"2013-07-31T00:00:00"^^ . . "5"^^ . "2"^^ . "Blast offers classes, private training, and open gym facilities for its members. I mainly did the classes and open gym, although I lucked out when I first showed up by being the only person to attend a free barbell training clinic Marv (the owner) was running. I learned a lot in the session and signed up that night.\n\nIf you want to get strong, this is the place for you.\n\nDitto if you want to get in shape, and if you want classes that are both challenging, interesting, and varied. \n\nOn the other hand, if you care more about the amenities in your gym's change room than the equipment in the workout area, you are better off going somewhere else. \n\nLikewise, if you all you want to do is use cardio machines, I would encourage you to try one of Blast's classes with an open mind, and failing that, go somewhere else.\n\nOne example of what I like about Blast is how it is perfectly acceptable at Blast to drop your barbell if you are doing deadlifts or olympic lifts. They have bumper plates (i.e. plastic coated weighted plates) and understand that when you lift heavy it's not reasonable (or even safe) to gently put the barbell down. Sadly many other gyms forbid dropping weights.\n\nAnother great thing about this place is the sense of community fostered amongst the members, and how people are happy to spot you on the bench press, let you work in a set on the squat rack or lifting platform, etc.\n\nIn terms of the equipment my favourite thing is the strongman type stuff they have. Specifically the giant tires you can flip, and the prowler/weight sleds you can pull with a rope and then push back to the start. There are also Kettlebells all the way up to 70 lbs, which is a heavier weight than most gyms carry.\n\nLastly, the trainers are a great group of people. The owner and head coach Marv practices what he preaches, and he has a dynamic mix of trainers, some that work for Blast and others that rent out space for their own classes. They all work together and cooperate though.\n\nI'm leaving the country for work soon, and other than my siblings Blast is what I'll miss most about Toronto!"^^ . "4"^^ . . "0"^^ . .