Basecamp Fitness Minneapolis (North Loop) — Attraction in Minneapolis

This place is fantastic. I have been going here since they opened in Mid-May, and I actually look forward to working out. I've never been able to say that before in my life. I've noticed some great changes, not just in some weight loss, but also in my strength, stamina, energy levels, and overall happiness.

The overview: Each workout is 35 minutes, plus 10 minutes of "optional" core work at the end of class. Your time is split between riding a resistance bike, and doing some kind of strength or cardio work on the floor. The typical split is 60 seconds of bike, 60 seconds of floor (with 10 seconds to transition), but this can vary from class to class. Each section of floor work is a different exercise so it doesn't get boring, and the time goes by really quickly. In 2 months I have never taken the same class twice, so the variety is great. The workouts are spread out throughout the day, typically from 5:15 AM to 7:15 PM, so it's easy to find a time to go. There can be up to 30 people per class, and there are 15 bikes, so sometimes you share a bike with someone else (switching back and forth).

The facility: Everything is clean and modern. The bathrooms are nice, and there is a shower on site, as well as towels, water, snacks, etc. The equipment is clean and well organized, and lots of windows provide a bright and open workout space. Some of the bikes can get a bit warm if the sun is shining in, but it just means you'll sweat more.

The staff: This is where Basecamp really shines. Every single person I have interacted with has been great. From Nigel, the account rep, to the front desk workers, to the trainers - everyone is professional, fun, friendly, and knowledgeable. I had a couple small issues with the initial account set up, and they went above and beyond getting everything fixed for me. There was no pressure to sign up following the free trial. The trainers are really committed to everyone in their class being successful. There are always different options provided for different fitness levels, tons of motivation and encouragement, no judgement or negativity, and they don't yell at you like drill sergeants - they are there to encourage, guide, and support. Shout out to Annabelle, Kristi, and Christian who are the typical trainers for the times I go - they are all fantastic.

If you get a free trial, check this place out. It's not for everyone - if you prefer working out alone, or need a place that's 24 hours with tons of equipment, this won't be a good fit. If you're like me and need some guidance and motivation (without having to pay for a personal trainer) then this is...

My favorite gym! And I’ve tried a few. I’ve done Orange Theory, Barry’s (once), kickboxing and other things, but generally still felt pretty new to HIIT workouts when I tried Basecamp. The intro was really great, they want to understand your experience, they set you up on your bike and explain how it’s gong to work. It’s a really friendly environment.

The TVs make it easy to see what workout you’ll be doing each round, whether it’s with dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells or other equipment. If you’re seasoned then maybe you won’t lean on them much, but starting out I really appreciated them and they free up the coaches to focus on you. The coaches are great at explaining how to do each move and will correct your form to make sure you’re getting the most out of it. I’ve found other HIIT gyms rarely comment on form, but if you’ve never done strength workouts like this you need the help to make sure you don’t incorrectly injure something.

I’ve been to almost all the coaches and they’re all really friendly and push you (but not overly so) to get a good workout. And if you go to a coach’s class enough, they know when to challenge you with heavier weights! I’d never done enough strength training to start living heavier, but I’m using heavier weights than I started and it’s rewarding.

The exercises on the floor really vary so I don’t feel like I’m doing the same thing every day. And love that it’s 45 minute workout including stretching. Because the schedule alternates arm, leg, total body, etc. I feel like I’m getting the best strength training I’ve ever had. Would...

I’ve been a member here for about five months and have so many positive things to say. I tried all the other group workout studios/gyms on ClassPass and ended up joining Basecamp. I can go every day and not get bored, but still feel like I get a good workout. Some workout studios (especially in North Loop) seem to think the most effective workouts run you into the ground and make it so you can’t walk the next couple of days. This might be true if you want to go only once a week, but I don’t like this style if you’re looking for a place to work out multiple times a week or to be your main exercise option.

Basecamp is effective, but doable and enjoyable. I can push as hard as I want or pull back on days I want to take it easy. The staff is great! The coaches will personally go up to you during the workout and help you correct your form or give you heavier weights/challenges. It’s also an unpretentious crowd (especially compared to other North Loop studios) and they offer the best promotions and affordability! They have more class availability than anywhere else, sometimes having nine classes a day. AND they validate parking! Only downside is it can feel a little crowded when the class is full, so I recommend going to a class during off-peak hours if you can.

Lastly, I love how they have a variety of equipment. BARBELLS, dumbbells, kettle bells, Bosu, med balls, TRX, boxes, ladders, assault bikes. You can really work on your strength here and not just...