Not to be dramatic but SOBO has literally changed my life! I’ve been lucky enough to work with both James & Ally but the entire team is extremely knowledgeable, passionate, & motivating. What separates SOBO from other gyms I’ve been to is that they focus on being healthy as a whole instead of just gaining muscle/losing weight/etc. They’re all very in tune with their bodies & pay attention to yours, so they’re able to adapt to whatever preexisting conditions you have and work to make even your weakest areas stronger. The training programs are tailored to each individual and the classes are small enough that you’re still getting the attention you need. Also LEAST intimidating gym environment I’ve ever seen!!! Lots of support & encouragement from trainers & members alike. If you want to feel stronger, healthier, & happier— I would highly recommend joining SOBO!

All of the trainers here are very knowledgeable and passionate! Being a member of SOBO S&P is like being part of a family- you feel welcome, cared for, and familiar, but everyone will also be straightforward and kick your butt when you need it! These trainers are fun-loving and have your best interests at heart. I've recently been doing mobility and personal training with Coach Ally and her expertise are unparalleled. I'm already noticing improvement in my range of motion and strength and am very excited to continue this journey of becoming a stronger, more flexible, and better version of myself.

This is the best personal training gym in South Baltimore. James and his partners make you feel extremely comfortable in the environment and are extremely well versed in helping you success through training. I would HIGHLY recommend this gym from a beginner to a seasoned pro looking for an intimate training space.

I’ve been training with Coach Tony at SOBO Strength & Conditioning since day 1 when the gym first opened 2+ years ago - great gym, clean facility, structured program, coaching philosophy, and healthy culture - highly recommend for those at all fitness levels from first timers to seasoned athletes!

I love working out at SOBO, it's such a welcoming atmosphere and has the best trainers. Try Ally's Kettlebell or Mobility classes you will not regret it!!

James, Ally, Tony, or Glen. It doesn't matter which one you are training with. They are all extremely knowledgeable in their field and will take the time to explain things to you (as many times as needed). James has changed my life, making me more flexible, energetic, and healthy.

Wonderful place - expert trainers, great facilities, convenient location. Friendly and jovial atmosphere too. Who knew that trying to follow the healthier lifestyle they teach could be so much fun!

If you want personalized attention and guided trainer instruction in SOBO, this is your spot! There is a very welcoming environment as soon as you walk in the door, and I have been very satisifed with my results and membership (shoutout to Coach Tony!). If you want a skilled and motivating personal trainer and do not want to pay the cost of a monthly gym membership, stop in and check this place out. You won't regret it!

Since joining SOBO I have been consistently strength training which has always been a challenge for me. The coaches here are the best and most knowledgeable. The community makes you want to show up and have fun while doing the hard work. The support you get is like family. Forever grateful for this amazing place.

I joined SOBO in May after looking for a local gym where I could get 1:1 training. I can't say enough good things about SOBO. The gym itself is really focused on supporting its members without being pushy or making you feel locked into your membership like a traditional gym. The trainers are incredibly friendly and make you feel immediately comfortable (especially if you're like me and knew nothing about lifting or traditional gym equipment when I first joined). I've learned so much about fitness and really feel like there is a focus on safety and making sure form is correct. This has been by far my favorite gym I've ever joined. It's a really nice community to get involved with.

What sets SOBO apart from other gyms/training facilities is the knowledge and passion the trainers have. The owner, James, is constantly going above and beyond to make sure my fitness level and goals are being met and challenged. James is open to new fitness techniques and certifications that advance his knowledge within the industry. He then takes that knowledge to develop each individual and personal program for his clients. My designed program is specific to my own journey. I am a mom of two and I have never felt stronger and more confident in myself.

I have worked with James for many years. Knowing his high level of standards and care about his profession and client I wouldn’t have expected anything but the best team which is what they have built at SOBO. Their team creates programs for the individual nothing basic here.

The team of trainers are attentive and thorough. Their training methods are time tested movements with intention and provide training with purpose. SOBO Strength and Performance is second to none!

Not sure how you can walk out of this place without a smile. The community SOBO has created is supportive, welcoming, and ultimately there to help you challenge yourself. We have fun while becoming the best versions of ourselves. Cliche, but true. Whether you're working with Ally, Tony, James or any other employee of SOBO, know you're in good (strong) hands! If you want to get to work and have a family along your side while doing it, SOBO is where you need to be. See you there!

FINALLY, a local strength training gym that offers the highest quality of classes taught by certified instructors in the cleanest facility I have ever tried at affordable and accessible prices that can be paid monthly and paused any time without penalty. I am in medical school in Baltimore and my fiancé is already a pediatric resident. As a student and early career trainee, we don't have a lot of time or money to spare, but we value personal health and fitness as well as evidence-based health. We have looked for the right gym for 5 years -- small class sizes, attentive/accessible instructors, a flexible curriculum to keep you working/growing/learning but also one that let's you take a week or month off without financial or mental recourse, and a fair pricing structure that pays for the training and space without breaking the bank, oh and one without hidden cancellation fees, locked-in rates that you lose if you stop paying, etc., etc. -- it feels like every gym in Baltimore lures you in with a seasonal discount or aggressive social media campaign (or pool access in the summer when you need it most) and then neglects your training, over-books classes at peak hours, discourages consistent growth, and then charges you fees to pause, cancel, or change your plan. SOBO S&P is a dream come true for South Baltimore. We have been going for almost 2 months, weekly, now and we can't wait to go back. We purchase 4 classes per month with Ally Melnick, PT, SFG1, FRCms and couldn't be happier. Once I get my "Fundamentals of Kettlebells" under my belt, I will look forward to taking "Kettlebell Flows" and more mobility work. You can also purchase more than 4 classes per month for a discount per class, or you can pause/cancel anytime by simply not buying classes for that month. The prices are right, and the choice and freedom is yours! Give it a try, you won't regret it!

This gym is fantastic. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and great to work with. I’ve seen my strength and overall movement improve dramatically and i couldn’t recommend it more.

I love this gym and the trainers! I’ve been working with James for over 10 years and I’m in the best shape of my life. He constantly challenges me and uses his extensive education and background to curate programs to bring out the best in his clients!

Top notch personal trainers and high level coaching. This is not your typical strength studio. Their expertise is in building functional strength/performance and helping humans move better.

SOBO Strength and Performance is a great place to train. I have been working with James for over 10 years and can’t imagine training anywhere else. His education, passion for health and fitness and passion to help his clients and members is amazing. He is extremely dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness and nutrition goals no matter what level you are.

My massage with Casey Hill was fantastic and very reasonably priced. He fit me in last-minute, for which I was so grateful.