War Horse Barbell Club

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! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 I've 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 don't 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 that's 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Love this gym! I've 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 can't say enough about this gym. Try it out. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Lemme start by saying this will be the BEST GYM YOU WILL EVER JOIN!I’ve been a member to just about every major gym in the city and all of them pale in comparison to Warhorse. Jaclyn and Chris utilize advanced coaching techniques paired with cutting edge know-how to craft one-of-a-kind programs for their clients in a large class setting or in one on one sessions.Unlike most gyms, Jaclyn and Chris also take the time to make sure that everyone is performing all the major lifts(squat, deadlift, bench) correctly and safely so that their progress is fluid and continuous.And the atmosphere! Warhorse utilizes state-of-the-art strength-training and conditioning equipment to better assist members in their health and wellness journey. DO IT. JOIN NOW and thank me later. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I love this place. I've 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. I've 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. I've also met some truly awesome people at this gym and I look forward to seeing them and working out with them every day.Whether you're 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 I'm stronger and healthier than I ever was in my 20s, all thanks to War Horse! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

War Horse is not your typical gym, and one that's quickly become my home. I'd 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, I've 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 I'd be inspired let alone fit in around a room full of people lifting heavy weights and pushing a heavy prowler. But the thing I've 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 Horse's 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 doesn't hurt that I've gotten really strong! The results pretty much speak for themselves. I'm sure I wouldn't have discovered powerlifting without War Horse, and I can't imagine my life without it now.Whether it's IGNITE, semi-private, or powerlifting, what's 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 I've learned what I'm capable of and what I know I'll be able to do in the future! Honestly the best gym I've ever joined and has truly changed my life for the better! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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

Reviewed on Google Maps

War Horse Barbell

Reviewed on Google Maps

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, let's just say much less hospitable. It's bread and butter powerlifting gear with a great atmosphere, and I'm very grateful to have found it. Thanks guys! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I started going to Warhorse over 2 years ago and I don't 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 didn't 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 couldn't 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 you're working at. It's both light-hearted and completely serious; people are there to work, and they know you are too, and everyone's psyched about that. But there's 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. I'm definitely stronger than ever and plan to stay that way. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 without
personal 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 heavy
objects 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I joined Warhorse a little over a year ago after a 6 year break from lifting. In the past I've 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. I've 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 garbage
2.) I was severely limiting myself with what I THOUGHT I was capable of

Training 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I left CityFitness Thrive to come to War Horse Ignite 8 months ago. I really wanted to get under a barbell, which seemed to silently be phased out of Thrive. I was hesitant to switch gyms and programs. I felt like I’d gotten reasonably strong, and was friendly with some people at Thrive.

Clearly, I had yet to realize my strength, and I hadn’t yet experienced a true gym community. I look forward to my time at War Horse each day I go (which is most), and here’s why:

Knowledge: The knowledge level and commitment to their continued education that Chris and Jaclyn possess, as well as their commitment to growth and improvement in each of their clients, can’t be found elsewhere. Chris and Jaclyn educate their members to lift in a way that focuses on each important detail, beginning with diaphragmatically breathing properly during warm ups. With their guidance, I’ve learned how to safely and efficiently lift, and lift reasonably heavy. I have a history of bad shoulders, but WHBC has been better for me than any PT program. Chris and Jaclyn let me know when I shouldn’t do a particular exercise, and they replace it with something to, instead, improve my shoulder stability. They’re both great at reading clients, and knowing to which style of coaching they’ll respond best. And finally, I will gladly do Ignite 6 days a week, and never get sick of Chris’s programming, which is a great mix of strength and conditioning.

Community: I adore the members at War Horse. It’s a supportive, fun, and funny group, and we consistently get together outside the gym. War Horse isn’t your typical neighborhood gym. You’ll find people from all over the city: Roxborough, East Falls, South Philly, Fairmount, Port Richmond, Fishtown, Northern Liberties. The people that go there want to go there. This isn’t only a testament to the type of people that are attracted to a place like War Horse, but it’s also a testament to what Chris and Jaclyn have built.

Self-Improvement: Chris and Jaclyn support my ambitions (both internal and external to the gym), and have pushed and encouraged me to reach goals that weren’t even on my radar a year ago, including entering a powerlifting competition. They’ve disrupted the safe comfort of my gym routine in the most positive way, eliminating any possibility of mundanity, and motivating me to leave no room for complacency. The confidence I’ve built over the last 8 months in this small space on 2nd Street is incredible. To say that my time inside WHBC has impacted my life outside the gym barely scratches the surface.

If you want to get stronger, have your ass kicked, feel like part of a great community, and the intangibles count just as much as the tangibles for you, then War Horse is the place for you. In fact, I’m excited to meet you. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been at Warhorse for a year and a half and it's the best training program I've ever done. The Ignite workouts don't feel like Crossfit or like you're in a class at all. You really do get one on one training. I feel stronger and better than I've ever felt. The trainers are awesome. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 you're 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 you're in the Philly area. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

When it comes to gyms, War Horse stands alone! The coaches are not only very personable but they know what they're 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. I've 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 doesn't excite or interest you (yet), I will be 30 in a few months and have abs for the first time in my life. You'll 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 won't regret it! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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

Reviewed on Google Maps

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

Reviewed on Google Maps

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!!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Results I've seen:- People start asking for your help because you'll be seen as the strong guy / woman in the room. Moving heavy pots and furniture? No problem.- You'll start to look better with or without your shirt on. Strength really builds muscle and shapes you.- You'll actually look forward to exercising because you'd 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. You'll realize that your problems aren't actually that tough.What you'll learn:- Proper warmup.- Proper form.- Proper nutrition.- The right progression and regression based on your current strength.If you put in the work, it's definitely worth every penny. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 didn't 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 didn't 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 couldn't 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 didn't 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 didn't belong. War Horse isn't a judgey atmosphere. If there was a move I couldn't 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 other's successes. It honestly feels like a big family. I don't 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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. I've 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 don't 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. I'm 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 Butcher's 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 it's 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. I've literally never belonged to a gym in my life, and I can't 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been going to Warhorse for 5 months now and can't 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. It's 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. I'm a Warhorse fan for life. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 you're looking to add a spark to your life, then you should stop in and see what War Horse has to offer. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been coming to War Horse for just over a year now. I love the workouts, and since training (lifting) - I've gotten better at cycling (road bike). I noticed this going up hills a few weekends ago - what I used to dread (because I'd always have to stop and get off my bike) I was able to easily climb a steep hill with power (felt almost easy). And I wasn't winded by the time I got to the top - and my legs felt great. So yeah - lifting has helped me become a stronger cyclist. Thank you, Felix! (Felix is my trainer there.) More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

You're 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 doesn't 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 you'll feel stronger, faster and better than ever before. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Since I've lived in the city I've been trying to find my ideal gym. I've done yoga, Philly Sports Club, Planet Fitness and even Muay Thai. They all have their pros and cons but after joining War Horse it's 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. I've noticed the biggest change physically since I've started here. I would recommend this gym to anyone looking to shed weight and build lean muscle and love doing it. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've 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 I'm 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Great gym, great people, great gains

Reviewed on Google Maps

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, that's 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 gym's door or the street besides the gym for free. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

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 you're looking to achieve. Those trainers are definitely committed - now you just need to be. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

The warhorse crew creates an environment that is both challenging and extremely supportive. I've been around the block with a few gyms and as a newly realized beginner I've 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 everyone's 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. I've 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. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've 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 didn't have that extra motivation and atmosphere that warhorse brings to the table. My results of working out have greatly improved since joining and attending. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I love this place so much. It's 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. I've been a member since the beginning and absolutely recommend it. Just stop by and see it for yourself! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I love this place! I quit my old gym and haven't looked back. Awesome atmosphere. I'm definitely stronger than I've ever been, I've made some pretty cool gym friends, and I look forward to working out everyday.

Reviewed on Google Maps