I've worked out with The Strength Shoppe in Pasadena, and I can honestly say there's nowhere else like it. Melinda and the entire team truly care about their clients-not just about getting results but about each person's journey and well-being. From the moment I walked in, I felt understood and supported. The trainers know how to help me push my limits safely, and they're always attentive making sure I'm progressing in a way that works for my body. Now that The Strength Shoppe has opened a studio closer to home in Beverly Grove, I'm thrilled! It's convenient, and I know I'll get the same level of care and expertise that I did in Pasadena. Phillip Nzuwah. read more

Wow! Who would have thought 20-30 minutes would give me the results I wanted and needed?!! I've worked with two of their trainers, and they were fabulous. This gym is unlike any other. For my workout, I was the only one there--that's how they do it. It makes it such a personally tailored experience. They have a secret sauce that has changed every strength-training workout since. Oh, and by the way, I'm over 65 years old, and this is the best shape I've in been in, well, let's say, decades. Don't hesitate, go!!! read more

I'm obsessed with The Strength Shoppe. Their system really works! After about nine months of working with their trainers for just 20-30 minutes a week, I am so much stronger, more flexible, have lost weight, and have a lot more energy. I originally started going to The Strength Shoppe after my doctor suggested weight training to manage my blood pressure and it's definitely worked. Beyond that, I just really love the trainers. They are so kind, encouraging, fun to hang out with, and have taught me so much. Karla's my #1 girl! And Melinda is amazing! read more

I LOVED my time at the Strength Shoppe (and since I've moved out of state, I can only hope I find another place of similar quality). I was brand new to strength training when I started my workouts here, and had a lot of questions about whether it was right for me. Melinda totally put me at ease with both her knowledge and her very caring, personalized attention to my body's specific needs - I could immediately sense that I was in good hands, and that this was a very different experience from most workouts. After Melinda set up a plan for me, I worked with Andi who was awesome... fun and inspiring, and always attuned to what I needed, when adjustments were necessary. Our bodies have different needs at different times, and having the personalized guidance from experts who you can trust is so important. It was hard to believe that just a once-a-week workout could make such a difference... but I very quickly noticed I was stronger (could lift water jugs without straining), my body was leaner, and I had more energy. This is an amazing, effective, and fun workout, and perfect for the busy person who wants to make the most of your time AND prioritize your self care. Highly recommended! read more

A long time devotee of super-slow STRENGTH TRAINING, I am thrilled to be a client of The Strength Shoppe. Yes, a weekly TRAINING session less than 30 minutes will build STRENGTH, increase BONE DENSITY, slow aging, add MUSCLE and thus increase one's QUALITY OF LIFE and LONGEVITY. Proven the most efficient way to build MUSCLE, Melinda Hughes has assembled an excellent line of MedX equipment and a top notch cadre of PERSONAL TRAINERS. I have no more neck or low back pain and my total body strength increases yearly. Yes....I did say one TRAINING SESSION each week. Trust me and give The Strength Shoppe a call. Your health is worth it! -Blake Boyd read more

I have been a personal trainer specializing in high-intensity, slow-motion training for 15 years. I had already been a personal trainer for 6 years when I first found this training methodology in 2007, and like most people, I was quite skeptical that performing strength training just once or twice a week for 20 minutes was all that was needed from an exercise perspective. But after reading the science and seeing the results both firsthand and for my clients, I can tell you that it is the safest, most efficient, effective, and powerful form of exercise one can do for themselves. If you are looking for a place in Los Angeles to do this training, I highly recommend Melinda and the team at The Strength Shoppe. It's a top-notch facility with the best trainers and equipment you will find anywhere. read more

Strength Shoppe has been amazing for helping me significantly reduce my workout times! I've been a committed fitness lover for over 10 years. I've gone in and out of traditional lifting plans over the years but find it challenging to fit in all the workouts and activities I want to do while building strength. I've been with strength shoppe for 10 weeks now and I've been seeing far more results only lifting 1x per week providing me time to spin, go to yoga and hike as I choose... for fun. The team is very knowledgeable offering adjustments the entire time to ensure my safety and effectiveness. While it may seem expensive to some people for a $20 min workout 1x a week, I have spent far more on a trainer at commercial gyms getting far less results. I would recommend strength shoppe to everyone! read more

I've been working with Melinda and her amazing team of trainers for over 2 years. The sessions are always precisely calibrated to my specific needs and to my ever increasing strength and stamina :-) whether I'm at the Echo Park or the Pasadena location. I'm grateful to Melinda and her team for helping me achieve beyond my goals. read more

Been working with Andi as my trainer and Melinda as my point of contact. Recently had rotator cuff surgery and at the age of 43 knew I needed more then the regular style of working out and rehab. These two ladies have been amazing in putting up with me and getting me a work out that is helping. Thank you read more

Better than any gym you could join! Good for all ages but I am 77 and it is great for us older people. One on one; you work hard and safely with the equipment and specialized to strengthen bones! The staff is great. read more

Love working out at the Strength Shoppe, from the one on one training to the amount of time it takes to get a work out in every week, it's completely worth it. The staff is highly qualified and extremely knowledgeable about the workout and were able to answer all of the many questions I asked, I worked mainly with Alyssa and Melinda but the other staff I interacted with were also amazing. The work out it extremely gentle and gives results I feel much better in my body since working out at this shop! read more

First of all - let's just get this out of the way - I LOVE SLOW TRAINING. It's not easy, don't get me wrong, it kicks my ass -- but my ENTIRE WORKOUT for the week is DONE in 20 minutes. One 20 minute session per week. That's it. HELLO. Why does anyone do anything else? Seriously. I'm one of those people who before Strength Shoppe, was totally inconsistent with my workouts. I'd start something with the best of intentions, go at it for a while and then skip a workout here, skip a workout there... Until before you know it, I'm on the couch eating potato chips and watching Friends reruns. Enter Melinda and STRENGTH SHOPPE. Two years ago I read online about the merits of slow training, how slow training can be extremely beneficial for building muscle and maximizing workouts (basically the strength training version of what HIIT is to cardio), but only takes 20 minutes once a week. I tried to do it myself for a while and as always -- stopped. Then, I wrote to Melinda, and my whole life changed. I can't say enough about Melinda and her (fit AF) Strength Shoppe trainers. I've toned up so much in the last few years and lost so many inches. I go once a week, every week and I stay consistent. And compared to regular trainers (1 hour, 3X a week at AT LEAST $125 a sesh? please.) -- Strength Shoppe is a freakin' steal. Anyway, just wanted to pop over and write a quick review because I figured after two years of doing this, I should probably preach the good news of Strength Shoppe's miracle work. RUN, don't walk to Echo Park and try this sh*t out. It works. Now, go forth and be muscle-y! read more

If you want a good workout but don't have the time, this is your place. You only need 30 minutes a week! Beautiful, new studio with nice modern machines. There is a free parking space in the lot and the location is super easy to get to in Echo Park. Melinda who is the owner of the studio is great and can answer all of your questions from fitness to nutrition. My instructor Anwar has been awesome! He is super friendly, knowledgeable, and makes sure I get the most out of each workout. Strength Shoppe is a great addition to my workout routine and has easily become a favorite! read more

I have been going to Strength Shoppe for close 6 months now and I absolutely love it. I had been wanting to incorporate weight training into my routine for a while but could not figure out how to make it work--I didn't want to spend 2 hours a week training + time commuting so when I read about power of 10 workouts that supposedly give you the same benefits in 20 minutes a week I was intrigued. Of course I was skeptical but figured I would try it and it amazed me. The trainers at Strength Shoppe are awesome. I train with Andi regularly and have also trained with Melinda--I love them both and am super happy with how much stronger I am. I should also say that I have scoliosis and bad knees so the super slow, controlled method of training is perfect for me (and endorsed by my PT). I have been telling all my friends to try it. Try it. You're welcome. read more

I would prefer NOT to exercise if given a choice, and I also need a workout that is gentle and safe. This gym is the perfect solution for exercise. The personal trainers at this gym are exceptional. I know my trainer is there to keep me safe but also push me hard so I get the most out of my workout. I have worked out with Neil, Jazzy, and Melinda. The food sensitivity testing and nutrition coaching really helped me control the inflammation in my body. In this regard, The Strength Shoppe is not just a gym or just personal training or just nutrition coaching, it's a one-stop "shoppe" to take care of your body the right way-- from the inside out. The approach is about health first and foremost, but after working out at this gym for years now I can also say I not only love the way I feel, I love the way I look, too. It's not the typical gym experience, but it's perfect if you're looking for a personal trainer. They have a location in Pasadena as well as Echo Park so that is convenient when I'm closer to Pasadena. I highly recommend trying a workout at this gym...once you try it, you won't want to do anything else! read more

I've been going here for 3 years and have had a great experience. Everyone I've worked with has done an excellent job, and I appreciate the results. I definitely see my improvements, and it's only once a week. read more

This place is great. I've worked out consistently since college (mostly weight lifting) and was a little skeptical that 20 minutes a week would do anything. The first workout proved me wrong. Not only has my strength noticeably increased but the program is so time efficient I can comfortably fit it in to even the busiest weeks. As I get closer to 40 it's nice to have a staple in my workout regimen that is low impact on joints but still gives me noticeable gains. Anyone with a busy schedule looking to get results need to check this place out. Andi's a great trainer but I've had others fill in for her when she was out of town and can honestly say there's not a weak link anywhere in their roster. These people know what they're talking about. read more

I have lifted weights since my days of high school sports, but had my mind blown at the strength shoppe. The workout focuses on quality above quantity so you can't use momentum to power your way through the weights. you get really focused personal attention and end up using your muscles the right way instead of creating injuries and ways to compensate for weakness. It's really just incredible and unique! I highly recommend! read more

Could not recommend The Strength Shoppe or this training methodology more highly! Melinda and her trainers are the best of the best, her equipment is pristine, and the studio itself is such a beautiful space to work out. Superslow training is absolutely fascinating and the most effective and safe way to weight train. And the impact goes beyond the physical...Melinda truly sells strength, and the lessons I have learned from this approach and the ways I have grown through this training surpass words. If you're curious, leave expectations at the door and try out a session ASAP! read more

Melinda and all her trainers here are the top of the line! Put down whatever you're doing and book a session. Melinda walks you through the theory and practice so thoroughly and it's an educational experience unlike any other. I have spent the last 10 years doing every kind of workout I could find and slow strength training has been a revelation. It's hard to fathom that a 20 minute workout once a week could be effective but, wow, it really is! I'm feeling as strong and healthy as when I've killed myself in the gym 5X a week. GO GO GO GO GO GO. Do yourself a favor. read more

Melinda exceeded my expectations. She gave me an in depth explanation of the program and all of the benefits of strength training. During the entire workout she watched and corrected my alignment. She made me feel safe and challenged. This workout is the best experience anyone can ask for especially if you are hesitant or scared to start strength training. Thank you Melinda read more

I was skeptical about this and thought it sounded a little gimmicky when a friend told me about their experience, but after 8 weeks I feel and see big improvements! My posture is better and I feel stronger overall. I have worked with Melinda and Zack in the Echo Park location and think they are both terrific. read more

Super slow strength training is a terrific work-out and the staff at The Strength Shoppe is the best I've seen at delivering results. The theory is that you remove momentum from the work-out so that your muscles really have to work to exhaustion, thus prompting growth and a strengthening of the body. It works. I especially recommend this technique and gym if you're coming off an injury or are prone to exercise injury. The super slow technique and watchful eyes of the trainer work together to prevent injury and make sure that you're still getting in a fantastic workout, even while recovering. I'm sure you've seen some guy shank a weight then double over in pain at cross fit or the regular gym free weight section. That's not going to happen here. It just won't. Trust me. For the same reason, if you're returning to exercising after a bit of a break, I think this workout is a really good choice. I personally went from 24% body fat to 16% in around six months. read more

SoI live around the corner so I was curious and was so incredibly pleasantly surprised. I saw a noticeable difference very quickly in my body shape. I feel stronger and overall in better shape. I sit down at the computer for a large portion of the day and the pain in my back and neck is gone. I have recommended this place to a couple friends and they love it as well. I work out with the owner Melinda, she is amazing. She's super friendly and kicks my butt. I can't say enough good things about the Strength Shoppe. read more

I have been going to the Strength Shoppe for almost a year and a half and it has made a major positive impact on my quality of life. I have a couple of chronic illnesses that make long workouts and cardio pretty impossible for me. And I have a heavy work schedule and am 54 years old. I had become very concerned about losing muscle as I aged and was thrilled to find this program, because it allows me to build muscle in a timeframe that I can handle. And my trainer modifies it for me as needed when I'm not feeling well. When I started I couldn't stand up from a squatting position without holding on to something or someone to help me. After about 6 months training once per week I could. I was so happy! Since the pandemic, I've been doing FaceTime sessions with my trainer, Mari, and it works great. She's able to see what I'm doing and advise me on form, and encourages me to push myself just like at the gym. I plan on staying on with the video sessions til a vaccine probably, as it works for me. I highly recommend Strength Shoppe! read more

This is the best work out in the world. Besides the fact I have muscle tone, I have no back pain. My whole life has been about "living with my back pain". NO mas! Thanks Melinda, The Strength Shoppe rules! read more

What first drew me to Super Slow was the idea of getting a full body workout in 20 minutes. I have limited time and I want to be really strong - how do I make that work? I discovered Melinda at The Strength Shoppe and as each week (workout) has passed I'm loving it more and more and don't ever want to stop. I love the intensity. I love that's it's 20 minutes. I love the results. I can feel I'm getting stronger and more compact. Yay! I'm almost 48 and compact is good! Also, my new found strength from the Super Slow technique improves my yoga practice (I can now do arm balances I couldn't do) and my overall well being (feeling good in my clothes, better sleep, better brain)...Bla bla bla I could go on and on. Sorry, there is a lot to love about it. You also deepen your relationship with your own body, you tap into strength you didn't know you had which is a really cool feeling if you are someone who likes to grow and expand and improve. And the beauty is 20-30 minutes one time a week. Melinda is the key player in how all of this goes down. I would only want someone guiding me and watching my alignment who is a pro - thank you Melinda. She is on your shit - in the best way! She is steady and encouraging. She watches your alignment, and strikes the perfect balance of being the right amount of firm and encouraging. I always feel she's engaged and plugged in to what I'm doing, which is KEY when you are going to muscle failure!!! If you've been wanting to get stronger (or bionic as I like to say Lol) and you want to take your fitness to the next level, def give Melinda at The Strength Shoppe a call. It'll change your life for the better. read more

Curious at first, now convinced! Unlike going to the gym and weightlifting this specific training targets every fiber of my muscles. I've had a few training sessions now and can still feel my body days after, but without being sore. And the results are great! For someone with very little time to work out.. This is it! read more

I was once very fit but let my fitness level drop significantly over the last decade (I'm currently my 40's) and was concerned about working out with a knee that needs surgery. I have found working with the Strength Shoppe to be supportive, rewarding and most importantly, I'm seeing real results occurring without any danger of re-injury to my knee. My posture, confidence and strength are returning, my aches and pains are receding and body fat is dwindling rapidly. It's a challenging 20-30 minutes, but absent the huffing and puffing and meat-market environment of most gyms and classes. Tough, but do-able, especially with the clear direction and support of their enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff. Happy to provide this business with 5 stars, as its well-deserved. read more

I've done 2 sessions with Zach at the Strength Shoppe and both times, he was really helpful, motivating, and patient. Both times, my muscles have felt it even 2 days after. That's how I know it's working. It's crazy that it takes less than 2 minutes on a machine and my legs feel like I've biked 12 miles. The program is intense, but surprisingly doable and the trainers work with you to stick with it and stay on track to see real progress. Luckily The Strength Shoppe is super flexible to fit my very erratic schedule, so I'll be able to keep it up. It's pretty incredible that working out for 20 minutes just once a week can give you the same results as other programs would get in 3 to 4 workouts a week, but Melinda and Zach are walking examples of the effectiveness of the workout. read more

This place is fantastic. I've trained with Zorayda and she helps you through the machines to exercise at your optimal level and push yourself without hurting yourself and just once a week you see results. This method of training is very efficient and effective. Mindy the owner and head trainer is a joy to train with and extremely knowledgeable about this amazing way of exercise. read more