The beginning of 2024 is here, and many of us in Salem, Oregon are setting our sights on personal health and fitness goals. Whether you’re looking to build strength, increase flexibility, or just find a community of like-minded fitness enthusiasts, Salem has a number of local gyms that can help you accomplish your goals. Here’s a guide to some of the best gyms in our area.

West Coast Strength

West Coast Strength in West Salem stands out for their welcoming community and range of personalized training options. Voted as the “Best Gym” in Salem from 2019 to 2022, they offer a close-knit gym experience, emphasizing the value and connection of their dedicated members and their hard work. Key features include personalized training with elite coaches, group training for a more communal experience, and specialized athletic training. The gym prides itself on a great atmosphere, clean and organized facilities, and knowledgeable staff, making it a highly recommended choice for Salem residents.

Courthouse Club Fitness

Courthouse Club Fitness, a staple in Salem’s fitness community since 1977, has evolved from a building with a few racquetball courts into five full-service gyms. These gyms offer a wide range of exercise experiences. Their approach includes group exercise classes, small-group training, and inviting spaces designed to infuse joy into fitness and workouts. With a philosophy that exercise is better together, Courthouse Club Fitness focuses on creating a community environment where workouts are both enjoyable and effective, ensuring members consistently achieve their fitness goals.

Withnell Family YMCA

The Withnell Family YMCA (also known as the Salem Family YMCA) provides a wide range of health and wellness programs in addition to being a gym. Located in the heart of downtown Salem, the YMCA has been serving the community since 1892. They offer programs in child care, youth sports, group classes, swimming, and more, emphasizing their commitment to building healthy spirits, minds, and bodies.

They recently opened a new 51,000 square-foot community center, enhancing their commitment to youth development, community fitness, and social responsibility. The new facility includes an accessible warm water pool, childcare and youth development rooms, community spaces, expanded fitness facilities and new equipment, a regulation-size gymnasium, additional locker rooms, a rooftop terrace and track, and the Thrive café.

Roadside CrossFit

Roadside CrossFit offers a welcoming and supportive community for everyone, regardless of fitness level. They provide varied and challenging workouts that emphasizing personal growth and community support. Roadside CrossFit is dedicated to helping members reach their fitness goals through personalized coaching and a community-oriented approach.

Catalyst Community Fitness

Catalyst Community Fitness prides themselves on being more than just a gym; they’re a movement to create a positive physical and social change. Recognized for their inclusivity, they are the first gym in Salem and third in Oregon to be acknowledged by the Out Foundation. With a vision of fostering a world filled with compassion, empathy, and love, Catalyst Community Fitness believes in empowering every body in the community. Their values of resistance, representation, and empowerment reflect their commitment to inspiring physical and social change and recognizing the strength in everyone.

The West Box

The West Box in West Salem offers an engaging CrossFit fitness experience focused on community and results-driven programming. They offer programs including group training, personal training, and nutrition coaching. The gym prides itself on helping members achieve significant health and fitness improvements, no matter where they are in their fitness journey. With a commitment to member success and a philosophy that fitness wins are more enjoyable and effective when shared, The West Box creates a supportive environment for everyone.

Flex Fitness

Flex Fitness is known for its flexible schedule and varied workout options, including personal training, group classes, and complete Inbody analysis program. As a 24/7 fitness center in Salem known for its “no-nonsense” approach, Flex Fitness caters to those focused on growth and development in their fitness regimens. They’re a great choice for those with busy lifestyles who need a gym that fits their schedule. They also have an in-house supplement store, offering the latest sports performance supplements.

Iron Phoenix Athletics

Iron Phoenix Athletics in Salem is committed to helping members achieve their fitness goals at any level. They recognize that the hardest part is often taking the first step—and they want to start the conversation where you’re at. They focus on creating a lifestyle gym environment, excelling in teaching strong fundamentals to both new students and seasoned athletes. Emphasizing quality professional coaching, they strive to be a lifelong coach for their members.

barre3 Salem

barre3 Salem is ideal for those seeking a low-impact, high-results workout. It’s particularly popular among those looking to enhance flexibility and core strength. Blending strength, cardio, and mindfulness through breath work makes up the “3” in barre3.

Their classes are designed to be empowering and accessible, focusing on building a strong body, a joyful spirit, and a feeling of connectedness. barre3 workouts are known for improving posture, muscle definition, and flexibility, providing a holistic approach to fitness.

The Rock Boxx Climbing Gym

For an adventurous twist on fitness, The Rock Boxx Climbing Gym offers indoor climbing experiences for all levels and ages. With 5,400 square feet of professionally designed climbing walls suitable for all experience levels, The Rock Boxx is a fun, engaging way to build strength and indurance.

In addition to bouldering, the gym offers classes, party room rentals, and youth programs to mentor kids in climbing skills. The facility also includes a full workout area—with Olympic bars, squat racks, dumbbells, and more—specialized training equipment for climbing, and a children’s area, making it an excellent option for both serious climbers and families.

Whatever your fitness goals are for 2024, there’s a local gym in Salem that’s ready to help you achieve them. Each gym has their own unique strengths, so consider your personal preferences and fitness objectives when choosing the right one for you. Here’s to a healthier, stronger you in the new year!

Elyssa at WhirLocal

About the Author

Elyssa Henry is the Content Director for WhirLocal Salem and has been with the company since 2015. Born and raised in Salem, she has a passion for supporting local businesses and fostering community connections. Elyssa loves using her skills to highlight the best of what Salem has to offer and is dedicated to creating content that reflects the heart of the community.

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