I came to Barbarian Barbell with my husband a little over a year ago and I wish we made the switch over sooner! We both had several years of experience training and competing in weightlifting, but coming here and working directly with Emmy has been a game changer! Her years of experience as a high level athlete and her attention to detail have provided me with the technical changes that I need to make to continue to improve in this sport. Since joining I have gotten more consistent with heavier attempts than I had been prior to joining Barbarian!

Emmy makes sure that she sees what everyone is doing and how everyone is moving. Her programming is smart and tailored to the individual to help each athlete progress and minimize the occurrences of injury. She checks in with us on a regular basis to see how we are feeling and recovering and genuinely cares about each individual’s success.

The team and atmosphere at Barbarian has been great since day 1. It can be intimidating coming into a new environment, but all the other team members are helpful, friendly and encouraging. I would recommend this gym to anyone of any level looking to learn the classic lifts, improve their technique, or join an awesome competition team!

Emmy and her team are the best, period. If you are looking to develop speed, strength, and coordination in the Olympic lifts (snatch // clean + jerk) under the tutelage and watchful eye of an experienced, tenured coach, then look no further. The impressive dossier Emmy brings to the table as an athlete (Pan Am Team Member, OTC resident) compliments her abilities as a coach; she intimately knows how to take care of her lifters, preparing them both mentally and physically for the rigors of training and competition. The atmosphere and team members here are always so supportive and gracious — regardless of your skill level, this place will make you better!

I have been a member of Barbarian Barbell for almost a year; prior to that I tried many other weightlifting gyms and CrossFit gyms in the LA area. Emmy provides specific technique for members that is highly customized and targeted to your weaknesses. Emmy also has several different programs active at one time for: Collegiate, Masters (Ages 35 and over), Open (Ages 20-34), Youth and Juniors. Additionally, she takes into consideration different levels of experience from beginners to competition team members. The team is also great, with diverse skill sets, backgrounds, and ages – it is truly a family. There is no other place I would rather call home.

Always wanted to improve my snatch after years of practicing at my local CrossFit gym. Found this gym online and started training the following day. I’ve been training there regularly since last November 2018 and couldn’t be happier with how much progress I’ve made so far. Even discovered my love for weightlifting after training with such an amazing coach, Emmy Vargas, and a great group of teammates to feed off their great energy. Great training program and coaching for anyone in all skill levels.

Emmy Vargas is about the most knowledgeable coach you can find in the Weightlifting world. On top of that, she’s a real trip as a person – smart, funny, affable and just a great communicator. Let her make you a better lifter. You’ll be glad you took my advice.

Emmy is a great coach – if you’re looking to improve in the sport of weightlifting or just get awesome technique – you’ve got to stop by!