lost 3% body fat and lost 10lbs overall in the recent 6 week challenge. The people in my life have noticed the change. Really happy with the results I've been achieving here. read more

2 Days in, very friendly staff- everyone in masks, clean facility, cleaning products available. Beautiful space, lots of available equipment- outdoor space is shaded and large. read more

Still the best customer service, feels like home. Great measures taken regarding new regulations with dealing with Covid-19. The best coaches, and the best programming when it comes to workouts! read more

Safety first and foremost during this time, thoughtful programming, friendly and caring coaches and community!

It's got everything. The indoor weight room is awesome as well. Love how open it is too. The people seem genuine and down to earth which I like as well. read more

I wouldn't know about this place. However I do know that they bought happy toms parking lot & have a little parking nazi patrolling it. Fine y'all have money & want to buy our communities. But again can't enjoy a steak sandwich with my grandmother who has Alzheimer's but always remembers happy toms & how it HAD A PARKING LOT! Sad I'm over y'all hip places y'all can take yourselves back to SaMo & fall off the bluff into the ocean for all I care. Just stop taking the staples of our communities!Including their parking lots!!! Like y'all can afford a meter for two-three hours. read more

Great classes and gym space, but not worth the insane membership fee for a gym without a locker room to match the rest of the facility. The showers are tiny and dingy (and there are only 2), no changing area, no lockers, no steam room... I would suggest just buying a class package because the instructors are great and the classes are excellent: small, focused, and effective. If I'm going to pay for an unlimited sports club membership, I want to be able to get ready for work or a date there so I can go everyday and make it a regular part of my life. That said, the actual gym space is huge and awesome, so if you are not as crunched for time, and those amenities don't matter to you, this is a much better gym for working out than the Equinox in DTLA (I think that's the closest high-end sports club to Pharos.) read more

It's one of the only places available in town where you can work out outside. It's beautiful and they have great equipment and I got a great work out. read more

Can't recommend this place enough! It's totally worth every dollar! Besides having a variety of classes to choose from from attentive, supportive, fun-loving instructors there is an INCREDIBLE physical therapy team that includes mobility with owner Emylee, chiropractic services with Dr. Tang and magical massage therapy from Tonya. WOW what a team! I had a car accident 3 years ago and still having massive problems lingering from a hip injury that had my body compensating; I had runners knee, some tendonitis, foot cramping, etc. I got a free mobility assessment which I knew would be bad and they laid out a plan to help me get better in 3 months. I'm coming to the end of my three months and I've started jogging without runners knee or foot cramps. The other instructors also noticed the changes in me too and they've been super accommodating with modifications for work outs during this recovery. I recommend anyone with any injuries to go see them pronto! Did I mention it's CLEAN too? I can't stand dirty gyms. Everyone respects the equipment and wipes down their equipment after they use it. Plus, the staff are taking very good care of the place. Ladies, try out the BUILD HER classes on Tuesdays and Thursday nights to get that empowerment on. Pharos is a home away from home that helps me feel confident, get my sweat on, and heal. read more

Where to start? (This is a long-overdue review...) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - I was burnt out from the hamster wheel treadmills and mindless cardio. The selfie-taking weight/machine hoarders and pretty girls who dress-to-impress at the gym. Seriously. After LOTS of research, we found PHAROS. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - My physical and emotional life changed literally in one day! Even before we took a tour, Emylee, one of the owners of the gym, met my husband and I out in the parking lot! So friendly, kind, empathetic, and engaging, she instantly made us feel at home. As we took our tour, the facility was clean, new, updated equipment, and a HUGE VARIETY OF CLASSES! We were given so much information, I felt like a sponge that hadn't had water for a long time! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - We went ahead with the month trial period. I tried EVERYTHING. I had never been on a "spin" bike before, nor taken boxing lessons. The group fitness classes are not your regular aerobics class. I LOVED jumping into a TRAIN class and a BUILD class. FIGHT and RIDE were my instant favorites! FLY? Getting a killer workout in a gymnastics type class! My body moved in different ways I never knew it could! Not once was I intimidated or felt uneasy. Everyone at the gym is there to work out! Amazing! What finally sold me was Emylee and Piet's dog, Bauer, came and cuddled up to me on my mat during a REPAIR class. I remember crying a little. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - We've been members since October 2018. I feel the price is well worth the investment in YOURSELF. True, the monthly fee isn't a $39 Gold's Gym membership, but that is not what I want nor need. I NEED a community, trusted coaches and experts, and clean facility where the owners CARE and INVEST so much into their client's needs and wants. ***THEY LISTEN!!*** I needed a space to challenge my MIND and BODY. Not just use a treadmill or generally lift weights. Since joining, so many updates and positive changes have been made to the facility! ***A second side to the gym for FIGHT and TRAIN classes. ***A new third section is in development. ***More weights and racks. ***More class times and more classes. ***More amazing and professional yet cool trainers. ***MORE A/C! ***More LOVE. ***More parking!!!!!! - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Piet and Emylee and Jeff have created a cozy, chill, and inspiring community where we can grow mentally and physically, learn new skills and hone in on what we know, relax, recharge, and be inspired! ***PHAROS is truly a light and beacon in my life and Echo Park!!!!!*** read more

Simply the best gym in LA. Knowledgeable coaches, beautiful space, brand new equipment, real sense of community, kickass workouts... This place is the real deal! They accommodate everyone no matter your level of fitness. Joining PHAROS has been one of the best decision of my life! read more

Since my first intro day with Emylee, this place has been a godsend. I've been through all the local gyms and even equinox for almost 2 years until I finally stumbled upon this amazing community and incredible programs. If you want options, a real gym where people actually do work instead of sitting on their phones logging social media hours, and you want a lovely community where there's friendly competitions and even retreats...yes, a gym where they create a family and do worldwide excursions....this is the only way a gym should exist. All others are second place. I'm in my 3rd month, tracking gains and making friends. I'll be here as long as I live in LA. The programming is done by the owners who have such an inventive style of working out that every time I show up it feels fun and new and challenging. Thx for existing PHAROS and breathing new life into me. read more

I lost 80 pounds and my whole life has changed for the better. Feel like I have a brand new healthy happy life. The space is so clean and nice. The staff are friendly. I feel like I'm apart of a family. Favorite part of my day is going to classes or training with Pieter read more

Clean, Courteous Staff, Top Notch Equipment, Availability of equipment, Spacious. And the cherry on top...A full boxing ring!