The Athlete Factory - Chester

Llewelyn C.

I've been a member here at AF Athlete since September 2023. I had a warm welcome from Paul, we sat down together and discussed what I wanted to achieve and goals. I was shown around, did some base line tests so they could asses my fitness levels and a plan was quickly drawn up from their years of experience and knowledge. The workouts are varied and are changed at regular intervals so you don't stagnate and are moving forward. Any changes you need or want are incorporated into your routine.

Everyone has different goals and needs and AF Athlete caters for them all and offers an amazing atmosphere with top notch equipment. All the staff are welcoming, knowledgeable and approachable. I love the place because it's a serious gym and I can see and the feel the difference it's made to me physically.

Fitness is a journey, it takes time, effort and consistency to get where you want to be and I feel supported by Paul and the team. Can't recommend the place enough, come along and find out for yourself. Keep up the good work everyone and thanks for everything.

Gemma R.

I have been attending this gym for over a year and it is the best decision I have ever made for my health and fitness. The guidance and advice that all of the gym staff offer is extremely helpful. The fitness app is great for keeping track of your progress and for tailoring your workouts. Paul Reed is always on hand for advice and will always ensure that your positioning is spot on.
The gym has a very welcoming atmosphere and never have I felt intimidated by any of its members, if anything I am in awe of what they achieve. This gym will continue to be apart of my fitness journey!

Danny R.

This gym has been superb in massively improving my health and fitness. The rebuild with the gym has been remarkable. Cafe is 👏🏼 Such a great team in place. Everyone is polite and always willing to support when needed. Not heard one bad word/ comment made about the place but some deluded sausage a few comments below.

Julia T.

“I’ve been going to this gym for years, and I still love it. The atmosphere is amazing, and everyone is so friendly and helpful. The owners train athletes at the top of their professions, but it never feels exclusive—everyone is genuinely made to feel welcome. I was surprised to see a recent negative review about the equipment, especially since new running machines, rowers, and ERG bikes have been added in the last six months. That comment seems a bit unfair? Between Paul and Ryan, the knowledge is incredible, and they’re always friendly and willing to help, which is invaluable. They’re genuinely lovely guys who clearly take pride in the gym and stay ahead of trends. The gym was one of the first Hyrox partners and possibly the first Deadly Dozen partner gym (an inclusive fitness competition). I’d recommend it to anyone, regardless of their level, who wants to make real progress. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!”

Freddie S.

I've been training in gyms up and down the country for 20 plus years and the Athlete Factory is easily a favourite. This is an independent gym run by the main man Paul and his superb team, so don't expect the frills of a David Lloyd but the free weights equipment is second to none.
If I've ever had a question or issue then Paul has been quick to respond directly. From world class professional athletes to outright beginners, everyone is made welcome. There are many classes for those that enjoy these but I never have any problem with having to wait for equipment like one might do in a commercial gym.
I tend to train head-down and headphones on but there is definitely a welcoming social side to this gym if this is what you're looking for and the facility also has a coffee shop and cafe that always seems popular.
Ultimately, I would highly recommend this gym and the membership fee is very competitive.

Terry H.

I’ve lived in the area all my life and had memberships at many gyms over the years, but this is hands down the best.

The people are friendly and welcoming and there is a great social circle.

Some places you go and feel that, after you’ve paid your membership, that they want extra for this that and the other. But not here, there is a range of well run classes provided, help is always on hand and the excellent cafe is probably the most inexpensive place in all of Chester to get a nutritious meal.

All of the staff are friendly and helpful. There is never any “I was here first” or “I have a private client so this machine is mine” attitudes like in other gyms. Paul the owner is as honest and approachable as could be and has time for all the members.

Appearances can be deceptive and at first glance the place can look a bit intense as it’s a serious gym used by serious athletes, but it’s actually as welcoming a place as you could hope to find. Whether you’re a pro athelete, a beginner, young or old, people really are accepting and inclusive.

Kenneth I.

I have been a member since things opened and it just gets better and better.

Great community of people of all sports disciplines and levels. Everyone is welcome and you are always met with a friendly face at the front day and in the cafe upstairs which makes the most divine food.

Gym facilities are superb and all PT’s are more than approachable for advice on nutrition, exercises and techniques.

There is an extensive number of classes available that are part of the gyms membership.

AF is second to none. You really do get what you pay for these days but this place is over and above. Simples

Georgia P.

At AF there are a range of facilities, including a variety of gym equipment (to suit a range of training styles), sports therapy, physiotherapy and the cafe.

The classes offered at the gym are always well attended regardless of the member of staff running them. They are always a good combination of challenging and fun. In particular, Merf’s Saturday morning Hyrox class is a great start to the weekend! Above all there is a wonderful gym community where everyone supports one another - no matter how experienced or new to the gym you are. Staff in the gym are helpful and kind - always willing to lend a hand when you need them.

The owner, Paul, is a friendly face who is always open to chat and offer advice to all members. Equally, Paul will listen to concerns or wishes and always does his best to try and deliver on those. For example, when asked, Paul ordered a number of new women’s barbells for members.

I have loved training at AF over the last few years and wouldn’t want to go anywhere else thanks to the community that Paul and his team have built.