Adelante Barbell Club — Attraction in Kenilworth

Can’t recommend this place enough. I wouldn’t be surprised if this is the best powerlifting gym in NJ. But they don’t just have powerlifting, they also have areas to do weightlifting, bodybuilding, crossfit and even Brazilian jiujitsu. They have a coach that runs scheduled BJJ classes. The BJJ area is closed-off, spacious and sanitary. There’s an area where you can chill, eat, read (with books, comics and manga) or play games (with board games and video games). The owners are great and will make you feel welcomed from the beginning (and not in a phony way). You can talk to them about any concerns and they will hear you out, completely. Everyone here is like family. People even bring their kids and dogs sometimes. I’ve left my bag and even my watch for a week once by accident and no one took it. Pretty much everyone here is strong as hell so there’s no lack of motivation here, but don’t be intimidated because everyone is here to improve and has been where you are. You can even sign up for coaching if you are new and/or want to compete. Membership is on the pricier end but you get what you pay for. A bonus is that the gym isn’t as crowded as a commercial gym :). The machines are well maintained and they’re always trying to improve. They have the cleanest designs when it comes to logos and merch but that’s just my opinion. They often give out stickers that they design themselves. They have snacks, drinks and even meal preps. I can go on and on, but honestly, you should just check out the place yourself. If you are serious about getting stronger or want to feel like you are a part of the gym you train at and not just another customer, you won’t be...

I love this gym, started coming here about 3 months ago. Weight-lifting is my fitness of choice, and while I am not a serious powerlifter by any means, I like being surrounded by folks who are serious about their workouts. This gym is the best of both worlds: not intimidating at all (the owner is great and brings his two dogs in all the time), very friendly vibe, but folks are there to build muscle and strength. Granted, I usually come in the early afternoon, but I've never had to wait to use anything.

This is a powerlifting gym, so not a big selection of machines (if that is something you are looking for), but there's plenty of equipment (and space) for more sport-oriented training (kettlebells, bands, sled, etc), in addition to plenty of olympic platforms, squat racks,...

Great non-commercial alternative for fitness. Mostly a barbell facility, but they do have dumbbells and other equipment. The atmosphere and community is what made me drop my previous gym membership. Everyone is motivated to help you, the owner gets to actually know you, CrossFit feel without the cult feeling or price tag, and the only intimidation is in your own head. Power and olympic lifting focused but doesn't mean that's a bad thing. Been seeing more results than paying for expensive classes at a commercial gym or niche programs where it would take me years to see the results I've been getting in a month.

The price is super fair with absolutely no enrollment fees, maintenance fees, nor are there any surprises. You could even just try the place out for a...