Frequently Asked Questions

Congrats—you're exactly where you should be! Wherever you are in your fitness journey, be proud of taking this step towards building your strongest self yet 🙌All new BUILD Lift Club members are required to take our First Timer class, called FOUNDATIONS. You'll get an extended introduction to the equipment & training program, learn essential safety and form tips, and get a feel for the workout. From there, you can take any of our regular classes (Full Body, Glutes & Arms, Chest & Back, etc.) and continue on your journey to muscle town 🚀Please see our First Timer Essentials FAQ for the best First Class experience!When it comes to building muscle, consistency is key for long term growth that feels good. We're looking for moderate, sustainable intensities—we're not rushing to perfection, and we're not burning out. You might not feel as out-of-breath and fatigued as you would after cardio or endurance-focused fitness classes, but that's exactly what we want: a challenging workout that leaves you feeling strong, not just tired.Completely new to weightlifting? Have no fear—we're here to BUILD you up. Book your FOUNDATIONS class and get ready for your strongest chapter yet!

To safely participate in a Build class, all members must be 18 or older (or 16 accompanied by a parent or guardian) and be able to carry at least 30 pounds. Being able to handle & move gym equipment will allow you to have the most successful experience. Our instructors will provide guidance on technique and equipment handling, and can of course provide assistance moving equipment. But for the most part, members should be prepared to handle equipment independently. Looking for a more personalized experience? We offer private training with our highly qualified veteran instructors. Please email info@buildliftclub.com to schedule.

First Timers should arrive 10 minutes early and allot extra time to find parkingWear athletic clothing you're comfortable moving around inBring water and a towel if you tend to get sweatyFlat, stable sneakers are typically best for weightliftingWe recommend weightlifting gloves, especially for newer lifters. We sell them at Build if you need!Music can get loud, so bring earplugs if you prefer or grab them at the front deskCheck in with the Front Desk and Instructor once you arrive! Please notify the instructor before class of any special conditions or injuries you may have so they can provide modifications

There is metered street parking along Raymond Ave, as well as a paid parking garage next door at Del Mar Station Parking ($1 for 2 hours). Please note parking in the front patio / driveway is reserved for staff only. For street parking, you can use the Park Mobile App code 6263 to pay through your phone.

Yes! All of our trainers are certified personal trainers and seasoned fitness instructors who can help you achieve your goals. If you're seeking highly individualized programming, one-on-one attention, and a totally tailored experience, private training is the route for you. Please reach out to info@buildliftclub.com to schedule.

Yes! Lifting weights can absolutely be intimidating, which is why we created the Beginner 1 and Beginner 2 classes. You can take as many Beginner level classes as you'd like, until you feel comfortable moving onto the regularly programmed classes. When moving onto the regular classes, be prepared for a faster-paced class with less detailed instruction on how to handle the equipment. When coming to class, don't be afraid to connect with your instructor and fellow lifters. We know trying something new can feel scary, and it's a huge achievement to step towards your fitness goals. At BUILD, we step forward together 🩷 If you have any questions, reach out to info@buildliftclub.com

Despite what years of bad marketing may tell you, no, you will not get bulky from lifting weights. "Bulkiness" comes from the layer of fat covering your muscles. If you're seeking a "toned" and sculpted aesthetic, you'll want to build & maintain muscle mass while decreasing body fat to reveal the underlying muscle. This is called body recomposition and involves both a structured resistance training program (such as our BUILD classes) and a tailored nutrition plan. A feeling of being bulky or swollen after resistance training is completely normal. Temporary water retention and increased blood flow in the targeted muscles can contribute to that feeling, but it should subside after a few days. We wholeheartedly encourage you to keep at it—you might learn to love the feeling of a good pump! Additionally, it takes years and years of consistent, progressive, heavy weightlifting to grow the muscles so significantly that you begin to look "bulky." Keep in mind that having large, rippling muscles is the ultimate goal for many weightlifters and professional bodybuilders. They dedicate their lives and daily routines to achieving that goal, and commonly use supplements to get there. So rest assured—unless you're training and eating like a bodybuilder, the muscle growth you develop should feel rewarding, confidence-boosting, and beautiful! Finally, nothing can replace the benefits of having a healthy amount muscle mass. For longevity, independence, mobility, strength, bone density, cognition and mental health—we have so much to gain by building muscle. Stop waiting—start building. You got this 💪