What is Iron Tribe Fitness? And is it right for you? Here’s what you need to know

Are you interested in jump-starting your fitness level? Iron Tribe Fitness helps busy professionals of all ages achieve their fitness dreams.

I have been a Division I college athlete in three sports, a husband and father with little time, an out-of-shape executive, and every stage in between. I’ve been to dozens of gyms on three continents (traveling for work). I’ve tried CrossFit, running, saunas, hiking, weight lifting, and other ways to stay in shape. Those can all be great, but I’ve found consistent success in Iron Tribe Fitness and have seen many lives transformed in recent years from their approach to health.

Read on to learn what Iron Tribe is all about and whether it’s for you.

What Is Iron Tribe Fitness?

Iron Tribe Fitness is a franchise fitness chain and leader in total-body fitness training. It allows members to become part of a fitness community and receive personal instruction. The first location was at 300 27th in Birmingham, AL, which quickly became a significant hub for fitness activities and local events. Originally a CrossFit affiliate, Iron Tribe broke away from CrossFit as it realized the needs of busy professionals and parents were more important than ever before.

Iron Tribe focuses on helping members become the healthiest versions of themselves. Different workout programs focus on slightly different fitness levels, but the group aspect remains the same.

Each member becomes part of a tribe, which gives members a certain accountability that helps them stay motivated. At the same time, Iron Tribe’s 25 to 45-minute group classes are great for people who have limited time to train but need to remain consistent, week after week, to reach their fitness goals.

The sessions provide a real workout and are incredibly fun. The combination of one-on-one coaching and group-based workouts will help you achieve your future goals.

In addition to group classes, hands-on semi-private training with a fitness coach is available for those who require closer attention when starting their fitness journeys. Both entry-level workouts and intense workouts are available, depending on your fitness level.

What Kind of Workout Is Iron Tribe?

Iron Tribe provides a functional fitness workout program customized to each member’s needs. They are similar to Crossfit workouts, but without the toxicity that happens in some (definitely not all) Crossfit boxes.

Workouts at Iron Tribe Fitness combine weightlifting, cardio, endurance, resistance training, targeted conditioning, and more. Whether your goal is to get stronger, lose weight, or get that six-pack body, you will find a workout program at Iron Tribe that helps you get there.

Most of all, the workouts are fun. The Iron Tribe coaches emphasize this because it makes the workouts something members look forward to. It also builds the community that we all see inside the gym. That’s one of the reasons Iron Tribe has such a high retention rate among members.

How Iron Tribe Fitness Started

Forrest Walden, a veteran in the fitness market, started Iron Tribe Fitness in his garage in 2008. Two years later, he opened his first location in Birmingham AL, which quickly reached its membership cap (each gym has a cap to ensure each member receives individualized attention) with a growing waiting list, playing a crucial role in the community.

Eventually, Walden expanded his franchise, opening up a second gym, which was also a significant success.

Walden focused on refining his business model, and Iron Tribe Fitness eventually expanded into a full-scale fitness chain with many locations.

What Are the Different Iron Tribe Programs?

Iron Tribe offers five main workout programs, each with a different focus and goal. Read on to learn which is best for you.

Iron Tribe Push

Iron Tribe Push is a workout program that pushes you to your limits in 45 minutes. It combines HIIT cardio with bodyweight movements and targeted weight lifting to help you become more fit, build up your endurance, lose weight, and get stronger. If you have limited time, this workout might be for you.

These are my second favorite type of classes. They are fast past with options for individuals to adjust movements and speed for their individual fitness level. You’ll often hear some laughter both before and after each session.

Iron Tribe Power

Iron Tribe’s Power workouts are also 45 minutes long, but it’s a bit more advanced and helps students take their cardio, conditioning, and strength training to a new level. If 45 minutes sound long, that is generally your entire time on the clock. In my experience, each workout includes:

• Warm-up

• Explanation of the workout

• 21 – 28 minute workout

• Cooldown

I find this time goes super fast, especially at 5:30am when I’m at the location in East Cobb (county) Georgia on Johnson Ferry, near Johnson Ferry Baptist Church.

One of the main pieces of equipment you will use in Iron Tribe Power workouts is the barbell. This allows you to do core lifts like overhead presses, squats, and deadlifts. These compound movements work out multiple muscles at once, allowing you to build a strong core. Various powerlifting moves, like the clean and jerk, make up part of this program.

Having gone for a few years, I can tell you not to worry if you’ve never worked out with a barbell or done Olympic-style or functional movements. I’ve seen many people come in with little to no gym experience and find comfort within just a session or two. That’s one of the wonderful things about ITFs approach. The semi-personal coaching will ALWAYS have a coach or two there to show you what to do and help you along the way. You’ll find new friends at the gym that will help too – almost everyone is incredibly nice and helpful.

Bodyweight and gymnastic movements, like push-ups, and strenuous cardio, like skipping rope, are also included and keep the mix fun. The classes are small, and each one starts with a warm-up and involves education from the coaches on how to do core movements properly.

Iron Tribe Prime

Iron Tribe Prime consists of intimate classes with a cap of four people per class, allowing for more hands-on instruction. This semi-private training style combines affordability with personalized attention, and it’s perfect for those who need more help learning how to do different workouts.

You’ll begin with an assessment of your current fitness level and goals, and the coaches will then create a customized workout plan to help you reach them. The small classes allow students to get closer to each other and motivate each other in their respective journeys.

Furthermore, the coaches will create personalized nutritional plans just for you. Iron Tribe doesn’t rely on templated nutritional plans – what works for one person might not work for another.

Iron Tribe Perform

The Iron Tribe Perform workouts are one hour long and target high-level athletes concentrating on intense conditioning and weight lifting. Focusing on explosive speed, high-level skill building, and full-body strength training using varied lifts, athletes who have a proven track record of performance can join this program.

Iron Tribe Peak

Finally, Iron Tribe Peak is an excellent program for those just starting their fitness journeys but who aren’t yet ready for the other classes or want to work out at home. The program lasts 24 weeks and builds a solid foundation of dieting and combined workouts to build healthy habits that will last for a lifetime and achieve sustainable fitness goals.

What Are the Other Benefits of Joining Iron Tribe Fitness?

Why join Iron Tribe Fitness compared to any other gym? Here are some of the main benefits Iron Tribe members enjoy.

You Will Make New Friends While Working Out Together

Many people have to choose between working out and having an active social life. With Iron Tribe Fitness, you can do both at once. You’ll make new friends who share your fitness goals and ideals.

At our Marietta location, a fair number of us attend JFBC or have kids that participate in sports and such there. ITF helps make that large group feel much smaller as you get to know people in a very different setting that helps build bonds.

Motivation To Keep Exercising

The coaches and new friends you’ll make at Iron Tribe Fitness will keep encouraging you and motivating you to continue exercising. The passionate coaches and members help keep you motivated and engaged, providing that extra push after a busy day to stick to your fitness routine and move closer to achieving your goals. I find this helps me get back in after missing for a few weeks if traveling or sick for some reason…let’s not even talk about seasonal allergies.

Not only will you get support from your coaches, but you will also receive essential support from your workout buddies. Having a fitness community will not only give you a sense of belonging but also provide social support.

Too often in today’s society, people often feel isolated and like things are so much easier for others. The truth is that we’re all juggling a bunch of things, such as work, homeschooling, carving out time for quite time, kids activities, building close friendships, etc. ITF helps cut through that. You’ll hear others sharing their struggles with juggling life and it may help you open up a bit yourself. Trust me, life is better together…as scary as that might sound.

Improve Your Overall Health

Both weightlifting and cardio help you stay healthy. You’ll lose excess weight/fat, boost your immune system, and become stronger. Regularly going to the gym can also improve your emotional and spiritual health.

Keep You Accountable

A big part of Iron Tribe’s philosophy is accountability. When someone is holding you accountable to keep on training, you will be much more likely to continue training than if the only person holding you accountable is yourself.

Don’t worry. You’ll not find the drill instructor style found at some Crossfit gyms. I personally like that approach, but I know many do not. ITF takes much more of the “coach approach”. Picture that supportive, approachable coach from movies such as Believe in Me (who Coach Clay becomes) or this list of the top movie coaches.

Learn How To Use Your Body Better

Finally, you will learn how to use your body better through expert personal training. That’s one of the biggest points of functional exercise. Doing things that will make you better in life and create the healthiest version of yourself possible with the time you have, not just in an isolated movement at the gym.

Many people make crucial mistakes in their form when performing weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, which can lead to injury. Your coaches will show you the right way to do the exercises.

Personalized Coaching and Goal Setting

At Iron Tribe Fitness, everyone understand that every individual has unique fitness goals, needs, and may be coming with different past injuries. That’s why they offer personalized coaching and goal setting to help you achieve your fitness objectives. Each coach will work with you to create a customized fitness plan that takes into account your fitness level, goals, and preferences. With personalized coaching, you’ll receive guidance on proper form and technique, as well as support and motivation to help you stay on track. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall health, the ITF personalized coaching and goal setting will help you achieve your fitness goals.

Who Can Benefit from Iron Tribe Fitness?

Iron Tribe Fitness is designed for individuals of all fitness levels and goals. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started with exercise or an experienced athlete looking to take your fitness to the next level, our gym has something to offer.

ITF members come from all walks of life, including busy professionals, stay-at-home parents, and students. As an example, I am a former D1 athlete in multiple sports that was heavily involved in physical activities for many years after before taking many years off before a challenge at church brought me into Iron Tribe East Cobb looking for a crossfit alternative.

We welcome individuals of all ages and fitness levels, and our trainers are experienced in working with clients with a range of goals and needs. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health, increase your energy levels, or simply feel more confident in your own skin, Iron Tribe Fitness can help.

My Personal Review

I’ve been a member at Iron Tribe Fitness East Cobb for two years. Joining was one of the best health decisions I’ve ever made. As soon as you arrive, the coaches will ensure you feel comfortable, regardless of your prior experience. The environment is friendly, motivating, encouraging, and challenging at the same time.

Iron Tribe Fitness is incredible. Fantastic people, great environment! Highly recommended! The people, operator, and coaches at Iron Tribe make everyone instantly feel comfortable, no matter what stage in your athletic journey. They do a wonderful job at making sure everyone is processing to their next health and fitness level. Want to get more healthy? Need a motivating, challenging, friendly environment? Go try them out!

my review from Google

Why do others pick ITF over Crossfit in East Cobb

Iron Tribe is a fantastically positive and technically sound place where I can push myself and feel the support and care of a tribe. The coaches are well trained, personable, and committed to helping my get better every day. I love my tribe!

Shane Bruce

I joined Iron tribe last September during one of their transformation challenges. I was a little intimidated at first, but with the knowledge and support of the trainers/coaches and the amazing group of people who workout there, I really enjoy it. Transformation is a great adjective to describe how I feel. Working out here has not only transformed my body (down body fat and increased lean muscle mass) it has transformed my thinking about exercising. Their two different class styles challenge me in different ways and can always be modified to meet individual needs! I highly recommend Iron Tribe East Cobb.

Stefanie Stoltz

Love this gym! The coaches are supportive and helpful. They have helped me to increase my fitness and push towards new goals. The other members are also very warm and encouraging. I love that the workout is different each day! I also love that I can track my progress. Highly recommend Iron Tribe to anyone looking for a fun, challenging workout.

Carri Gaudion

I love Iron Tribe East Cobb! Every workout is different, challenging and can be modified for any fitness level. The coaches and community are encouraging and it is always a fun workout. I highly recommend giving ITF a try!

Maureen Mullins

More than a great workout. Awesome coaches and detailed instruction, plus a no-pressure sense of community. I hate working out, but love going to the East Cobb Iron Tribe. Well worth the investment in yourself.

Dan Northington

I am one of the coaches at Iron Tribe Fitness. I have worked at other gyms but have found a permanent home here. The science behind the workouts, the amazing results our athletes receive (ages 27-74 currently), the community and relationships that have been formed with our coaches, athletes, and East Cobb businesses are like nothing I have ever experienced. The commitment we have to helping our athletes reach their goals and change their lives for the better is why our athletes are fully committed to Iron Tribe. Building a fitness community in East Cobb that changes lives is what we are about. Our 2 coaches and myself would love the opportunity to serve you if you are looking for a life changing program.

Andy Berman

Getting Started with Iron Tribe Fitness

Getting started with Iron Tribe Fitness is easy. Simply sign up for a membership online or in-person at any gym, and you’ll be on your way to achieving your fitness goals. The sign-up process is quick and easy, and the local ITF staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

You’ll find a range of membership options to fit your needs and budget, including month-to-month memberships, annual memberships, and discounts for students and seniors. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll have access to ITF’s state-of-the-art facilities, expert trainers, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals. If you’re in east cobb in Atlanta, you’ll find me at the morning classes too.

Is Iron Tribe Fitness Right for You?

If you’re looking for a gym and fitness tribe, Iron Tribe is just what you need. While it is a bit more expensive than big box gyms like Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness, or LA Fitness, it allows Iron Tribe to provide its members with more individualized attention – and the results speak for themselves. Get in shape faster and lower the chance you’ll get injured with other HIIT gyms.

Everyone at Iron Tribe knows each other personally, and the coaches all work together to ensure everyone grows and reaches the next steps in their fitness journeys. Iron Tribe Fitness also provides marketing support for entrepreneurs looking to establish their own fitness franchises.

It takes consistency to become more fit, especially if you have a busy schedule. Iron Tribe and the people you’ll work out with will make you want to come back and look forward to every workout.

FAQs

Do you still have questions about Iron Tribe? Here are answers to the most common questions I see from readers.

How many Iron Tribe locations are there?

There are around 30 locations, but new ones are constantly opening up. See the complete list of branches here

Who runs Iron Tribe Fitness?

Every location has coaches who run it and ensure its members are progressing. Regardless of which site you are joining, you will receive personalized instruction.

How can I join Iron Tribe Fitness?

Find your nearest Iron Tribe location on the location map. Click on the nearest gym near you and then on “Request Information.” Alternatively, visit the gym in person to sign up.

What are some exercises at Iron Tribe Fitness?

Exercises include cardio, bodyweight exercises, weightlifting, powerlifting, and more. Your coaches will create a plan focusing on the workouts most important for your goals.

What makes Iron Tribe Fitness unique?

Many things make Iron Fitness unique, but the community aspect is one of them. The way it makes it easy for busy professionals to stick to a proven workout program is another.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in taking the next step towards improving your health, becoming more fit, and joining a community, consider Iron Tribe Fitness. Regardless of age or gender, Iron Tribe has a program appropriate for your fitness level.

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