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Warhorse Barbell Club
801 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, United States
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Warhorse Barbell Club

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Sa
Review №1

There are almost no words to describe the positive impact this place and it’s people have had on my life. With minimal strength training experience, I came in for my evaluation and first class feeling very intimidated and not up to the challenge of a barbell club. I could never have imagined the welcoming atmosphere and companionship I would build there. I’m now stronger and more confident than I’ve ever been, and I’m still progressing. Owners Jaclyn and Chris are overall amazing humans: down to earth, friendly, and knowledgeable. I could never have gotten to the place that I am in my journey without the unwavering support, encouragement, and overall great coaching of Chris, Jaclyn, and the rest of the crew.

Pa
Review №2

I lived in Northern Liberties for 3 years and tried a variety of gyms before Warhorse, and I wish that I had found it earlier! The whole team there is amazing and I reached fitness levels that I never thought I would ever get to. They are well organized and work with you at your own pace, but also push you to take it to the next level. I will miss this place and definitely be back if I am ever in the area.

Ti
Review №3

Im a former collegiate athlete who has spent decades pushing my physical limits. Post college, I joined Equinox and lost most of my strength and all of the enjoyment that comes with working out in a community setting. Meeting Jaclyn, Chris and Warhorse Barbell completely changed all of that. Joining their gym was one of the best decisions Ive ever made. Im in the best shape of my life and genuinely look forward to my time with everyone there. If you care about feeling and looking great there is nowhere better than Warhorse.

E.
Review №4

Im new at this gym, and Im already psyched about it. The environment is really positive and highly supportive. Chris is knowledgeable about the body, its movements, and overall fitness, and he meets you where youre at to help you become your best fit self. Looking forward to continuing on here!

De
Review №5

Ive been to my fair share of gyms and personal trainers throughout my life. But, when it comes to Warhorse, nothing compares to their standards and commitment to excellence. Ive never felt more welcome anywhere else and the energy is always positive every time Im there. The trainers and owners are people I can also trust and go to for any advice on recovery and finding the perfect workout for my goals. Ive never felt more confident physically and mentally before starting here. If you want to achieve the best version of yourself, its easy to accompish at Warhorse!

Co
Review №6

I was a member at Warhorse for 2+ years and I can confidently say that the experience will forever change how I approach the gym. Chris and Jaclyn have created such an incredible space that not only teaches its members but allows for people that are new to lifting to feel comfortable figuring it out. I grew up running and was always really comfortable with cardio, but I had no experience or willingness to learn how to lift. It always something that didnt feel accessible or comfortable for me.Going to Warhorse completely changed my outlook on lifting and strength training. Not only do I now feel comfortable navigating a gym, but I have been taught the fundamentals of what to do and how to do it. Everyone at Warhorse supported my learning, provided valuable critique, and taught me what does and doesnt work for my body.Ive since moved out of Philly and one of the things I will miss most is Warhorse. Ill miss the people, Ill miss the gym, and Ill miss the community you feel when you walk through those doors.If youre thinking about signing up...DO IT!!! I guarantee you wont regret the decision.

Wi
Review №7

This is the place to go if you want to get strong. I’m convinced that strength and muscle are the keys to fitness, regardless of your goals (athletic, aesthetic, overall health, etc.) No gimmicks, just a great group, tons of steel, and a positive, friendly attitude. Locally owned, Jaclyn and Chris are there to answer any questions and give you personal attention and pointers. My favorite all time gym!

Em
Review №8

I started at Warhorse 4 months ago with very limited strength training experience. I was slightly intimidated but went in with the goal of decreasing pain caused by a car accident that happened a few years ago. Chris said give it a few months of training consistently, and my pain will decrease. Im so happy to say he was right! Im no longer seeing my chiropractor multiple times a week, and my body is no longer feeling chronic pain. Its pretty much gone at this point, which is so amazing. Thank you Warhorse!

Mo
Review №9

I have absolutely loved being a member at Warhorse. Every time I’ve walked into the gym, I’m guaranteed two things: 1) I’m going to be challenged and 2) I’ll learn something new. I’ve been a member of several gyms over the years, and the attention to form at Warhorse is unparalleled. Not only have I not had a single injury the entire time I’ve been a member, but adjustments to my form have reduced existing muscle strain while I’ve continued to progress in my lifts. As I’m leaving Philly, Warhorse will be one of the places I miss most because of the community and constant motivation that the entire team provides. Thanks to the Warhorse team, it’s been so fun and I’m astounded at how much stronger I’ve become.

Sa
Review №10

I joined Warhorse with my boyfriend in September during COVID as a way to get out of the house. The two of us had never belonged to a gym and never worked out regularly outside of high school sports.I was often intimated by gym culture and had a hard time committing to a workout routine. After my first session with the owner, Chris, all of my preconceived notions were squashed.My boyfriend and I were welcomed the moment we walked into the gym and we quickly found our place as part of the Warhorse community. The strength training program provided a platform for growth and flexibility that helped me to develop a routine that worked with my schedule. Warhorse is the gym for people of all strength levels who are looking to prioritize their health. Working out is now a priority of mine, and that is 100% due to the trainers and community at Warhorse.I cannot say enough good things about this gym and the people who work here. if you are looking for a place to get started or improve, Warhorse is the place for you. I have since left Philadelphia, and Warhorse is the thing I will miss the most.

Sa
Review №11

Highly recommend and wish I joined sooner! Awesome programming and workouts can be adapted for any level. All the coaches are extremely knowledgeable and have helped me so much in improving my form and overall fitness goals!

Hu
Review №12

Warhorse Barbell Club is unquestionably the top training establishment in the greater Philadelphia region.The facility is top notch, kept very clean, there are a plethora of fitness options to choose from and Warhorse has an abundance of up to date, modern training equipment which is essential to the development of its members.The one factor that separates Warhorse from the big box, cookie cutter fad fitness gyms is a strong sense of COMMUNITY.Every member that walks through the door is treated like family by co-owners Jaclyn and Chris.Every member that is a part of the Warhorse community is respectful and welcoming no matter your race, gender, age, sexual orientation etc... I can’t say that for other gyms in the area.And every member that trains at the Warhorse works hard EVERYDAY - be prepared to bring the noise during every training session.

We
Review №13

Ive been a member of nearly every CrossFit gym in Philadelphia. THEY ARE. ALL. THE. SAME. I was sick of doing burpees and performing group workouts. I wanted to begin training so I found Warhorse Barbell Club.WHBC knows what you need even if you don’t. The programming has been spot on. All of my numbers have been increasing week to week. Strength is trending up. Aerobic capacity is better. Sleep is better. Only word of caution I would say... only sign up if you truly want to get better. This is not a gym for those who aren’t ready to work hard. TRUST THEIR PROCESS. RESPECT THEIR CRAFT. These people know what they are doing. Join this gym. Work hard. And let them coach you.

Jo
Review №14

The owners Jaclyn and Chris take the time to understand their clients goals and lay the foundation of success to obtain said goals. Warhorse is the place to be if your looking for training that is scalable to you and your needs!

Jo
Review №15

Warhorse is more than just a gym. The owners, Chris and Jaclyn, are incredibly passionate about the personal success of every member, in and out of the gym, and they use fitness as their means of accomplishing that. Not only do they personally hold themselves to a high standard, but they pick all of their coaches based on this too. They have been very successful in building a staff that has the same selfless values that they do. They are very knowledgeable in what they do, so you are in good hands. They are welcoming to anyone that walks through their doors, whether youre a world-class powerlifter or you have never picked a weight up in your life.If you come and check the gym out, which you should, you will truly see how much they cater to the needs of the individual in order to boost confidence, rather than just throwing you in. If you come here, you will not regret it. If you are intimidated by the gym scene, you will not be when you come here. If you have a tough time staying consistent with fitness, come here. They create an environment that makes it hard not to come back everyday. If you want to get started, but dont know where to go, come here. It is a pretty easy choice coming to Warhorse.If you are reading this review because you are thinking about trying it out, do yourself a favor and just do it. You wont regret it!

Le
Review №16

Ive been doing the outdoor workouts at Urban Village and I love it. I have never been as impressed as I am by the Warhorse staff. Thank you for providing a safe place to exercise during this crazy time.

Au
Review №17

When I walked into Warhorse, about a month after moving to Philly, I knew I had stumbled upon a really special place. I had tried classes at a few other gyms but nothing was sticking, so I went out on a limb and scheduled time with Jaclyn to come in and meet Chris for an intro assessment. The energy was awesome, and even though I had zero training experience, Chris and Jaclyn created an environment where I could safely and comfortably learn about strength and about my own abilities without worries. Being in the gym is about so much more than the reps for me - it’s the place I look forward to challenging myself mentally and pushing my limits so I can face the rest of my day with a strong mindset. Looking back almost a year later, I can’t believe how far I’ve come from a confidence perspective - and even though we were forced to train remotely because of COVID-19, Chris and Jaclyn built a plan and a support system that allows members to stay strong and stay connected. Between the Minimalist program, the Outdoor Sessions @ Urban Village, and the indoor precautions Warhorse is taking, it’s far and away the best gym in Philly and proved themselves to be leaders who can adapt to changing environments without sacrificing an ounce of quality. 10/10.

St
Review №18

Warhorse is cream of the cop for gyms in Philadelphia. They built my confidence and made my body strong.Their difference is the personalized and sustainable program they build for you. Other workout/gym experiences Id had left me feeling physically and mentally worn down, and I never saw lasting results. With enough workouts like that, youll be unmotivated and will begin to believe that being healthy and fit is unattainable for you.Warhorses program always felt appropriately challenging. I left feeling good about my abilities and that Id have room to get even better. I saw physical results quickly. After enough sessions of was that really ME that did that? my self-perception changed for the better, too. All that kept me motivated.I would highly recommend Warhorse to others. And just for reference, I had very little experience with weight lifting prior.

Ma
Review №19

I started at Warhorse a little less than a year ago in October. I had been looking for a gym in the city for a few months and had finally decided to give this place a shot...Best decision I could’ve made.As soon as I walked through the doors I knew this place was for real and the owners knew what they were doing.(Side note: this gym is immaculate - clean floors, equipment and turf). Chris and Jaclyn had me begin with a four week program to gauge my fitness level and help me decide which programming I would like to choose.I decided to go with the Ignite programming which consisted of group classes of no more than 15 people. Don’t let the group size fool you though! They do a great job of monitoring all their members during these group classes to ensure everyone is receiving some 1-on-1 training. Combine that with the amazing programming they offer, you will see results!I absolutely loved the programming and coaching I received during my time at Warhorse. I went to the gym 5 days a week, Monday through Friday and NOT ONCE did my body every hurt (minus muscle soreness) nor did I ever suffer an injury.If you’re looking for a gym that focuses on strength, personal development and community, this is the place to be. If I hadn’t moved out of the city, I’d be a member for life.BEST GYM IN PHILLY.

ca
Review №20

I have been going to Warhorse for 3 years now started in semi privater and now am apart of the ignite program. From day 1 I could tell this was not a cookie cutter gym. 0 gimmicks, 0 bull shit, and 100% percent results driven, and genuine interest in their members/family.Prior to warhorse I was going to Retro fitness and found my self just focusing on my beach muscles, neglecting muscle groups, and trying to run for Weight loss. Chris and the team helped me change around the way I look at weight lifting and get back to my roots as an athlete.I am a former Division 1 Athlete, and now work in Athlete Monitoring. I work alongside Professional and Collegiate strength coaches and the programming is very professional, well thought out, well monitored and as an athlete/member you will be given coaching that will contour to your level of experience.Warhorse is the closest thing I have found to a competitive/professional environment that allows me to grow as not only a person but an athlete. No one judges me for having a personality, working hard daily, or really just being me. I would 1000% recommend this to anyone who is looking to shock the system and try something that has proven results and a proven track record.If you are serious about a life change make one that will genuinely be life changing. Check out Warhorse.

Ca
Review №21

I love this gym so much. My wife and I have been going three times a week and we feel so welcomed. We’ve been out of the gym for a year and recently moved to the city. Our first order of business was to find a great gym and we accomplished that in spades!Jaclyn and Chris are fun, friendly, helpful, and are ON IT when it comes to coaching my movements.We did a month of semi-private and enjoyed it, but wanted more community. The IGNITE classes are super fun, fast-paced and tight to the hour. We can get in and out in an hour, which allows me to get to my desk in time for the work day.Bike parking out front is solid. There’s a water drum for refilling bottles. The equipment is solid. We just signed a 12-month contract!

Am
Review №22

This seems to be a constant but WHBC is more than a gym its a community of amazing people who not only teach you about strength and fitness but also about health, nutrition and reaching your goals. Chris, Jaclyn, Greg, and Molly are born leaders and inspiring coaches. If you are motivated to improve your fitness but also like to laugh...a lot, then you have found the perfect gym! WHBC does not disappoint.

Le
Review №23

I love this place. Ive been a War Horse member for over 3 years and cannot imagine working out anywhere else. Prior to War Horse, I think the longest I attended a gym was no more than a few months. Ive always been active, played sports, etc but never felt totally comfortable in the gym, primarily due to the general atmosphere I encountered in most gyms and my lack of knowledge about strength and conditioning. That all changed when I walked into War Horse. From day one I felt right at home. The owners, Chris and Jaclyn, are two of the nicest people you will ever meet, they are excellent coaches, and they are genuinely committed to helping every single member achieve their fitness goals. Ive also met some truly awesome people at this gym and I look forward to seeing them and working out with them every day.Whether youre a newcomer to working out just looking to improve your fitness or a serious lifter looking to get stronger and maximize your performance under the bar, War Horse has customized strength and conditioning programming for people at every level.I turn 40 next month and Im stronger and healthier than I ever was in my 20s, all thanks to War Horse!

Ga
Review №24

Warhorse is a place where an ordinary person goes to become extraordinarily strong, lean, and physically and mentally healthy. Chris and Jaclyn are the true teachers of strength training and conditioning. They know their craft so well that once you workout here, you won’t be able to take any other gym seriously. I’m in the best shape of my life because I stumbled upon this gem. Please move to SF. I NEED YOU GUYS.

Na
Review №25

This club is excellent! The coaches, Jaclyn, Chris, and Felix are knowledgeable, motivating, and all around great people. After only a little over two months I feel the effects of the training. I am stronger, healthier, happier and ready to attack the the day. If youre looking to add a spark to your life, then you should stop in and see what War Horse has to offer.

Sa
Review №26

These guys are simply amazing. Just had my first day, and they made me feel right at home. Checked out other fitness centers in the area which were, lets just say much less hospitable. Its bread and butter powerlifting gear with a great atmosphere, and Im very grateful to have found it. Thanks guys!

Mo
Review №27

To put it simply, if your goal is to become strong then Warhorse is your gym. I’ve participated in sports through high school and college, and after graduating I tried to maintain an active lifestyle through running, yoga, online training programs, and several commercial gyms. I’ve never been able to say that one of those things “worked”. I never felt like I was getting stronger, and my confidence and determination suffered for that reason.With one goal in mind (to feel strong) I joined Warhorse. From day one my training made complete sense. Even though I was taking group classes, everything that was programmed felt personalized to my needs and abilities. Everything I was asked to do was explained to me, so it was hard not to believe in it. My favorite question frequently asked by Chris is “Where do you feel it?” The coaches take the time to make sure everyone is performing exercises with optimal technique, targeting exactly what it is meant to target and avoiding injury.This was the first time I 100% committed to a strength or fitness program, because it was the first time I saw and felt results physically and mentally.I personally became hooked on seeing what my body could do in the gym, so I decided to begin training as a powerlifter. Now with the goal of competing in a few months, I’m quickly achieving goals and a level of confidence I never dreamt of a year ago. This couldn’t have happened at any other facility, under any other instruction. Chris and Jaclyn are true superheroes. They care so deeply about their mission to share their knowledge and help others become strong that I am sure I will never be able to train elsewhere. It’s quickly becoming a second home, and I would recommend it to anyone who has lost faith in a gym or in his or herself.

Ta
Review №28

I love this place so much. Its not your typical bro gym what so ever. You walk in this place and feel the love hard work and dedication that goes into it by the owners and squad. The ignite classes are some of the most challenging and rewarding training sessions. Everyone and anyone can start here. The trainers are full of knowledge and are able to help you from any level. Ive been a member since the beginning and absolutely recommend it. Just stop by and see it for yourself!

Ki
Review №29

I LOVE this place. I have been doing the IGNITE classes for a little over a month now--the programing is aimed at being strong and lean--its working! I have tried crossfit, spinning, yoga and everything else in the past but this is really the most ideal gym l have found for total body fitness/lifting/toning. The gym atmosphere is very welcoming and friendly. Chris( the lead trainer of Ignite) gives each member of the class the individual attention they need to improve their form and get stronger--hes the BEST! They offer a free 3 day class trial--its 100% worth it!!!!!

An
Review №30

Ive worked out in many different gyms with many different styles of training and this is by far the best. I am able to push myself much farther than I would going to a gym with my own routine. Sometimes at my old gym I would miss reps or skip a set because I didnt have that extra motivation and atmosphere that warhorse brings to the table. My results of working out have greatly improved since joining and attending.

De
Review №31

Great facility, knowledgeable staff. Ive been attending the Ignite classes for about two months and I feel like every class theres one thing I do well, and one thing thats very challenging, which keeps me coming back. Every class has people of all fitness levels. Its a fun atmosphere, and I enjoy myself and work hard at the same time. Definitely worth a try.

Cr
Review №32

War horse is the best gym that I have ever been too and I mean it! Ive been to city gyms, crossfit, and university gyms all over the city and this beats them all. The culture of the gym is prevalent but not overbearing.The owners (Chris and Jaclyn) are extremely qualified and personally make sure that everyone is progressing. They make sure form is of top priority and help everyone doing exercises correctly. They really care about you and you can tell.The gym is extremely clean and well located on 2nd street in Norther Liberties. The equipment in the gym is perfect and the flow of gym works very well.I suggest this gym to ANYONE who is trying to lead a healthier lifestyle!

Jo
Review №33

I have been going to war horse for about 2 years now. I can still remember the first time walking through the doors. Knowing nothing about lifting or working out in general. Now I am about to enter my second power lifting meet. Some place I never thought I’d find myself. None of that would have been possible without the War Horse. Chris and Jaclyn are amazing people and coaches. They are both extremely welcoming and helpful since day one. From setting up my first goal of just getting my butt through the door to getting me ready for my lifting meets. They have been there to help every step of the way. I could not recommend a better gym for those looking to start their fitness journey.

Mi
Review №34

Warhorse is a breath of fresh air. I might be the Goldilocks of gyms, but I have absolutely found the right fit. Chris and Jaclyn are super attentive and personable with each member of their gym. They scheduled one-on-one training with me before I began squatting, benching, or deadlifting. As most gyms push to add weight and push your limits, Chris and Jaclyn make sure my form is correct, and I am not injuring my body. I have noticed myself getting stronger within 3 months at Warhorse than I have within years of working out at those other gyms :)Ben and Jen are awesome too!!!

La
Review №35

A friend told me for months that I needed to come with her to War Horse. I didnt listen. I had a personal trainer. I was a former college athlete who could navigate through workouts. I was set. I didnt need that. Then one day, I decided to take her up on her offer. Best decision ever! Since Day 1, I have loved the energy, loved the people, loved the workouts, and I love the accountability from strangers who have become friends. I feel stronger. I feel tougher. I feel more confident. I love my new gym family! Thanks for the invite, Kim.

La
Review №36

I could’ve written this review after my first two months at Warhorse, but it’s been a year and a half and I still feel the same enthusiasm. Chris, Jaclyn and their awesome staff have changed the way I view fitness. I’ve had a variety of gym memberships, work out class memberships, and personal trainers for over 12 years but nothing compares to the training and support I get at Warhorse. Their custom-tailored work out programs have me hitting goals instead of plateauing like I used to before WH. Results aside, it’s just a fun atmosphere and I love starting my mornings there.

Ju
Review №37

Ive been at Warhorse for a year and a half and its the best training program Ive ever done. The Ignite workouts dont feel like Crossfit or like youre in a class at all. You really do get one on one training. I feel stronger and better than Ive ever felt. The trainers are awesome.

Jo
Review №38

Youre going to have a very hard time trying to find a better gym and better coaches in the Philly area. All the coaches are some of the most genuine and supportive people I have ever met, all they want is for every person there to reach their goal and have fun doing it. The atmosphere they have cultivated in just a few months is nothing short of amazing; its a reflection of who the owners are.It doesnt matter if you can barely do a push up or if you can over squat 500 lbs, this gym will take you to the next level and youll feel stronger, faster and better than ever before.

Go
Review №39

Ive tried some Cross Fit gyms in the past, and ended up with a neck injury, and tendon tear that required surgery. THIS place is NOT a Cross-Fit gym; they provide group fitness classes, called Ignite which combines weight training and cardio without trying to kill you. I walk out of each class feeling like I had a great workout, not that I need 1200mg of Advil, and Im seeing results. The owners, Jacklyn, Chris, are amazing people, they make you feel like family, they care about you, and want you to succeed; they adjust your workout based on YOU. The place is clean, great equipment, a great vibe at the gym.

Ni
Review №40

Since coming to Philadelphia, I knew that Warhorse Barbell Club would be my go-to gym, but I couldnt of been prepared for the experience Ive had here. Not only does Warhorse have an amazing coaching staff who know the ins and outs of all fundamental lifts, they also frequently change the workouts to keep your body guessing in a fun and challenging way without ever wasting your time. Additionally, being apart of the gym gets you unique opportunities for fitness seminars and nutrition offers, which is a great plus. But what I think makes this gym so special is the community. Each class forms a bond and everyone cheers their fellow members on with no need for ego. Its an incredibly supportive community and all of these pieces help create an experience you wont find at any other gym.

Ga
Review №41

I am not exaggerating when I say that this gym changed my life. And I am also not exaggerating when I never thought in a million years that a gym could do that. In the year and a half that Ive been a member at War Horse, I learned how to turn my self-doubts into motivation, how to get to the gym consistently without considering it a chore, how to get physically strong without risking injury, and how to push myself past all the limits I previously set for myself.Chris, Jaclyn and all the coaches at War Horse not only offer their expertise in training but also pay incredible attention to detail and the well-being of every War Horse member. They emphasize having a balance between work, life and training and are constantly reminding us to get enough sleep. They dont promote easy fixes or bogus workouts that will finally get rid of your problem areas. Instead, they provide the knowledge, support and space for members to work hard and get strong.If all thats not enough, the gym is always clean, has tons of great equipment and two dogs that work behind the front desk, and in general is a great place to hang out. In conclusion, War Horse Barbell Club gets 10 stars out of 5 in my book.

Mo
Review №42

I love this place! I quit my old gym and havent looked back. Awesome atmosphere. Im definitely stronger than Ive ever been, Ive made some pretty cool gym friends, and I look forward to working out everyday.

Ja
Review №43

Results Ive seen:- People start asking for your help because youll be seen as the strong guy / woman in the room. Moving heavy pots and furniture? No problem.- Youll start to look better with or without your shirt on. Strength really builds muscle and shapes you.- Youll actually look forward to exercising because youd want to 1-up your previous achievements. Barbells are not boring at all.- Other things in life start to get easier. Pushing yourself to do hard work at the gym benefits the other things that you do. Youll realize that your problems arent actually that tough.What youll learn:- Proper warmup.- Proper form.- Proper nutrition.- The right progression and regression based on your current strength.If you put in the work, its definitely worth every penny.

Ke
Review №44

I moved to Philly 5 years ago, and in that time I had several trainers: Some were good and some not so good, but 1 who was great. Chris Semick changed my concept of what a Personal Trainer is and what they do. He pushed me, motivated me, tracked my progress...he made me bigger, stronger, and healthier than I have ever been. Believe me, in a city full of gyms where you have the tools at your disposal, you just need to find the right teacher to show you how to use them most effectively to get the results youre looking to achieve. Those trainers are definitely committed - now you just need to be.

Su
Review №45

I have been working out at Warhorse for over a year now. I started off with the semi-private class and switched to Ignite a couple of months back. I have been to many gyms before but the motivation never lasted for more than a couple of months and I picked up new injuries every time I tried to push harder.The Semi Private classes were custom designed for my level; Chris/ John/ Jacklyn made sure they were challenging enough for me to move to the next level. The approach where you write down each set, each rep is pretty cool. Its almost like a commitment to yourself to comeback and do better in the next class. As some one who did not have any prior weightlifting experience, I learned a lot about how to lift right and minimize injury. Special thanks to John and Molly for helping me perfect those deadlifts.Ignite is a fast paced group workout which is similar to cross-fit (but not exactly). It took me a couple of weeks to get adjusted to these classes but I am in a good space now. I never thought I would look forward to working out every morning. The joy of hammering out 4-5 sets of well executed deadlifts/ prowler/ squats is my ideal way to start every day. Despite the fast pace of these classes, the coaches gives a lot of attention to detail in terms of posture and movement.Its the motivation and the culture instilled by the coaches which make this place an extraordinary gym. Warhorse has significantly improved the way I look at working out and fitness in general.

Br
Review №46

Since Ive lived in the city Ive been trying to find my ideal gym. Ive done yoga, Philly Sports Club, Planet Fitness and even Muay Thai. They all have their pros and cons but after joining War Horse its hard for me to find any cons at all. The trainers are extremely experienced, the classmates are friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is empowering. Ive noticed the biggest change physically since Ive started here. I would recommend this gym to anyone looking to shed weight and build lean muscle and love doing it.

Do
Review №47

Love this gym! Ive been a member at War Horse for a few years now and here is my review. The owners (Chris and Jaclyn) are awesome and really make the gym comfortable for all members. This is the starting point for everything great with War Horse. There is no stress signing up for classes or fretting over what the workout will be (They let you know beforehand!). There is a philosophy behind the training and they take it serious. Chris and Jaclyn attend the latest seminars in fitness and training and bring that detail back into the programming.Do yourself a favor and stop by for a session. If weightlifting is your thing, this is your place. All workouts can be scaled according to your needs and ability. They want the best for you whether it is getting back in the swing of things, being a competitive weightlifter, or maintaining, there is something for everyone.There is no pressure to be a community BUT if you want community they have it. Between the ice breakers, local meetups at breweries, great music during class, this is just a fun, comfortable gym with great staff and members. The new trainer (John) was once a member next to me. Now he is leading classes. He is phenomenal and really cares how you do.Only drawback...no Fishtown location (hint hint).I cant say enough about this gym. Try it out.

Le
Review №48

There are certain decisions you make in your life that set you on a different, better path. The day I first walked into War Horse was one of those days for me. Workout wise, I had always been a lone wolf- attached to the treadmill cranking out miles, and forcing myself through generic weightlifting programs. I dreaded going to the gym even when I was fit, and I also had an obsession counting calories and macros.I was struggling after the sudden death of my Mom- this included not taking care of myself in any capacity and self-medicating with food. A year had gone by, and I laid in a pile on my couch that whole time. My clothes didnt fit, and I gained a lot of weight (70+ lbs). I felt terrible and most days could barely convince myself to get out of bed.I used to walk by War Horse on my way home from work every day and would be afraid to look in. I didnt think I would fit in there, or that I wanted to work out with a group of people in class. I wanted to be healthy again, but I knew this time was different and that I needed a bit of help and I couldnt just do it on my own.I filled out the form on the website and heard back from the owner Jaclyn, she listened to all of my concerns and my history and encouraged me to come into a class. I made the appointment for 6 am (WHAT?) the next day. I was feeling scared, and I didnt know anyone, but Chris and Jaclyn made me feel right at home. I was self-conscious of my size but never once did anyone make me feel like I didnt belong. War Horse isnt a judgey atmosphere. If there was a move I couldnt do, they helped me come up with a modification, and never once was I made to feel less than anyone else there.Joining War Horse opened me up to a whole new community and a new group of friends. Everyone there encourages each other and celebrates each others successes. It honestly feels like a big family. I dont dread going to workout anymore; I look forward to it five days a week.War Horse gave me the foundation both physically and mentally/emotionally to start to put my life back together. I started taking care and pride in myself again- I developed a HEALTHY relationship with food by using their Precision Nutrition program as well. I walk lighter and taller down the streets these days, and I owe a huge part of that to Jaclyn and Chris at War Horse.

Ja
Review №49

I could spend an entire day listing all of the reasons you should have Warhorse Barbell Club on your “Must Visit In Philly” places, but I think the countless number of glowing reviews available here as well as social media have done a pretty good job explaining that already. Suffice to say, you’re going to get stronger and feel better.So instead, I’m going to explain to you why if you are NEW to the Philly area, Warhorse will be your first and most steady happy place. I moved to Philly nearly two years ago and by chance I happened to stumble upon Warhorse with no prior research. Immediately I knew this place would be a sanctuary for me. And it was, for two years, my favorite place to go everyday. Chris and Jaclyn are not just great coaches, but more importantly..people you really enjoy seeing each day. You will enjoy Jaclyn’s dancing and Chris’s absolutely lovable awkwardness as much as you’ll enjoy getting your squat up. You’ll enjoy Coach Jon’s big smile greeting you everyday as well as the other coaches who have all fully bought into what this place is truly about, as much as you’ll enjoy the changes to your body. I’m a big believer that a sense of community is one of the best things for someone who is new to a big city. Chris and Jaclyn have created that in droves at Warhorse. I know we all want to get strong, and like I said, you will get very strong by putting in the work here. To me, though, that’s not just what makes Warhorse special. What makes it unique is that the owners have made it a place you WANT to come to and work hard. Everything is there for the taking for you, all you have to do is show up and give them your best effort that day.Lastly, don’t ever waste your time worrying about if you’re strong ENOUGH to start at Warhorse. This gym has people at all fitness levels, all working toward their individual goals, feeling better about themselves daily, and enjoying the journey..together. You’re strong enough to workout at Warhorse if you’re strong enough to walk through their doors and introduce yourself. Go meet these great people and see for yourself the community that they have created..They will take care of the rest. What are you waiting for?

Bi
Review №50

Great facility. Very friendly people. Thanks

sa
Review №51

I came to Warhorse in a time of desperation; I had been getting stronger on my own, but I was hitting plateau after plateau, and my joints and tendons were starting to become irritated and sore every day. I wasn’t sure what I should do to break through my plateaus and continue to grow, and spending time on the internet trying to figure out “how to do it” made things even more complicated for me. I decided that I had had enough; the next day, I went into Warhorse Barbell club, met Jaclyn and Chris (and their doggies), and the rest is history. I have been working out here for almost two months, and I am happy to report that I no longer feel any joint or tendon pain. The workouts are challenging, but they don’t grind you to a pulp, as I have experienced with other programs. Every workout is tailored to my needs and strength level, making my job easy; all I need to do is show up and work! I’m in the best shape I have ever been in, and I expect to see lots of growth and change in the next year. Thank you, Chris and Jaclyn, for being a light for me in a dark time. A special shoutout to Chelsea for making me work hard!!! If you are on the fence about coming to a place like this, I would encourage you to reach out — it may be the best choice you make all year.

Ju
Review №52

Extremely clean

Ry
Review №53

Ive been going to Warhorse for 5 months now and cant say enough great things about the experience. Jackie, Chris and Felix have created a great a training environment and take a long term and balanced approach to training. Its a great gym and the programming is intelligent, effective and well-planned. It pushes you without relying on brute force or gimmicky/overly intense workouts. Everything feels sustainable and part of a long term plan to stay fit for life. Most importantly, you can tell they all love what they do and have cultivated an incredible community. Im a Warhorse fan for life.

Ma
Review №54

I learned everything I know about barbell form & fun from the Ignite classes at Warhorse. Competent, caring coaches with an excellent facility and equipment. Plus, this gym genuinely feels like a community full of badass folks who show up, work hard, push each other, and support you along the way. This is the real deal.

An
Review №55

WHBC is not only amazing for the phenomenal training that happens there but for the atmosphere and community that has been crerated. From the coaches to the other members I have met some of the most genuinely AWESOME humans. They prioritize the individual and truly care about helping each person meet there own goals! I can not say enough great things about this place. You are doing yourself a disservice if you go to any other gym in the city.

Do
Review №56

The warhorse crew creates an environment that is both challenging and extremely supportive. Ive been around the block with a few gyms and as a newly realized beginner Ive never payed attention to form and how to do exercises properly, only to load up the bar and put it up. Within the ignite classes form is the most important part of your workout, not how much weight you can put up but how well you are doing the exercises. Chris is extremely mindful of everyones goals and prior injuries ( it seems a majority of us are broken misfits) and knows when to change the exercises for you to still strengthen those muscles but not to stress them. Ive had more improvement with my shoulder, lower back injuries, and posture in the past 3 months than i have had with physical therapy in the past 2.5 years. All around best experience, excellent gear, and awesome staff.

Xi
Review №57

WHBC is nice place to go for workout, they have different types of training class to choose, so that we can find the one that fit for ourselves. I choose the one on one membership and Chris has been my trainer almost for one year, he wrote down the training schedule for each of us, taught me about how to use those equipments and what should focus during the workout to prevent get injury, also told me about the diet. Sometimes I could not understand very clear about what should I do in a class, he will just show me so that I can understand immediately. I have been training with him for almost one year, my friends told me that they can see I am get bigger and stronger than before, thats what I want. I will keep training and get more bigger, workout is not only for getting muscles, but also for keeping fitness. Last, If you drive to there, you can parking at the front of gyms door or the street besides the gym for free.

Da
Review №58

War Horse is not your typical gym, and one thats quickly become my home. Id never really been able to find a sport or activity that I enjoyed doing consistently in the past. So this gym has been an absolute game changer for me both mentally and physically. From the amazing and knowledgeable coaches, to the awesome members and community, Ive finally found something that I consistently want to do and enjoy doing every single day. I came to War Horse wanting to get stronger, but I never thought Id be inspired let alone fit in around a room full of people lifting heavy weights and pushing a heavy prowler. But the thing Ive realized is that as long as you want to work hard, fitting in at War Horse is easy!After participating in the IGNITE program at War Horse for about a year, I found that I had fallen in love with the barbell so much that I wanted to change gears and participate in War Horses powerlifting program. Now I am three powerlifting competitions in, and I have no plans of slowing down. Coach Chris at War Horse has been providing me and other powerlifters with a personalized powerlifting program as well as quality and incredibly smart coaching and support, which has truly transformed lifting into my lifestyle and passion. And it doesnt hurt that Ive gotten really strong! The results pretty much speak for themselves. Im sure I wouldnt have discovered powerlifting without War Horse, and I cant imagine my life without it now.Whether its IGNITE, semi-private, or powerlifting, whats great about this gym is that we get to work out with like minded people every day with the same goals and who are incredibly supportive of one another. I trust the coaches and the program, and because of that Ive learned what Im capable of and what I know Ill be able to do in the future! Honestly the best gym Ive ever joined and has truly changed my life for the better!

Da
Review №59

I joined Warhorse a little over a year ago after a 6 year break from lifting. In the past Ive tried just about everything fitness wise: from bro-splits to crossfit. I had a simple goal when I walked in the door, to get back to my old strength levels and just get in all around better shape. I figured it would take a good bit of time, in the past it had taken months to years to make any sort of progress for myself.Within 3 months I was stronger at 31 than at any point previous in my life. A few more and I was easily in the best shape of my life, and the gains keep on coming. Ive since competed in my first powerlifting meet and am currently preparing for a second. Training at Warhorse has helped me realize two important things:1.) my previous programming was all garbage2.) I was severely limiting myself with what I THOUGHT I was capable ofTraining at Warhorse has allowed me to rid myself of any self imposed limitations and simply focus on my training, knowing that I will continue progressing in a safe and sustainable manner. The programming is great, regardless of your goals. If you are looking to get stronger, get in better shape overall, do supplemental training for a sport, or even get into powerlifting, Warhorse is the place you want to train. No matter what you think you are capable of Warhorse can help get you there, and beyond.

Pa
Review №60

Pros: Patient, People, Family, Community, Service, Passion, Accountability, Results.Cons: NoneI purposely waited over 1yr since joining War Horse to give this review because I’ve never lasted longer than 6months at a gym or training facility. The fact that I, someone who consistently failed to train for longer than 6 months, still actively attends Ignite classes is a true testament to what Chris and Jaclyn have built.Early spring 2015 I noticed brown paper covering the windows of the newly constructed building located at 2nd and Brown. I walked by this location many times wondering what would be going into this once vacant lot. One spring evening I finally got my answer – Finally, some new information by way of s small sign that read “War Horse Barbell Club – Coming Soon”. Having never heard of a “barbell club” a quick google search took me to the company website with a ton of information about Open Gym, Ignite and a few other options but still nothing that answered my question – what is a barbell club. I fired off an email around 10pm and received an email back from Chris within minutes – his responsiveness had me hooked. As a former business owner, with a passion for service and customer dedication, I knew this was a ‘gym’ I wanted to join. Chris and I fired off an email exchange over the next few weeks. He talked to me about opening dates, their programs, and the type of environment to expect at his barbell club.As I patiently waited for War Horse to open, one afternoon while walking my dog, I noticed the doors were open during construction so I decided to pop in. I was pleased to be greeted by Chris and Jaclyn. Deep into renovation mode, both Chris and Jaclyn took the time to dive deeper into what War Horse was all about and gave me a quick tour, discussed my personal goals and set me up for a trial membership.June 15 2015. The wait was finally over! War Horse opened less than 30 days before my wedding. I was out of shape, heavier than I wanted to be, and over my current gym (which I dreaded going to) so I decided to take Chris and Jaclyn up on their free trial – after the first class I knew this place was for me. I describe what Chris and Jaclyn have built as a perfect mix of power lifting, high intensity training and agility movements.I have been on and off with gyms for the last 15+ years of my life. I fell in love with a Cross Fit box in Miami Beach only to be turned off by a horrible experience at a box in Philly. I loved to exercise but I could never find the motivation to go on my own and was lost in with all of the magazines, message forums and countless ‘latest and greatest’ exercise trends and didn’t want to have to think about exercising….I just wanted to get in shape, be motivated by like-minded individuals and work with coaches who really care about their clients. Ignite, War Horses strength and conditioning program, is designed to build strength, confident and improve overall health in a fun and friendly group setting.Every class is limited to roughly 15 people ensuring the coaches are always right there watching and providing input as needed. Chris even recognized an old sports injury and was quick to accommodate me with a custom program and even went above and beyond to help me find solutions to my bad back. Every class begins and ends with group coaching, explanations of movements, and stretching – this is an area that many group classes or crossfit boxes fail to do well (or at all).Anyone can open a business but it takes special people that have a passion beyond profits to deliver something truly exceptional. Overall, my experience with War Horse was nothing short of exceptional. In my first 30 days before my wedding I was able to drop 20lbs, improve my confidence, and build strength. In 12 months I have achieved everything the Ignite program promises to offer and I have met people I can genuinely call friends.

en
Review №61

I started going to Warhorse over 2 years ago and I dont think I realize how much impact it has had on my life. I was totally new to working out and it was the perfect place as a beginner lifter. Everyone is so friendly and I didnt feel intimidated by knowing nothing about lifting. I learned proper form and little by little started getting stronger and feeling healthier.Now over 2 years later, Chris still writes all my programming, although i lift at a different gym due to location change. I couldnt be happier with the personal attention he gives to me and my programming. He came to my first powerlifting meet (last week) and stayed all day to help me through it and make the day so much less stressfull.Bottom line is that the guys/gals at Warhorse actually care about their clients and spend time learning as much as possible to provide great programming and coaching. You will believe me the moment you step into the gym or talk to anyone there.

Mi
Review №62

War Horse Barbell is, quite simply, the first gym I have ever enjoyed, and because of WHBC, lifting is the first fitness path I have ever loved. I first met the owners a few days before they opened, as I was walking around my neighborhood, and they immediately made an impression as friendly, fun, and open.WHBC is a great vibe; people are friendly, and everyone feels equal there, whether you are a beginner or training for a powerlifting meet or anywhere in between. The result is that you can get helpful feedback and emotional support across the board no matter what level youre working at. Its both light-hearted and completely serious; people are there to work, and they know you are too, and everyones psyched about that. But theres plenty of banter and smiles too. I feel encouraged by the - to me - large percentage of women at WHBC. That to me indicates an equitable, respectful atmosphere.Aside from a couple of periods of interest with running and martial arts - about a year of each - I have never done anything to consider myself a fit person, or an athlete. I am 44 years old, I have been lifting at War Horse for 3 years, and I am easily in the best shape of my life right now. I look at my entire life differently, more positively, and with more energy. Im definitely stronger than ever and plan to stay that way.

Gr
Review №63

Best strength coaching in Philly! Great facility with dedicated staff.

Er
Review №64

Great place to workout. Friendly members and staff. Very little bro-ness.

Jo
Review №65

Expertise programming, comradery among peers, and a welcoming atmosphere. War Horse has perfected this formula which is why I - and many others - keep coming back. Chris, Jaclyn, and the staff at War Horse have truly separated themselves from the mundane, uneducated, apathetic representation of what most commercial gyms have suddenly become. They take the time to work with each individual to provide appropriate programming in a motivating environment. Whether youre looking to drop a couple pounds or deadlift 2x your bodyweight (or 2.5x, thanks Chris!), War Horse is absolutely the place to check out if youre in the Philly area.

Be
Review №66

I always tend to approach things with what I consider to be a healthy dose of skepticism, and such was the case when deciding to give War Horse a shot. My wife and I had recently moved to Philly, and I was in a rut of limited to no physical activity. I did some investigating of places in my neighborhood of Northern Liberties to try to change that, and I kept coming back to War Horse because of how positive the reviews were. I am happy to say that eight months later, with both my wife and I being active members, I can attest that it has lived up to the hype.My experience at this gym began with an initial assessment with owner/trainer Chris of some very basic physical abilities. This lead to a two week trial of semi-private sessions with Chris in order to make sure this was a fit for me. The two week trial lead to two months of semi-private training sessions, after which I felt prepared to join the IGNITE group classes. Ive always enjoyed team sports, but even when I was an athlete never enjoyed going to the gym. I now attend IGNITE classes five days a week whenever possible. Each day has a different focus, and exercises are always being varied so that the workouts dont become boring or routine. The support of the staff and your fellow gym members is one aspect of the community that is obvious from the beginning. Classes are relatively small (cap at 15 people), and you never feel lacking for individual attention. The trainers are incredibly focused on making sure everyone is training correctly, so as to not injure themselves, but also so that they can get the most out of every exercise. I joined the gym with a pre-existing lower back issue that bothers me occasionally, and I have always been offered alternative exercises if my back is bothering me. Im happy to report, though, that I have seen a noticeable reduction in back pain since joining, which I attribute to being stronger than I have been in years, and in the best shape that I have been in since high school. Squats, deadlifts, and chin-ups were never part of any workout routine I felt comfortable with, but through deliberate practice focusing on technique, I can now accomplish all three.War Horse has several fringe benefits as well. They have a partnership with Primal Supply Meat, a butcher specializing in locally sourced meats, and members can join the Butchers Club to have meat delivered on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. They arrange occasional beer clubs at local breweries, because after all the time spent at the gym its fun to just hang out and see people in normal clothes. They also have two of the sweetest pit bulls, Cameron and Emmitt, that happily greet everyone when they arrive. Ive literally never belonged to a gym in my life, and I cant really picture my life in Philadelphia without this one. If you want to get strong, work hard, and make friends, this is the place to do it.

Mi
Review №67

First: my weight lifting and athletic history is...checkered. Previously, I had signed up for a Crossfit Intro package outside of the city and decided that it wasnt the environment and type of training for me.If this gets too boring to read, then spoilers: Im still at War Horse 9 months later.Ended up meeting with Chris to run through an assessment and begin a set of three trial classes.Short story short: that remedial history translated to starting from scratch with basic form development and progression for the primary compound lifts War Horse works around. Completely not a problem, by the way. I was (am?) a novice so I appreciated that I wasnt being encouraged to sacrifice my body for the sake of my ego (see the first paragraph).I hooked up with a couple of evening classes and a Saturday morning session as part of the trial and jumped right in. Each class was (and continues to be) structured with a bit of time on group dynamic stretching followed by a core compound movement (e.g. bench press, squats, deadlifts) and then finally a conditioning component where Chris adds in accessory work that complements the muscle groups hit in the earlier part of the class.I think it took me nearly two weeks to get through all three trial classes because my body was smoked for days after each one but after that third class, I signed up for a membership later that night and Ive been hooked on it going in 5 days a week for coming up on a year soon.Bottom line is that the classes crazy fun, theres a method to the programming, and theres absolutely no bar in place that says anyone walking in the door has to be of a certain athletic aptitude to get started. The fact that I can roll out of my house and jump into a class a minute later is just gravy. For whatever reason, having a generic gym membership with no accountability except to myself just never jived with my personality. I definitely wish I had that initial drive to get started with weight training much earlier but the Ignite class format, Chris class designs, and his oversight are exactly what it took for me to finally get motivated and into the gym.

Ju
Review №68

When it comes to gyms, War Horse stands alone! The coaches are not only very personable but they know what theyre talking about. Chris coaches dozens of people yet can still remember what weight you lifted last week or physical limitations you may have, he truly cares about your success. Ive tried going to a regular gym, Zumba, Cross Fit and a few others. Nothing kept me motivated and excited until I found War Horse. I now get up at 4:30am Monday-Friday for the 6am class and am happy to walk in each morning. In the past even just the thought of waking up that early to go to the gym would have made me laugh, not anymore! I can now deadlift just over two times my bodyweight. If that doesnt excite or interest you (yet), I will be 30 in a few months and have abs for the first time in my life. Youll meet some awesome people and two rescue dogs will greet you from behind the desk each time you walk in. Give it a try, you wont regret it!

El
Review №69

Join this gym. You’ll have zero regrets.Until a few years ago, I lacked all confidence in myself. This feeling was so prevalent in everyday life that it was something I never actively thought about or struggled with. I didn’t have to convince myself that I wasn’t worthy or deserving of things. It was already hardwired into me. After three decades of living, I began to unconsciously uncover the disservice I’d done myself. And this took place through a medium I would have never expected: a gym.Gaining strength requires an awareness of current limits, an acceptance with the present. But it also requires a willingness and confidence to push beyond the present. There’s nothing more humbling than when a lift feels far heavier than it should. There’s also nothing more satisfying than the opposite: when a lift is so smooth that it looks and feels far lighter than you expect. Despite the differences, both circumstances result in motivation to be better: to improve upon your failures and to build upon your successes. In the right environment, and with the right mix of humility and ego, you find yourself picking up a heavier dumbbell thinking, ‘I’m pretty sure I can do this...Yeah, I can do this...Well, sh*t, I’m actually doing this.’Lifting is often viewed as an individual sport, but for me, that’s wrong. Lifting at Warhorse is more like a team sport than I’ve ever experienced. Like a team attending practices, we consistently show up. We experience the pain of the same airdyne workout. We can tell when someone is off or is coasting. We feel the push to be better when someone beside us is working their butt off. We watch as our teammates progress from negative chin-ups, to chin-ups with the green band, then the blue band, to body weight, all the while, inspiring the rest of us. We support each other. We challenge each other. We lean on each other. All so we can individually be better and by consequence, and perhaps unknowingly, make the entire unit better. And all by sensing when to call each other out and when to call ourselves out. Lifting is a team sport.Without initially realizing it, I started taking what I felt and learned inside a small space on 2nd Street and applying it to the rest of my life. I started to push myself a little more. I started to be more assertive in my relationships and work life. I recognized how much more I could learn by speaking up. I started to expect more of myself and of other people. I began to slowly feel confident in voicing my opinion and needs, and admitting when I was wrong, all to try to make myself, and the groups I was a part of, better. Eventually, I became aware of the constant tearing down of myself that I’d been so great at my entire life. Eventually, I made the decision to actively root in myself some confidence. And eventually, I began to see the fruit of striking a balance of ego with humility outside the gym.Now, I’m attempting to harvest some of that fruit as I strive to reach my career goals in a different city while I also broken-heartedly acknowledge that I have to leave behind the place that’s helped provide the tools I had no idea I needed my entire life. Picking up a barbell at WHBC wasn’t a silver bullet--therapy was a great potentiator--but I truly feel that lifting was a gateway for me.Chris and Jaclyn, thank you for creating a space that’s provided the tools to build in me something that’s so much bigger than physical strength. I wouldn’t be taking the steps I am without you and your gym. WHBC community, your fellowship is something I would have never expected to extend beyond the confines of the gym; how ignorant I was. Its presence is something I’ve come to lean on and for which I’ll be forever grateful. Thank you for holding me accountable inside and outside those walls, for showing up every day to work your butts off, and for some really entertaining ice breakers. I love and will miss you all, even 6AM Bryan.

Lo
Review №70

Best place. Best coach. Best people. Best puppies.

Me
Review №71

Chris from War Horse Barbell Club (WHBC) taught me everything I know about weightlifting. I am very thankful that I have been strength training with him for over a year now. I came in knowing nothing. He was patient and stressed form and provided a well-balanced and thoughtful training program for me. Everyone that I have worked out with at WHBC has been very welcoming. I highly recommend checking this place out and working with one of the trainers or taking the IGNITE class. Chris’s enthusiasm is contagious and I am walking taller (straighter really), lifting smart, and looking forward to what I can accomplish next.2 years later... I am still giving War Horse 5 Stars:Training and being part of the War Horse Barbell Club (WHBC) is an important part of my life. It sets my day, builds strength, takes commitment, celebrates my feats and gives me the humor to let go of the defeats. I receive so much from Warhorse and the team of Coaches that I wanted to express that in a ‘Why I Train’. As I was deliberating why I do train, it occurred to me that I couldn’t believe I still train.I met Chris Semick, co-founder of Warhorse, and started as a total novice in September 2014. I told myself give it 3 months with the stipulations to not feel guilty about spending the money or my lunch break, to not get down on myself if I struggle or feel embarrassed and to not beat myself up if I really didn’t like it. To be brave and try and extend that bravery to tell Chris it wasn’t for me, if it wasn’t. Everyone has their hang-ups and doing this felt like a big step.Three months came and went and I was hooked. I am so glad I met Chris and gave myself a chance to try something new. I had never lifted and had no experience. Chris was patient and had questions ready to help direct my goals. Without experience I was left without having expectations; that resonates for me. I didn’t know what was possible and therefore my expectations weren’t low or high, it was unimaginable. I can’t think of many, if any, situations where I went in withoutpersonal expectations.I knew enough that I needed instruction. Chris put the emphasis on form and that was a win for me. After the form everything else followed. I felt confident in my technique and comfortable at the gym and the weights increased. It was a cascade –form, confidence, sense of place, belonging, more weight. I was decent at it and that felt powerful. I noticed that I walked taller, hell; I had all around better posture. I was making progress and feeling solid. My job occasionally entails lifting heavyobjects and more than once I embarrassed or impressed a few colleagues.Warhorse opened in 2015 and could have been intimidating with the equipment the streamlined interior but it wasn’t intimidating because I knew what I was doing, could follow instruction and do the workouts that were prepared for me. I feel good about being part of the Warhorse group and look forward to seeing each Coach and my usual workout crew.I have kept training because of the results. The results include seeing a physical change in my body but go so far beyond that singular (fantastic) result. The outcome of working out and training at WHBC has given me greater physical and emotional confidence, healthy goals (now I can have expectations), improved time management and the opportunity to meet people that share common objectives. It also helps that Chris and Jaclyn, also a co-founder, continue to check in on my goals, give suggestions and keep preparing those well thought-out workout programs.

Ca
Review №72

Great gym, great people, great gains

To
Review №73

War Horse Barbell

Information
37 Photos
73 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:801 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, United States
  • Site:http://warhorsebarbellclub.com/
  • Phone:+1 267-254-2844
Categories
  • Gym
Working hours
  • Monday:6am–7:30pm
  • Tuesday:8–11:15am
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:6am–8:30pm
  • Friday:6am–8:30pm
  • Saturday:6am–8:30pm
  • Sunday:6am–8:30pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
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