Locomotion Athletics | The Warehouse - San Diego (CA)

5 /5 Jamie Owens: I started at Locomotion Athletics at the end of 2024 and I am beyond happy with the results so far. I came here wanting to move with intention and have been able to do just that. I had been struggling with tendinitis in both my biceps tendons and the coaches have been incredibly attentive. They are always checking my form, offer modifications, and push me just the right amount to keep progressing safely. The programming is smart and well-structured, and I’ve learned so many new skills while getting stronger (especially in the shoulder region). Every member, no matter their fitness level, is treated with respect and encouragement. The community here is something special, and I’m proud to be part of it!

5 /5 Keri D: After my previous coach moved away, I struggled to find a new gym where I felt comfortable, felt like the trainers/coaches were knowledgeable and understood my goals and limitations with previous injuries, was at a price point I felt was appropriate, and a had variety of classes and class times to choose from. A few other members from my previous gym came across Locomotion Athletics and highly recommended it. As soon as I joined the classes after my onboarding, I knew I had found the perfect place for me! I joined in January shortly before the warehouse space opened. It’s a beautiful, easy accessible place (plenty of parking on the street or across the street). I love the programs — they are challenging and provide a variety of movements. I didn’t focus much on upper body previously and the “Build Up” classes have improved my upper body strength. It’s been rewarding to see and feel myself get stronger! People are down to earth and class size is perfect since it’s not more than about 16 people per class. As a very active person who plays soccer several days a week, I don’t need cardio/HIIT classes and because of previous injuries, I need something low impact. I’m able to do 3-4 classes a week while still playing soccer. Ultimately, I’m focused on injury prevention and building muscles in areas that James has helped me identify are weak. As James taught me, women lose muscle mass and bone density as they age, starting in their 30s! Women should not be afraid to lift heavy. Contrary to popular belief, it will not make us bulky. I want to continue to be active as I get older! All of the coaches are great! They correct my form, give me modifications, when needed, motivate, and are really knowledgeable. Special shoutout to James, who has helped me be stronger than I’ve ever been —he teaches me a ton of information (e.g. load management, nutrition, the importance of resting between sets, etc.) encourages me to ensure I’m pushing myself and keeps me accountable. He truly cares about the gym and the members and he shows that every day in how he shows up. I recently partially tore my calf playing soccer and he’s checked in on me regularly and helped me rehab and recover. This videos are of me trying out the Zercher squat last week when I was working with him 1:1.

5 /5 Nat Wiley Contreras: Updated - added photos. Wow, where do I even start? Locomotion isn’t just the best gym in San Diego, it’s the best gym I’ve ever been a part of. And no, I’m not just saying that because my husband coaches here ;) I joined Loco in September 2022 with a lifelong athletic background - competitive soccer, distance running, all of it. But despite all that, I knew I was missing something. I needed strength. I needed muscle. And honestly, I was stuck in an unhealthy cycle with food and struggling to gain weight. I was ready for a change, and Loco delivered. From the very beginning, I dove straight into five group fitness classes a week—and got hooked. Alex’s classes sharpened my form, especially with kettlebells and deadlifts, while James brought intensity, creativity, and laser focus on progress. And when my husband later joined as a coach, I got to see what I already knew about him in action: he listens deeply, pushes people with care, and helps them grow into stronger versions of themselves. The transformation has been nothing short of incredible. When I started, I was severely underweight and couldn’t pull more than 100 pounds off the floor. Fast forward to today: I’m deadlifting 245 pounds, up ten pounds of solid muscle, fueling my body properly, and finally being kinder to myself. That’s not just physical change—it’s a whole mindset shift. And then there’s the magic ingredient: the community. WOW. The people at Loco are truly next-level. I’ve made some of my closest friends here in San Diego. Every class is filled with encouragement, grit, and good energy. After a long day in corporate America, walking into Loco feels like hitting a reset button—friendly faces, good vibes, and the kind of support you don’t find anywhere else. Locomotion isn’t just where you get stronger. It’s where you get better inside and out. I honestly can’t recommend this place enough. If you’re even thinking about joining, do it. You’ll thank yourself later.

5 /5 Brandon: Locomotion Athletics is the best gym I have ever belonged to. The level of community and accountability is unmatched. The workouts are fun, effective, and always a great start to my day. Paired with a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition, I have seen amazing progress. Since starting here in August 2022, I have gotten stronger, leaner, and more knowledgeable about fitness and the body. Thank you to James and all the amazing coaches here who have helped improve my life.

5 /5 K Hall: Locomotion is the best group gym experience Ive ever had. As "group fitness," youll be shocked at how personalized it feels. From my very first sessions, the coaches learned my name, my strengths, and my goals and that personal attention has never faded. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming. Ive never once felt intimidated or like an outsider, which is rare in a group fitness setting. There are tons of regulars here (a testament to how good it is), but they embrace newcomers with open arms. Even partner workouts are stress-free because the coaches thoughtfully pair you up based on size and capability so no awkward moments or feeling left out. The programming is strength-focused, not just endless reps or HIIT burnout. Every workout challenges you to grow with proper form and progressive weight. Coaches dont just stand back or sit on their phones, they are constantly walking around, giving constructive feedback to keep you safe and improving without ever making you feel judged. The gym itself is solid: clean, open concept, brand-new equipment. The music keeps things fun too - each trainer has their own personality and favorite playlists - one morning might be punk/rock, the next hip-hop, and another high-energy house mix to fuel a Friday which makes classes fresh and motivating. I was skeptical about the 3-week programming format at first because I hate routine and predictability, but I actually love it and it wasnt even a learn to love it experience. Having back to back weeks of the same program is like having a personal trainer because you can track your weights and really see progress more easily. (And if youre not feeling a particular workout, its easy to swap/avoid that day hehehe). Booking is simple, even same-day, and rarely youll see a waitlists or stress, plus the cancellation policy is super reasonable. What really sets Locomotion apart is how much the trainers care. James, the owner, checks in regularly with personal texts to make sure Im getting the most out of my membership. When I had back pain after a vacation, he offered a free 1:1 consult to help me safely get back into training. He even worked with me when I had an unexpected billing issue with my old gym - something he absolutely didnt have to do, but did because he genuinely cares about his members. If youve been looking for a gym that combines the energy / discipline of group fitness with the attention of personal training and a community that will make you feel right at home - Locomotion is it. I cant recommend it enough.