The best strength training studios in San Diego
San Diego’s strength training scene is thriving – and ClassPass members have a lot to say about it. We analyzed hundreds of reviews across dozens of San Diego-area studios to find the spots where members keep coming back for more. From full-body bootcamps and barbell-focused sessions to TRX circuits and sculpt classes, these seven studios stood out for their outstanding ratings, welcoming communities, and consistently positive feedback.
Studios were selected based on review volume, average rating, and consistency of positive feedback from the ClassPass community.
1. C4FIT: Premier Group Training — Strength HIIT - Full Body
C4FIT has built something special in San Diego: a strength training community where everyone – regardless of age, ability, or experience – feels genuinely supported. Their Strength HIIT Full Body class blends high-intensity intervals with serious strength work, and reviewers consistently highlight the warmth of both the staff and fellow members. It’s the kind of place where people run back for you so you can finish together.
“Upon entering the studio I was greeted with friendliness and enthusiasm by both staff and members. The class was suited for a wide range of fitness abilities. I felt well supported when I needed modifications. When I was the very last person in a run around the block, a few people ran back to me with smiles and encouragement so we could finish together. C4FIT has built a community of support, where people really like and uplift each other.”
“First time visiting this studio and 10 out of 10. The trainer was great and everyone in the class was so welcoming. It was challenging but I felt so good afterwards.”
Rating: 5.00 (49 reviews)
2. MB Fit Studio — TRX Sculpt + Stretch
If you’re looking for a strength class that balances intensity with recovery, MB Fit Studio in Solana Beach delivers. Their TRX Sculpt + Stretch class pairs suspension training with dedicated stretching – a combination that reviewers say hits the perfect sweet spot. The studio is well-stocked with equipment, and instructors take time to make sure every member feels welcome from the moment they walk in.
“The studio was really great! Easy to find, parked right in front, and the instructor was so friendly. The class was just what I needed – a perfect mix of strength on the TRX and stretching. They have so much equipment in there, I can’t wait to go back and try out more classes!”
“The kind of instructor that has you continuously coming back. She takes her time and makes sure each student is engaged and able to grasp her teaching. She is hands on and very attentive.”
Rating: 4.98 (49 reviews)
3. Jo’s Bootcamp — Saturday Full Body
Jo’s Bootcamp proves that some of the best strength training happens outdoors. Held at Bird Park, this class combines fresh air, great music, and a full-body strength circuit that’s adaptable to every fitness level. With 280 reviews and a near-perfect rating, it’s one of the most popular and consistently praised strength training experiences in all of San Diego. Whether you’re a total beginner or well into your fitness journey, you’ll find your pace here.
“I love this class. It’s outdoors in a quiet area, with great tunes, and the class isn’t the kind where you are miserable the entire time. It’s still a great workout with appropriate recovery in between sets so you can enjoy it. I’m going every week!”
“Jo always delivers the best workout surrounded by the best people. Totally welcoming, adaptable to all levels, but challenging for everyone. I’m sore today and can’t wait to get back!”
Rating: 4.93 (280 reviews)
4. F45 Training — The Joker
F45 Training brings its signature circuit-style format to San Diego with The Joker, a class that blends strength training, HIIT, and functional movement into a fast-paced session. Reviewers highlight how approachable the format is – even for people who haven’t been active in years. The station-based setup keeps things moving, and coaches provide guidance at every step.
“I have a physically demanding job but have not been active in over a decade. I was nervous but quickly felt comfortable here. I was able to perform all the exercises and received guidance at each new station. The class went by so fast. I loved it, and I’m not someone who normally enjoys working out. I will be back.”
Rating: 4.90 (41 reviews)
5. Performance 360 — Game Day
Performance 360 in San Marcos has quickly earned a loyal following thanks to attentive instructors, creative programming, and a studio culture that feels personal. Their Game Day class covers circuit training, weightlifting, and bootcamp-style drills – and with a perfect 5.0 rating, it’s clear that members feel the difference. Reviewers call out the genuine attention to form and the strong sense of community.
“The instructors are very attentive and friendly. They create the workout for you and you get so much done in one hour. They actually give everyone attention and help with form throughout class. Happy to have found a space that encourages community and fitness!”
Rating: 5.00 (30 reviews)
6. Pvolve — Strength and Sculpt
Pvolve takes a different approach to strength training, emphasizing controlled movement, proper form, and functional muscle engagement over speed and volume. Their Strength and Sculpt class in Carlsbad is the most-reviewed strength option on this list with over 330 reviews, and members love the personal attention from instructors who correct your form in real time. It’s a strong choice if you want to build strength without the high-impact intensity of a traditional bootcamp.
“This was my first time here and I loved it! The instructor was awesome and super welcoming. She’s a really motivating instructor and I got a great workout in. You can tell there’s a really strong sense of community here. The people around me were so sweet and also super welcoming.”
“The instructor gives great verbal cues and corrections to make sure everyone is doing the exercises accurately – and she’s tough too.”
Rating: 4.86 (332 reviews)
7. Liber8FIT Underground — Penetr8 Barbell Strength
For members who want to build confidence with barbells in a supportive setting, Liber8FIT Underground is a standout. Their Penetr8 Barbell Strength class focuses on foundational lifts like squats and presses in an intimate group format, with an instructor who prioritizes safe technique. It’s an excellent option if you’ve been curious about barbell training but weren’t sure where to start.
“Intimate group, straight to the point, and helpful instructor! I wasn’t confident doing barbell squats by myself but now I know what to focus on and how to do it safely. Definitely will need to sit down slowly for the next few days!”
Rating: 4.96 (23 reviews)
Discover your next strength training class in San Diego
From outdoor bootcamps at Bird Park to barbell sessions downtown, San Diego’s strength training studios offer something for every goal and every experience level. Whether you’re looking for community-driven circuits, functional sculpt classes, or focused weightlifting, you’ll find your next favorite class here. Explore strength training classes and appointments in San Diego on ClassPass.
Compliance checklist
- Trial/pricing language: PASS – No mention of pricing, free trials, or subscriptions.
- Partner sentiment: PASS – All studios framed positively. No negative comparisons between venues.
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- Review attribution: PASS – No user names used. All quoted reviews are from 4+ star ratings. Informal reviews lightly paraphrased.
- Terminology: PASS – “ClassPass” spelled correctly, “studio” used throughout (not “gym”), “community” (not “customers”), “classes and appointments” (not “sessions”).
- Inclusive language: PASS – Welcomes all fitness levels, gender-neutral language throughout, no ability-based metaphors.
- One Narrative leaks: PASS – No SmartSpot, no revenue/payout discussion, no “excess capacity” or cannibalization framing.
- SEO basics: PASS – Primary keyword “strength training” in H1, “San Diego” in title and multiple subheadings, meta description is 97 characters with soft CTA.
Data sourced from CP_BI_DERIVED.DATAPIPELINE.TOPS_IN_CITY and CP_BI_DERIVED.DATAPIPELINE.SCORE_COMMENTS on 2026-02-18.