PDXstrength

I come from an exercise (personal training) background and have trained at many big box and small cross training gyms and I can honestly say that PDXstrength is the best gym I have ever trained at. Jocelyn and the other coaches at PDXstrength are super supportive, knowledgable and will scale any exercise for you no matter what level you are at. Not to mention the programming is awesome! I struggled at many CrossFit gyms because the programming was too hardcore and I felt left behind if I was not at the level of the other athletes. This is not the case at PDxstrength, the strength & conditioning programming is similar to CrossFit but is more accessible while still offering a challenge. I like the emphasis on form, my lifts have gotten better and I feel so much stronger and confident.
With a membership at PDxstrength you are paying for so much more than just a place to work out, you are paying for awesome exercise programming, knowledgable guidance and a supportive fitness community. After working in the fitness industry, I think that Jocelyn has successfully built a community based gym that focuses on a variety of movements and exercise philosophies, which is hard to do! I would recommend PDXstrength to anyone looking for a cross training gym no matter what level they are at!!!

If I could give Jocelyn 100 stars I would! I have worked with other trainers in the past and although some where good none compare to Jocelyns knowledge of form and complete understanding of the human body. My workouts are what keep me going throughout my busy week. The studio is a place of encouragement and positive energy. No Douchebags! If your looking for a healthy lifestyle change and need that extra push look no further, StrenghtpdX will kick your ass into gear and you will have a blast doing it. And inbetween sets you can look out the window and gaze at the beautiful St. johns bridge. Happy Squating!

PDXstrength was exactly what I needed to start feeling strong and athletic. Without hesitation, I would recommend this gym to anyone who is unsure how to function in a traditional gym. The coaches really make the time valuable and efficient. I can’t believe how quickly and seamlessly PDXstrength has become part of my daily routine. I’m constantly learning new skills and ways to push myself.
Also, all skill levels are welcomed and celebrated. I can’t imagine anyone not enjoying the positive and challenging atmosphere of PDXstrength.

For those who know their way around a barbell and can burpee with the best of them, up your game with the top-​notch coaching available at PDXstrength. You’ll be challenged, encouraged and motivated to do more than you thought you could. You’ll have opportunities to take amazing skill-​building workshops from some of the most talented and knowledgeable athletes in the cross fit and weight lifting field. You can even compete in local competitions if that’s your thing. Oh, and you’ll laugh a lot, too with some other great down-​to-​earth, kick-​ass athletes. These guys like to have fun!
But I’m writing this for the wanna-​be athlete who’s been sitting on the fence watching the others play and train. The one who thinks maybe they should just stick to the elliptical and let go of the hope that they too could be strong. And inspired. And feel great.
PDXstrength is for you, too. It’s for the 26 year-​old with infinite energy and quick reflexes AND for us 40 some year-​old moms who want to see what they are capable of before throwing in the towel. PDXstrength knows how to meet you just where you are with their six week intro classes. (Everyone is new! It’s like freshman class bonding!) The coaches are so supportive and they’ll teach you everything you need to know. I immediately signed up for a second session after completing my first six weeks of intro classes. And when I was done with three months of basics, I was totally prepared for the group strength and conditioning classes on the regular schedule.
This is not an intimidating scene, people. This is a place of encouragement and inspiration for all types. I’ve been hanging out here for almost a year now. I’ve gained confidence, strength, energy and friendships. And you can too!

I’ve been around the block when it comes to work out classes, and PDXstrength is hands down the BEST place I’ve been! There’s something for everyone — strength and conditioning, bootcamp classes, olympic weightlifting, ninja skills, kettle bell workouts, and there’s always a new workshop just around the corner.
You won’t get bored. You will get sore (and you’ll love it!). You will see results.
When I first started I could barely clean a 70 lbs barbell, I couldn’t do consecutive double unders, and I couldn’t do a head stand.
Now, my max clean and jerk is 95 lbs, not only can I do double unders but I also enjoy them, and I just did my first head stand.
Finally, Jocelyn and all the coaches are so amazing. I was intimidated at first (they’re really fit!), but they’re so down to Earth. They’re supportive, encouraging, they know how to have fun, and they’re dead serious about helping you meet your goals.

I love PDXstrength!
I started out here as a total newbie to any sort of weight training, and I could barely run 200 meters without a rest. I’ve never enjoyed sports or exercising, but here I am, showing up to strength and conditioning class 2−3x a week and enjoying it. It’s kind of crazy!
The classes are varied and I haven’t gotten bored yet, the coaches are great at scaling workouts to your level (while still pushing you to do your best), and everyone is so nice and encouraging. I’ve made big improvements since I started the PDX101 classes, and I actually have fitness goals! I don’t think I would have stuck with this without the welcoming and supportive environment here.

Fearful, friendly, funny, flippant, fierce, fabulous, fix-​fulfilling, & a few other F words to describe Friday mornings with Laura and her disciples. Rockin way to start.

There are so many accolades I could bestow on PDXStrength but it all boils down to the great coaching and team mentality of this incredible gym. New to the area I joined this gym approximately 6 months ago and it immediately felt like home. In addition to the great classes, there are many 6 week «workshops» allowing athletes to concentrate on specific areas of weight training. With Jocelyn’s excellent coaching, I have seen significant gains in my front squats, presses, and dead lifts. Laura, Nigel, Ken, Jordan… they all pay great attention to form while providing newer athletes with modifications when needed. And lastly, this place is FUN! PDXStrength makes working out addicting!!!

I’d never taken work out classes before I came to PDX Strength– I always did weightlifting on my own at a gym, on and off. I have some weightlifting experience, but over time I know my memory has faded and thus my technique has too, and I’m only ever as driven as I can convince myself to be. I didn’t like to have someone hold me ‘accountable’ or be my workout buddy, but I’ll admit I know my lifts were getting stale and I was at a plateau.
I was hesitant to come to PDX Strength because I felt I wouldn’t be able to keep up with the others, thinking it was a fast-​paced Crossfit type of environment. But I decided I could start with beginner classes and work my way into it. After a couple drop in sessions, my fiancé and I bought a buddy membership.
One of the best things about PDX Strength is the membership is what you want it to be. You can sign up month by month… take a few weeks off while you’re on vacation or just because you need a break… then buy another month and start attending again. It isn’t a year contract that you have to sign. No initial deposit or key fee, breaking contract fee [insert random other charges associated with normal gyms here.]
We began with the Embark classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. (PDX101 class and Beginner Bootcamp are the intro options now, I believe.) The class size was usually 2 – 6 people, so we had a lot of 1 on 1 time with the coaches, learning proper technique and such. They do a great job of scaling the workout to suit your individual needs and/​or accommodate for injuries.
When we became more comfortable with the lifts and movements, we started attending the evening Strength & Conditioning classes. The class cap is 12, but on average I’d say there are 4 – 8 people in the class… even less sometimes because they’ve added additional class times.
The structure of class is a nice mix of weightlifting – barbells, kettle-​bells, (occasionally dumbbells), pull up bars, dip stations, etc and cardio – rowing machines, jump-​roping, box jumping, running, etc. I have knee issues that we’ve been working through, and every class the coach helps customize an alternate lift or activity for me. In addition to proper technique, there’s also a large focus on setting personal records, and keeping track of your improvement and strength!
The gym is next to Cathedral Park so we often get outside to work as well. I’m sure there are things I’m forgetting but, two thumbs up for PDX Strength!

This place is awesome. I decided to come to PDX Strength about 6 months ago after having lost a lot of weight on my own, having plateaued in my fitness journey, and feeling lost on what to do next. I easily lose interest with the same workouts every day and really dislike going to commercial gym, so I needed something new/​different. I started by paying for each (beginner) class individually just to try it out, but after a month or two, I was hooked! Different workouts every class, no guessing what to do or how to do it, modifications to every movement if necessary — this place is the best.
PDX Strength has taught me SO much. I’ve learned about the importance of mobility, proper weightlifting technique, and that you don’t have to be perfect at any of this to fit in here! Before joining, I couldn’t manage a proper squat, a real push-​up, and had no idea how to perform any barbell lifting. Now, I can do all of these things and a whole lot more!
The positive and inclusive atmosphere of PDX Strength is what makes it so great. No one is pressured to do something unrealistic and the coaches are super supportive. Everyone is challenged in their own way and everyone progresses at their own pace. PDX Strength embraces and teaches a larger, holistic view of strength and fitness, and I really appreciate that. Strength, mobility, conditioning, etc, are not just individual categories, they are important pieces that fit/​work together in the larger fitness puzzle.
Check out PDX Strength today, you won’t regret it!

I’ve always hated gyms. I’ve always loved working out and exercising, but I was more of a DIY kind of athlete — running was my JAM. I tried the occasional yoga or spin class when running hurt, but I was always intimidated by the group/​class exercise thing and would inevitably turn back to my super introverted long runs or my solo track repeats to get my endorphin fix. I got fast and convinced myself I was having fun. I saw real progress (qualifying for the Boston Marathon seemed realistic) and convinced myself I was strong. And then I got hurt. Again and again. Suddenly, running wasn’t a safe option and I was sad.
Finally, out of frustration (and needing that endorphin fix), I decided to listen to my friend who’d been trying to get me to go to PDXStrength for months. Honestly, the first time I met Jocelyn and Laura, I could tell this place was going to be amazing. I was still intimidated, but after chatting with them for just a few minutes and being made to feel completely welcome, I decided that I was going to stop being scared and stop feeling sorry for myself and try the one thing I’d been neglecting for years: Strength Training. I convinced myself to try.
It was the best athletic decision I’ve ever made.
PDXStrength is a truly incredible place. After my first bootcamp class, I was hooked. This place is seriously addictive!
No matter what your level, they have something for you. Never touched a barbell or heard of a burpee? No problem! They offer a beginner bootcamp series and Embark classes to take all the scariness out of everything and get you up to speed safely. After completing those, you can sign up for their group strength and conditioning classes. Got all that mastered? They have more intense classes for you «warriors» out there! Oh, and there’s PARKOUR! And YOGA! In addition to all of that, they offer special workshops, one-​on-​one training, nutritional guidance — all with unconditional support, encouragement, and all around awesome attitudes!
The coaches at PDXStrength genuinely want you to succeed. It’s obvious in their enthusiasm and passion for fitness as well as for YOU, the athlete. They stress proper form, going your own pace, and smart training. They are able to work around injuries and set backs, finding ways to accommodate or modifications for almost anything. And they have ways of making you feel like the most badass athlete out there! Whether it’s Jocelyn bragging to everyone about one of your achievements or Laura’s unflagging energy and excitement (even at 6am!) — each coach has their own way of making you feel great. They are also all super knowledgable — attending seminars and then incorporating their new-​found knowledge into the classes.
The community at PDXStrength is also wonderful. This is one of the most supportive and non-​judgmental group of athletes I’ve ever worked with. Everyone roots for everyone else — it’s not uncommon to have the whole room cheer when you do your first real push-​up, handstand, or get a lifting PR. It’s amazing.
After years of training alone and convincing myself that I was doing the best I could, I’ve finally found a place where I really feel welcome, excited, and part of a wonderful community. I don’t have to convince myself that I’m having fun and getting strong. I know that I am.
Need more convincing? Read the other Unilocal reviews. Sign up for a class. Go to PDXStrength NOW!

I have tried many gyms around Portland over the last 10 years. The thing that stands out the most at PDXStrength is the coaches attention to FORM. That paired with a lighthearted team environment makes this place really special. New members are always brought in with open arms & no judgements. There is a great balance of pushing each other & laughing at ourselves at the same time! Personally I have reached some fitness goals that have eluded me for years with the help of the coaches here. I am checking things off my goals list left & right. Come check it out!

This place ROCKS! It is seriously hard not to be happy when you are here. I know that sounds kind of crazy but I walk in and can’t help but smile. The trainers are so supportive and kind but still bad asses! The classes are filled with great people at all different fitness levels. Most, if not all, exercises can be scaled so you should never feel like you can’t do something. The trainers will always offer a modification. They want you to succeed, meet your goals, and be your own bad ass self!

Ok, I mostly use Unilocal to find yummy food and cocktails, but I REALLY need to express what PDXstrength means for me…
I’ve been going there about 5 months now, and have found the most awesome, supportive community I’ve ever experienced. I’ve battled weight issues in the past and my usual gym experience has gone something like this:
Walk in. Stumble around gym looking at machines and weights trying to not look like a creeper. Start on one machine designed to work only one muscle group. Feel awkward with beefy dude/​lady standing behind me rolling eyes at my pathetically small weights. Leave after 3^rd attempt. Repeat for two weeks and stop going while paying said membership for the next 24 months cause «I’ll go next week…»
NOT ANY MORE! I started by paying the drop in class rate for my first two months to make sure I would actually keep it up. They have several different levels of classes and membership packages, but people of all skill levels can attend almost any class (just don’t think you’ll walk into the Warrior Class off the street and survive ;).
I started my first two months going after work to their Embark Classes and would strongly recommend that or their Beginner Bootcamps to get a feel for the flow of classes, movements and your own skill level. I would not call it CrossFit, but CrossFit-​ish. While I think many of the trainers are CrossFit Trained, they have their own style here that agrees fully with me. I’ve upgraded to their hour long morning Bootcamps, and I am the opposite of what you may call a morning person. I’m addicted now though and somehow drag my a$$ out of bed for a 6:30 start… I’ve also done personal training with Laura T. and she ROCKS! Oh, and did I mention Parkour! with Ben starting today? Boom… Nuff said!
Have a hip injury preventing you from doing squats or a knee problem preventing you from jumping? No Prob! The trainers always have a replacement exercise in their back pockets to accommodate and NO ONE, trainer or class mate, will judge you based on injury or fitness level.
After 8 years in the military I finally learned to do a proper push-​up and am now working on real pull-​ups. Their devotion to form is refreshing and makes a real difference to me. It’s not about reps or weight, it’s about using your whole body and setting personal goals they help you attain.
IDK how they keep track of everyone who goes here, but Jocelyn giving shout outs for someone’s first toes to bar, the personal attention and cheerleading when someone gets their first pull-​up or runs that triathlon they’ve been training for is epic and inspiring. If you have to start doing knee push-​ups like I did? No worries, the sign hanging on the wall says it all. «No matter how slow you go, you’re still lapping everyone on the couch.»
Obviously I have nothing but great things to say about the staff and fellow PDX’rs here. If you have read this review down to this point, it’s time go… You know you want to… And you won’t regret it!

How do I tell you about the awesomeness that happens at PDX Strength? Well, I’ve never been to a gym where I’ve felt more motivated, included and encouraged to do my personal best. The positive atmosphere is totally addicting! Each workout is custom so you never get bored with the classes. The bootcamps are badass and effective. Nearly every move can be modified for a beginner or made more difficult for someone with more skill; how often do you find that in the same class?
Jocelyn, Laura, and the other trainers are really excited to help you achieve whatever your health and fitness goals are, and support you in any way you need. They care, and it stands out.
I LOVE going to my gym!
Can you say the same?

My life has changed so much for the better since meeting Jocelyn. She’s not only an ass kicker, but a motivator who wants you to be strong both mentally and physically, and inspires you to want to be, too. Through PDXstrength I have found a community, a social group, a place to want to go and work out every day. I’ve learned so much and am in the best shape of my life. I’ve been to many gyms and had a handful of trainers, but no one is like Jocelyn.

This gym is awesome. It’s not one of those uptight stuffy places. I call it the punk rock gym. If you are looking to get a killer workout with none of the fuss this is the place to do it.

Jocelyn and I have been working together for one year officially. I am arguably in the best shape of my adult life.
Our goal for this year is for me to do a pull-​up and to complete a military style fitness test as better than average for my age group. Somehow, through working with Jocelyn, this goal is within striking distance. That is a-​freaking-​mazing.
We have done a variety of training together. I take her boot camp classes, we occasionally train one on one, I’ve done group training with a friend, classes at the gym, etc. She always has something to offer that is exactly what I need or want.
Her classes have become my favorite indulgence. I’m hooked! I feel incredible and the structure of how she teaches leaves me feeling like I can accomplish anything. She has created an incredibly supportive community of advanced and beginner athletes who genuinely encourage each other. It’s pretty incredible.
The greatest thing about working with Jocelyn is that regardless of where you are at that day, week, month, or year she’ll meet you at a place where you can succeed. She’ll tailor workouts to meet your needs no matter what the issue is. We’ve worked around a bruised scapula, heel pain, and me being a general klutz. I challenge you to find something she can’t help you with.
I have muscle definition in my legs I didn’t know was possible. I’m the strongest I’ve ever been. We still have more to accomplish because she continues to push and challenge me. Through working with her I have come to realize that there are no limits to what I can accomplish.
She is the best.

Jocelyn is an amazing trainer and motivator! Last year I worked one on with her during personal training sessions. I am a runner and was looking for strength training to improve my running. She gave me really tough workouts that I could use at the gym or at home.
I have also been going to her booty boot camp outdoor workouts and love them! Jocelyn is patient, gives clear instruction, and makes the workouts fun! Her workouts are never boring and are appropriate for newbies and advanced athletes. I have finally found a strength training routine that I enjoy, and that doesn’t require that I sit at machines in the gym. I highly recommend Jocelyn’s workouts to anyone wanting to get fit!

I’ve been working with Jocelyn for about 6 months. Since day one she has been a supportive and inspiring advocate for health and fitness. Jocelyn is very personable, understanding and has realistic expectations of her clients.
I have never been a gym person — my workouts in the past have always consisted of yoga or outdoor activities — since working with Jocelyn I enjoy coming to the gym and have learned a lot about how to utilize the equipment in fun ways to work and strengthen my body.
I have also attended her outdoor summer bootcamp classes! I have never been a «bootcamp» person — but I really enjoy the bootcamps Jocelyn puts together and am looking forward to attending more of them! They are fun and challenging — plus it feels great to be outside with a group of people who are all working hard with the support of a great trainer!
I am very excited to continue working with Jocelyn and would recommend her to anyone looking for a personal trainer or for her classes!