Deborah McCabeI used to wander around gyms like a lost tourist, unsure who actually knew their stuff and who was just yelling “push harder!” while I questioned every life decision.
I tried a few trainers, only to realize some weren’t that great a fit, either because their style didn’t match my goals or they just weren’t organized.
It was expensive, and honestly a little demoralizing. That’s why I made it my mission to find the best personal trainers in Philadelphia who actually deliver results without making you dread every workout.
I spent weeks researching, talking to clients, and even testing a few sessions myself to figure out who knows how to actually make fitness approachable. If you’ve been struggling to find an expert who’s worth your time, this list is exactly what you need.
How much do professional trainers charge in Philadelphia?
Personal trainers in Philadelphia typically charge $30–$80 per session, depending on experience, location, and session length. Package deals and group training options may offer more affordable rates.
1. Master Trainer Ortiz
Address: Philadelphia
Contact Details: 718-973-3031
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Master Trainer Ortiz provides personal training services centered on helping busy individuals achieve sustainable fitness results without relying on one-size-fits-all programs. The coaching philosophy emphasizes practical habit-building that fits around work, family, and everyday responsibilities.
The trainer brings over two decades of coaching experience and combines certifications in personal training, nutrition, diabetes prevention, and health coaching. This broad background allows clients to receive guidance that extends beyond exercise alone.
Rather than promoting perfection, the coaching approach focuses on creating realistic routines that clients can maintain over time. Personalized plans are designed to match each individual’s goals, schedule, and lifestyle.
Clients who balance demanding careers or parenting responsibilities may find the coaching style especially relatable. The trainer’s personal experience as a father and natural physique competitor reinforces the emphasis on consistency despite a busy life.
Another advantage is the combination of fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching under one service. This holistic approach can help clients develop healthier habits that support long-term progress instead of quick fixes.
Master Trainer Ortiz is well suited for individuals looking for personalized coaching backed by extensive experience and practical strategies. Those seeking accountability and lifestyle-focused fitness guidance may appreciate the tailored support and realistic expectations offered throughout the program.
Highly recommend.
“Bryan is the first trainer to get me motivated to work out! Highly recommend.”
– Benjamin Fuller, Google Review
2. Philadelphia Personal Trainers
Address: 401 S 2nd St, 19147
Contact Details: +1 610-574-3587
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
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Everyone I talked to had great things to say about Dr. Phil at Philadelphia Personal Trainers. With 27 years of experience as a personal trainer, he brings an impressive background in health and fitness, holding four Master Trainer certifications through NASM, ISSA, IFPA, and NESTA, along with a PhD in Exercise Science.
His programs are well-structured and designed around each client’s individual needs. It starts with a detailed fitness assessment, then expands into a complete approach covering strength, mobility, nutrition, corrective exercise, rehabilitation, sleep, stress management, and overall wellness. As a certified Brain Health Coach, Holistic Nutrition Coach, Integrative Health Coach, and Longevity Specialist, Dr. Phil focuses on helping clients improve not only their fitness but also their long-term health and quality of life.
What really stood out is his experience working with individuals who have specialized needs. Whether someone is recovering from a stroke, managing conditions such as Parkinson’s, cancer, dementia, going through joint replacement recovery, or simply looking to improve their overall well-being, Dr. Phil creates personalized programs designed to support each client’s goals.
Communication is solid, too. Dr. Phil checks in between sessions and is quick to answer questions. That same attention carries into the workouts, with most sessions being one-on-one, allowing clients to fully focus on their progress without distractions.
The studio itself is clean and stocked with all the essentials, including weights, medicine balls, TRX equipment, and everything needed for effective personalized training.
The only thing to note is that Philadelphia Personal Trainers focuses more on proven coaching methods, personalized guidance, and long-term results rather than relying heavily on the latest flashy fitness technology. If you prefer programs centered around trendy fitness trackers or tech-based workouts, you may find that less emphasized here.
Tailored a plan for me that helped me recover from old injuries
“I have been working with Phil for several years now. He is very patient, kind, and dedicated to personal health and growth. Phil tailored a strength and wellness plan for me that also helped me recover from old injuries, and correct upper back pain from crouching at my desk. He’s the least judgemental person I’ve worked with and truly cares about his clients. I couldn’t recommend Phil enough.”
– Ian Wilson, Google Review
Phil has been very encouraging and patient
“Phil has been helping my husband Bob, who had a stroke 10/23. In coordination with therapy at Moss Rehab, we were referred to Phil. He has been working with Bob for 7 months. Phil has been very encouraging and patient. Through his knowledge and instruction, Bob has gained strength and flexibility. We highly recommend his services.”
– Linda Craven, Google Review
3. The Summit Personal Training Studios
Address: 255 S 17th St, 2nd Floor, 19103
Contact Details: +1 267-296-8350
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Every trainer at The Summit Personal Training Studios holds a degree in Exercise Science. This means they know how to make detailed fitness assessments and custom program designs that take your body, past injuries, and unique goals into account.
I also talked to someone whose trainer adjusted workouts to fit around their orthopedic issues. I think that was a really thoughtful touch and shows they’re paying attention.
Sessions can be in person or virtual, and they’re structured to let you work at your own pace while focusing on measurable progress.
But it’s not just about workouts. The Summit also offers nutrition advice and uses tools like InBody scans that let you see your progress over time.
Just keep in mind, the facility is intentionally small. It’s always spotless and has everything you need for a solid session, but you won’t find the extras that big gyms have, like rows of cardio machines or saunas.
My trainer is incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated
“I’ve been working out at The Summit for over a year and have had a phenomenal experience. The gym is big enough so it has all the equipment you could need, but small enough where it feels intimate. It is also always clean and never over-crowded. Mike O. is my trainer there and he is incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated. He knows my fitness goals and ensures that I am appropriately challenged, while also making sure I am doing the exercises safely. 10/10 recommend him and this gym!”
– Hillary Mann, Google Review
Attention to details have had a huge impact on my progress and motivation
“Started personal training a year ago with Zack Yunis at Summit Rittenhouse. Besides being highly qualified and certified his approach to personal training, explanations and attention to details have had a huge impact on my progress and motivation. Sessions are fun and I notice steady progress. Flexibility in scheduling allows me to fit 1-2 hours a week easily. Best training i ever did”
– Michel Hoessly, Google Review
4. Leverage Fitness
Address: 1530 Locust St, 19102
Contact Details: +1 267-455-9660
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Friday – 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Sunday – Closed
Leverage Fitness is a boutique studio that focuses on strength, community, and programs that actually fit you.
Every experience begins with a fitness assessment, where trainers take the time to understand your health background, any injuries, and your personal goals.
During my visit, a member explained how their coach carefully adjusted workouts to work around limited mobility, making sure exercises were safe and effective.
The team itself is impressive—strength coaches, nutrition experts, and stretch and massage specialists all work together, so you’re fully supported from training to recovery.
The studio isn’t large, but it’s modern and fully equipped with free weights, functional gear, and a massage area. The atmosphere is high-end with semi-private sessions capped at four people.
That means you get plenty of attention, but because classes are small, spots can fill up quickly. If you have a busy schedule or prefer spontaneous workouts, you may need to plan.
The semi-private option gives the benefit of fun group sessions
“Would highly recommend Leverage to anyone looking for a great gym in Philly (or a gift, because why not?)! I had a great experience during my time there this year and really built my confidence in strength training. The sessions are challenging (in the best way) and the semi-private option gives the benefit of fun group sessions while the small group size allows for a tailored experience where you still receive guidance and feedback on form from the coaches. Truly a welcoming community. Great attention to detail on the part of the coaches, well-designed programs and well worth the investment in my opinion. I’m traveling a lot more for work and would certainly miss this space!”
– Rebecca A, Google Review
They are incredibly skilled at meeting each client where they are
“As someone with no experience in a gym before, I couldn’t have been luckier to find Leverage and its wonderful crew of trainers. They are incredibly skilled at meeting each client where they are, then equipping them with the skills and confidence to reach their personal goals. Most importantly, the positive environment and useful app make it easy to keep a consistent routine on an any schedule. After two and a half years, I am stronger, feel better, and still excited to walk through Leverage’s doors. Highly recommend!”
– Michael Arnst, Google Review
5. Philly Personal Fitness
Address: 1140 Frankford Ave, 19125
Contact Details: +1 267-979-2649
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Philly Personal Fitness impresses not just with its services, but with the expertise behind them. Gary, a registered nurse, and Sean, a physical therapist, guide each person through exercises and adjust programs to fit individual needs.
Every client gets a plan that combines strength training, HIIT, resistance work, and cardio, with nutrition coaching and accountability built right in.
The studio is well-equipped, featuring free weights, medicine balls, rowing machines, and cardio equipment, so you have everything you need, whether you’re following a structured program or just working out on your own.
If you like group workouts, there are classes like CrossFit and yoga available, but you can also take advantage of open gym hours if you’d rather train solo.
The trainers keep in touch regularly through texts or emails, and many members say this steady support makes it much easier to stay consistent and motivated.
Just keep in mind that the studio is located on busy Frankford Avenue in Fishtown, so parking can be a challenge, especially during popular class hours.
Love the environment, how supportive all the trainers & other members are
“So grateful for this gym, the owner/my trainer, & the community. Doing a combination of individual & group sessions, as well as nutrition coaching, has been a game changer for me. Gary has designed a specific program for me to help me meet my goals, yet take into account where I am at as someone getting back into working out after some time off. Love the environment, how supportive all the trainers & other members are, how ridiculously clean & immaculate they keep the gym, and feeling part of the community 🫶🫶”
– NA, Google Review
Provides you with a safe and challenging workout no matter what your skill is
“I love this gym! Of course my fitness level has grown, but so has my community. The workouts are designed to meet you where you are and provide you with a safe and challenging workout no matter what your skill or experience level is. The coaches will push you to stretch and rethink the limits of your comfort zone while prioritizing safety, integrity, and quality of movement above all else. Come build muscle and friendships with us. It’s a good time!”
– Bee Reed, Google Review
6. Train & Nourish
Address: 559 N 20th St A, 19130
Contact Details: +1 267-710-7733
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Train & Nourish is a women’s-only training studio designed to make lifting weights and building strength a comfortable, supportive experience.
Every trainer here is certified in Women’s Fitness, and they’re invested in helping you reach your own goals, whatever they might be.
You can also pick from one-on-one sessions, come with a friend for semi-private training, or join a small group class (never more than 11 women). Workouts mix up strength, core, and endurance, and trainers always tweak things so you’re challenged.
Many women, especially those navigating postpartum, say they felt welcomed and empowered from day one, thanks to the encouragement and real attention from the trainers.
As you can tell by now, the studio’s women-only environment means it’s not the right fit for men or for anyone hoping to work out alongside their male friends or partners.
The trainers are all courteous and mindful of each other
“Started training with Emily about 2 months ago. I have known I need to start strength training, but didn’t ever stick with it when I joined a gym or took a group class. So I took the plunge and splurged on personal training seasons. And it was a great decision! Emily balances each workout to be accessible and challenging. She provides easy to understand cues and tips to make sure your form is maximizing the impact of the move and (more importantly) avoids injury. Plus she is an interesting and easy to talk to person. All of this is in a bright and clean space. Even with 3 personal training sessions going on there is plenty of room and equipment and the trainers are all courteous and mindful of each other. 5 out of 5. Would recommend.”
– Jennifer West, Google Review
Emily is super personable, knowledgeable, and easy to work with
“I’ve been coming to Train & Nourish for almost 4 months now. It’s been such a positive experience! My trainer is Emily and she is FANTASTIC! She is super personable and knowledgeable and easy to work with. She pivots as needed for me which is needed due to my old (and new) injuries 🙂 I have been so pleasantly surprised on how much we have achieved and how much stronger I have become! I highly recommend T&N and EMILY! Thank you so much for all you do! I am beyond grateful! ~Larissa”
– Monaphro, Google Review
