Best Gyms with Functional Training Equipment near West-chester, Pennsylvania

A Disastrous Experience at YMCA West Chester I am writing to express my extreme disappointment with my recent experience at the YMCA West Chester. The level of unprofessionalism and lack of customer service I encountered was truly appalling, and it serves as yet another example of the consistently poor management and execution of their programs. To begin, I was denied the ability to drop my child off for a scheduled sports activity simply because I did not have my wallet on me. This arbitrary and discriminatory policy is not only inconvenient but also disrespectful to paying members. To make matters worse, when my child's coach arrived, the same front desk staff member inexplicably allowed my child to enter the facility without any further verification. This inconsistency in policy enforcement is both baffling and infuriating. Following this initial incident, I received several aggressive phone calls from Mike Macmillan, the purported "director of sports." This individual proceeded to berate me in a highly unprofessional and accusatory manner. Such behavior is completely unacceptable and reflects poorly on the YMCA as an organization. It's disheartening to note that the YMCA West Chester's programs, while convenient, are consistently plagued by poor management and execution. This latest incident is a prime example of this ongoing issue. I am deeply disturbed by this entire ordeal and intend to file a formal complaint with the YMCA's corporate office. I urge others to consider their experiences at this particular location and to voice their concerns accordingly.

Very courteous employees, super friendly. Outdoor pool is my kind of kid friendly. Very easy to make a reservation. Snack Shack outside with the pool. 😊 💦

Someone is not doing their job properly or just incompetent at all. It infuriates me that they can’t seem to update the color bands on my kids. What’s the purpose of having my child do swimming lessons here (fyi, no matter how good your child at swimming, has to repeat the swim level twice) if you can’t update your system that she’s a green band!!!! Do they even keep records of the kids that take lessons at all! I’m really starting to hate this place! FAMILY BATHROOMS are full of MOLDS and it STINKS! Front desk employees (tall, balding guy and petite woman with a guy’s haircut and wears glasses) are both arrogant and unprofessional!

The gym isn't great but besides that, the water only tastes like chlorine! The water is absolutely terrible and I'm putting 1 star so that they see this and fix their water. Other gyms have filtered water especially with nutrients. How do you expect to get stronger by drinking chlorine. Fix the water please!!

The outdoor waterpark is excellent for little kids. Very large splash pad and small slides perfect for toddlers, as well as a couple of larger slides for the bigger kids/adults

Celeste Dragwa Affordable, and convenient times. The gymnastics program is like our daughter's second home/family. She started in the mommy and me class and now many years later is on the competitive team. We're so happy she has a safe place to grow in the sport. The ninja program allows our son to challenge himself & gives him a safe place to hang and climb other than our house walls.

Wonderful sport! Clean and beautiful facility. Excellent equipment variety in the weight room. All that you would want a Y to be

OLY used to have a pool many years ago. There are 4 other locations (one is 10 minutes away) that does have 3 indoor pools. Where OLY's pool was is a gymnastics room and program that has won COUNTLESS metals, rewards, and championships! No other YMCA in Chester County offers this program at the price they do! Yes, OLY's gym is often very busy, but OLY was originally called the Youth Program Center, and still is a location dedicated to our youth and their growth. Hours are limited due to them accommodating for youth programs, but it's only 2 hours shorter than the other branches in the association. The staff are amazing - from the "foot people" at the front desk to the Leadership team. They truly care about the children and it shows! Every year something changes for the better. Their wellness center has been getting some much needed TLC all 2023 and now new cardio equipment in 2024! I have only seen great things about the Oscar Lasko YMCA. I'm so proud to be a member.

Great gymnastics space, renovated in the last couple of years. Parents have a comfortable waiting room and ample view of the kids throughout the entire class. Program is well priced and most importantly, my kids really love it!

My Daughter started doing gymnastics at Oscar Lasko YMCA in West Chester when she was 6 years old. She is now 11 and a Level 5 gymnast on the Gymcat Competitive Team and has also participated in the Gymnastics summer camps here. I honestly can't say enough about how amazing the coaches and the program are. They are so supportive and help guide and encourage them to be the best they can be. The Y Gymnastics Team has become a second family for my Daughter. We live about 25 miles away and could have chosen closer programs for her, but hands-down this has been the best experience with the best group of coaches/teammates/parents, that I couldn't imagine her anywhere else! I would HIGHLY recommend!

Awesome facility and workouts. I felt very welcome by coach Jenny and enjoyed working out there during my drop in sessions this past week. I really like how fast the team was to responding to my Instagram messages and I found the website easy to use. I highly recommend to anyone around the area or visiting!

I have been a member at CFWC for 6 months. So happy I took a leap of faith to try something new, only wish I had done it sooner! The coaches and owners are knowledgeable, professional, and truly care about seeing you succeed at your fitness goals whatever that may be. Always focusing on proper technique and safety and providing programming for all ages, and all fitness levels. This gym is so welcoming to new members not just by the staff but the current members. It’s a community of people all working hard to be healthy and fit and have fun while doing it. I just can’t say enough how great this place is. I love my workouts, the guidance I am given, and most of all the friends I have made.

Joining Crossfit West Chester was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have always been a member of a gym, but this gym is by far the greatest. I have become so much stronger in the last 4 years of training. The coaches are fantastic and mix things up constantly so you get something different all the time. Everyone is super friendly and encourage each other regularly. The class I participate in is called The Legends because we are all over the age of 55. Don't think you can't do it. Give it a try, and you will be hooked!

I started at CFWC in August of 2015. When I did my on-ramp I was still a college gymnast and the coaches were more than accommodating when I needed to scale back due to competition. I have met some of the most incredible people at CFWC along with the amazing coaching staff. Not only are they coaches, but they are my friends who have supported me through the last 7.5 years. They are knowledgeable, friendly, great people and know how to help each individual. I would not be where I am in my CrossFit journey if it wasn't for them. They each have their own style and it plays well in the Community they have built. It gives everyone a taste of each style and it works great to build well rounded individuals. You won't find a group of better people to run a gym. Thank you for an amazing 7.5 years, for everything you do for the gym and everyone around you and the incredible support you have all given me. I look forward to another 7.5 years+! Love you guys!

I've been to many Crossfit gyms and this has been my favorite by FAR. The programming and equipment is fantastic but the community is what is truly unmatchable!! The coaches have created such a supportive and loving environment for all of their members. I've been at this gym for almost two years and not only has this community pulled me through a lot, but I've also seen them come together to help all members in the gym whether it be supporting competitions or rallying around members during difficult life obstacles. I'm so grateful to have found this gym during my time in graduate school!!

I love this location because all of the TVs are always working including Fox News and HDTV! Ridley and Broomall are always broken and never working. This location has very good hours with very nice people working at the front desk. I really enjoy coming here to workout. Thank you.

I’ve been a member at Planet Fitness until now, I’ve been quite disappointed with the way management, particularly A guy, who is probably the cleaning staff who is responsible for the access to the hydraulic massage chairs, in the absence of the Manager. These chairs are advertised as part of the membership perks, yet we are being denied access to them without a clear or reasonable explanation. When inquired, the same guys says that they are not working. which is a pure Lie. he is just "LAZY" to get up from the place he is sitting and give us the access to the hydraulic massage chairs. we work all the day and yet hit the gym for workouts after 10pm as it is the only free time i can manage. This lack of transparency and unwillingness to accommodate paying members feels unfair and unprofessional. A gym membership is about overall wellness, and amenities like the massage chairs play a significant role in recovery and relaxation after workouts. after all, we Pay the same amount as others who get a chance to access to the hydraulic massage chairs. I strongly urge the management to reconsider their stance on this matter and to provide better communication with members about facility usage policies. A gym thrives on satisfied members, and experiences like this can deter loyalty and trust.

Staff is friendly. There are quite a few machines that are out of order and have been for weeks. Don't go when it's busy, people like like just sit on the machines and play on their phones all the time. Had to wait 10 minutes to use a machine because someone just sat there playing on their phone instead of working out. Very disappointing. Wanted to do the 30 minute workout area bit couldn't because every station was used with people using it as an area to rest and play on their phones. Even though there is a sign thar says staff monitor the area they don't. In the span of 3 hours I have not seen 1 staff member check. Staff is either worried about playing on their phones or socializing with themselves. Classes are lacking. I cant never make an appointment with a trainer because they are only available for like 2 hours a day. The gym is very basic in comparison to others I have visited. No cross fit, no cycling classes, no aerobics classes.

Get some hip thrust machines please. Women are hogging the smith machines forever doing these. Get another pec deck. Impossible to get on that thing. You have 6 abdominal machines that are never always used. Pull 2 of them and replace with equipment people use.

I always come after 10 pm coz I work until night. But every night after 10 pm the spa is closed. I don't know why. But it is open until 10. We re paying the same like everyone . The one at downingtown gave spa anytime in a day. I don't know what is special in West Chester. Thanks.

I have been working out here over the past 3 months and everything about this studio screams community builder.. F45 has become a way of life and a mental asset to my life. I would 100 percent recommend this program to become your first step to health and wellness stability. Everyone that works here makes you feel welcome

F45 West Chester is a supportive and lively environment, and no two workouts are the same. Class formats are always different, and coaches ensure you complete each exercise with proper form. Each day provides choice, support, and flexibility to work within your range. I leave each class feeling energized for the day and proud of what I’ve accomplished!

I absolutely LOVE F45 West Chester! I have been a member since they opened last October! The coaches and workouts are top notch! It was so amazing that I decided to become a trainer and now I am also a personal trainer at F45, not just a client!!! Definitely recommend F45 to anyone looking for a quick effective workout with great vibes to keep you pushing through to your goals!!!!

This studio is absolutely amazing, I’ve taken classes at 3 f45 studios and have loved the idea of it but F45 west Chester got me to commit. I’ve been with the gym for about 2 months and I’ve had absolutely no regrets about signing up. They offer a wide variety of class times to accommodate to your schedule. The coaches are motivating and push you to be the best you can while understanding and working through your limitations and current fitness level. I love that the studio has no mirrors it helps me focus only on my workout and not worry about anything else. The results of the workout speak for themselves and you get truly get what you give here. I absolutely believe anyone who is wanting to kickstart or switch up their fitness routine would thrive in a community like F45 West Chester!

Signed up through class pass. Never have stepped foot in an F45 gym but have participated in plenty of studio workouts. Walked in early, as instructed by Class pass.. Got a half hearted hello from owner/instructor. Never once was introduced to who she was, the studio, or asked my name. There was trouble with equipment, fine-I can read a room, however not being explained to how the gym flows/runs, not shown how equipment works (that was in the rotation) or really acknowledged as a first timer ingeneral is wild. If you don’t want new clients, don’t be on Class pass. And like I said right to her face, we’re supposed to be at a gym, it’s not a lot to expect common decency…esp when I went in as a potential customer. Two stars because the place looked clean and likely a good workout. Owner/trainer should learn some manners though.

Owner Lou has been been running high- quality coaching clubs for over a decade. I’m amazed by the variety of training available here for so many kinds of people with different goals, - from grandparents staying fit for independence to gen Z competitive powerlifters. They even have specialty bars and extra toys for strongman competition training!

I was charged $20 for a key fob during the trial and it was never refunded to me by the gym. I had to open a dispute with my bank to simply get the money back as it was supposed to be refunded upon return of the fob, I ended my trial early. Lou called, nice enough guy, but the fact is that no refund was ever given and that’s pretty bad. Gym itself is small, advertises equipment that it doesn’t currently have to offer, aka some kind of hydro therapeutic machine. Also pretty expensive all things considered for the memberships they do offer.

I started going here because of the location, but stayed a member because of the care that's put into the facility. Lou and his staff have created a welcoming gym environment and help push you to achieve your goals. They go above and beyond, caring about each member's individual progress. I never saw myself as someone who would enjoy going to the gym, but after working with Lou and Pat as trainers to learn my way around the gym, I'm hooked. I 100% recommend this place to anyone, hands down!

solid gym, have all the equipment you could need to build a strong routine

My trainer, Lou Samba, is very concerned about helping me improve my areas of weakness. He is very encouraging and also offers suggestions for work I can do at home to improve my overall fitness.

Joined a week ago and have been absolutely loving it! Mike is super friendly and knowledgeable. I can tell from watching his training sessions that he has respect for all clients, and works with each one to achieve their goals. The equipment is top notch for both weights and cardio. I love the 24/7 aspect, as I enjoy working out in the early morning. There is never more than a few others working out the same time as me, but everyone is respectful and friendly. I would recommend this gym to anyone and look forward to working out each day!

This is a wonderful "hidden gem" of sorts. If you're sick of the big box gym experience and are looking for a trainer that knows their stuff, this is it. It's a smaller gym, but has all of the basics plus some specialized gear you won't see anywhere else. I never had to wait for a machine or weight bench. Payments and managing your account couldn't be easier, and having 24/7 access is a huge perk. Mike is an excellent trainer, and ironed out some of my biggest fitness questions in my first session. It's definitely a gym for people serious about their training, but it still feels very accessible at the same time. It's definitely worth stopping in to see if it's a good fit for you.

I began training with Mike almost a year ago and have seen dramatic results. Before meeting Mike, I was convinced I had all the answers in the gym. Boy, was I wrong! Mike helped transform my body into what I always wanted it to look like by taking simple principles he has carried with him in his 20+ years of training clients. Mike trains every type of person and is able to establish a plan that fits each and every persons needs. He is one of the best motivators I have ever met and I use him as a beacon throughout training. Mike is the only person I've ever met who is able to make a workout fun yet painful at the same time. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking to make a change in their life for the better. Thanks Mike! As far as the gym goes, the equipment is top notch with everything you need and more. Not only is the gym nice, but there is no waiting for machines EVER. You simply cannot beat the price for what you're getting.

I was in the area for a little over a month and was looking for a gym that would let me do a one month membership. I called a few chains first and they gave me the run around about it. I found Q Fitness and The owner Mike is a super nice, down to earth guy and was more than happy to accommodate and I was extremely excited to hear that it’s also a 24/7 gym since my hours can be pretty crazy sometimes requiring me to go very early in the morning occasionally. The gym itself is awesome. I love a lot of the equipment, especially leg press, hack squat, specialty barbells like cambered Bench bar, chain attachments and much more. The gym is pretty low key usually when I’d be there (in the range of 5 am to 11 am usually) which was also really nice. The gym goers are all very friendly also. Overall, highly, highly recommend Q Fitness! If I’m working in the area again I will 100% be back!

Awesome gym never crowded no waiting for equipment and always clean. The personnel training by Mike is better than anybody I’ve ever trained with. He gets you motivated and makes it fun at the same time, actually makes you look forward to working out. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.

After seeing the reviews and using the gym for 6 months, I thought I'd write a review. The owners are fabulous and extremely inclusive. They're not there outside of normal working hours as this is mainly a gym they use for their clients. The equipment may be older than your new local planet fitness but everything works perfectly. I only had one issue with a machine and it was just the extra 5 lb nob you can turn that wouldnt budge. The owner has helped me move weights a few times and it wasnt the one I paid to be my coach. The other users of the gym are extremely friendly and the men DO NOT bother you or stare for that matter. The parking lot is in a dark spot that may feel intimidating for women but the gym has good security and has no reported issues. I've asked the guys to help me use machines and they're all very nice. Scumbags dont come to this gym. I worked with Brian for 4 months. His workouts are worth every penny. I lost 25 lbs in 5 months. I have probably another 10 to lose until I would consider myself top notch fit. His meal plans weren't necessarily the best for me but he worked to continually adapt them until I felt like I was in a good place. We met biweekly and if I disappeared he always always always reached out. I loved this gym. Never an issue getting a machine, no one to bother you, nice people. I left the gym because I moved, otherwise I would have stayed.

I'd give it a 4.5/5 for equipment and 4/5 for the type of people that workout there. As far as personnel (employees) go I'd give it a solid 2. Although I've talked to both owners (Beau and Brian) before when I first got here, that is the only time I've ever experienced any interaction from them. Most of the business is revolved around personal training which is almost understandable but some type of interaction may make your own paying customers welcome at the gym on a daily basis. Brian doesn't seem to respect other customers that aren't doing his or someone else's personal training.

In mid-September 2018, I started working with Brian Chamberlain via online since I do not live in Pennsylvania. It is now the beginning of December and have decided to move on to another coach for the following reasons. Brian's coaching style is less to be desired. Bi-weekly check-ins became a check-in every 3 three weeks. If I would reach out to him, it was as if I was bothering him. I didn't feel like I was getting the support I needed as an athlete to take on a big challenge to compete. I asked for a refund early on, but he refused. I paid $650 for 16 weeks and was not impressed with his computer generated meal plans. Absolutely no thought behind what he was doing. I think he saw a way to make some money and decided to take advantage of me. He became very lazy in the 2 1/2 months that he was supposed to be coaching me. He's a thief. He'll take your money and promise a bunch of services to you. I'm hiring a real coach who actually cares about his athletes and has a track record to show for it. Just beware if you decide to hire him!

One of the coolest gyms in the West Chester area. Clean, lots of different equipment (turf, machines, free weights, Oly drop weights and racks. It’s not a typical gym but for those who want to workout in different capacities (Crossfit, lift, cardio, classes, personal training) this is the place for you. Plus it’s 24/7 and open during holidays (every holiday).

First it’s 24/7 making it convienent on holidays, early mornings or any time needing a workout. Gym is very unique and setup with turf for sleds, box jumps (rogue foam) and kettlebells to start. Full weights, machine weights, cable systems, oly (Olympic lift) racks and platforms. Full cardio equipment and a Jacobs ladder up stairs next to a full TRX setup with multiple stations. Staff very knowledgeable and friendly with a warm welcome every time. Only downside for some people might be it’s a little secluded location wise, but security cameras keep you safe at all times.

I have been to a number of gyms over the years but this is my first time experiencing CrossFit - and I’m hooked. Since joining in August, Brandywine CrossFit has become part of my weekly routine and has provided me the accountability with my fitness regime I have been looking for. The coaches are fantastic; encouraging , motivating and allow me to modify as I see fit. Even better is the community of members (all ages and fitness levels) who quickly welcome you.

Having been a member of various CrossFit communities over the years and a member of Brandywine CrossFit for almost 9 years, I can confidently say you won't find a better community. I have met some of my closest friends at BWCF and absolutely love seeing them day in and day out. The coaching staff is knowledgable and willing to work with you to help you reach your goals, no matter how big or small. Workouts can always be customized to your ability level or when you're rehabbing an injury. The gym itself is a great size and in a great location. Highly recommend Brandywine CrossFit for anyone trying to improve their overall health and fitness!

If you're looking for a place to get into the best shape of your life while having fun and meeting awesome people, Brandywine Crossfit is the place for you! BWCF isn't just another gym, it's a community full of dedicated individuals looking to grow and become better versions of themselves than they were the day before. The community here also helps you stay consistent, motivated, and challenged. All the coaches are very friendly, professional, personable, and are willing to take extra time to help you on areas of weaknesses. Highly recommend!

Ashley’s classes are my favorite part of the week! The group is so much fun and Ashley’s programs are really challenging in the best way. I always leave feeling awesome and I can’t wait until the next one. My fitness level and endurance has obviously improved since I started her classes. Can’t recommend high enough!!

Brandywine CrossFit is an amazing gym with an even better community of people!! Coaches Luke and Nick are always pushing us to the next level and I love that the workouts are different every day. An hour goes by in an instant and it’s always fun. I love how everything can be scaled for fitness level as well as size, which was really important to me being a small framed female. The atmosphere is super supportive and encouraging no matter if it’s your first day or your 100th. I am so glad I joined!