The Training Room 1

In town from NYC and trained here for 2 days — had a phenomenal experience and wish we had these guys in New York! Even if you’re a newbie to circuit training, don’t be scared. This place is fantastic and super supportive!
Took ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ class with Heidi in Somerville — she was super supportive, explained everything thoroughly, and took the time to show me around the studio and make me feel welcome. The hour and exercises were tough and exactly what I needed.
Also did circuit training with Chris, he was extremely welcoming, demonstrated every exercise really well, and provided lots of adjustments & suggestions
THANKS GUYS!!!

The Training Room (1 and 2) has surpassed all of my expectations of a fitness facility. The trainers (with a special shout-​out to Tyler and Maren) are excellent and provide incredibly helpful recommendations and advice. They have a high level of expertise and are dedicated to their craft. Taking a class at the Training Room is a close as you’ll come for the money to one on one attention and I give them my highest recommendation.

How do I begin?!? I love the training room –the trainers, classes, ease of online scheduling, and everything in between. I am moving out of mass and TR1 will be something I miss dearly. It has been a part of my life for three years. I hope I can find another studio that is half as great. I started out doing circuit training and the occasional ⁵⁰⁄₅₀. For almost 2 years now, I have been going to ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ every tues/​thurs morning with Maren, and I have seen amazing results. The staff got me in the best shape for my wedding, and my upper body strength has improved immensely. I have also attended bootcamp outside, spin, and classes at TR2. They are all great! I highly recommend checking it out — you won’t regret it!

The Training Room is basically my favorite place on earth. The instructors/​trainers are knowledgeable and really care about you meeting your goals/​avoiding injury/​getting a good workout. I’ve been working with Derek for personal training for a couple years now and he is so awesome. Classes are also great — my fave is Maren’s ⁵⁰⁄₅₀. Come work out here — you won’t regret it!

Awesome workout. great space… nice people!!!

Since my first review a few things have happened:
1. I achieved the goal of doing a push up. I can do quite a few, actually, and even «harder» versions with weight or with my feet elevated. So rad.
2. I switched from training with Heidi to training with Alex. He trained me for a bit over a year. He proved to be even goofier than I am but was dead on serious about getting me strong and I am forever grateful. I swear, he tricked me into being able to deadlift my bodyweight (a good thing, really!). It took a while, but I got there, and it was fun. (But don’t worry, I am still a very active member of the Heidi Shalek fan club!)
3. I upped my ability to cardio. Ooof. I started training at TR in February 2011 and nearly died (mild exaggeration) after my first ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ class. Since that isn’t a good feeling and Heidi knew I could do better (she was training me to do better, after all), I kept going and started to learn how to do effective cardio. ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ classes and eventually, 60 minute spin classes, became something that I looked forward to. Yes, they were still challenging and I left with jiggly legs and catching my breath, but I could see vast improvements to my speed and distance. After a class a few months ago a fellow classmate came up to me and said that she was trying to chase me all class, which kept her motivated. Rock star moment!
4.Kettlebells and heavy objects ain’t no thang. They are so fun and I know how to effectively use them, which makes working out at home with one much easier and safer. Since I relocated a few months ago, I have received compliments on my KB swings, deadlifts, and sled-​pushing form from trainers in other classes.
5. That previous review? I was definitely over 150 pounds and working toward just getting under it and a little leaner. Now? Hovering at 15 – 20 pounds lighter and a hell of a lot stronger, not just physically, but mentally.
Whatever you want to achieve workout-​wise, you can do at TR. There is a trainer for you. Before moving, I took classes with just about everyone and loved what each trainer had to offer. Like I said, Alex made me stronger and made deadlifting fun and not scary. He, along with Heidi, made a past shoulder injury not hinder my ability to work out. Chris is probably one of the nicest people I’ve encountered and structured his classes excellently. If you need a place to start, go to one of his classes. Tyler will move super fast, super effectively, and super smartly. Maren makes you want to be your strongest for yourself (and probably for her too). She dishes tough love but it works. Watch anyone there do their thing… there’s something to learn. I’d be confident working with any TR trainer.
I live in NYC now and can not find a place with a facility or staff as nice or classes/​training sessions as effective. In full disclosure, I cried after attending my last class prior to moving. TR means that much to me. For anyone looking to make changes to their body and lifestyle, don’t hesitate for a minute… TR will be the place.

I started going to the Training Room after quitting cross fit. Wow, what a difference! Unlike my crossfit classes, these guys are focused on making sure I do the exercises correctly and closely monitor the class to make sure we are using the correct form. I learned to do many exercises that crossfit never bothered to ensure I do right, correctly. They have a great mix of classes– I personally love the sports conditioning, circuit training and ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ classes. The trainers are just fantastic! Love this place!

I have been coming to the Training Room for about a year and a half. I’ve taken Spin classes, 50/​50, Bells & Wheels, Yoga, and even done some small group training. I’ve taken classes with Heidi, Maren, Tyler, Regan, Sean, Derek, and Alex.
One of the things I love most about this place is how focused they are on proper form and attention to injury. At the beginning of every single class, every single instructor asks if anyone has any injuries they need to be aware of. They also usually provide modifications if something is too hard. I hate going to the gym and not being able to do something because I’m too tired, not strong enough, or literally not capable of doing but not knowing what else to do instead.
I’m rather surprised by the comment from Chris P. that Maren critiqued form without providing instruction. I’ve never once heard any of the trainers say «that’s not right» or «that’s not how you do it.» Everything is always framed as a suggestion: «you should try bending your knee more» or «hinge more to get the bell up». The trainers are always available after class for questions, as well.
Overall the best things about the setup at the training room:
–Flexible pricing structure and options. No monthly fees or commitments. Take one class or take $ 100. Come for three months and then don’t. Take 1 personal training class to get better at something specific and then never again (which I did).
–Variety of classes. There are a large variety of classes, and if there’s not something you want, they can probably add it if enough people are interested.
–Variety of trainers. Everyone needs something different in a trainer. Some people dislike Maren’s tough love. I need it. Regan likes to do speed work on the bike. I hate it.
–Personalized attention. I’ve been taking two classes a week with Maren for about 7 months now. She knows what I’m capable of, what my injuries are, etc. She knows when I’m not working to my full potential and she’s not afraid to call me out on. She also knows when I’m just having an off day and will tell me to take it easy and rest up. And I’m sure the other trainers are the same way.

This gym is very well organized, doesn’t smell like sweat, and its very clean. However, I would have liked to have a more helpful instructor. I attended several of the ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ classes, and I suppose I wasn’t doing all of the exercises in perfect form so Maren pointed out that I wasn’t doing the exercises correctly but she did not offer to help during the class or after the class. In most gym classes I have taken, the instructor is willing and encouraging about correcting form. Instead Maren stated that I should pay for private sessions, which is unaffordable and not something I am interested in.

I started coming here for training after my trainer Regan left Healthworks. I’m still here a year later. The workouts with Regan now are so much different from what they were at HW. Now we have more space and equipment. There really seems to be a method to their workouts and they ask you to set goals to work toward.
What I especially love about the TR is that I walk in and all the instructors/​trainers know who I am and ask me how my progress is going. I like the small gym feel of it.
I’ve only gone to a few classes but the ones I went to were challenging and the session flew by. I like that they have two locations now and that the new location allows for more space.

I’ll join the chorus: fabu!
I go for the circuit classes with Tyler, and when I can make it kettlebells with Sean. I’m sporadic at Bells & Wheels and ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ with Maren; they’re by no means worse classes, just I like weights better than bikes.
These instructors are all excellent. They know their stuff cold, they’re great examples, they teach techniques clearly. Classes are kept small enough that you get personal attention, and there’s an ironclad culture of no shaming. I love the ceiling in the weights classes — you can grab light weights and treat ‘em as cardio, or go heavier and push for a PR, both paths are fully supported.
I love love love the boutique format! It looks expensive up front, but there’s no fat: you sign up day by day for just the time you’ll actually use. These guys are in business to make you buff, not to sucker you into a membership that you won’t use much, and it’s a world of difference. They’re not phoning it in, and you won’t be either.

Overheard tonight at Maren’s ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ class: «I come to ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ three days a week, and this class is definitely the hardest.»
Ladies, remember that episode of sex and the city where the girls go to a club opening and Miranda reveals she fits into her skinny jeans? I had that moment last week, and I attribute this not insignificant feat to the Training Room.
I took a cycling class at the other location, but the schedule at this one– Somerville Ave tucked behind Porter – works better for me. I’ve taken 4 or 5 Tuesday night classes there now, with Maren, Heidi, and Regan.
At first I wasn’t sure I could go for a Tuesday night asskicking with Maren, the regular instructor who’s pretty intense. But after a handful of classes with her, I’m used to it (I come from yoga, so loud voices and being encouraged to MOVE IT LET’S GO is not normally in my wheelhouse), and I really enjoy her class. Studio owner Heidi is good, too, as is Regan. I find they all talk enough during class to keep me distracted from
how much work I’m doing– a must for a lazy exerciser like myself.
50/​50, btw, is a split class of spin mixed with strength exercises– squats, planks, lunges, and the like. It’s a mix on and off the bike, not 30 minutes on followed by stretching.
The studio also offers kettlebells, spin mixed with kettlebells, straight up spin, and personal training. At $ 70 for 6 group classes, it’s money well spent.
Also, real humans work out here– not size 0 lululemon models, which is refreshing.
The facility is nice albeit a little small and clean and I think there’s even a shower.
I dig the Training Room, and am stoked I found it. Thanks, Unilocal

I’ve always struggled to justify a gym membership because I like to workout outside and practice yoga. All in all it just never seemed to make financial sense. Enter The Training Room to save the day!
TR is pay per class, personal training session or group training session. No membership fees need apply. BRILLIANT! This allows the flexibility in my workouts that I love. And let’s get serious for a second THEY KICK YOUR BUTT!
I love a great workout, but most importantly I love a workout
1) that emphasizes safe, correct technique to avoid long-​term injury
2) with instructors who recognize your personal capabilities and push you to meet/​exceed them each and every time.
If you are serious about getting a good workout, whether you are beginning or a seasoned veteran, this is the place!
Added bonuses:
–Classes get busy so you have to sign up ahead of time, forces you to commit!
–You see many of the same people week to week and they’re friendly! People introduce themselves and help push you to get more out of your workout.
–State of the art equipment and staff are true professionals
–The new space on Washington St is absolutely gorgeous!
–They let me paint one of their kettlebells like a cheeseburger.

I’m updating this review since it’s been a year and I’m still getting to the TR at least once a week.
My favorite class is the Thursday 6am spin class. Derek and Regan are my favorite instructors for different reasons. Derek is great at creating a class that mimics an outdoor ride. Whether we’re modeling our workout after part of the Tour de France or just taking on a series of hills, I always feel like I left with a great workout.
Regan always choose fun, upbeat music that helps you to power through her drills. I feel like sometimes a class can be repetitive, but the music and her attitude make the class go by pretty quickly.
I also recently tried a Wednesday 6am bootcamp class that meets outside at Conway park. I’d never worked with the two instructors (with Sean + another instructor who I hadn’t met before). I normally DESPISE bootcamps, and it can suck being the new person to a group. But the instructors had great attitudes, were really funny, and made the class enjoyable by changing up our activities frequently. It involved a lot of partner work, but I liked it a lot more than I thought I would. AND – I felt twinges in my abs from all the planking for at least a week afterward. (Which means I should probably do this class more often.)
The only downside to these classes is that I would really love another 6am spin class (although obviously not possible if the indoor space is already in use). I feel like a lot of people would do a Friday AM spin class if it were offered.
I’m giving 4 stars mostly because I’ve only found the 6am spin class to be the one class that I really consistently attend, but the Training Room is an awesome place to take classes if you want a low stress, low-​commitment trial with a new activity.

I’ve been expanding my horizons at the TR and have some additional input.
1.) Heidi is definitely a co-​owner.
2.) And now I’ve taken a bunch of classes with her shorter, louder counterpart, Maren. Maren runs class like a drill Sargent who cares. It’s always hard… scratch that it’s always F*cking Hard. But she is impeccable when it comes to form. From spinning, to push-​ups, to Turkish Get-Up’s, Maren’s got your back.
3.) Derek. I love Derek. Real world cyclist, personal trainer, spin instructor, and primal moves pioneer. He is always changing up what’s happening but my favorite is when he does rides and maps out the class to parallel parts of the Tour de France or a ride through the Swiss Alps.
4.) Tyler’s circuit training class is my favorite way to end a Monday. I think the best way to describe him is PEPPY. He’s serious with a ton of energy, and zooms around the room making sure all 12 of you are doing your 30 second circuits just right, and his hands on cues are some of the best I’ve had.
5.) Sean is like 6.5 feet, super duper muscle-​y, and teaches classes that will carve you into the machine you always wanted to be. At least that’s my hope. I like his classes because he is so big that when he demonstrates something, it’s exaggerated enough for my oxygen deprived brain to understand. I’ve done both his advanced kettle bell class and the sports conditioning. They are challenging every time, but you are always doing something new and fun. I did box jumps onto a box almost half my height today. BAM!

I love this place! I’ve only been going for about a month, and its pricey compared to gym membership. But the key here is I actually GO to these classes. And I feel it the next day. I much rather spend a bit more on something that gets me results.
Trainers are greats and everyone is friendly. I’ve also noticed that these classes comprise mostly of women.
Traffic in the area can be a be hairy after 5pm, but there tends to ample parking on Somerville Ave.

I have never been good at exercise. I was that kid who sat on the sidelines because my PE teacher was scared I’d have an asthma attack.
Yes, I’m still asthmatic, and I bring my inhaler everywhere. The Training Room is the only place that has a way at making me feel strong.
I love their cycling classes — all of the trainers are awesome. I’m a big fan of Derek, Heidi, Maren, and Regan. There’s a real sense of community at the Training Room, which is very similar to the way I feel about the vibe of Somerville in general.
I’ve taken some boot camp classes and small group trainings. I’m excited at taking a kettlebell only class one day. This place rocks at making me feel sweaty, strong, and beautiful.

This is an all-​around excellent personal training and class-​based instruction gym. I’m a former client only because I moved out of the area. I have to say, the toughest part about leaving Somerville for the North Shore was knowing I wouldn’t be able to make it to the Training Room nearly as often.
I’ll echo others here and say that the entire staff is great: my trainer Jason was incredibly supportive and basically an encyclopedia of exercise, nutrition, and wellness knowledge. Maren took me from a spinning newbie to someone who owns a pair of cycling shoes with clips! And Heidi took me through a couple of kettlebell classes — including swinging — without any fatalities.
The Training Room is great for all fitness levels, whether you’re a self-​starter looking to augment what you’re already doing, or you’ve always been intimidated by the gym culture and are just looking to get started in a friendly and supportive environment. If you want to stay fit over the coming winter months, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place to do so.

The Training Room is a great gym. All the instructors are incredibly friendly, knowledgable, and helpful, and put together interesting and challenging workouts. The gym is clean and bright, and the classes are small. I also like that you can book & pay for classes online ahead of time. The classes may seem a bit pricy, but they are worth every penny!
The advanced spin class with Suzanne is my favorite — a 90min spin class that is more like a real ride than other more general fitness-​focus spin classes. The class is tough, but Suzanne is so encouraging and keeps the class interesting so the time just flies by. It’s the perfect winter training for triathlon season!

I ended up at the Training Room last year after searching for classes in my area to help kill the monotony of my solo exercise régime. I had taken off 50lbs on my own, mostly through long, arduous cardio machine workouts; runs; and general flailing in the weight room (not the best method for someone with lower back issues). I was looking to mix it up and hopefully drop the remaining 30ish lbs.
My first class was a Saturday morning ⁵⁰⁄₅₀. Now, after two years of almost daily workouts I assumed I would be in good enough shape to take whatever was thrown at me. I mean, I was still overweight but come on guys, I could run 8 miles! Cocky? Yes. Smug? Oh yes definitely. Correct? Heck no. I had to enlist assistance getting out of bed the next morning. I knew then that it was time to rethink my fitness approach. While weight loss and vanity were definitely driving forces behind my workouts, the main point was to set myself up for an active life without any real restrictions.
Having done so much work on my own however, I was a little timid about having other people involved in my workouts. And I still didn’t really think of myself as someone who saw a trainer. (Those people all have little dogs and peons to fetch them skinny lattes, right?) After several months of taking 50/​50s and some spin classes it was obvious I needed to work on some flexibility stuff in order to do a lot of the exercises without hurting my back (and to get the most benefit from the workouts). I finally approached Heidi after a particularly squat heavy ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ and asked if there was anything I could do to actually, you know, squat. She replied that there were a million things I could do, which is how I ended up as someone who sees a trainer. And it’s been great!
My budget and schedule only allow for monthly training sessions and Heidi has accommodated that fantastically. I have made larger strength gains in the last few months than in the entire previous year and I am generally excited to workout. The lack of back pain that previously came with my unguided forays into weight/​strength training is also a huge relief.
For serious, this place is great. Everyone who works there is a rock star. It’s a gracious studio in a great location. The clientele is diverse, making all fitness levels comfortable. Every dollar you spend absolutely pays off. The classes are super fun. Check it out!