The Resilient Strength Reviews

Oakland’s Elite Barbell Gym

A man performing a deadlift exercise with a heavy barbell in a gym, while others watch and cheer him on, with workout equipment and resistance bands visible in the background.

I have such a great amount of respect for the place and community that Coaches Holly and Brian have built. Coach Paola also helps create an incredible space where people want to keep showing up for themselves and for their goals. The Resilient Strength is purposeful, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the athletes that enter through the front door, whether they are trying to introduce themselves to the world of strength training, or if they are trying to take their game to the next level…my only regret is that I took so long to find this space. I consider myself an aspiring powerlifting competitor. It is deeply reassuring to have personal coaching that will align with my interests, and is actively helping me achieve the dreams and PRs that I want to reach. The amount of growth I have experienced as an athlete in such a short amount of time is beyond my expectations, and I am exceptionally grateful for the ride. Highly recommended.

-Hrafn

A woman lifting a barbell overhead during weightlifting at a gym, with various weights and gym equipment in the background.

I love this gym and community. Brian and Holly have worked hard to create a safe and fun community. If you have fitness goals, this is the place to be. I just competed in my first weightlifting comp and Holly and Brian made it the most fun and smooth experience for me. I constantly feel supported and cared for, and couldn’t ask for better coaches to help me become a stronger athlete. Not to mention other coaches like Paola, who’s always ready to help. And, an in-house chiro, Finn, who’s super supportive and ready to care for your ailments. And the special mascot, Kilo. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive community!

-Erica

A young woman squatting in a gym, lifting a barbell with red weight plates, being assisted by a spotter. Other gym members are in the background, and banners hang from the ceiling.

This place has been life-changing. The community is welcoming, inclusive and supportive. The coaches are amazing. They lead with heart. Dogs are allowed. There is so much this gym offers. Worth every penny. Highly recommend dropping in for a free class to see for yourself.

-Danny

A man kneeling on the floor in front of a barbell with weights, clasping his hands together in a prayer position during a weightlifting competition at Menlo College gymnasium. In the background, multiple athletes and spectators are present, with banners hanging on the wall and a large banner spelling "MENLO COLLEGE."

Brian has been a exceptional coach - everything you want. I'm mostly a remote athlete, but cherish my chances to join my teammates at this gym - the energy is so supportive for everyone no matter their stage…My lifting has improved so far that I'm no longer just a dude in my basement, but actually have national championship in my crosshairs.

-Eric

Group of people in a gym, posing for a photo, some smiling and flexing, with a dog in the front. The background features a wall with neon lights reading 'Resilient Strength' and gym equipment.

Resilient Strength welcomed me with energy and enthusiasm from Day 1. The gym has a great mix of classes 6 days a week in addition to open gym for individual training 24/7/365. The community is supportive both with love love and tough love, depending on what you need. The coaches Holly and Brian take the time to actively listen to your goals and create customized programming to help you achieve them. They also check in constantly to get feedback from you. I have seen more gains with RS in my 40s than any other program I have tried on my way. Join the Resilient Strength team today - you will love it!

-Jeni

Man squatting and lifting a heavy barbell with weights in an indoor gym, while another man spots him, wearing a mask and holding the barbell.

Holly and Brian have truly created a unique gym experience by fostering an exceptional environment equipped with everything you need to succeed. From a wide range of equipment to a user-friendly app that allows you to book classes, reserve gym time, track progress, and connect with the community, they’ve thought of it all. Plus, they offer additional amenities like an on-site chiropractor and personal trainers to support your fitness journey.

At the heart of it all is a focus on respect and community. If these are values you appreciate, I highly recommend stopping by the gym to see for yourself!

-Nick

A woman and man are fist bumping in a gym, smiling, with a refrigerator and water cooler in the background.

Holly and Brian also speak of gym design from a social perspective, in addition to conforming to the practical constraints that govern a typical gym space — which is refreshing. Resilient is a unique gym experience with a sparkle of magic: palpable synergy builds from the consistent cross-pollination of different age groups and diverse backgrounds when training together in the same class, under the same roof. This is a gym that is designed to encourage living well through care and finding joy from social interactions in passing. Holly and Brian have built a gym and community with an amazing spirit, and I hope this goodness continues to deepen and expand.

-Julie

A person performing a weightlifting exercise in a gym, crouching with a barbell loaded with yellow and black weights. The gym has posters on the wall, including one that says "Resilient" and another for a weightlifting house. There is a person in the background lifting weights, and the room is equipped with gym gear and a wooden floor mat.

I’be been lifting at Resilient Strength for about a year now. Brian, Holly, and crew have built something really special - in addition to the kitted-out gym, they’re building a supportive community that encourages everyone to be their best. Everyone has a place there - whether you’re moving a ton of weight, or just getting started.

-John