16 Best Bodybuilding Gyms in the USA

With names like Gold’s Gym and Planet Fitness, bodybuilding gyms offer a unique environment where gym bros and fitness enthusiasts push their limits.

These gyms focus heavily on personal training services, offering customized guidance to make every workout session more effective, particularly for building back muscles.

But these sessions do more than just build muscle they promote a lifestyle that many people trust. This trust stems from the gyms’ proven results and reliable brand websites.

While alternatives like online training programs offer flexibility, they lack the communal feel of a physical gym a key reason why many people keep coming back.

In a bodybuilding gym, there’s a sense of community and a shared journey toward personal improvement, where everyone is there to support one another.

Best Bodybuilding Gym in the USA

As of 2024, here’s our list of the best bodybuilding gyms in the US. We’ve left out some gyms we’ve already mentioned in other guides to keep things fair. We plan to eventually expand this list to include at least one top gym per state.

1.      Quads Gym

Quads Gym, located in the bustling heart of Chicago, is a cornerstone in the American bodybuilding gym scene. It boasts an extensive selection of weights, including dumbbells, plates, and machines from leading brands such as Nautilus and Hammer Strength.

This gym serves both early birds and night owls, providing top tier equipment for all training needs. The gym also boasts specialized equipment such as the pendulum squat machine, ideal for those in cutting mode.

Legends like Chris Cormier and Mike Liberatore have trained here, drawn by the comprehensive features and supportive atmosphere.

For those seeking more than just a workout, Quads Gym also offers a daycare service, making it a place where everything from intense training sessions to cardio equipment like treadmills and stair climbers is available under one roof, ensuring Quads Gym remains a beloved hub for fitness enthusiasts.

• Address: 3727 North Broadway, Chicago, IL 60613, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $17
• Instagram: @quadsgymchicago
• Open 24/7: No

2.      Flex Appeal Bodybuilding Gym

In the vibrant city of Miami, Flex Appeal Bodybuilding Gym serves as a cornerstone for the bodybuilding community, often frequented by industry legends like Big Ramy.

The gym is outfitted with state of the art Cybex and Eleiko powerlifting gear, catering to serious lifters who demand the best.

The expansive gym floor is a hive of activity, offering everything from iron clad bodybuilding workouts to specialized instructional by top trainers. This gym is not just about physical training; it’s a training kit for life, providing a supportive backdrop where aspiring Mr and Ms Olympias can push beyond their limits.

With a supplement shop on site, Flex Appeal ensures its members have access to everything they need for their bodybuilding focus, maintaining its reputation as a top tier gym.

• Address: 12814 SW 122nd Ave, Miami, FL 33186, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $5
• Instagram: @flexappealmiami
• Open 24/7: Yes

3.      Bev Francis Gym

Bev Francis Gym, also known as the Bev Francis Powerhouse Gym or the East Coast Mecca, located in Syosset, NY, is a legendary training facility recognized globally. Since its inception in 1987, it has been a pivotal place for bodybuilding preparations and competitions like the NPC Nationals.

Bodybuilders like Jay Cutler and Kai Greene have carved their paths to glory here, drawn by the gym’s impeccable reputation and comprehensive training culture.

This gym is not just a place to lift weights; it’s a breeding ground for champions, where each bodybuilder receives the support and resources needed to chase titles and build a bodybuilding career. Bev Francis Gym remains a beacon for those who aspire to stand among the best in the world of bodybuilding.

• Address: 235 C, Robbins Ln, Syosset, NY 11791, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $25
• Instagram: @bevsgym
• Open 24/7: Yes

4.      Butler Pro Gym

Butler Pro Gym, locates in South Salt Lake, Utah, is a 24/7 destination gym that attracts a diverse group of bodybuilders and athletes. Known for its robust equipment ranging from Nautilus to Bandmasters, this gym offers an unrivalled variety for every type of workout.

The gym’s owner, Bronson Butler, is a revered fitness icon and prep coach who ensures that the gym’s environment motivates bodybuilders to reach their peak performance levels.

The gym has become a hotspot for high profile bodybuilders and has been featured in Muscle & Fitness magazine and Darc Sport Photoshoots, solidifying its status as a key player in the fitness industry.

Butler Pro Gym not only provides top tier equipment but also offers various membership options and rates, making it accessible for anyone serious about fitness.

• Address: 2616 S 1030 W, West Valley City, UT 84119, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $14.99
• Instagram: @butlerprogym
• Open 24/7: Yes

5.      RVA Iron Gym

RVA Iron Gym, located in the vibrant community of Richmond, VA, is a beacon for those passionate about bodybuilding and strength training. The gym prides itself on a comprehensive kit of equipment, including dumbbells that cater to every level of bodybuilder, from the beginner to the professional.

The gym is often the reason many local athletes cite as their top recommendation for anyone looking to seriously engage in bodybuilding.

The owners, known for their hands on approach, ensure that the gym atmosphere is both welcoming and intensely motivating. Whether you’re a girl or a guy, young or seasoned, RVA Iron Gym offers the tools and community support to help you sculpt your physique and meet your fitness goals.

• Address: 3910 Adams Rd, Richmond, VA 23222, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $15
• Instagram: @rvairongym
• Open 24/7: Yes

6.      Body World Fitness

Body World Fitness stands as a charming gem among bodybuilding gyms in Philadelphia, blending the rich historical charm of the city with modern gym facilities. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a striking sign at the front, setting the tone for the depth of care taken in every part of the gym.

The gym is decked out with a wide range of equipment, from classic iron weights and dumbbells featuring precise knurling for better grips to advanced technology integrated into cardio machines. Posters of gym heroes adorn the walls, providing a tip off to the gym’s dedication to preservation and history.

Every session here feels like stepping into a part of the city’s vibrant fitness history, and the Body World Fitness website and socials echo this, offering a list of everything one might need to know before visiting.

• Address: 1622 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $10 (2023)

7.    PGAC

PGAC, located across various key states like Florida, Texas, and New York, is not just a gym but a comprehensive sports centre and club. With facilities sprawling over 50,000 square feet, it accommodates a variety of sports activities from boxing to Astor space exploration themes.

Bodybuilders and athletes find a robust support system here with expert athlete coaching and a gym environment conducive to serious competitions.

Dave Bautista, an icon in both the gym and Hollywood, often shares advice on his meal prep strategies during community conversations at PGAC, enhancing the club’s community spirit.

The gym also boasts a restaurant that serves as a social hub, making it a family friendly place where pros and amateurs alike can share a meal or a story.

• Address: 3251 A W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33614, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $10 (if accompanied by a member)
• Instagram: @powerhousegymathleticclub
• Hours: 5 AM to Midnight

8.      Brickhouse Gym

Brickhouse Gym, situated in Columbia, South Carolina, is a modern marvel in the bodybuilding gym sector, sprawling over 12,000 square feet of warehouse space designed to cater to all fitness levels.

This gym is equipped with comprehensive resistance machines and weights, sourced from esteemed brands like Life Fitness and Nautilus, ensuring a high quality workout experience for every visitor.

Whether you’re a local looking for a serious bodybuilding session or a traveller on a day trip through the historic Route 66, Brickhouse Gym offers a variety of equipment and room to perfect every routine.

The gym has become a destination for fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders alike, who find everything they need to exceed their training goals.

• Address: 519 Huger St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States
• Day Pass: 5 Day Free Pass For Potential New Members
• Instagram: @brickhousegymsc
• Open 24/7: No

9.      Armbrust Pro Gym

Armbrust Pro Gym in Denver, Colorado, is a pinnacle in the bodybuilding world of America. Founded in 2008 by Dylan Armbrust, the gym has grown into a home gym for many IFBBs and aspiring bodybuilders.

Known for its high calibre equipment list and meticulous attention to creating a conducive environment for growth, Armbrust Pro Gym offers everything from posing rooms to a variety of machines tailored for leg day pleasure.

The gym exudes a palpable bodybuilding charm, drawing competitors from all over the state to train under the guidance of seasoned judges and trainers. It’s not just a gym; it’s a joint where serious bodybuilders gather to push the boundaries of their physical and mental limits.

• Address: 4240 Kipling St, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $20
• Instagram: @armbrustprogym
• Open 24/7: No

10.  Iron Religion Gym

Since its inception in 2006, Iron Religion Gym has established itself as a fortress for bodybuilding in Orlando, Florida. Known for its no nonsense approach to fitness, the gym features an extensive array of equipment, including specialized lifting platforms and power racks designed to cater to the hardcore bodybuilder.

The colour scheme of black and bold outlines accentuates the serious atmosphere, where dumbbells and machines are meticulously maintained. Regular photoshoots with figures like Gustavo Badell, a winner of the IFBB Ironman Invitational, inspire members to push their limits.

Each visit promises a feast of stimulation and challenge, making Iron Religion Gym a must stop on any bodybuilder’s road trip through the US.

• Address: 5247 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $15
• Instagram: @ironreligiongym
• Open 24/7: Yes

11.  Dragon’s Lair Gym

Dragon’s Lair Gym in Las Vegas, Nevada, founded by the renowned Welsh bodybuilder James ‘Flex’ Lewis, is a mythical realm for anyone serious about their fitness journey.

This gym brings together the essence of hardcore training with a touch of Vegas flair, featuring cardio machines and heavy chest press equipment amidst decor that includes a dramatic mural depicting dragons a nod to its name.

Big Ramy and Jay Cutler, among other IFBB pros, often grace this gym, drawing in visitors eager to catch a glimpse of their training routines. With its fire text and motivational words painted across the walls, Dragon’s Lair Gym inspires its members to wage war against their limits and emerge victorious.

• Address: 7850 Dean Martin Dr #506, Las Vegas, NV 89139, US
• Day Pass Cost: $30
• Instagram: @the_dragons_lair
• Open 24/7: No

12.  Old School Iron Gym

Old School Iron Gym in Cleveland, OH, is a revered spot among the bodybuilding gyms in the Midwest. Known for its raw, stripped back approach, this gym shuns the conventional frills of modern fitness centres and focuses on what truly matters strength and conditioning.

Hammer Strength machines, hefty barbells, and well worn benches fill the space, offering a comprehensive training plan to anyone willing to sweat for their gains.

The no AC setting, accentuated by roller shutters and industrial fans, builds a gritty atmosphere where sweat beads are a badge of honour. Old School Iron Gym captures the core of traditional bodybuilding, making it a must visit for those who respect the roots of the sport.

• Address: 5139 W 140th St, Brook Park, OH 44142, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $15
• Instagram: @oldschoolironcle

13.  Dave Fisher’s Gym

Dave Fisher’s Gym in Torrance, California, brings a classic gym feel to modern Southern California. Dave Fisher has created a place that feels like an old school gym, with walls filled with pictures and stories of the gym’s past.

This gym is part of the Powerhouse Gym group, known for personal touches that large chains often miss. It’s become a top spot for those who like a more personal gym experience, where the focus is on community and staying true to the gym’s roots.

• Address: 22715 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $10
• Instagram: @davefisherspowerhouse
• Open 24/7: No

14.  Bob’s Fitness Center Gym

Bob’s Fitness Center Gym, started in 2023 by Bob and Jo, is a popular gym in Nebraska. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and wide variety of equipment. From high tech machines to basic weights, there’s something for everyone here.

The gym makes everyone feel at home, showing the founder’s commitment to building a community focused gym. You can learn all about the gym’s story on their website or over coffee at the local coffee shop. Bob’s Fitness Center has quickly become a favourite place for locals to work out and stay fit.

• Address: 1001 Fort Crook Rd. North, Bellevue, NE 68005
• Day Pass: 14 Day Free Guest Pass for locals
• Instagram: @bobsfitnesscomplex
• Open 24/7: Yes

15.  Iron City Gym

Iron City Gym in Houston, Texas, offers a unique gym experience with its warehouse style space and a variety of training equipment. Whether you’re into lifting heavy with atlas stones and chains or prefer a full on cardio session, this gym has it all.

It’s known for its vibrant energy and strong community spirit, where trainers like Chris Darby help everyone push their limits. With lots of space and a friendly vibe, Iron City Gym is the perfect spot for anyone looking to improve their fitness in a supportive environment.

• Address: 15922 Cypress N Houston Rd Ste 200, Cypress, TX 77429
• Instagram: @ironcitygymtx
• Day Pass Cost: $15
• Open 24/7: No

16.  Apollon Gym

Since opening in 2008, Apollon Gym in New Jersey has become known for its excellent equipment and commitment to quality. The gym offers a range of tools for working out, from barbells to specialized gear, and is supported by Apollon Nutrition.

It’s a place where serious fitness fans and beginners alike can find everything they need. The gym’s owners are passionate about providing top notch facilities and have built a strong community that values health and fitness.

• Address: 160 Talmadge Rd, Edison, NJ 08817, United States
• Day Pass Cost: $20
• Instagram: @apollongym
• Open 24/7: No

Frequently Asked Question

What Is A Bodybuilding Gym?

A bodybuilding gym is equipped with specialized machines and tools that focus on specific muscle groups, helping to enhance muscle growth and strength.

These gyms cater to serious fitness enthusiasts who aim to build and sculpt their physique through targeted exercises and comprehensive workout routines.

What Is A Good Age For Bodybuilding?

The ideal age for bodybuilding is typically between 20 and 30, once you’ve reached full physical maturity. Testosterone levels, crucial for muscle growth, peak around age 19.

After 30, these levels gradually decline by about 1 per cent per year. This age range is optimal for building muscle and strength, though bodybuilding can be pursued at any age.