Kansas City Barbell

Fantastic experience: We are traveling and had a great experience here. The gym is very clean and there is room to move around between equipment. There are many platforms and squat stands, and several racks as well. Great gym for powerlifting, weightlifting, or general lifting. They have chalk, belts, straps, even a log and a few other things for Strong Man. The owners/trainers are friendly and are happy to help if you are looking for tips.

Fantastic experience: They have great equipment and the gym is clean. The trainers are very helpful and always willing to give you a hand. Price is competitive.

Fantastic experience: The coaches are all friendly, helpful, incredibly knowledgeable, and incredibly welcoming! The gym is approachable for novices like me, but also has plenty of options for more advanced athletes. The overall culture is great, and I feel that the owners have gone out of their way to build a space that's positive and inclusive. There's something here for everyone who wants to get stronger and feel better.

Fantastic experience: Great instruction and amazing lifting environment. It is refreshing to go to a place dedicated to lifting heavy weight safely and properly. I have never been to a gym like this for adults. As a former athlete, I love the individualized attention and supportive atmosphere that allows me to compete with my previous goals and cheer on others crushing theirs.

Fantastic experience: I've been going here since 2019 and it is the best gym I've ever been part of. The coaches are competent, the business model is a best-of-both-worlds approach to training, the equipment is great, the other clients are nice. It is never too crowded. Even before the pandemic, the owners maintained a very tidy and sanitary gym. Once the lockdown ended, they went above and beyond what was expected of them to keep gym members safe, and so far there have been no known transmissions of coronavirus that took place at the gym. I highly recommend them.

Fantastic experience: A Year In Review: An Uplifting & Safe Gym to Get Super Strong & Build Healthy Habits with Genuinely Good People ***I had so many good things to say about this gym that google said I exceeded my character limit so this is a condensed version, believe it or not!*** **TL:DR - The coaches are encouraging and great educators. They train you on proper form and it's a very safe, uplifting, progressive environment. There are zero creepy vibes. They treat everyone like adults and while professional, they're also friendly and easy to get along with. They're experts at what they do. My life is better because I have trained with them at their gym and I can do things I once thought were impossible.** I became a member at this wonderful gym just as the May 2020 Pandemic Stay Home Order was lifted. My goals were simple: 1. Safely Strength Train. 2. Avoid Injury. 3.Become Stronger. Live Better. I’ve never played a sport in my entire life, let alone lifted a barbell. Let alone ever even LOOKED at a barbell, come to think of it - it was foreign and unfamiliar object for sure. Thankfully, Co-owner and Coach, Sean Dunston, was absolutely fantastic and reaffirmed those exact sentiments at every step of the learning process: “You are learning. It’s OK, you’re doing great!”. I never feel hesitant to ask questions or get critiques. Safety was a major MUST HAVE on my list of gym attributes. And the coaches and policies here meet and exceed all things “safety”. We started with a PVC pipe before I “graduated” to a barbell. Not even mad. I hired Sean for personal training to get started and he helped me learn proper form and how to safely do all the gym moves. I am sure “gym moves” is not the technical term for these things. But I have learned SO many gym moves and am still learning and improving - and actually everyone who comes here seems to show up with that attitude - to learn and improve and just do the best they can do and have a grand time doing it. I may not know what ANYONE actually looks like (because MASKS FOR A WHOLE YEAR NOW) but everyone is very respectful, friendly, positive, encouraging and GENUINE. All the coaches are like, expert level at all the “gym moves” and train people for major lifting competitions that are very important and prestigious and I think that’s super cool. BUT they also train people like me, who do not do competitions of any kind, and they have always treated me the same as any world-class athlete and like everytime I walked in, it’s my competition day- Everyday I walk through the doors is the day GOALS get goaled. I may be lifting a tiny fraction of what their Olympian clients are lifting, but they’re just as excited to help me, and excited FOR me. I have to especially thank Sean for all of his coaching and training. Sean is a fantastic educator - Like just the best. He really takes the time to understand what members and clients are needing and is very understanding, patient, and did I mention he’ was a FANTASTIC educator? I started with just bodyweight and a PVC pipe, and I remember that being difficult. But now I can do squats with 53+kg and deadlift 71+kg. Something - I never would have thought I’d be able to do...or even knew that was something people did. The heaviest weight I’d ever picked up before coming into this gym was a 10lb dumbell and that felt HEAVY to me. I have absolutely had several pounds of fat loss and noticed significant body recomposition. I can fit back into clothing from “3 sizes ago”. MOST importantly to me, I have no back pain and can get through my physically challenging job as a wedding photographer without pain or muscle soreness the following day. It’s honestly shocking at how different my post-wedding days are. My quality of life has absolutely improved and I feel stronger and more capable. I could not be happier with where I am physically in life. Thank you to Sean, Jay, Scott, and Alex for being such awesome coaches day-in and out, and creating an environment like this where literally anyone can come in and get strong and have a great time doing it.

Fantastic experience: I lifted at KCBB for a year before taking a break due to personal burnout. It is a well equipped barbell gym, and the facilities are clean and well kept. The coaching is excellent; their programming is scientifically based and they give great feedback and tips. Everyone is so friendly and encouraging. In the one instance I felt uncomfortable with another member, I brought it to a coach and he handled the situation immediately. They care deeply about each member’s success and wellbeing, and have navigated the pandemic like champions. I consider the coaches my friends, and when I feel ready to lift again, I will absolutely be coming “home” to Kansas City Barbell.

Fantastic experience: Awesome gym! Anyone lifting in KC, this is the place!

Positive experience: I was a member for almost three years. I started at a beginner level and slowly gained strength with consistent effort. Upon signing up, you enter into a specific program depending on your goals. I did the Strong and Fit program and I liked much of the exercises though I ultimately plateaued in strength, possibly due to some unrelated health issues. Pros: You do not have to pre-plan exercises at all as each day's exercises are provided in an app. There are many good quality racks and random types of equipment you get to try depending on your program. The programs should help you gain strength/get fit if you are consistently doing the exercises and challenging yourself. This in turn keeps you motivated to exercise regularly. The other members are great and you might even make some friends. Cons: To come in and exercise, you are required to reserve a time-slot in the morning, lunch, or afternoon/evening, Monday-Saturday with varying hours on holidays. If you're looking for flexibility in your exercises or schedule, like an all-access gym, this isn't it. Also, I learned the hard way that some of the coaches do not take even minor criticism well, so it's best to keep your opinions to yourself. I ultimately found it impossible to avoid some of the coaches' big personalities and the drama that comes with it.

Fantastic experience: my best friend and I just moved to Kansas City this summer and didn’t know anyone. we were looking for a place to get fit and find a community. this place is definitely that! all of the trainers are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. you will get an app that tells you what your workout is every day, but if you’re like me, you don’t really know what all the terminology is. that’s where the trainers come in and ask you if you need help and will always help with your form. this gym is open to all people. they have a ZERO harassment policy and I’ve seen that first hand. everyone I’ve spoken to at this gym is very interesting and happy to give suggestions on things to do in KC. can’t wait to go back!

Fantastic experience: This place has been great! I have been trying and failing to get into a regular exercise mindset. Motivation and consistency has been off and on for a few years now. I've loved KCBB and it has helped me get back into a routine and enjoy working out again. The time slots available have been flexible and fit my schedule and there are numerous workout programs to choose from to fit what you are looking for. I feel like everyone is really laid back and have a genuinely great attitude to make it an enjoyable place to be. I have never felt out of place (even for being a beginner). All the coaches have been very helpful with adjusting my techniques and movements and make it easy to ask questions and get feedback as needed. The programming is at your own pace and it's gotten me excited about exercising again! Looking forward to seeing continued progress!

Fantastic experience: Positive: Professionalism , Quality Great group of people that are here to help you reach your goals whatever they might be. They are honest and up front and run their gym that way. Come give it a shot and you’ll enjoy it.

Fantastic experience: Great gym, great atmosphere, and great coaches. If you are looking for the best gym in KC this is it.

Fantastic experience: Great gym for those who want to learn strength sports from Weightlifting to Powerlifting. Fun and inclusive environment with great people.

Fantastic experience: Absolutely wonderful facility! Great community. Coaches that care.

Fantastic experience: This place is by far my favorite of all the gyms I have been a part of. The coaches are beyond knowledgeable and supportive of whatever your goals may be with programming that’s smart and supports those goals. I was coached for my first powerlifting meet that was also hosted by this gym and I’m excited to train for future meets with these coaches.

Fantastic experience: Positive: Communication , Professionalism Jay is very knowledgeable and always treats me and all other members with a great level of respect!!

Fantastic experience: Amazing place to grow your strength and your self. The coaches work hard to get you into shape and care deeply about your personal growth. I am in the best shape of my life because of the coaching and guidance I receive at Barbell.

Fantastic experience: Positive: Communication , Professionalism , Quality The coaches here are as good as it gets. KCBB is an inviting and welcoming gym for lifters and really anyone who wants to get strong for any reason. Highly suggest you come check it out, the coaching and atmosphere produces real lasting results.

Fantastic experience: To preface this, I left a review that was not fair to the business as I hadn't checked my email to see that the issue was resolved. Instead I got mad and left a review without consulting to see if it was fixed first (it was). This gym is great, the staff exudes passion for weightlifting. I think, I would have benefited more if I had more experience going into it which doesn't fall back on the gym. Even though I didn't have experience, the staff particularly Jay and Sean always went out of their way to try and help. As far as my previous comment about the nutrition, it does in fact say that on the website and that was my fault for not reading it ahead of time and making an impulse decision. (Again not the gym's fault). I do recommend the Gym.

Fantastic experience: Where to start on this amazing gym. My husband and I have spent the last 5 years looking for a gym just like this! Not a Crossfit gym, not all cardio class, just good old fashioned lifting weights. I feel like coming into Kansas City Barbell I already had a good grasp on how to lift and on form, but I have learned so much that has bettered my ability to lift properly. The coaches here have so much knowledge and really want to see you get stronger. Most gyms I have gone to would just have you go through the motions over and over again with no improvement but here I see a difference in my strength and my lifting ability. #1 gym in my book. Take it from someone who has joined over 6 gyms with in the last 5 years. This was exactly what I was looking for.

Fantastic experience: When I heard that Jay and Sean (owners) were going to open a barbell club along with starting a powerlifting group, I was immediately interested in joining. I had been interested in competitive powerlifting for a long time but never had fully devoted the time over the last decade since I had embattled some injuries/setbacks. Also facilities devoted to strength along with having the proper equipment are somewhat hard to find as well. So when Kansas City Barbell opened 10 blocks away…...and I’m not getting any younger, I signed up! Upon starting, my primary goals were to learn the nuances of powerlifting from someone more experienced, as well as have a framework to follow, and to finally accomplish an officially sanctioned powerlifting meet. Jay and Sean both have a lot of real world knowledge and experience in competing themselves for many years as well as coaching others who compete. I have had a great experience at KCBB and would recommend it to anyone considering their services, whether you plan to compete or not. Jay and Sean provide outstanding coaching to their plethora of classes and groups that are available most days of the week. On top of that, there is an awesome community atmosphere that has been developed as well. Come in, work hard, make progress, meet new friends, cheer on your brethren, and feel accomplished.

Fantastic experience: Jay and Sean are the best! They don't just care about you lifting heavy, they care about you lifting properly. There's a lot of different classes and they create a program specifically for you. They have developed a great environment where you feel encouraged and excited to come to the gym. So happy to be a part of this gym!

Fantastic experience: Knowledgeable coaches and great atmosphere...

Fantastic experience: You can tell these guys care deeply about what they practice and they care about their clients individually. Great facility with great equipment - it’s exactly what you’d hope for in a powerlifting or weightlifting focused gym.

Fantastic experience: I'm not sure there are words that could accurately capture the awesomeness that is Kansas City Barbell. Since becoming a member of KCBB, I have seen my lifts improve - from better form to an increase in the amount of weight I can lift. It's so incredibly exciting. The coaches are supportive and fun, but will challenge the hell out of you. Plus the members are like a family. Everyone cheers each other on. We hang out outside of the gym. It's a cool and diverse community, filled with people of all ages and backgrounds. I have never actually counted down the hours until I get to go the gym...but I do now. If you haven't tried this place out, you need to get here ASAP! You absolutely will not regret it.

Fantastic experience: Great gym/barbell club, owners/coaches have a ton of experience and are great to work with. I would definitely recommend if you want to get strong and are looking for a group to train with.

Fantastic experience: Amazing place, and even had kilo plates! As a weightlifter who travels a lot dropping in can always be a hassle. At KCB I was so welcomed and the coaches were extremely accommodating, they even gave me preworkout snacks! If you're in the area and are a weightlifter this is definitely the place to be. Small, but spacious, great equipment and really really nice people. If I'm in town again I'll definitely be coming back!