Exercising is not my favorite activity and I'm not that athletic, but I am a complete fan of Studio X. The space is intimate, well-designed, very user friendly and close-in to downtown Portland. It is such a pleasure to work out in a quiet, private and focused space. But the real gem of this gym is the owner, Tim Irwin. I first began working with Tim after I fell while running on a trail and fractured my upper arm in eight places. The orthopedist warned me that if I did not do a rigorous program of physical therapy I could develop ""frozen shoulder"" and lose as much as 25% of my range of motion. Traditional physical therapy worked for the first few weeks after the injury, but progress quickly stalled. I went to see Tim and he designed a program for me to do both in-studio and at home to work gently but steadily to increase my range of motion without causing undue pain or risk. His plan was extremely effective and, despite the fact that I am in my 50's, I have hadly any loss of range of motion in my arm. SInce then I have worked with Tim to develop a better sense of balance and more stable movement as well as strength. Tim is extremely knowledgeable and confident without being cocky. He is a good listener and adapts his approach to his widely varied clientele. I have never been injured doing workouts that he recommends. Unlike most gym trainers, Tim can work with a wide age range--I referred my 78 year old mother to him and she thought he was great. In sum, Studio X is unique space run by a consummate professional who is talented, committed and yet easy-going. I recommend it whole-heartedly. I just wish I did more of what Tim tells me to do!
Pros: Staff professionalism, design, value, location
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