If you want results, this is the place. I've trained at a lot of gyms during my powerlifting career and I'll say this -- you may find bigger, shinier, fancier places out there, but you will not find the knowledge, expertise and experience elsewhere, period. You won't find that clubhouse feel elsewhere in San Diego, period. Dave DePew is one of the most respected trainers in southern California for a reason. When I walked into this gym on day one, it was Dave who greeted me, Dave who signed me up, and it's Dave who chats with me each and every time I go in about what I'm doing, where I'm headed with my goals, and how to achieve them faster. I've been coaching athletes for a long time and ran a competitive powerlifting team. I am a Level 2 CrossFit trainer, certified in powerlifting, strongman and olympic weightlifting by various organizations including USA Weightlifting and USPA. Dave takes me to school on my knowledge regularly. If you enter this gym with a goal and an open mind, you'll get all the help you need and most likely walk away with your goals and others checked off your list, and more goals to keep working on. Grinder's staff is great as well -- these guys are handpicked by the man himself, so they meet and exceed Dave's high standards. The energy in the group classes is through the roof. As I said, I've been in a lot of gyms -- CF gyms especially, and have not seen camaraderie like Grinder has anywhere else. Whether you're into group fitness, weight loss, arm wrestling, bodybuilding, powerlifting, strongman, or just a good place to go put some work in, you won't find better than Grinder.

Beware… This place is the worst. I now have to purchase 4 bars for my home gym. In all seriousness, I was 4 weeks in to a new program and was looking for something in San Diego that would allow me not to miss a beat while on vacation. Grinder gym was 6 min away from where we were staying, opened at 6am (I am an early workout guy) and looked like everything I wanted - including some bars I’ve yet to get my hands on but wanted to. They had a week pass (very fair pricing) which was a bonus since I was staying a week. The owner was extremely kind upon signing up. Other members I spoke to had nothing but great things to say about the gym. Dont expect the glitzy of a typical commercial gym, but I consider that as a huge positive for Grinder. The well loved plates, bare steel bars, indoor/outdoor workout area, just everything about it was excellent. I moved from la fitness to a garage gym about 7 months ago. I’ve slowly been figuring out what I want to add (specialty bars are next on the list) and I got to try almost every bar I’ve been looking at. I was hoping to like just 1, but I ended up liking all 3 and one more I didn’t even consider but got to play with it at grinder. Thanks to grinder gym, it’s not going to be a gamble when I end up making the purchase. 10/10 would recommend grinder. 10/10 will return every time we are in san diego.

The Grinder Gym is more than an gym. It is truly a fitness and wellness center focused on all areas of fitness health that challenge its members to reach their personal potential. All levels of fitness are welcome which I like, since a lot of gyms out there cater to elite athletes. I have never worked out with or been a part of a community like this. The the staff are so interactive- taking the time to understand your personal goals, any physical challenges (or personal for that matter) and are willing to coach you along the way. This a very supportive community of staff and members with the same mission in mind- to live healthier life styles, improve your physical fitness and see results. Also, the owner, Coach Dave, is more hands on than most- willing to give you personal advice on your goals, how to improve your results, or just give you the encouragement to stick with it and keep coming back! The variety of classes offered keep things interesting. And the members are just as welcoming to new members trying out the gym and learning the how to's of kettlebells, kickboxing and spin. If you are wanting a personalized experience (one you certainly cannot get at the chain 'gyms' out there, then come check it out. You will see why people rave about the Grinder Gym.

I've been going to this gym since my old one closed during the shut downs and I'm so glad I found it! This place IS MY CHURCH. If you lift or wish to train to compete, look no further, this is THE PLACE. Grinder has free weights, free bars, aerobic equipment, weight machines, cardio machines, crossfit infrastructure, strongman equipment and much more. Grinder has an outdoor area and a garage style set up. They also host lots of competitions themselves. Not only is Grinder gym locally owned but it's owned by Dave Depew, A champion competitor in many strong man and lifting competitions. This gym always has equipment and free weights available. Gone are the days of waiting on the tiny selection of free weights or free bars in a gym overwhelmed with cardio equipment that NO ONE IS USING. The owner here is almost always available to chat with or talk to. Dave and his staff work hard, are skilled and personable and can even set you up with a trainer or workout regimen for a reasonable price! They are also very loyal to long term customers and will always treat you right. Overal, Grinder is definitely somewhere you should consider when looking for a great Gym to workout at.

Where do I begin? You may have your reservations when you first arrive at a gym tucked away behind a Carpeteria showroom. But trust me, looks can definitely be deceiving. Once you experience Grinder Gym, you will begin to understand why and how so many people have had amazing body transformations in a relatively short period of time! You get coaches with all sorts of experience (kettlebells, kickboxing, boot camp, crossfit, cardio, Spinning ~ this list goes on and on). Grinder Gym is a community ~ we are family here We will welcome you when you arrive and try to help you in any way we can. There are amazing coaches who are knowledgable and will help keep you safe. There are several options for types of classes as well as class times throughout the day beginning at 5 a.m. You will be given an easy-to-follow meal plan and will also have photos taken and bodyfat assessments every two weeks to keep you on track so you can reach your goals. Frustrated by going to a gym and feeling like no one cares? Grinder Gym, its staff, its members, and most importantly, its owner cares!! Come see what we are all about. We'll save a spot for ya!

The one star reviews are so strange. It’s one thing to say you don’t like the old school iron paradise/maybe jail yard vibes in comparison to trendier content gyms, but to suggest that anyone here is anything but above and beyond welcoming is bizarre. The three people who work here are incredibly nice, once you get over the initial shock that two of them could probably break you in half if they sneezed in your general direction. Even after I left the gym, the owner Dave will treat you like family just as he did me. The dude is a giant, jacked teddy bear with the biggest heart, and his similarly yoked young brethren that he hired has all the vitriol of a sour patch kid on his worst days. The woman is just freaking nice, which couldn’t be construed negatively in anyway. Any reviews that say anything else are FAKE—Dave would remove anyone behaving like that with the quickness. This gym is fully in the spirit of all the great old school gyms, which is about respect and community.

I have belonged to many types of gyms...24 hour, Frogs, Corepower Yoga, The Boxing Club but there is something about grinders that I especially connect to. I literally signed up for a membership after my first day. The workouts are not group related meaning you are not relying on someone nor is someone relying on you to move to the next circuit. I never want to feel like I am holding someone back or that someone else is holding me back. You push yourself and so do the trainers. The workouts are so dynamic. One day it is upper body, one day it is core and agility, another day it is total body. You use weights, kettle bells, there are cycling bikes. Basically there is something for everyone and the workouts kick your butt. If you want to get in shape and sculpt your body then this is the gym for you. The workouts are not easy, they are hard...no pain, no gain!!! The trainers are pretty freakin awesome too :) Do yourself a favor and try out a class

So this is my second time here... Why? Because I know it works. Why did I stop the first time? Because I seriously thought, "Hey I can do this by myself at the $20-a-month gym!" What happened? I had no idea what I was doing, got bored, classes were always full, and finally lost the motivation to go. I ended gaining some weight back, and then some. I knew what I had to do. I called Dave at Grinder again, to kick start my butt back into action. There's something about this place that motivates you, and makes you want to come. They genuinely care about their Grinders and they keep tabs on you. And the best part for me is that it's not a fancy-shmancy gym with strobe lights and sparkling water. They spare you that crap to make their dues reasonable. But I digress. Second time around, not only did I lose the 20 pounds that I gained after, but an additional 30 . Learned my lesson and never going back to that unsaid circus of a gym.

I recommend Grinder Gym to anyone who wants to get in the best shape of their life. I've worked out for years in SD w/ various gyms and personal trainers, but NOTHING and I mean NOTHING compares to the results I've gotten from these classes Dave DePew has created. The classes are tough. In the beginning I couldn't even get through an entire class w/o a break, but I kept at it and now my endurance is through the roof. It's amazing. I feel 10 years younger. I'm doing the 90 day Warfare program right now and I'm half way through. I've already lost 7% body fat and still 6 more weeks to go. It's incredible. Believe in yourself for 90 days and let Grinder show you how amazing you can be. All you have to do is show up, follow the meal plan and listen to Dave. Thank you to all the trainers at Grinder and to Dave DePew for bringing me back to life. I feel renewed and energized.

My wife and I visited SD for a week and we didn’t want to go to a big box chain. Looking at photos online, this place ticked all the boxes. When we arrived, we were happy to see a parking lot and not street parking. Signing up for a day pass was fast and easy. Was never too crowded. TONS of equipment to pursue strongman, powerlifting, bodybuilding, etc. Love how the gym flows from inside to out so you can get some sun while lifting. The only small complaints I can really think of are having some fans outside in the covered patio area would be so nice, and maybe some smaller speakers throughout the place instead of one big one in the middle and maybe some more ab-focused equipment, but that’s hardly something to knock a star off for. We’ll be coming back here for sure the next time we’re in town. Had a couple of great workouts here this week!

Enough can not be said about culture Dave DePew has created at Grinder Gym. It is a place that exists as both a safe haven and a sanctuary of beautiful pain! The community environment here is like no other. From day 1, you will find some of the most embracing members who are there to work, and to uplift those around. The workouts here are a challenge from beginning to end, but you will be pushed and encouraged to find your strength and work through your limits. The trainers are amazing, creating a family atmosphere where everyone succeeds. If you are looking for a place to take your fitness to another level, and create a lifestyle that will change the way you feel every second in every area of your life, Grinder Gym is the place. "Hit it!"

I just started going to the Grinder Gym four weeks ago and I can honestly say, if you are looking to get in shape and have a different outlook on working out, than look no further. Forget about all the other gyms or boot camps out there, this place is the best! The workouts aren't easy, but you will get the results you’re looking for. Dave and his trainers coach you along your way to achieve your personal goals by teaching you the right way to complete each exercise. The workouts change daily, and help you achieve the results you are looking for. My wife and I are planning on continuing our memberships and we can't wait to see the results in three to six months. Thanks for a new start Dave, Grinder Gym and all the trainers. Steve.

Grinder Gym is the Mecca of the Fitness scene in San Diego. More so, Dave - the owner of Grinder Gym is the most humble, knowledgeable, greatest half teddy bear/ half -Beast of man you will ever meet. I have been a Professional Trainer for 15 years now and I still go over to grinder gym to train and talk with Dave. He has helped myself and many other Competitors be successful in the arena aswell as in life. I have nothing but Love for Dave and Grinder gym. -I have met some of my greatest life friends here, this community is so humble. Doesn’t matter if your a beginner ready to learn or a Pro ready to compete. Grinder is the Spot! Much Love, Big Sean

Grinder Gym is a very humbling experience. I thought I was in decent shape before signing up this past Sept. I found out the first week that I was far from where I thought I was and where I wanted to be. There's no cotton candy or fake fluff here, you're going to sweat, you're going to be tired, but you won't quit, all the instructors will make sure of that. I'm turning my goals into reality finally with the help of the people of Grinder Gym. This is a no frills place, and it will be hard work, but you will see results. It is an encouraging atmosphere and has all the tools you need to take your fitness and/or transformation goals to the next level.

There is no other gym/bootcamp/fitness program like Grinder Gym. Dave DePew has created an amazing environment for people that want to lose weight, improve their health and get in incredible shape. Everyone at Grinder Gym, clients and trainers, are friendly and become your accountability partner to achieving your fitness goals. The classes are always challenging, but setup so that first timers can join and easily fit in with people that have been going for years. After losing 65lbs and getting down to 5% body fat on the Grinder I took a break. Big mistake. Now I'm back to get in shape again.

If you’re a serious lifter who wants a place where you can train as hard as you want and not be judged or kicked out because you’re actually TRAINING HARD, this is the place. Specialty bars and strength equipment galore and more grip implements than you could even dream of if that’s your thing. The owner, Dave DePew’s heart and soul went into this place and it shows. Good people, good energy, train however hard or light as you want. I’ve felt welcome there as what feels like family since 2018. Probably the coolest gym to stop in for a day pass on your vacation too.

If you are a serious iron addict this is the gym for you! It has a much more intense, hardcore training atmosphere than a commercial gym which really helps to get pumped up for your workouts. This gym has EVERYTHING. It has all the machines and equipment you'd expect a normal commercial gym to have and then way more specialty equipment for practices like armwrestling, strongman, bodybuilding, powerlifting, crossfit and even grip training. The owner Dave is super nice and is very helpful with any questions or concerns you may have. 10/10 recommend this gym!

Everything you need in one place!! Beginner? No problem, they will take care of you. The people that workout there will show you how and encourage you. There are so many programs to choose from. whatever fitness level you may be at. I have worked out in gyms for years and NOTHING beats Grinder Gym! People from 18-70 years of age work out here. Age is not a factor. Drive is and that is what Grinder and Dave will show you. You can do whatever you set your heart and mind to do. I joined 4 years ago and will never leave. Best gym. Best people. Family.

I found Grinder Gym when looking for an outdoor facility that offered plenty of space to train and a variety of equipment. I'm definitely a member for life now. It's an old-school throwback to the Arnold-era, awesome for real weightlifting and no-BS workouts, but the amount of new equipment added over the past year makes it a great place to start for beginners as well. The owner has invested heavily in extra equipment so there's no waiting for plates to become available, and I've always had plenty of space to work out in. Highly recommend.

If you want results, go here. I had been a member in the past, lost tons of weight (25 lbs and 8.75" in my waist), then thought I could do it on my own...just never enjoyed myself on my own...I had gained some weight back and decided to give Grinder another go because of a 6 week challenge they offered. Now, I have come to the conclusion that not only does this place work to get the results I want, but I actually like going to my work out! It's a cool little community, and they help motivate you to get results...what more do you need!?

I started working out at the Grinder recently and I love this place. I've tried other bootcamps and gyms, and nothing has compared to the Grinder. Dave and all the other trainers work hard to make sure that everyone who comes here gets a dynamic workout. Whether you are in great shape or trying to get in shape you will be challenged. Dave also does body fat testing and measurements if you want, which is a great way to track your improvement. I am so happy that I found this place, because the Grinder is truly one of a kind.

Dave and his awesome team know how to bring a work out inside of an hour and land all of their members the results they're looking for. The Grinder is an awesome community of people that welcome new members and motivate each other to get healthy and stay healthy! Mixing up workouts, keeping the schedule packed with classes, encouraging community outside of the gym and coming together to participate in fitness events around town, Grinder Gym is definitely a place to go if you're looking to make a change for the better!

Good environment for the athlete who wants to take his/her performance to the next level or for the hardcore gym goer who just wants to get STUPID STRONK!! especialized top of the line equipment, bands, chains, every specialty bar you could want (and some you didnt know you wanted) strongman stones, yokes, viking press, AND an outside yard if you want to tan the cheeks while you lift! The owner is super down to earth and just one look at him you can tell he USES his equipment! Amazing place, 5 stars!

What can I say. I've been coming to this gym for going on 8 years now. The training is top notch. The location is freaking awesome. Do some curls outside with the mural of Arnold watching over you, the local 24 hour will never seem the same again. The classes are excellent, and the friendships I've made here will last a lifetime. Can not give this place a higher recommendation, as it's already at the very tip top of the list. Come in for a class and see what it's all about for yourself.

Looking for a big, sparkling gym with all the bells and whistles, nice bathrooms, and the latest equipment? Grinder is not it... keep moving. Looking for a true iron shop where people care more about true fitness and goals than vanity and strutting around in the hottest workout gear? This just might be your place. No fancy machines here, just lots of weights, plates, old school grind, sweat and lots of respect. Indoor and outdoor "school yard" set up, fair pricing and good hours.

What a family! Great group of people, trainers, and facility. This place feels like home. I've been working out at the Grinders Gym for close to 10 years off and on. I've been taught so much over the years by Dave DePew and trainers like nutrition, chemistry of nutrition, different types of diets per type of goals, proper form, stretching, the Anatomy of Muscles, ligaments, and tendons. A very comfortable place to work out, it's part of my family. Highly recommend!!! - Stanton

After my personal trainer had moved to another city, I took her recommendation and joined Grinder Gym. Dave, the owner, showed me everything and anything I needed to know. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the facilities have everything you need for powerlifting, strongman, grip training, and so much more! I have already completed one powerlifting competition here, and plan to do another in October. This gym is great for all experience levels, and has a great vibe!

Grinder is a one of a kind gym and Dave Depew is a one of a kind trainer. A real master in the world of personal training. I've known him for 14 years and have seen him over and over again help people transform there bodies and lead them to a healthier life. He's been a real mentor and friend to me and I have the utmost respect for him and his gym. If your looking for a gym that will help you achieve your health and fitness goals then Grinder Gym is the right place for you!

I have been a member for Grinder Gym for 2 years and it is by far the best gym in San Diego. I love the fact that the workouts are always changing so that your body is constantly being challenged. In one hour, you can get an amazing workout that leaves you coming back for more. The atmosphere is very friendly and motivating. Dave, the owner, is always trying out new things to keep the gym on the cutting edge. I recommend this gym to anyone wanting to get real results!

I was visiting from out of state and wanted to find a gym where deadlifting, etc. is not frowned upon. Grinders gym was awesome. I liked working out in the open air with my teenage son. Great selection of equipment and free weights. I would definitely re-visit next time I am in town. I gave 4 stars instead of 5 because the price to work out for the day was way too high in my opinion - $15 for a one day pass. Liked the atmosphere overall - great people.

Grinder gym is that perfect strength athlete atmosphere. Tons of equipment and options for strongman, powerlifting, arm wrestling, etc. with every type of bar you could imagine. the owner is super friendly and has tons of wisdom to help along the way. It’s great for a stop in if your just traveling. I have a strongman competition in 4 weeks and they had every piece of equipment I needed to train for it.

I had never felt comfortable in a gym until I came to Grinder. The energy is infectious and the support is genuine. No one will look at you sideways and everyone will root you on for you to reach your full potential. You can crush your goals whatever they may be, losing weight, building muscle, competing in strongman, if you put in the work, Grinder will help you every step of the way!

A life saver is a perfect word for this gym!!! I have always worked out, never really enjoyed it but did it. This gym is amazing! The classes are insane, the trainers are amazing and the grinders are so supportive it's like a family. The support you get from the owner Dave is incredible. I can't say enough about this small gym. It's like a family where you get insanely in shape!!!

Love this place! The trainers are amazing and offer tons of support and encouragement on your fitness journey. The workouts are tough but rewarding and produce amazing results quickly if you commit to it! I've been going to Grinder about 3 months and have achieved better results in that time than I have in years at other gyms. Get off your ass and go Grind!

One of the greatest gyms I’ve ever been to, great atmosphere, extremely knowledgeable staff and owner, you’re not gonna find this kind of gym for the price anywhere near San Diego. Extremely happy with this gym and absolutely recommend coming here if you are looking to get strong and be surrounded by great people!

Amazing gym - has everything you would need for strength training / bodybuilding / conditioning, and the monthly membership is very affordable! Owner is friendly and welcoming - you'll feel at home here in no time. One of the best finds in San Diego for anyone serious about their training/conditioning.

Amazing place to workout! If you are seriously looking too change your life from bad to great, and have a consistent work out that gives you everything you need from cardio to weights to the coaches, the owner you must try to appreciate The Grinder gym.. no other gym compares... 24 hr is a joke!

The best gym I've been to stateside with an awesome owner whose very personable and enjoys running his gym. There's plenty of iron and no wait like other gyms when trying to get your lift on, as it's never over crowded. If you want a real gym without the hassle and crowds this is it.

Best gymn in San Diego. Best support staff and personal trainer's too, very professionally operated, everything about this gymn is superb, it's extremely clean and sanitized, this is the only place in San Diego for serious athletes to get in shape and stay fit.

@50 I thought... no big deal I can continue to do it at 24 hour, but it was boring and sucked! I lost the motivation ! Then a friend introduced me to GRINDER.... Awesome! Drink the coolaid... it's good for you! Give it 60 days and you'll be hooked! ✌️Out …

By far the best gym I've ever attended! Dave is an amazing guy who makes me feel welcomed every time I walk through those doors. Whenever I travel to San Diego I make it my personal business to stop by and get a great workout in. Thank you so much Dave!

I went there workout and a guy named cole started to insult me because i was only benching 120 and started calling me weak and just being very rude i asked what his problem was and he yelled at me telling me to get out and threatened to call police

It’s a lifting mecca. They have everything you’ve ever seen online: all the powerlifting and strongman. The huge outdoor area is legit one of the coolest places to lift I’ve ever seen. Plus they got all the energy drinks and more for purchase.

Hands down best "no BS" gym in SD. Coach Dave has a long and successful track record in the body transformation industry and he'll keep you accountable without putting you down- no matter your body type or skill level. I love this gym.

Came out to see my brother who goes here and he invited me to work out with him. Really chilled, Dave and Andrew were extremely welcoming and overall great guys. If I was local I definitely would be going here for working out!

The Grinder Gym Team is more than just a gym that has all the unique and bada*s equipment one could ever dream of but it’s also a team & a family for people to come train & get better through health & fitness.

Phenomenal atmosphere, all the iron you could want. Lots of different types of workout equipment, from machines to free weights, Olympic lifting platforms to strongman competition gear. Great job, Dave!

Power lift, cross fit, classes, grip strength, strong man workouts this gym has everything. Dave is always bringing in new and different equipment to try out. No selfie thots or posing douche bags.

Great gym. Has everything you need to get big and strong, whether you are going the Strong Man route, Powerlifting, or Bodybuilding etc..... Dave is a great guy and memberships are reasonable.

We went to deliver some weights and gym equipment to Grinder. It was my first time there. The equipment they have there is amazing. They have a lot of outdoor equipment and a crossfit box.

Dope gym, nothing like training outdoors and with old-school equipment. Wish there were more of it's kind around other cities...was a pleasure to train there! …

Awesome space to workout. They have all the equipment you could need for pretty much any strength sport. This is a no frills strength gym, will definitely visit again if I'm in SD.

I have had a few bad experiences with fitness classes and gym trainers in the recent years. This gym is very nice, clean by my experiences, and the trainers are very nice.

Couldn't ask for a better gym in San Diego. A serious gym with a seriously insane setup. Indoor-outdoor hybrid with a client base dedicated to proper strength training.

Let me be succinct: I'm a former gym owner, so I know a bit whereof I speak. This is the best place to train in San Diego, bar none. Highly recommend.

Great gym with strong people, a good collection of equipment, and lots of places to work out outside. The owner was super nice, but even stronger.

Very happy to know this crew. From strongman to arm wrestling to powerlifting and beyond this facility is a beacon for San Diego strength.

Amazing gym and staff. Dave is awesome. My son won the strongman competition, so you know this place has what it takes to make champions!

Endless dumbbells (3 full sets up to 150 lbs) and weight systems, fair price, super nice owner (Dave), and a fair price. Count me in.

Incredible gym with everything a powerlifter, strongman or bodybuilder would need. One of my favorite places to train in San Diego.

Awesome gym. All of the equipment you could need. A hardcore feel with a welcoming environment. Highly highly recommend.

One of the best gyms around! Has all the equipment you could want and it’s new! Love the outdoor workout area!

Great gym. Great community of lifters. The gym has a ton of strongman tools, and plenty of squat racks.

Best gym I could find in the San Diego area, great equipment, great atmosphere, highly recommend.

Great community, Best Facility for anyone taking there exercise training to the next level.

I hit 5 lbs above my front squat PR for a triple. Love this place, love the energy.

Best Gym in SD for strength sports and training. Excellent staff and coaches

Well equipped gym with lots of free weights and soooo many strongman items!

Unprofessional staff creates a hostile environment. Would not recommend.

It is great place to work out and I really like the staff!

So much equipment. There is really just so much equipment

Thank you Grinder for bringing me back to life! …

Has that old school gym feel and everything you need

Best gym in San Diego!!! …

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This gym was amazing! Excited to come back

A real blood sweat and iron gym. The best!

NO SIGN FOR GYM ENTRANCE???

This place is awesome.

Nice place to train.

Love this place

Cool place