I'm sad to say but I had an abusive experience here. When I asked Diane to repeat the sequence of exercises she wanted me to perform she responded that I would have to 'get with the program' and remember without her needing to repeat. (This was a new series of exercises she was taking me through.) Then she said that the first sign of dementia is a loss of ability to sequence. I of course, did not return, even though I had paid for additional sessions. read more

This is a great place for strength training! Diana is an excellent and thoughtful trainer. She teaches you how to do things right so you don't get hurt and works with you to achieve your goals. The small groups, often 2-5 people, are like personal training, at a fraction of the cost, with peer group support. I highly recommend it! read more

LOVE G-Werx!! I've been coming here for 3 months and I have seen so much progress. The classes are small group training (2-8 people) and meant to be taken every week 2-3 times a week. I'm in my 30's and don't have any interest in a high intensity workout class with 30 people stuffed in a room and no one paying attention to my form, burning me out. I wanted to focus on strength building for my long term health. I have a peloton at home which I rarely use, so I also needed a trainer that will keep me motivated and on a consistent schedule. G-Werx is all of that, not to mention SO convenient for both Mill District and North Loop residents. Highly recommend! read more

Great instructors, great people. Motivating and informative.

THIS IS INDIVIDUAL TRAINING AT A GROUP TRAINING PRICE G-Werx (Downtown) has been a major contributor to my health and ENERGY since they opened (and in the many years before as 501 Fit). In almost 10 years the trainers' knowledge has taken me through "pre-hab" and rehab of various injuries and surgeries. I have built lasting strength and confidence in my body where physical therapy gave me only short-term benefits. These aren't doctors or physical therapists. These are people trained in building strength and protecting me from the mistakes often made in unassisted training. Depending on the package you purchase you can get the equivalent of individual training (I have worked with trainers in CA, TX, and MN) for around $20 per session. Good luck finding that around town. The groups are fun- I have made friends and had a blast. Do yourself a favor. Come in and talk to the owner/trainer and see what's possible for you! ENJOY read more

Moving back to Minneapolis in 2019, and to the Mill District, I was looking for a gym that I could walk to that was better than the in-house gym in my building. I discovered G-Werx and decided to give it a try. Now two years in what I've found is a community of wonderful people focused on healthy living with exercise and lifting focused on wellness and strength, and an environment with a real sense of comradery among those involved. I recommend G-Werx to anyone moving into the Mill District and surrounding areas. Every class is a joy to look forward to, thank you Diana, for the environment you create everyday! -SS read more

I've been working out at 501 for about 5 months now, taking the group classes, a few one on ones and by my self once in a while. The staff here are great, very friendly and interested in the clients personal development and goals. It's also not uncommon to hear the owner talking about going to a clients event or even sharing accomplishments. Overall they have a really supportive atmosphere. The part that really impresses me is that if you take a class you can be in tip top shape and lifting heavy weights next to someone who's never lifted before or has a hurt shoulder and both people will get an amazing work out. The level of personal attention you get, especially at the price, is amazing. I've gone from 205 lbs and 25 percent body fat to 192 and 15 percent, I'm in the best shape of my life thanks to 501 fit, I still have a little way to go, but these are great results. The equipment at the gym is unique and top quality, locker rooms are really clean and the natural lighting in the gym is great. They also have a new parking deal that's really kind of incredible, especially if you work in the area and have to pay for parking. read more

I got a really good deal on a 3 month membership (including barre and yoga) on Groupon. The gym is really nice and super clean/well maintained. Great equipment. The main reason I joined was for the barre classes, though. I was really excited when I joined because they had 6pm and 6:30pm class options several times a week. I work until 5:30 most days, so it's tough for me that most gyms have their after-work fitness classes at 5 or 5:30. I was looking forward to being able to work out multiple times a week after work. Well, just a couple of weeks after I joined they removed all of the 6:30pm classes and added more 4:45/5:15pm classes. Now there's only one regular barre class at 6pm a week (and one 6pm "Barre Yoga" class, which really isn't my thing. I've never been a big yoga fan). So I really feel like I won't get my moneys worth only being able to go to class once a week. I doubt I'll renew after my 3 months is up. Update: Just wanted to update my review after e-mailing the studio. I asked for a refund on my groupon, since I won't be able to attend classes regularly. Not only did they refuse that request, they also asked me to remove this review, which I found completely unethical. I've contacted Groupon customer service for a resolution. read more

This is pound for pound the best place for strength training. I have worked out at Lifetime, Gold's, LA Fitness, YMCA and The Firm and none have classes that compare to 501's G-WERX group strength training program. You can do an all in one day full body workout or use the splits, sets and reps method using either a two day or three day a week format. I did the three day a week classes for two months and lost 12 lbs with little to no cardio. I also estimate I gained at least 5 lbs in muscle for total fat loss of about 17 pounds in that time frame. The cost is more than what you will pay at some of the other gyms, but what you get in return is more structured personal attention in a small group setting that motivates you to not only work hard, but also make you want to come back again and again. The results give you a totally different feel than when doing cardio alone. For cardio they offer the usual bikes, stair climbers and elliptical machines for the do-it yourselfers or a cardio kickboxing class which I have not tried. The club itself has the great MPLS warehouse feel with exposed brick and pillars and has great view of the city skyline. I'd give this place 5 stars, but I have recently gotten addicted to spinning classes and I am knocking one star because I have to get my spinning done at another gym. But I have still not found a better solution for strength training than 501 therefore I am getting the best of both worlds by strength training at 501 Fit and spinning elsewhere. read more

Work'n out aint easy and it's even harder to find time to do it. But like many I found working out is mandatory for me. I have tried numerous gyms and haven't been satisfied. EXCEPT FOR NOW. I love 501FIT. It's clean. The location is convenient. Everybody knows your name. There's no fluff, it's all about working out and nothing else. Truly why it's brilliant is the classes. They really get you results. You work together with other members to get to your fitness goal. This is the most important. With the support from the staff and the members it's easier to make it to each class. I look forward to my workout every week. read more

I travel for work every week all over the country, and it is hard to find the time and a good place to work out... I was lucky enough to find 501 Fit while working few months in Minneapolis, and absolutely LOVED IT! I wasn't looking to lose weight or anything in particular, but Phil and Diana showed me few tricks and new things with weights. I had a great time with the group, enjoyed every single workout, got stronger and I cannot wait to go back next chance I get. This place is worth every dollar and some, do not wait - check it out NOW! :) read more

After being out of the "workout field" for a couple of years, I was nervous about heading back to a gym. I lacked energy, was overweight and felt all-over crummy! I called 501Fit to figure out if I could start working out with a personal trainer and Phil, one of the owners, recommended I try out their G-Werx small group personal training classes. I was hesitant as I didn't really want to be around others while working out, but it turned out to be a GREAT experience!! I've been attending these G-Werx sessions for about 6 weeks and I'm feeling awesome! The team at 501Fit is incredible!! Diana, the owner, teaches many of the G-Werx sessions herself. The entire team of personal trainers are motivating and encouraging and they all bring a different perspective to the group. They ensure that you are doing the exercises properly so that you don't hurt yourself and it's a sustainable way to get fit. The trainers also ensure that they monitor your weights and push you (within your limits) to be stronger. The location is super convenient - right off Washington Ave in DT Minneapolis and they just opened a new location just for G-Werx in South Minneapolis. The facility is spotless and the equipment is great as you can perform hundreds of different exercises. I've lost 15 pounds so far, but have gained so much more from the partnership with the people at this gym. Even the other people in class are encouraging! Definitely not your ordinary gym expereince - check it out - you'll likely love it as much as I do. read more

I wrote a review for 501Fit a few years back complementing their wonderful staff, workout area, and G-werx sessions; those all still hold true, but this review is for their BARRE class I've been attending for the past year. BARRE classes are taught by Nic Lincoln, he's an accomplished dancer and dance professor. Nic does a great job of taking the classes' feedback and applying it to each session. He also keeps classes fresh by changing up the routine every day (he plays good music too!). The classes usually have around ten people, mostly ladies (lucky me!) and everyone is very laid back creating a welcoming environment! Come try it out! Classes are usually at 5:15pm and 6:30pm, but it depends on the day. Check out the 501Fit Facebook page, they should have the info there! :) read more

The club is in a really cool location, right on top of the 501 Club, formerly Matty B's. Lots of exposed brick and pipes, which is very cool. Everything has been remodeled and painted inside, looks very modern and well put together. The entire staff is so nice! Everyone is encouraging while you work out, and after they offer advice and encouragement to come back. Very friendly and supportive. I was there for one of their free cardio boxing classes, and it will KICK YOUR ASS. I was seriously out of commission for anything harder than walking for a week. Lots of up and down the stairs, core training, cardio work and kick boxing. Holy crap! Personally, I wouldn't buy a membership there. I live in South Minneapolis, and there are options closer to me with better hours. It also strikes me as the kind of club where people who are already in tip top shape go to maintain that. Not really for people like me who are in decent shape, want to hit the elliptical for an hour, do some stretching and weight training, and then go eat lunch. More for people who want to sweat their 2% body fat off and then go drink a protein shake. :P read more

I did a free week here when they were at their previous location closer to Washington. The classes were really fun and locker rooms clean. They only had two rooms for classes and three showers in the women's locker room so perhaps that's why they moved. I did the yoga, Barr and TRX group classes. Everything was really fun and classes were packed. This was really nice as I am motivated by those around me, but it did make it harder to have instructor feedback. I would have bought a membership but the location they're now in doesn't work for me. Definitely check it out if you're looking for group classes with a lot of variety. read more

I've been a member of 501Fit from their opening. In addition to the normal fitness equipment and classes you would expect, 501Fit offers the unique G-Werx group fitness instruction -- essentially providing one-on-one training at group rates. I can't imagine a better, more economical, way to get into shape and stay in shape. Give it a try -- you will not regret it! read more

Diana and Phil, your support is wonderful and much appreciated. Not only you are extremely capable trainers but you are amazing and generous human beings. I feel blessed to have walked into your business two years ago! read more

This is a fantastic gym (conveniently located across from my workplace) that is great for all fitness levels, even a guy like me that still hasn't quite mastered a squat. Really enjoy the staff and facility. Small training sessions with a trainer make it an incredible value. Can't recommend this place enough if you work or live in downtown Minneapolis. read more

I have traveled all over the country for work, for months at a time and this by far has been my best experience at a gym. Every inch of the gym was spotless, each an every staff member was personable and friendly yet gave me the room to work out in peace and I never had to wait in the line for equipment. Great place! I am looking forward to my next trip to Minneapolis! read more

Great fitness studio that focuses on longevity through safe and effective exercise programs. The machine they invented and use is awesome, highly recommended. read more

I've attended regular G-Werx sessions for nearly 10 years, and am much stronger and smarter about strength training as a result. I tried other programs, and this one is the best. The vibe from Diana (owner/trainer) is all about serious, smart strength training, with a focus on good form and safety. She fosters a nice sense of camaraderie among participants, many of whom are now friends. If you're serious about strength training, and looking for a reasonably priced, focused/regular workout program in a comfortable, healthy environment, you've found the right place! read more

When I was looking for a gym for personal training here on Yelp, 501FIT was at the top of the search results because of the stellar yet reliable reviews of the place from some of my Yelp friends. My good friend Varsha's detailed review gave me a great insight into the gym and I immediately decided to give it a shot. I called and scheduled my free trial G-Werx session for a 90-minute full body workout on a Wednesday evening. The workout began with a few minutes of warm up through squats using the extremely versatile G-Werx machine and slowly transitioning to a series of exercise sets and reps. It was my very first time lifting weights and I was a bit unsure about the weight I would be comfortable with. But the co-owner and instructor of 501FIT, Diana, took care of all the minute details throughout my workout. She was extremely knowledgeable about weight training and ensured that I was maintaining the right posture and lifting the right amount of weights for each exercise. Although it was a gruelling workout, it was a thoroughly rewarding experience that led me to sign up for a 12-week program, with three 1-hour evening sessions each week. Each session focuses on working different areas of the body - biceps, triceps, chest, shoulders, back, abs, legs and buns. Within the first few weeks, I noticed changes in my shoulders, chest, biceps and legs. The muscles are getting tighter and more toned every week. The session times are flexible as they are offered in the mornings and in the evenings with makeup sessions offered on Saturdays. The instructors - Diana, Joel, Meg and Phil are all exceptionally good and they pay very close attention to detail and interact closely with everyone during the workout sessions. They provide a very warm, friendly atmosphere and are incredibly encouraging during the sessions. Phil is a vegan and can provide great tips for a plant-based diet for a healthy living and strong physique. How awesome is that. I understand that cost is very subjective but considering the quality of training and the amenities provided at the gym and I think 501FIT is affordable. The facility is very clean and the workout area is spacious. The gym validates parking and brings down the cost to $1 for two hours of parking at the Gateway Parking ramp. read more

I never thought I would give a gym a 5 star yelp review-- if you know me, you'd know that gyms and 5 stars usually don't go together. And then, one day, I walked into 501 Fit, and it totally changed my perception of gyms, and my own personal thoughts on working out. This isn't your mainstream, commercial, big-box gym. Instead, it's a group of wonderful people who genuinely care about not only your health and fitness, but you as a person, and work with you to achieve your goals. Being someone new to strength training, I was a little skeptical about whether I would fit in in the group G-werx classes.. some places can be incredibly intimidating for someone who isn't a seasoned lifter. But somehow 501 magically makes everyone feel welcome, and comfortable, and the program allows people of differing ability to work out side by side, with everyone getting a solid workout. That's not easy to do, but they do it, and they do it really well. It's so nice to have someone else plan your workout-- all you have to do is show up, and they take care of the rest. And the group training brings down the cost of personal training to a much more affordable rate.. 3 months at 501 was less than one month of personal training at another, mainstream gym. I should also mention, that even when classes have been "busy," I've never felt like I was neglected or not getting enough one-on-one attention from the trainer. Phil and Diana and the rest of the team are really great instructors. I could have had the worst day at work, and climbed up the stairs of 501 in the grouchiest mood, but with their positive energy and sense of humor (not to mention the workout endorphins), I always leave in a fabulous mood. I love that the know who I am, and what my goals are, and that I'm not just another member out of hundreds, like you see elsewhere. I also love that I'm supporting a small business vs. a big franchise! Recently I had some health issues that caused me to miss quite a few G-werx classes, and it was so comforting to know that they would work with me and not just give me the "too bad" attitude that I'd experienced from the more well known gym in Minneapolis. The facility is also great. It may not be as big as other gyms, but everything is always really clean, and well taken care of. I highly recommend both the gym, and the G-werx program to anyone looking for a great place to work out! read more

I've gone to G-Werx for almost a year and a half. The program they use is great, and allows you to focus on specific muscle groups for each session of the week. However, the owner is rude, disrespectful and outright insulting to clients. Not only do you have to worry about making sure your form is correct, you also have to worry about not pissing off the owner by taking the wrong path to the drinking fountain, or any other number of landmines! Walk between the machines with a plant next to it, I DARE YOU. After a year and a half I finally lost my shit when the owner went off on me for using 5lb dumbells instead of the 3lb ones that she demanded I use. If you want to pay over $2K a year to workout in a tense, uncomfortable, toxic environment, then you've found the right place! read more

After not having a proper workout schedule for quite some time and sitting at a desk all day I knew I needed to start looking for a gym. It had been awhile since I actually "worked out" so I knew I needed some structure to keep me accountable and on track. I decided to try 501 Fit based on their structured class schedule, group training and also that the location was right in the middle of work and home. I thought I would just sign up for the 8 week session but nine months later I am hooked! I go three times a week for one hour each time. It may not sound like a lot, but every part of my body is being challenged. Each workout is focused on different parts of the body (legs, abs, biceps, triceps, shoulders, back, etc.). I have lost weight, toned up and have become so much stronger. The trainers Diana, Phil, Meg and Joel are so knowledgable, helpful and fun. The greatest thing is that they know how much weight I need from week to week and how to challenge me more. This allows me to forgo keeping a weight log and preventing me from feeling like I have hit my maximum capacity and need to quit, which tends to happen when I work out on my own. There are times when I feel that I just can't do anymore but I am always amazed how they push me and what I accomplish from week to week. I feel extremely valued as a client and that they genuinely care about my progress. I recommend 501 Fit to anyone who is just starting to work out to individuals who have been working out for years. You will not be disappointed in the results and the atmosphere this gym provides. read more

501Fit is my neighborhood gym. What I like best, besides the program which I'll get into a little bit below, is that they are a neighborhood gym. They are not a mass produced cookie cutter organization where the goal is to churn through as many clients as possible. Both of the owners, Phil and Diana, are wonderful. They live in the community they work in and do their best to fit into it as an active member of the neighborhood. They take the time to get to know each client individually and make them feel welcome and personally attended to despite the group environment. I've been using their G-werx system for a little over a year now and I can tell a difference in how my clothes are fitting. I especially like getting to know other members of the gym, which is really easy to do given the small group sessions. I've not met a single member I've not liked. read more

501Fit is like family to me. I signed up a year-and-a-half ago due to the PHENOMENAL reviews and I was not disappointed. Diana (the owner) will remember you and will always say Hi, sometimes even if she's teaching a class! Great equipment, very clean, very friendly and helpful staff, good prices, everything you need in a gym and more! And an amazing location too!! There's even a cute little dog running around sometimes - seriously, it's like a family gym :) What else could you ask for!? Stop reading this and JOIN! Cheers! read more

This is a great gym. I've been going there for the last 6 months and find Diana to be a solid guide to better fitness and core conditioning.

This is a long overdue review for 501FIT! This is the best gym I've worked out at in a long time. I've had several trainers previously and 501 is by far the best crew I've worked with. Diana and her staff really care about each and every one of their clients and make sure you are performing each exercise correctly so you avoid injury AND get the most out of each workout. (And get after you if you're slacking - in a good way!) I also loved that they focus on proven strength training techniques that work, rather than pushing you to do crazy high-intensity-not-meant-for-most-people-workouts until you feel sick like a lot of other gyms/trainers do. I appreciated being held accountable and cared about and would recommend them to anyone in a heartbeat (and often do!) read more

Last summer I moved to Minnesota for an internship and not only did I not know a single person, but I had little knowledge of how to work out in a gym as well. 501 Fit was the best thing that could have happened to me that summer! Not only did I meet amazing people and create friendships that made coming to training enjoyable, but I learned much more than I ever thought I would! They taught me how to do each and every exercise properly to make sure when I added weight I wouldn't injure myself. All in all this place was perfect for me as I trained for a half marathon! After moving back home in August I've been looking for a similar gym ever since. It's June and still haven't found one and probably never will find one that can fully replace 501 Fit!! You guys rock! read more

501fit is hands down, amazing. Diana and Phil are both incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming. The environment of the gym is so different than any other gym I've belonged to (and there are a lot on that list)! It's inclusive of everyone that attends, the workouts with G-werx are challenging but rewarding. One of the aspects I like most about the G-werx classes is how important safety and form are to the trainers. Other group classes I've taken over the years really never took the time to teach this. I noticed myself getting stronger over the first couple of months of taking the classes - very rewarding! This gym is by far the best facility I've ever belonged to! read more

Fantastic approach to working out. I've been exercising and weight training for over 20 years and I've never felt as good or enjoyed working out as much as I do at 501 Fit. Phil Martens and the other trainers bring a fresh and enthusiastic approach that's infective...in a good way! read more

Great local gym with everything you need for a complete workout. Free weights, machines, cardio equipment, yoga, stretching room. I utilize this gym when I travel to Minneapolis and am able to stay on track with my fitness, for a nominal daily fee. No hassles of a big gym; no crowds; very clean; up to date; staff/owners very cool. Within a mile of city center and convenient to all the major hotels. Best gym I go to while traveling. Any state!!! read more

I started at G-Werx to get back into shape after surgery. Diana is great to work with. She checks in with each student and adapts exercises to match their specific needs and fitness levels. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun, and each person gets the personal attention they need to succeed. I really notice a difference in my overall strength since joining. What I really like is that, as an older exerciser, I don't feel self-conscious working out with younger clients. Everyone works out to make themselves better; it's not an atmosphere of comparison or competition. I highly recommend it! read more

I've always been compelled to work out and eat right with the hopes of landing the body I've been so determined to achieve, yet I've never hit any of the goals I made - ever. I belonged to every "big name" gym and it was always the same run around and quick fade motivation cycle. I would workout endlessly on the cardio machines with little to no instruction from the numerous employees who would just wonder aimlessly about the floor; not actually connecting or inspiring any of their members. Sound familiar? I actually stumbled across 501 Fit on accident as I bought a Groupon for a massage that was also located in their building. While waiting I was approached by Phil and learned about their program and how it was so vastly different so I decided to give it a shot. I'M SO GLAD I DID! Phil and Diana are great coaches on top of being awesome people. They make you feel welcome and comfortable every time you enter their doors. They are always more than willing to set aside time to hash out your goals with you and provide their suggestions on how to achieve them while also incorporating the G-WERX program. You'll love the other clients ((i've made so many friends)) and the environment is super fresh, clean and sporty. Give it a whirl. You'll be impressed. read more

I bought 10 classes on a Livingsocial deal and so far have gone to two of them. I love this place! The trainers are great, it's a fun and friendly atmosphere, and I love their G-Werx class concept. I am learning new techniques with weights and am just a little sore every day (sore enough so I know I got a great workout but not enough to be painful). In the past, I've done mostly just cardio when I go to the gym but I am starting to enjoy weights! read more

I can't say enough good things about what 501 Fit has done for my health & wellbeing. When I started as one of their group strength clients over a year and half ago, I had never done strength training before in my life. I was 30 years old, 11 months post-baby and putting on weight. My physical at the doctor showed my blood sugar in pre-diabetic range. When I initially decided to join, it wasn't for my health but to tone up for my wedding. That wonderful day came and went in April, 2011, and I had taken about a month off from my group strength exercises. I decided to go back and do the exercises when I returned because all my old upper back and neck injuries started hurting me again. So the second time around the goal was to not be in pain. After a couple of months of doing this, I wasn't in pain anymore, but I met with 501 Fit once again to discuss my nutrition. With my crazy lifestyle, it was difficult for me to have enough energy during some of my classes. Phil brought some things to my attention that I could change. This was in September, 2011. After this meeting and deciding to make better nutritional choices, I have lost 24 pounds and toned up and went down three pants sizes and met my GOAL weight and I'm officially in a healthy BMI range (something I haven't been for over 8 years). I have chosen this journey to now be a journey of health and 501 Fit continues to help with this. Paying for the classes is part of it because it gives me the accountability I need. When you go to their club, everyone knows your name; the people I work out with are great also. It is wonderful to work out with people with such varied hobbies and interests. I recommend 501 Fit to anyone who is serious, or in my case, sort of serious about getting on track with your fitness goals! read more