Warhorse Barbell Club South
About
Warhorse Barbell Club South in Philadelphia offers focused training in MMA and wrestling disciplines through a small group format that provides personalized coaching and attention to proper form. The gym is led by experienced coaches including Chris Robert, a competitive athlete in powerlifting and Muay Thai; Jaclyn Moran; and Ahmad Nakib, who brings competition experience in powerlifting and push/pull events. This coaching team creates structured, adaptable workouts that accommodate everyone from complete beginners to competitive powerlifters, with plenty of power racks available for training.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the excellent coaching, particularly highlighting Ahmad Nakib for his knowledge, attention to form, and ability to remember individual progress week to week. They appreciate the small class sizes that allow for personalized attention and the welcoming, non-intimidating environment that accommodates all skill levels from beginners to competitive powerlifters. Many note significant strength gains and confidence building they couldn't achieve elsewhere, with specific appreciation for injury modifications and structured programming. The community atmosphere makes members look forward to sessions, though some mention the higher cost compared to home workouts.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Elizabeth Wardak
2 months ago
Warhorse Barbell Club is hands down one of the best fitness experiences I’ve had. The small group format makes such a difference—you get personalized coaching, proper attention to form, and motivation without feeling overwhelmed. Ahmad and Desmond are super knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping you get stronger safely and confidently. Every workout is well-structured, challenging, and adaptable to different fitness levels. Highly recommend to anyone looking for quality coaching and a strong community!
Kate Binder
3 months ago
I started going to Warhorse about a year ago. I wanted to begin lifting but felt intimidated walking into a traditional gym. I’m so happy I chose this place! Ahmad is an excellent coach—he gives clear instruction, helps with form, and guides you through safe weight progression. The classes are small, there’s no competition for equipment, and the environment is super welcoming. After a year, I feel so much stronger and genuinely look forward to every session! Highly recommend.
James Lubin
a month ago
Great coaching, especially Ahmad. He pushes you hard but also keeps in mind any injuries you may have and helps you work around them. The gym itself has a cool vibe, and there's plenty of power racks. Highly recommend. There's a wide range of skill levels here. From complete beginners to powerlifters that are actively competing. Everyone is nice and welcoming.
Stefanie Hinkle
4 weeks ago
I started at warhorse 6 months ago. Prior to this I was biking on my peloton and doing the peloton strength workouts at home. I just didn’t feel like the time I was putting in was leading to progress. I switched to warhorse because my husband had been going there for a year and a half and I wanted to try something different. I will say this switch, while more expensive than what I was doing, was such a great decision. I would recommend warhorse without hesitation to anyone. The coaches are amazing. There is a plan set up for you every day with variations to choose from for where you are. I often talk through a plan with Ahmad the main coach to get some guidance and reassurance for what is right for me. I am always surprised when Ahmad knows exactly what I benched the prior week. He gives me the confidence that I can keep pushing the weight. Importantly anytime I feel like something is off and feel something in my knee, quad or back he has a plan for how I should modify or supplemental exercises to add in. I know I would not be as successful at a traditional gym. The coaching at at Warhorse really sets you up to succeed regardless of where you are. Lastly, the gym is so welcoming whether you are a beginner, advanced lifter or somewhere between.
Randy Flug
a month ago
I joined Warhorse Grad Hospital in order to get in shape for my upcoming wedding and because I was getting bored with my normal routine. Warhorse has been amazing! The coaches are great (shout-out Ahmad), super knowledgeable, and extremely willing to spend time with all members to help us achieve our goals and ensure good form. I initially thought it would be intimidating, but it is a great community and I have grown to look forward to my morning sessions at Warhorse! If you are thinking of joining, try it. You will not regret it
Contact
2201 Washington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 – 11:00 AM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Chris Robert
Co-Founder, Strength & Conditioning Coach
Competitive athlete in powerlifting, Muay Thai, Ironman Triathlon
15 years experience coaching NFL athletes to beginners. Temple University exercise science. Competes in Muay Thai, powerlifting, Ironman.
Jaclyn Moran
Co-Founder, Trainer
Focuses on strength training for women. Aims to make the gym accessible and less intimidating. Background in running, volleyball, dance.
Ahmad Nakib
Facility Leader, Grad Hospital
Competed in powerlifting, push/pull competition
Exercise sport science degree from Temple University. Passionate about making training approachable. Plays basketball and soccer.