Push Your Limits

William J Drummond

4 years ago

Been a regular client of Gary Shields for ten years. Regular visits and support from him and his staff are a big part of why I'm in good health at age 77. He gives you individual attention and works within your limitations, while urging you on to set new standards.

Kelby McIntosh

3 years ago

I wanted to support a local black owned business in Oakland -- and this gym was the best choice EVER! Brother Gary has so much knowledge about bodybuilding and the prices for his training are phenomenal!

EO

3 years ago

Great place to get your workout…Gary Snr & Jnr, both love what they do passionately & it comes out in their sessions with every customer. Patient, meticulous but steady…helping you push yourself above your comfort zone. Definitely recommended for anyone looking for a local gym in downtown Oakland

Taylor Richard

6 years ago

Life changing. I've trained with pro-trainers in the past & wanted to re-invest with a personal trainer to get back into shape. I was a member at the YMCA down the street & applied to get on with one of their PTs but they kept giving me the run-around & trying to put me with trainers who lacked the experience I was looking for. One night I walked by God's Gym on the way to my car & decided to see what they do. Gary Shields, aka Brother Gary, the founder, gave me a warm welcome. After asking about my goals he introduced me to his son, Gary JR, who has been working with me ever since. This family has amazing heart & their prices are very reasonable (over $100 less than the Y or 24hr fitness trainers) & you get high-quality, focused, personalized training. They are very skilled, educated, fun, & motivational; everything you want in a trainer. The sessions are 30min, focused weight-training, but they welcome you to do extra cardio training in their back room before or after your sessions. I've already slimmed down a lot & am putting on muscle fast. They directly cater your workouts to your specific goals. Brother Gary's family history & the history of this gym is incredibly rich & inspiring - so much so that they could make a feature film on it. If you take the time to learn about their story, you'll learn that their purpose is to help people of all walks of life reach greatness & health - you don't have to be religious or even believe in a God to workout here & be a believer of this family. These are the types of small-businesses that people in the community NEED to be supporting because they genuinely care about your health, progress, & truly treat you like you're one of the family.

Michael Evans

6 years ago

Legacy. That's what comes to mind when I think of God's Gym. I was honored to work out here and I can say without a doubt it's the best gym I've ever come across.They care about you and treat you like family. If you show up, you will see results quickly! Trust me. They know how to train you to meet your goals and always were always able to work around my injuries. Give it 3 months, you will see big changes. Gary and the family are building a legacy, we need more business like this in our communities. Can't recommend enough, 5 stars!

Geoff White

9 years ago

I've been going here for well over a year, 3 times a week. This is a personal training establishment, so Gary or one if his other assistants gives you a focused high energy strength training for 30 intense minutes, flowed by 15 minutes of cardio. He is very intuitive and knows how to push you without risk of injury. Gary is disciplined but compassionate. There is no music playing, no cursing, no cruising. This is a very safe space for women. Lots of positive energy, in the heart of Oakland. Everyone is welcome at God's Gym all ages, races religions and orientations as long as you bring respect for others in the door with you. Some long time patrons are an inspiration to us all. One man started when he was 70, he's still in there 3 times a week at 87. I noticed the payoff when I had to move a few weeks ago, I was hoisting boxes and desks and even doors like it weren't no thing, thanks to my developed core strength. Don't let the name put you off. Everyone who behaves with respect is welcome, no one quoting scripture or proselytizing. But I'm sure if you were to ask, Gary would be willing to share his spirituality with you. To paraphrase Gandhi, if all Christians were like Gary, the whole world would be Christian. ☺️

Renata Gray

4 years ago

I am 65 years old and I ’ve been going to God’s gym for about 20 years now. These trainers truly care and know how to get the best out of you. It's about Mind, body and spirit. I do three, 30 minute sessions each week. The workouts have made a big difference in my life. Gary Shields is also a certified nutritionist. With his knowledge and encouragement, I lost about 100 pounds. I’ve also had two hip replacements. Gary geared my workouts around that. As time passed, my sessions have become more challenging and I am stronger God’s Gym is my extended family. My experience couldn’t be better. Looking for a trainer... God’s Gym Is The Place!

Paula White

4 years ago

Hi, my name is Paula (aka sister White). I’ve been a member of Gods Gym for about 20 yrs. We don’t mess around at Gods Gym. We work hard! We have fun! and we keep coming back. Gary is my trainer. He’s the best! Gary has helped me maintain a healthy lifestyle from day one. He is very knowledgeable on how to get fit and stay fit. He’s full of resources, be it your diet, a weight loss goal or even if you want that dress to fit perfect, he’ll help you get there. All you have to do is show up and be consistent. I always leave Gods gym felling good, smiling and ready to start my day! I appreciate Gary and the entire training staff. We are Family! Thank You! Paula

jeffrey rogers

6 months ago

Absolutely fantastic! I'm still new, but feel like part of the family, because that's how you're treated. Don't get me wrong, you are not gonna be allowed to cheat yourself. 🤣. You will do the work and be motivated to get it done. I can't recommend enough.. …

Sarah Elsner

6 months ago

I was invited to God’s Gym for leg day and immediately upon my arrival I meet Gary. Gary’s whole energy field was bright and uplifting and I knew that I was in great hands. Picture this- a gym where it feels like the 1980’s in the best way. No pretense , no “ lifestyle branding” just you, your gymmates , and Gary pumping iron. I felt like I was back in the gym with my dad when I was a kiddo. I loved being part of the camaraderie- everyone cheering you on to see you succeed and Gary counting your reps and motivating you to crush it. Although it was only a half hour session I began to question what I was actually accomplishing at my home gym. At God’s gym people weren’t scrolling their phones- they were present and they were putting in the work.