I had a fitness evaluation and training session with Armondo recently as a new member. I think it was a great way to get to know the gym and he was very knowledgeable about training the certain parts of my body im looking to change. As a 47 year old guy I want to maximize my progress and with his guidance I feel ready to get back in the game. ​ read more

The Manager promises cheaper rates to encourage you to sign up but then charges you a diff price later on. He then becomes unresponsive when you inquire about the unexpected charge. It Has been an absolute headache trying to rectify this issue. Cancelling your membership is a nightmare. read more

A couple months later and I'm still a fan of this gym! What really made the difference was enlisting in training sessions with Oleksandr Rud AKA Alex. He is very knowledgeable about weight loss and nutrition. Alex also explains which muscles each exercise targets. Thanks to him, I'm 20 pounds lighter, toned, and can crush almost every machine at the gym. The staff here are welcoming and make amazing smoothies. Overall, a great gym experience with a little bit of everything for everyone, regardless of fitness goals. I've been a member of almost every gym you can think of, but Retro is by far my best experience. I definitely recommend coming here! read more

See all

Pros: Front desk members are responsive, helpful, and friendly. There is natural lighting in the gym, so it's not dark and dingy. Facilities have a decent number of machines and weights, although as expected it gets crowded at peak times (after 5ish especially on mondays). Cons: Like most gyms expect to be hustled- upper management will engage in normal gym tactics of "needing to speak to a manager" for things like cancelations or downgrades. It is (unfortunately) a standard gym practice, so be ready to be extremely communicative. read more

Long Story Short: With all the Gym options in Brooklyn, it's not financially worth it or (in my experience) safe to go here. There are pro's to this place thought they are short, and easily listable. It is relatively clean, the machines work MOST of the time, and the hours are reasonable. The cons are many. The staff is inattentive and unaccommodating. And even if you use this Gym, I strongly urge you to not interact with their personal trainers. A DIRECT outcome of my fitness assessment was a five day hospital stay with Rhabdomyolysis. The gym refused to refund me my membership money. There are so many fitness options in the city, go somewhere else. read more

I started working out at Retro in September unsure of my fitness goals. I have always been into fitness, but I did not know how to push myself to see my full potential. I signed up for personal training with Shawn Benson, thinking I'd learn a few new things, but not knowing fully what to expect. Instead of stopping after a few weeks as planned, I've continued throughout the entire year, continuously impressed by the level of growth I never new I had in me. Shawn is the perfect balance of knowing when to push you and understanding when your body needs a moment's rest (never too long, though!;) He is extremely intuitive when it comes to determining how to best work with your abilities and limitations. He also knows how to make the hour seem less painful and more fun with his sense of humor and positive energy! As far as the gym goes - it is always clean and stocked with necessary supplies (paper towel, cleaning wipes, toilet paper in the bathrooms, etc.). However, what makes the gym stand out to me is really the trainer with whom I work with. I am at the most fit and strong I have ever been in my life, thanks to Shawn, who continues to set goals for me even when I'm unsure of my own. read more

See all

I am so glad I joined Retro Fitness!!! I used to go to the ballys on Tilden (now 24 hour fitness) and I honestly had to leave! My last straw was getting sick after the moldy sweaty smell of the gym almost had me doubling over on the treadmill. I came to Retro and got a cheaper rate than I had at 24 hour fitness. This however wasn't my motivation for joining the gym. It's clean! The first thing I do when I walk in is take in a big deep breath! The machines here are well organized. You will always find what you need. They have multiple free weights. The cardio machines here are all equipped with televisions. More features include a smoothie bar, special classes including cycling and yoga. The best and most unique feature is the cardio cinema! You heard me right just like a movie theatre except instead of seats and popcorn there's treadmills and elliptical machines! They play different movies everyday. I never knew how much hard cardio was without the latest movie playing to keep my attention off of the fact that cardio sucks. Just playing but it's a big help! I've been a member for the past 3 months and I am so happy I made the switch to Go Retro! I'll never go to another gym. This one is my home and the cardio cinema is my bedroom. Check it out for yourself, your body will thank you. read more

See all

This Retro has great classes, but if you're a fitness junkie like myself, or a person who comes to the gym with a workout in mind, you will be disappointed. A lot of the equipment is broken- and when you ask when they'll be fixed, the staff don't know or they give a date and it never gets fixed. Here's some photos- I'm likely gonna start going to a newer more evolved gym. This gym looks as though it hana the been updated since the 1980s. read more

See all

In my opinion, this place needs to go back to the drawing board. I have been there 2 times, and have had the same experience on both occasions. Upon entering, the front desk staff are not very welcoming. Even when checking you in they continue to have conversations with each other and do not acknowledge you. Also, it seems to be a place to hang out for many. The gym was over crowded, and most ppl were in little groups doing everything but putting in work. If you want a friendly, comfortable and worth your money experience I would not recommend this gym. read more

the equipment is good the trainers are great due ti my observation machines are working and its not over crowded the manager is a great guy my only problem is the front desk disgruntled, unprofessional and rude female with glasses that works in the morning she a total bias asshole and maybe some higiene issues with the restrooms is all good read more

This gym is well kept and managed. Benjamin and the team are friendly, helpful, and I consistently got the sense that they did their best to give us their best pricing and were transparent in all their business practices. We have been members for three years and enjoyed coming to this location a lot as well as Williamsburg. I think staff mean a lot and set the tone for a positive experience, and that's exactly what we get here. Gym prices and amenities vary widely in NYC. For the price and quality of facilities I feel we made a great decision. read more

I use to enjoy going to this gym in the mornings at this location until my encounter with the front desk representative. If I'm not mistaken her name is Tameika. She has the worst attitude and very unprofessional. She doesn't say good morning and doesn't even acknowledge the customers entering the gym. She always has unwelcoming face and energy. I needed to ask her a question in regards to my membership and she caught an attitude as if her having to do work was an issue. I definitely would not recommend going here. A very unfriendly environment. read more

This gym is by far as best as it gets without that mortgage payment requirements other gyms have. The amenities are amazing, the gym especially during this time is sanitized and you can see staff constantly maintaining the equipment. The staff is super friendly and they are very attentive to your needs. During 2020 when workouts are critical to helping maintain a sense or mental health and self care this is the place to be!! I can't express enough how grateful I am to be able to come to this location during this challenging year read more

Today I had a scheduled initial session at Retro Gym on Church Ave. My session was with Daniel. Daniel texted me this morning as a reminder. I arrived at 9:55. Daniel was not there. The receptionist assigned me to Alex at 9:07. Daniel still had not arrived. Alex filled in. Good session with Alex. Reasons why I would not use this facility: No COVID protocols, no mask worn by clients or trainers or receptionist, no temperature checks, no sanitizer visible or wipes for equipment. One trainer was on his phone while training a client he walked away and was holding a conversation with others while his client was working out. After my session with Alex I left. I went to the dollar store. The receptionist that worked at Retro was in the store with another worker. She was complaining how people use the facility that are not paid members. She went on and on about how outside trainers bring their clients in and use the facility without being members. She went on and on about how poorly the place is managed. Clearly she is not being managed. Very unprofessional customer experience at this location. read more

After Planet Fitness deleted my review (which I'm sure did not violate any guidelines), I decided that since moving to my new apartment, I needed a new gym! Now while PF is full of purple machines, Retro Fitness has machines which are red and yellow. Now, both colors are nauseating to look at. I do prefer this gym to PF because of the equipment available, the closer proximity to my house (yes there's a PF right next to RF but it is better), there are classes available to use and there's a smoothie bar. Now, when I signed up last month, I was told to go to the computer to sign up, as there was a promotion going on. I was told that in order for me to have access to the classes, I would need to sign up for the VIP membership. I did so. They classes available are Yoga, Abs, Booty and so on. I was also told that if I did want to cancel my membership, I'd have to pay off the rest of the membership until there's no balance due. I don't particularly like that feature about the membership but if I had to cancel, I like the fact that I'm aware of the cancellation process and that there are no hidden clauses in the contract. The gym itself is not very big. There's a lot more space in PF compared to here. The locker rooms are very small, the bathrooms are very dirty and the toilet flushes very loudly. The gym is pretty clean and there are protein shakes that start at about $7. The availability of the equipment is up for debate because depending on the time of day, the entire gym is packed. You're able to box in here, there are kettle bells, there are medicine and exercise balls, there are ropes, there's a scale, a room for your children to stay in, a plethora of different types of equipment that I absolutely love. I do think that this gym has a lot of good qualities. I do think that it'd be better if it was much bigger in space, but other than that I do think I'd stick with the four stars for now. read more

I have been a member of Retro for some years. I started at the Retro on Flatbush and Avenue until they closed. Now here at Retro on Church Av. I must say I was a little reluctant; however, I am enjoying my stay here. Staff is very welcoming and the employee Luis is the best regarding making the shakes (hands down). If you need a place to workout with welcoming staff and great shakes, Retro on Church Av is the place to be. read more

Very clean. Staff very friendly and PROFESSIONAL (can you say that about your gym?). They have a theatre inside if you feel like watching a movie while working out or if you want that seclusion and don't feel like working out on the gym floor. They have child care as well It's one of the best gyms in Brooklyn. Hey Planet fitness members are u gonna stay in that basement on church Ave ? read more

True value of a club is when you are trying to cancel. I paid up my membership in full and cancelled back in September 2021. I now get billed. I call the gym in Tenafly NJ and was basically called a liar. The manager said that she trains everyone, and they do not make mistakes. This shows there true colors. read more

Their has been Broken equipment for over 6 months now that hasn't been repaired , Both stairmaster the only shoulder press machine , half the treadmills mostly all of the equipment are damage in some form... The facilities aren't clean, there's holes in the walls cover by flyers the bathrooms smell always and water fountains are broken .. we can do better ! read more

I just started personal training with the Goddess that is Radha! She is truly INCREDIBLE! Not only does she work me hard, and make me feel amaaaazing, but she knows my limits and always knows exactly how far to go! She encourages me and is so supportive with my crazy schedule, which helps me alot! I am learning so much about myself, and as a new mom of a three month old, it is so nice to have such a strong, powerful and inspiring lady who's got my back! Thank you Radha and Retro! read more

Really enjoy this gym, there's a nice range of machines for all types of people that appreciate fitness. For my workout I like to train with weights and then do 30 + mins of cardio; here they have a wide range of free weights, machine assisted exercise's and cable machines that gives enough variety to consistently change my routine and experience muscle growth. With the amount of options of cardio machines i like to switch up with different types of exercises from the treadmill, bike, elliptical, or any of the hybrid cardio machines to keep it different. But don't let me get in that movie room, they're usually playing a good movie and before i know it I'm 40 mins into my cardio workout watching a dope movie. When i end my workout i usually have just enough time to sit at the juice bar for a protein shake, saves me a stop on the way home. read more

I normally go to another retro fitness but when I'm in the area and need a quick work out this is where I go. This retro fitness is pretty. read more

So happy with this place. Was a God sent in this worrisome times. Cody at the front desk was great, efficient, sweet and really tried to get you the best deal. The place is large, clean, has smoothies and they are welcoming. Lots of machines and all functioning. Distinct working stations, free weighfs. Definitely, recommend. Took one star for lack of parking but easily accessible via public transportarion! read more

I enjoy this gym a lot and my main reason for going to this gym is because of all the great classes they offer;however, since I've been going to the gym i feel like things have been doing downhill. Sometimes there isn't any wipes to wipe the machines and sometimes the machines are broken and aren't fixed in a timely fashion. Aside from that it's a great gym and the employees are friendly and always willing to help you. read more

I've been going to this gym for over a year now, and I've been working with Radha for over six months. I've loved working with Radha! She's so encouraging and friendly! Not only does she take an interest in my fitness and diet, she also asks about my family and work! I enjoy each of our sessions and am always driven by her love of what she does! I couldn't imagine anyone else whipping me into shape! read more

I LOOOOOOOOOOOVE RETRO FITNESS! This Location on Church ave is awesome... its super clean and the AIR is properly ventilated and circulated, its lit and Benjamin is so Kind...the staff members are so helpful... and I get to do the one thing that i cant do at ANY of the other gyms go full blast with my music and dance away.... THANK GOD! They have a Studio Thank you Benjamin you are Thee best! read more

This Retro Fitness is one of the cleanest gyms I have come across by far. The environment is great, and it is nice to see how much they maintain cleanliness especially with this pandemic. Even the restrooms are well kept with all the traffic that goes through there. This gym meets all my expectations with cleanliness and I hope they keep it up! read more

Had to update my review.... The women's locker room is not cleaned thoroughly. I stopped taking showers there because I have seen the same stain in the shower for over a month. Gross and unacceptable. Period. And even after the owner's response same stains, same dirty carpet at 8am. read more

I've been coming to Retro Fitness on Church Ave. for a month now. I have lost 16 lbs! They have great trainers, smoothies are awesome, a very good variety of workout equipment, and the staff's attitudes are super friendly, they make you feel like part a family not a gym. I love the staff!! I had two other gym memberships, I cancelled both because this is the only gym I want to come to. Shout out to Benjamin, Jasmine, Rose, Danny, Big Alex and Little Alex. I highly recommend joining Retro Fitness!! read more

Retro Fitness - Before Retro and After - Gyms Near Me - Brooklyn, New York

I wrote a review for Retro on Church Ave back in October, but I love it so much and they have been so consistent that I just can't help writing another one. Ben and the team (Jazz, Javon, Muna, etc.) continue to be awesome, and I can't thank Danny enough for coordinating my personal training sessions and putting me with the BEST trainer ever, Ian Mercer (a.k.a. Coach/Pops). Ian is extremely knowledgeable and always pushes me to do more. In the 6 short months that I have been training with him, I have seen a huge difference in my body and how strong I am getting! There is also a new instructor since my last review - Wallace - who does an Xtreme Cardio class that is NO JOKE...I highly recommend it. It's been an amazing experience at Retro and I am so happy to be a part of the community at this gym. :) read more

Throughout all my years of dealing with fitness companies and their "customer service" The experience I"ve had with retro this retro fitness is unmatched, I have never had the owner of a gym personally reach out to me until joining retro fitness Church Ave. I experienced a enrollment conflict on my behalf, which I thought would have resulted in me having to switch locations, but after 1 minute on the phone with Benjamin Peker, my mind was completely changed. Not only did he change my mind on cancelling my membership, I also plan on making this location my permanent gym. We need more people like him on the forefront of businesses!! Thank you again Benjamin read more

Retro is a great gym..but the clients dont appreciate the location and the staff. They are a great set of people full of motivation. I have been training with Shawn Benson and have gain muscle and lost weight while with him. He has even trained my son who highly respects him. He is very good with teenage boys especially since my son plays football as well. He is a great person and would indeed recommend him. read more

I have been to two different retro locations in brooklyn and this one is better. They have many machine option and multiple of the same machines so you don't have to wait too long between reps. I have been working with the trainer Shawn Benson, he is a great trainer. He motivates and pushes me. When I think I can't lift heavy he helps me prove myself wrong. He is one of the best. Book him! read more

Amazing location, gym is huge. Trainers r great, very clean and tons of machines. Definitely RECOMMEND this location

Nice gym! I recently had to end my membership because I moved and it was no longer convenient for me to go to this location. That said, it has everything you need: classes, plenty of machines and a lovely staff. Everyone I've ever spoken with here has been super nice, helpful and professional. The gym is always clean and I've never had to wait to use any equipment. read more

I have been working out on my own for some time, but i hit a snag in my routine. I felt unmotivated. The drive to step up a notch was missing. That all I changed when I started to train with Bobby ( Bobb-El kerwin allison) here. He understands the body well, makes detailed assessment of your wants but focuses on your needs. He listens intently to what your desired goals are and determine what would work for you in his training. Everytime I leave my session with Bobby, I feel absolutely amazing, stronger, focused and wanting to schedule the next session right there. He targets the right amount of muscle training without ever fatiguing you. He understands your body, your capabilities and he motivates you to go beyond what you THINK your limit is. He is an amazing, effective, efficient, he's gentle but firm and a brilliant trainer. I highly recommend Bobby to help you exceed in your fitness journey. read more

I love my trainer Ian he's a professional I'm loving the results so far. I had a bomb shake called berry berry good Eugene suggested it I'm happy I tired it. I'm definitely going to buy more shakes from now on read more

I love my gym! I hesitate to write a review only because that means more people will come lol. I was a member at blink but planned to sign up here once they opened. Blink was ok but I grew frustrated. as blink grew with members it became packed during the times I usually worked out. Usually evening time around 830-10pm. After multiple days of having to do cardio because all the weights were in use, no exaggeration, literally every machine was in use, i had enough of blink! I joined retro for all the reasons I left blink. Space, options, classes, better hours, more equipment, more weights and being able to get a workout in even when it's packed because there is space! I'm not a class girl but I like having the option if I want to switch things up. I don't have kids but they have childcare, one day I'll make use of that lol. The cardio theatre has made me fall in love with cardio! They have a bar where they make shakes but I haven't tried it so can't say if they're tasty or not. There are wipes throughout the gym & as far as i can see most members wipe the machines down. Plenty of weights, plenty of machines, they have a trx which I love also. There's also a boxing area. My only gripe would be to add more classes after 8 or even have 1 class at 9 maybe? Weekend schedule probably wouldn't hurt to add more classes also. The staff is great, gym is always clean & the members as well have a great vibe. I really love my gym, it's become a second home for me which keeps me sane. The best investment in my health was sighing up at retro! read more

My first time there was great. As soon as i came a woman gently approach me and address me about the gym, she helped me all my way through.but for some reason the only thing i did'nt like was that sometimes lack of staff or front person, which there's always one person or sometimes two. i also like how there is a baby sitter room. read more

Purchased a Groupon for this place and redeemed it this week for my first workout. Staff member at front desk was very friendly, got me set up in their system swiftly and simply. It was 8PM on a weeknight, and not too crowded, but also not too sparse as to be depressing. It was nicely air conditioned, the bathroom was clean, and there was a station with wet wipes to clean the machines - right by the bicycle I was using. I used two machines and had no issues so far. I definitely feel like this was a worthwhile purchase and if I stay in the area beyond this month, I would definitely consider renewing. Will update if hit any major snags, but as someone who has been a member of gyms like 24 Hour Fitness Sport (not the Super Sport or fancier ones but the basic ones) and other "no frills" chains, I feel like this is standard and a decent place to workout. If people are expecting Equinox, I think it's unfair to write negative reviews given that they are not advertising at the same price point. read more