The Firm

This is mostly a place to show off your $ 90 Lululemon pants while practicing Resting Bitch Face.
That being said, the staff working at the front desk were very, very nice, friendly, and helpful.
The gym itself didn’t seem very clean or well lit, but the locker rooms were clean. The lockers are wee though and there’s not much space in which to change clothes.
The spin class I took was pathetic. The music was extremely loud and no one could hear the instructor, who was attempting to yell directions over the music while using hand gestures that made no sense. I wasn’t sure what the heck she was doing… she was off her bike, dancing for half the class. Very confusing.
My Target workout gear and I won’t be returning.

Go to this gym if you want to do classes. Otherwise it is extremely loud and they take more holidays than France.

I’ve been desperately looking for a gym/​fitness center to call home for my summer in Minneapolis and I was so excited to have found The Firm!!! I took advantage of their free week trail and did as many classes as I could. I did Cycling, Hip Hop, Power, Yoga, Barr and Circuit Training. After my free week I signed up for the rest of the month.
I have to say I really enjoyed all their classes. I love that they have a variety of different classes. It gave me an opportunity to try workouts I had never tried before. Which can be intimidating but all their instructors were welcoming and helpful. The customer service here is great which really makes The Firm an exceptional gym. They also have cardio and weight machines. What more could you possibly need?

As a human in general, let alone a woman, it’s unappealing to a) walk into a gym that resembles a meat market, where you’re the chef’s special, and b) be so intimidated by the people working out that the thought of it makes you want to skip it entirely and Netflix and chill instead.
That’s why I love The Firm. I finally don’t have to have three running gym memberships to do yoga, spin and studio classes and CrossFit. I can do it all here in one place. Some say it’s pricey, but for everything they offer, like a clean, non-​intimidating environment, abundant free parking and great customer service (they know me by name as soon as I walk through the door), it’s totally worth it. I’ve paid far more for an unlimited membership at a CrossFit-​only box than what I pay here for everything.

I love love love this place. It’s so worth it. They give you a week free trial, and the classes are so worth it. Every class is full of energy and you will feel exhausted once you finish the class.

I lived in Minneapolis for the past two summers, and after experiencing gyms and studios across the country, I’m so happy this establishment exists in my hometown.
I will never forget the first time I came in and everyone was so happy to see me. I took Brad’s spin class. He had technical difficulties switching out a cd which happened to be the Grease soundtrack. He adjusted on the fly, and everyone was cool with it as we continued to work and mouth the words to «Grease Lightning.»
Since then, I have become addicted to their spin classes. I’ve been to spin throughout the Twin Cities and beyond, and I have never found anything that comes close. The workout itself is very intense. Everyone sweats completely through their clothes. Some guys bring in a second shirt or towel to switch out in the middle of class. The music is always fresh and entertaining, often times incorporating electronic remixes. Some think the music is too loud, but earplugs are provided for those who want them. Most of the instructors make a point of at least saying hi, which is a great personal touch. Sometimes I’ve gotten sweaty hugs after class. My favorites include Laura, Kristin, Peter, and Kelly. Then there’s everyone that’s in the class with you. Everybody sweats, smiles, and has a fun time doing it. For beginners, it can be intimidating that everyone works so hard and knows exactly what to do at all times and the music is so loud, and you’re thinking to yourself «What can she possibly be smiling about? This is hell on earth right now.» But it doesn’t take long before you get the hang of it. You’ll smile too. Trust me.
The only complaint I have is that some of the bikes add resistance much faster than others, which leads to a situation where people show up 15 – 25 minutes early to claim a «good» bike where the resistance more closely matches the resistance of the instructor’s bike. They otherwise do a great job of maintaining the bikes.
The locker rooms and showers are always clean. The showers have individual stalls with closing doors. I really appreciate that privacy. And there’s only a short minute wait during the busiest times of the week.
The yoga studio is great. It’s generally filled with moderate to advanced yogis, but everyone is welcome (no, actually) just as in every class at the firm. During my first yoga class this summer, I felt overwhelmed by some advanced moves and went back to child’s pose. I did not perceive any judgment about it by anyone in the room, which is wonderful.
Doug makes me laugh and smile so much. My face muscles are just as sore as the rest of my body after class because he is just that much fun. One time during a very intense moment of his Yoga/​Barre class, Doug made a quip about huevos rancheros and I fell over laughing. I blamed the slippery floor from all my sweat, but who knows.
I’ve made many friends at the firm. You can only see a sweaty face so many times before you feel that you should at least introduce yourself. And because the people who go are so committed, it does foster a great sense of community. There’s lots of hugs and excited «Hi!» happening quite often. It might not happen in a week, but you’ll eventually feel right at home.
I don’t know why this hasn’t been said already, but The Firm is very GLBT friendly. Maybe it doesn’t need to be said, but I’m saying it anyway. It already feels like a fitness family, and knowing that I can be open about who I am heightens that sense of community. It’s a safe space for everyone and I know many of the instructors during June will remind us all Pride is right around the corner.

I was recently on a business trip to the Twin Cities when a colleague suggested I get a massage at The Firm while he was working out. Hands down, it was the worst massage I’ve ever had in my life. To start, the Firm blasts music throughout the building so while you’re in the massage room you get an odd mix of spa music and Motown. Not very relaxing. The massage therapist was terrible — deep tissue to the point of pain despite my asking for less pressure.
It took me a week of not working out, ice compresses and ibuprofen to recover from the pain in my shoulder.
My recommendation: If anyone ever suggests a massage there, go to the Mall of America instead. It’s more relaxing and you won’t feel as ripped off in the end.

Scammy! Tried to use a Groupon here. When I went in, they signed me up for a complimentary week. Great, right? Not so much. After the «free» week I went in to redeem my Groupon and they said «Sorry, new members only. We can’t honor this.» What? I WAS a new member. They encouraged me to have a free week and somehow that week negated my eligibility to use the Groupon. And I’m not the only one. The same thing happened to a friend of mine. I will NOT be back and I hope they stop taking advantage of people.

You have been trying to lose couple pounds and find fun environment to do that. Then I have a place to recommend. Let’s start from my favorite classes. Spin workouts are energetic and crazy calorie burners. Music is usually better than in many Minneapolis clubs or restaurants. Electronic and great dj sets which would pump your mood up immediately. Easy to follow and after doing one or two of those you simply become addicted. Yoga is heated which make you sweat not just meditate or sleep on the mat. After finishing a free week there I signed up and have been going to this gym for almost a year. And I never have been disappointed in the classes. This gym is not for everyone but if you value time spent in the gym and want to get maximum out of it then this is your spot. Highly recommended. Many of my friends came to try it out and agreed that it is one of the best gym they have been. Starting from friendly reception people, instructors and public. You gonna love it!

Update: Took another yoga class and loved this one!

Over a month ago, I began my switch back to a more traditional gym from Crossfit. During my search, I checked out the hotness that is The Firm.
For those that love taking classes — such as spinning, aerobics etc… — this gym might be for you. They even have Crossfit classes, which falls at the highest end of the price range. Prices can be found on their website.
After working out there several times during my week free trial, I can say that there were some pros and cons.
Pros:
+Spacious, clean, and tons of natural light.
+Aimed towards young professionals.
+Updated locker room with nice amenities.
+Friendly staff.
+Plenty of free weights.
+Tons of room for private sessions.
Cons:
–The Firm could better utilize the upstairs space by adding in more machines and benches. (About five treadmills and one standard bench press.)
–Weights are a bit too fancy/​unnecessary (e.g. interlocking weights for the squat rack).
–Upstairs floor is a bit dim. Maybe they could turn on some lights.
–Private room takes up too much space, and at night it’s often unoccupied. I wish gym-​goers could workout there.
–No space upstairs to do olympic lifting.
Not my favorite gym — and decent minimum price at $ 55 ish — but more than sufficient for most people.

The FIRM experience starts with the incredible personal and friendly greeting by the front desk staff led by Susan. Imagine a personal greeting with a smile upon arrival before you start your great workout.
Hands down the best indoor cycling venue in the Midwest. Kristin R., Laura R., Corey, TJ, Dee, and Laura VB all bring great energy, music, and fun. Interval training with Kristin and Somer are fab. The studio classes especially Doug and Brad will kick your butt and will cross train you beyond expectations. The cadre of yoga instructors is great.
The Cross Fit box is tops with excellent instructors.
If you need a comprehensive meal plan, cardio, stretch, and strength program, FIRM FIT led by the owner Neil is recommended; his clients in this intense 6days a week for 8 weeks gain lean muscle mass, improve stamina, and with daily food journals get one on one nutritional advice.
You can end your workout with a state of the art nutritional shake from a variety of different ingredients of your choice.
The FIRM is a friendly, diverse, and great workout spot with indoor cycling, Cross Fit, studio classes, Yoga, and great weight equipments.
A real Twin Cities gem.

First of all, let me start off by saying, I tried the one week free pass over a year ago, and balked at the monthly dues, as I longingly looked at the schedule and website every day. Then, I purchased a Groupon, and took advantage of the following month at $ 50 after the Groupon was up, to try every class I could. I recommend this path. I also signed my son up for a month, because he saw how much I enjoyed the classes and instructors.
I had no idea I would enjoy spin class so much. It is high-​energy, loud music, and even though you go at your own pace, it is very encouraging to have others around you who are doing the exact same workout as you, helping you push through. The instructors are wonderful. The part I enjoyed my most about that aspect, is that, most of them try to get to know you if you are new in their class. My only complaint is that, after the initial intro, many seem to forget your name or not bother to make eye contact with you, thereafter. This is discouraging, because there is nothing like hearing them call your name out in the middle of a class, especially when you’re at a point where you think you cannot go on, and it gives you the extra push you need.
After visiting with my healthcare provider, I’ve learned that I have a few medical conditions, which have been preventing me from losing weight even though I’m at spin class 3−5x a week. I feel better knowing that with my diet change and continuing on, the excess weight will come off. Honestly, if Peter had not introduced himself at the beginning of his spin class, said my name during class, and even find me after class or between classes to say hi and see how I am, I would have ended my membership at the Firm. It feels like some spin instructors have their favorites and it’s frustrating, after being in their class for months, to not have developed a relationship with them.
Mike and Dave, at the front desk, are incredible. And, even though I’m not on a first name basis with the other two gals at checkin, they are very friendly and welcoming.

I bought a 10 class pack from Groupon, and since I’m nearly done with it– here are my thoughts.
I used maybe 2 classes on yoga weights, and the rest all on spinning.
Yoga Weights is nothing like Yoga Sculpt, in case you thought it was. Core Power will always win in that category. But IMO you come here for the SPIN CLASS.
I’ve never been to such an incredibly fun workout class. Spin is so much fun, and the instructors make it awesome. Laura is my absolute favorite, she’s such a ball of energy and fun. I adore taking her classes. Your legs will burn for a solid day or two after one of these classes, and I routinely burn upwards of 700 calories at one of these classes. Seriously, I cannot recommend their spin classes enough!
The ONLY downside is that classes here seriously are so damn expensive. If you’re in college still, or if you’re entry level– good luck paying for this gym.

If you’re looking to add something different to your workout routine stop by The Firm and try out some of their classes. Just when you think you’ve been working out hard on your own… the classes will prove you wrong. They have a gym also with your basic gym equipment but of higher quality.
I bought a Goupon for 10 classes and so far I have tried Yoga Weights, Pilates Barre and Spin. Pilates Barre was probably my favorite from the three. Spin will slap you in the face and tell you you’re still out of shape, if you’re a first timer like I was… serious. It was a good experience though. The instructor was super nice and helpful.
The staff is great! They greet you by name when you walk in. I’m terrible with names, so kudos to them! I don’t have a yoga mat of my own so every time I go to the classes they usually just give me mat instead of charge me the $ 1.50, oh the little things ;)
Oh! If you don’t want to commit to purchasing classes/​memberships/​groupons, they offer a free week trial. Take advantage of that and try some of their classes!

Best spin class ever! I would recommend going to Kelly’s class Sat at 3pm, you’ll see beach balls flying around and black lights setting the mood. To better describe it: it feels like you are in an Eric Prydz video.
They have a free week trial, but they also have a groupon constantly going on, so I would recommend taking advantage of those before signing up since it is pretty pricey (~130 per month).
Bottom line: #worthit

The most friendly and welcoming gym I’ve been to.
I was introduced to it because I got a Groupon to try some of their classes, I tried spinning, bag boxing and yoga barre. All were great classes but the spinning was my favorite.
I had never tried spinning before and didn’t know what to expect. Everyone was super helpful and friendly from the person that greeted me at the front desk to fellow students to the instructors. I’m a social worker-​outer, I’m motivated by the energy of others, and this place has some great energy.
It also doesn’t hurt that the gym is very clean, stylish and conveniently located to downtown.

I have been a member here for about six months and have loved every minute of it. Before starting here, I was a yoga novice and a spin/​pilates/​etc. virgin. Going to your first class or two can be a little intimidating because everyone here is very dedicated to fitness, knows what they are doing, and everyone seems to know each other. These are the exact things that also make being a member here worth it. In every class, you are encouraged to make it your own and do what YOU need to do to get a good workout. It’s a no pressure environment, but being around people who are so dedicated makes you push yourself further than you thought you could go. Members here are all really friendly, and the instructors/​staff are incredible. I’ve taken almost every class they offer, and I’m yet to find an instructor that I didn’t like.
If you are trying out the gym for the first time, I highly suggest any class that Brad teaches. He is a fun instructor who goes out of his way to make sure you are enjoying the class and feel comfortable.
As far as the facility itself goes, it is fabulous! The locker rooms are always clean and there is enough space for everyone. The gym equipment is also new and clean. Free parking (huge plus for being so close to downtown!).

My review is based on the general atmosphere at The Firm, Laura R’s yoga class, and the customer service.
I love The Firm, and I wish that I could afford to be a full time member. I had the pleasure of going there on 2 separate Groupon-​type coupons but now their Groupons are only for people who haven’t been there.
I wish that I could afford to join The Firm for a few reasons. Mostly it is because if I’m going to pay for a gym membership, it would be an awesome perk for it to be at a place where I could make friends and be a part of a community. The Firm does a lot of community type shit, mostly with gay-​related things as far as I noticed (Pride, AIDs fundraising, etc.). I’m gay so this means a lot to me, and I was proud to go to a gym that won best float at Minneapolis/​St. Paul’s Pride Parade.
I only ever went to Laura R’s yoga class except on 2 occasions. I tried another yoga class that I didn’t like as much, and I went to a core class which was offered to me for free because I realized when I got to the gym to try Zumba that I had forgotten my tennis shoes. That class wasn’t a part of my coupon but they just let me join, which was awesome. They also gave me a free yoga class when I accidentally went to a class after my coupon had expired — which in reality, was already extra, because I know that they neglected to check me in various times (they have you sign in on paper and then they check you in themselves) and ended up attending far more than the 20 times I was supposed to have.
I think that the downside to The Firm could be that everybody is dressed in exercise fashion and I think it might be kind of cliquey. Didn’t bother me much though, I showed up in my 5 year old sports bra and hand-​me-​down running shorts without fail.

I friggin love this gym. It is motivating, exciting, and the instructors are amazing. The workouts are always hard, which is exactly what I am looking for in a gym. The instructors are hilarious, experienced, and very good at getting participants to have fun while working hard.
I sweat a lot, I am sore, and yet I still cannot wait to get out of work so that I can get back to the Firm to sweat some more.
The facilities are great, the music is loud and motivating, and the people are welcoming and nice. Everyone there makes me want to work harder. I love it!