5 /5 Kayla: I’ve been going to this Powerhouse for almost a year now, and I honestly think it deserves 5 stars. That said, there are a few things that could be improved.
To start, the gym is never overly packed at the times I go. Even when it gets a little busy, 9 times out of 10 I can still use every machine I planned to work out with. I also really like the variety of dumbbell weights — for example, they have 12.5 and 17.5 lb dumbbells instead of just the standard 15 and 20.
Speaking of weights, there are about two machines where the weight stacks tend to stick together. So during a lift, the weights will sometimes slam down out of nowhere. It doesn’t affect the workout much, but I hate getting side eyes from people because they think I’m just dropping the weights.
I will say that the equipment is definitely older, but it works just as fine as any new machine in my opinion. Another thing, the weight stacks don’t show the actual pounds, just numbers like “1, 2, 3, etc.” I want to assume that means 10 lbs, 20 lbs, etc., but I’m not totally sure. I wish they had a chart on every machine, since they have one on the assisted pull-up/dip machine, but I’m not sure if that corresponds with the rest of the equipment.
The sauna in the women’s locker room is small but definitely gets the job done. Small saunas are usually a problem because when people go in and out, the temperature drops immediately and you have to wait for it to heat back up. But this sauna stays hot, even when the door opens, which I really appreciate.
I also like how the main door remains locked 24/7 and you have to scan to come in. One thing I don’t like, is that after the staff leave, they also close off the studio side. The studio is a great feature because doing kettlebell or dumbbell swings on the main weight floor isn’t ideal due to limited space, so not having access to it after hours is a bit of a bummer.
On the topic of space, the gym floor can sometimes feel a little overcrowded with equipment. It’s not really anyone’s fault, the space is just a bit small. But I won’t complain too much, because the gym makes good use of it and has all the machines you need for a solid workout. I will say though, it would be nice to have a little more room for deadlifting. That said, I’ve never had to wait to use the designated deadlift areas, it just gets a bit crowded with all the equipment sometimes.
I do think the price is a little on the high side, but I won’t complain too much since it’s a 24-hour gym. Since the equipment is older, I’d prefer to pay a little less. But because it’s never crowded I would still pay. Also the older equipment gives the place more character. The owner is cool, I met her and her dog twice and the workers are nice too. I like how I dont have to deal with contract BS. I just pay every 3 months and can stop at anytime.
I also want to add that I’ve been told many times since February about this price change, so I’m not sure why people in the reviews are saying it was a random charge. I remember being told specifically by the front desk that the gym was getting new flooring and some new equipment — just an FYI.
In a couple months I have to move closer to Detroit and I can only hope I find a gym like this one.
