Iron Lion Training

Fantastic experience: I've been going to ILT for about a month now and I can solidly say it's the best gym experience I've ever had. It's an open, friendly, inclusive, and overall welcoming space. They listen to you about your goals and physical limitations (like injuries) and help you work around and beyond them. I've already felt changes in my energy levels and the amount I can do. Ron and Steph have built an awesome community here :) my only regret is not starting sooner!

Fantastic experience: The coaches and members at Iron Lion are great :). This isn’t a typical big box gym - it’s a hybrid of a small gym feel with semi-personal training. It’s the kind of place where people make an effort to learn each others’ names and there’s a dog to greet you at the door. While the training programs seem common across members, they feel personalized to your ability, fitness level, for avoiding injury and promoting recovery. In contrast to other trainers that push you to the max, I found their approach to be more conservative and gradual, which seems more sustainable in the long run. Thanks Ron, Steph, Aziza and Ripley

Fantastic experience: A combination of laziness and anxiety has kept me from joining a gym and the big box places were not what I was looking for. Iron Lion is an special place that helped with both of these issues. The facility is spacious well equipped, and clean. The trainers are extremely knowledgeable and eager to help. While you can do one-on-one training, there are a variety of classes to choose from and between your own sessions and the classes, the value is incredible, far superior to anything else I've come across. The owners, Steph, Ron, and Ripley (if you know, you know), do a great job of making it an inclusive and relaxed space, very very happy I've started this journey with them in my corner.

Fantastic experience: The IronLion team has created a supportive, inclusive, hard-working community that I am proud to be part of. Online and in-person classes help me progress in my fitness journey without the “attitude” that some places employ as motivation.

Fantastic experience: I was looking for a local gym for months when I found Iron Lion Fitness Studio. There are a variety of different classes and the trainers are able to modify work outs if you have any issues. Great classes, caring community, and amazing trainers. I've been very happy and supported here. Virtual and in-person classes are available.

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion Training's virtual classes has gotten me through this pandemic! Great workouts that are a lot of fun in an inclusive and supportive environment. Steph and Ron have created a wonderful community. Boxing classes with Steph are the best!

Fantastic experience: LOVE taking virtual classes at Iron Lion Training! I've learned so much about boxing form and technique from founder Steph "Iron Lioness" Dykstra, and each session creates more rather than saps energy. My strength endurance and cardio capacity have dramatically improved, developed more spring and quickness, and have learned to move my body in new-to-me ways. (Also appreciate that there are the 30-minute and hourlong class options.) Still, the most extraordinary perk might be all of the highly transferable lessons from the boxing ring that land because of the way Steph coaches. So often she hits on something that's exactly what I needed to hear, exactly the way I needed to hear it. Really, the best fitness can be.

Fantastic experience: I really appreciate the energy and approach at Iron Lion Training. They are inclusive and celebrate diversity. I take Steph's boxing classes over Zoom. I love that I can learn boxing technique and work out from someone so accomplished as Steph. She is encouraging, an expert in her field, and despite the distance and online format, is still able to give feedback on form to help ensure safety and learning proper technique. I don't live near Toronto and to be able to have access to these classes, from a coach and gym that is progressive and inclusive is so fantastic.

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion Training is by far the best gym I have ever been a member of. Their classes are amazing and the staff are a big part of that reason. I look forward to every class that I take. The welcoming, inclusive and respectful community keeps me motivated and excited to come back to every class. I highly recommend this gym, especially their classes!

Fantastic experience: Love this place! This is not your average gym. A fun, safe, body positive and inclusive space. They will meet you where you are at and help guide you to achieve your goals.

Fantastic experience: I live in Seattle, and being able to join Steph's boxing class online is amazing, I can only imagine how great in person classes and training would be! I was a total beginner and Steph made me feel so welcome and comfortable. Highly highly recommend!!

Fantastic experience: I participated in one an online boxing class (thanks COVID19) coached by Steph, and it was a great workout! The perfect way to destress, get a sweat on and have some fun while doing it! Aside from solid coaching, the Iron Lion team are solid human beings who pride themselves on a creating inclusive and safe spaces for all-fitness levels. I highly recommend checking them out!

Fantastic experience: I took on a zoom class with Steph & Mia during lockdown and I am so pleased I did. Not only did I get the arm workout OF MY LIFE but I came out feeling mentally reset from Steph's wisdom and unapologetic acknowledgement of how many of us were in this class to release stress from current events. The pace was straightforward upbeat, with clear direction and a killer soundtrack. I cannot wait to join in another class, virtually or in person.

Fantastic experience: I approached Ron at Iron Lion with a goal of gaining 10lbs of muscle - he developed a plan for me around the weights I had available at home, and coached me one-on-one on how to do all the exercises correctly and safely. Thanks to Ron I achieved my goal. He is AMAZING. He has an incredibly mindful and compassionate approach with his clients, combined with deep knowledge and expertise in all things strength training. It’s an absolute pleasure learning from him. I highly highly recommend Iron Lion.

Fantastic experience: This gym really stands apart from every other gym I’ve joined in the past, all thanks to the crew who run it. Classes and training sessions are fun, challenging and personal, and I’ve never feel intimidated. It’s a great space for all body types, ages, and fitness levels, for queers, for lifters, for new parents who want to work out with their babies, and for people who simply want to feel stronger in their body. Would 100% recommend if you, like me, don’t think you vibe with gyms. This place is great.

Fantastic experience: This is ~by far~ the best gym I've ever been a member of! After many attempts over the years to keep a consistent exercise routine, it finally stuck this time — all because Steph & Ron have created a positive and inclusive environment that has made me ~for real~ enjoy going to the gym. Iron Lion is the perfect place for anyone looking to join a fitness community that is welcoming to everyone (it's body positive & queer friendly) and if you want more care & attention than a big box gym can offer you. Couldn't recommend them more!

Fantastic experience: I trained here for about 5 months with my partner while we were living in Toronto temporarily. I can't say enough about how much we loved Iron Lion. It became a cornerstone of our lives in Toronto as we weathered the harsh winter January - March. The staff and trainers are extremely knowledgeable and cool people, Mia, Spencer, Aziza and Rex (just naming those we worked with). Steph and Ron are amazing people and have developed a truly inclusive and welcoming community. They are equally exceptional coaches who are super motivating and positive but tough when you need them to be. We loved the other members of the studio and they were all extremely welcoming of these two random Americans who showed up in the dead of winter wanting to do kettlebells. I honestly think back to my time here as one of the highlights of my stay in Toronto. I would highly, highly, highly recommend joining if you are in the Toronto area, no matter what level you are starting at. Miss you all! :(

Fantastic experience: Friendly group of trainer's with a solid focus on doing things properly first with a safe build up. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: This gym is a breath of fresh air in a world of "throwing tires and bro-ing fitness". Steph and Ron are fun, caring people that also push me to new heights. They work *with* you, explaining why you are working through different exercises and actually focusing on good technique. I do both semi-private coaching with them and the group classes, and I'm loving every minute. As someone who used to go to the gym alone so other people wouldn't have to see me struggle, I've found a community that is accepting and challenges me, a family to sweat with. I can't wait for my next session!

Fantastic experience: Positive, supportive instructors, great classes in just the right amount of time. There is always music playing, they take song requests, there's a gym dog and a friendly community of fellow worker-outers! What more could you ask for?!

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion Training builds a values-based coaching environment centered on accountability, honesty and hard work. Its model is built on you showing up and trying things, unlike most gyms out there that will gladly take your cash and hope for your absence. This creates a space full of people you want to train with and see succeed. So it's not for everyone, but if this sounds like you, then it's your place. Ron and Steph are encouraging, compassionate, real folks who also happen to be incredibly progressive and knowledgeable experts in their areas of sport and training. Classes are work, but fun and with a great soundtrack always. Incorporation of the Precision Nutrition program into membership gives you so much more than the PN program on its own (which is $$), or training without it. I never thought I would be a rehabbed athlete and into another sport again, yet here we are!

Fantastic experience: A life changing experience. Steph and Ron have helped me do something I’ve never been able to do before. Come to the gym, and keep coming back. Thanks.

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion is a welcoming gym, run by trainers who genuinely care about their clients. They're great at recognizing and accommodating individual needs and helping their clients achieve their goals.

Fantastic experience: Exactly one year ago I was going through a pretty difficult period - I had a lot of unhappiness going on towards myself and was struggling pretty hard with my overall health and mental health, all at once. The last time I had even been physically active was 9 years ago when I used to train in Muay Thai until I suffered a brutal knee injury that forced me to retire from the sport and generally have to take it easy with anything strenuous. It felt like a slow, downward spiral from thereon - working out did wonders for my health, my mental health, my confidence and my mood in general and engaging in it no longer (alongside other life factors) started to chip away at all those bits of me. I finally realized at the very end of the year that I needed a change. I needed to start taking care of myself and needed to get myself back to an active level, despite a recurring knee problem. My main challenge has always been keeping myself motivated and consistent - Muay Thai kept me disciplined, but going to a gym by yourself I found to be a bit trickier with keeping myself on track. I actually met Steph, one of the owners and coaches of Iron Lion Training, while she was instructing one of the classes at the Muay Thai gym. I've followed her through social media since then and watched as she and her husband Ron, the other owner and coach, opened up ILT and built up their vision of a gym. Iron Lion Training is exactly the opposite of what one expects from a "typical" gym, if that's what you're looking for. Especially if you're someone who has found the typical gym to feel unwelcoming - whether its from discrimination, judgment, lack of body positivity, etc. The space is warm and inviting from your very first visit. Both Steph and Ron are completely devoid of the pushy, corporate-styled mentality with trying to sign clients onto big contracts that cost big $$$ to cancel. They truly care about people as individuals who have their own ideas of goals and wants when it comes to working out. There's 0 sense of judgment or pushing of their own agendas or ideas of what "fitness" looks like. It's really the main thing that really drew me in - their understanding that being "fit" doesn't equate having 6-pack abs and massive muscles (but they'll definitely help you to that goal if that's what YOU want!). Their focus falls more on an individual feeling good, healthy, and strong. And even then, it's always gone beyond the physical sense. Steph in particular likes to check in with members periodically and make sure that emotionally and mentally they're in a good place, especially if she knows you've been having a tough week. Being healthy goes beyond the physical sense for them - they like to ensure that members are feeling well in other aspects and do their best to try and help how they can. It's that kind of attitude that truly sets this place apart from other gyms with coaches/instructors. ILT has been built on the idea of a community that supports one another, in fitness and in other life aspects. And it's a formula that really works - folks at the gym have all connected with one another and created a supportive community. If someone is going through a rough time, other members are quick to check in and see if they can assist (Steph and Ron included). There are enough reviews here that really highlight how amazing ILT is as a gym in the fitness sense, and they're all 100% accurate. But what truly sets this place apart for me is what a safe space, warm, welcoming and truly supportive gym this is. It's one thing to claim to be that kinda space - it's another to truly put that work to practise and make it so. I've been here almost a year now and it's honestly been the best decision I've made in my life. Also, it's a dog-friendly gym. Just when you think it couldn't get better!

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion is the only gym I've ever loved - and I've tried a lot of them. I tried big box gyms that only cared about selling training packages, but not about the clients they actually had; I tried intimidating "professional" gyms that overwhelmed me; I tried neighbourhood spots that had old equipment and even older ideas about how women "should" train. But my search for a gym home was over the day I stepped into ILT. A friend who knew me, my goals and my struggles recommended/demanded I give them a try, and I can't possibly express how grateful I am to that friend and to Steph and Ron (the owners and head coaches) who welcomed me in and changed my life - no exaggeration. I immediately joined their powerlifting team, and I've developed strength and power - both physical and mental - that I never imagined were possible before. Steph and Ron are knowledgable, experienced, fun, kind people who care on a personal level about each and every member of the Iron Lion community. They know about my life, my stresses, my injuries and weak spots, and they recognize my potential as an athlete, encouraging and coaching me to perform at levels that I didn't know were possible. Iron Lion is a community in the truest sense of the word. We gather, we laugh, we work hard, we push each other and we celebrate each other, we talk about things that matter, and we show up day after day, week after week, to continue along our own unique paths - together. It's magic, and I can't give them enough stars or recommend them highly enough.

Fantastic experience: I picked Iron Lion because of it's amazing location in the Junction Triangle and the fact that it was open early mornings when I walked my dog. I started doing drop ins about once week then realized it was more than worth the money. I have a kid and am able to bring her when needed which has always made going to the gym hard. I was always forced to go to good life but my kid is old enough that she didn't enjoy hanging out with babies and so she made me switch to this gym. I am so happy with this switch. Anyone can and should drop in and try it out. They don't even judge me and my crazy leggings.

Fantastic experience: I have been a gym skeptic for most of my life. I've never felt comfortable in a gym; it always felt awkward and shallow and fake for me, like I was trying to be something I wasn't, and failing. But Coaches Stef and Ron have created a welcoming community that is supportive, fun, and powerful. Doing KB-CON on Saturdays is a highlight of my week because of the great people and coaches who make the gym a place not just to get physically stronger, but to feel connected to a supportive community.

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion is unlike any other gym I’ve tried. The owners Steph and Ron have cultivated an environment that feels great to be a part of; there’s a great sense of community. Gyms I’ve tried in the past felt alienating, especially being a young woman. Iron Lion made me feel extremely confident and comfortable in myself and my body. Highly recommended!

Fantastic experience: Great gym!

Fantastic experience: My wife goes about 4 times a week, loves it. She's always looked great, and now her confidence is shining through. She often talks about things that happened at the gym(always good things), on a first name basis. That's how friendly and approachable this place is.

Fantastic experience: When I first met Steph, I had been struggling to get active again after having children. Exercise was always the first thing to go and getting back into it seemed so daunting. Working with Steph renewed my joy in working out and provided the accountability that I needed. Steph and Ron have created a fantastic, welcoming and supportive environment to work out, pursue fitness and other health goals while having a remarkable amount of fun! I highly recommend this gym.

Fantastic experience: This is the first gym, or any fitness related place, where I feel like I belong. I was never a fitness oriented person and had a couple abanded gym memberships over the years. When I was introduced to Steph and Ron at Iron Lion I knew that I had found somewhere different. Working with them over the last couple of years has had a huge impact of my fitness, overall quality of life, and sense of community. Now I’m there three times a week and love every visit. Coach Steph’s boxing classes are an amazing blend of conditioning and technique, and my personal training with Choach Ron has changed how I see my physical abilities. If you’re looking for a gym that is a real community and will work with you at your level (and take you to levels you didn’t think possible) this is the place.

Fantastic experience: Full disclosure: I've known Steph and Ron as friends for many years. However, it wasn't until a year and a half ago when I started training with Ron. Over that time I have become stronger and more toned, and I am more physically fit than I ever have in my life. Ron is a patient coach, who coaxes the best out of you while being respectful of your level of ability. I enjoy learning new exercises and techniques, and look forward to each session. I think more than anything else, I feel like they have taught me physical health lessons that I can pass on to my young son. I highly recommend checking them out if you're ready to take better care of yourself, and want to learn from inclusive, understanding, realistic, and demanding coaches.

Fantastic experience: I have been taking classes at Iron Lion for just under a year and can say it is a welcoming and positive environment. The classes are great, I have improved my strength, and I feel accomplished. Thanks for creating such a warm and awesome place to spend Saturday morning!

Fantastic experience: I have been working out with Steph as my Coach for a number of years now and thoroughly enjoy it. Once her and Ron opened their own place the experience got even better. Steph and Ron are professional, knowledgeable, supportive, empathetic and just plain amazing. I do a number of classes and enjoy the friendly, supportive community. I also do training sessions with Steph where I am challenged to test and grow my strength and am very happy with the results. I am a mom of two and feel like my training allows me to be the kind of mom I want to be. I feel strong, confident and most importantly supported.

Fantastic experience: I first met the owners of ILT (Stephanie and Ron) over 10 years ago while boxing at another gym. To see their vision for a gym of their own come to fruition is remarkable. They have established an amazing environment and fostered a supportive community. I previously suffered back-to-back concussions over a 4-week span while playing football. Steph and Ron were instrumental in my recovery process, in helping to build me back up physically and mentally. I am grateful to have them as coaches. ILT is a welcoming gym for beginners and highly trained athletes. I highly recommend others to check it out. You may be surprised how much you'll get out of it.

Fantastic experience: I started attending Iron Lion regularly in the fall of 2017 and then signed up for semi-private training in early 2018. As a result, I’ve had the longest streak of consistent gym attendance ever in my life. I’ve tried many (four) Toronto crossfit gyms and after an initial bout of enthusiasm, I would drop out due to the lack of attention and modification of the Workout of the Day (WOD), leading to injury. At Iron Lion, the focus is on SAFE and SUSTAINABLE exercise, in an encouraging, non-judgmental community. I’ve enjoyed my time so much that my husband has since joined. I bring visiting friends to the Saturday morning kettlebell class. I’ve made friends at the gym. But the highlight is the coaching by Ron and Steff. They are exercise nerds and have so many tricks and tips up their sleeves to keep you safely challenged and progressing. I’m so impressed with their level and depth of knowledge that I’m having a hard time seeing a conclusion to my membership. I consider them an integral part of my life and look forward to learning from them for as long as I can! Yes my body has become stronger than ever - but the real measure of success, in my opinion, is that I look forward to going to the gym.

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion is an amazing place! When I moved into the area I wasn’t sure about where to go or what to do. I gave Iron Lion a try and I felt included and part of the community from my very first class. The environment is great and the workouts are awesome! I love the kettle bell and boxing classes. The support from the coaches made me confident to safely try exercises I have been avoiding due to injury. Also, you can request your favourite pump up song for a finisher - so fun!!

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion Training is everything I was looking for in a gym, and much more. I was looking for weight training to build muscle and lose fat. I was simply expecting some coaching involving standard exercises, but instead am being guided through an individualized program appropriate to my age, abilities, and desired goals. I am learning new exercises every month, building up core strength and practising proper form for the heavier movements. My progress has been astounding. I was expecting to perhaps add muscle to my arms and chest, but am amazed at the noticeable muscle tone in every single muscle group. My posture has improved, and friends can see the difference. I cannot say enough about this place. I was expecting a gym; instead I have found a welcoming, body-positive and inclusive community of people who are enthusiastic about getting fit while having fun at the same time. I would highly recommend Iron Lion - and I do, to anyone who will listen.

Fantastic experience: There is so so much I want to say about this place that I am not sure it would all fit in here. But I will try. Iron Lion Training has brought back my passion for working out and has helped me to achieve many many of my personal goal. I have never felt better, looked better, and been happier with my body as I am now. Ron, Steph and all coaches are incredibly knowledgeable trainers, who will push you to do better but respecting your limits and goals too. If you are looking for a place where you feel accepted, that has a sense of community and body positivity, this is the place for you. Thank you for everything you guys have done for me and keep up the amazing job!

Fantastic experience: Great place with knowledgeable staff and a supportive environment. Steph, Ron and the other instructors are all super supportive and helpful, if you're looking for a place that will encourage you and help you reach your goals that place is iron lion training.

Fantastic experience: Iron Lion Training is the home of body-positive, compassionate coaching, that builds on your strengths while helping you meet your fitness goals... it's also a place to find supportive community in the group classes and with your coaches... i feel so grateful I found this gym full of heart and hard-working folks so close to where I live...

Fantastic experience: I've been coming to Iron Lion for a year and a half now. It's the best gym I've experienced, and I've been a member of many. The studio is well-equipped, the atmosphere is very welcoming, and the classes offered are diverse, challenging, and fun. Steph and Ron, the owners, are highly knowledgeable and actively engage with their members. If you want to box, powerlift, or just get in shape, whether you're a beginner or looking to work towards competition, they will work with you. It's been an excellent experience for me so far and I recommend checking out a class.

Fantastic experience: I don't even know where to begin as there is just SO much to love about this place. An amazing community that is supportive, inclusive and effective. I was so nervous about getting back into going to the gym and kept putting it off because I was so intimidated, but Ron and Steph made me feel welcome from the moment I walked in for my first class. It's now been almost a year of going and I'm so pleased about how far I've come and how much fun it's been.

Fantastic experience: Great low-pressure / high-fun place to work out and take classes. Steph and Ron do a great job by keeping it fun, while helping you to achieve your goals.

Fantastic experience: Great gym. Steph and Ron are very knowledgeable, professional, fun, and provide a fantastic supportive environment whatever your goals.

Fantastic experience: Coaches Steph & Ron are amazing, and Iron Lion Training is a safe, fun, inspiring, and community-driven environment. I recommend them to everyone I know and have referred many of my friends and family. This is in an inclusive, welcoming space, and you'll always be glad you came!

Fantastic experience: It's like finding a second home at Iron Lion Training. Ron and Steph operate a business based on true integrity, I have learned so much in the past 10 months in both one on one training and small groups sessions. They are always adding different classes and keeping life at the gym interesting and motivating. This is the place!

Fantastic experience: I'd joined "the Pride" earlier this year, and I have to stress how pleased I am with doing so. From new-to-this folks to athletes they will have your needs covered. My trainers are engaged with improving my well-being beyond just pushing me to work harder/sweat more - they take an active interest in my health nutritionally, physically, and treat me with respect no matter the situation! The people I get to work out with are also supportive and respectful, at all times, which is a big difference from some of the other institutions I've visited. My hats off (gloves off?) to the owners and staff for creating a fitness family that cares about each other and backs them in their goals.

Fantastic experience: Welcome to the friendliest gym in Toronto, which by the way has expert lifting and boxing coaches. Brand new equipment. I've known and worked with the coaches/owners for about seven years. They used to train me back in the day and it was awesome. They're just too far from me or I'd still work with them. I continue to refer clients to Iron Lion.