The renowned gym in Reading, Pennsylvania, is reopening its doors with a new identity and leadership
Initially launched by Rob and Dana Linn Bailey, Warhouse Gym located in Reading, Pennsylvania was celebrated as one of the most intense fitness centers on the east coast since its inception in 2015. Influencers, bodybuilders, powerlifters, and general fitness aficionados congregated there for various events, ranging from meet and greets to powerlifting contests. Additionally, Warhouse earned a loyal following of individuals drawn by the unique ambiance that Rob and Dana Bailey cultivated.
Regrettably, in 2020, the celebrated gym shut down, and shortly after, much of its equipment was auctioned off. Enthusiasts could be seen hauling away the squat racks, benches, dumbbells, and barbells, along with other apparatus that helped many Warhouse users pursue their fitness goals. Subsequently, the facility lay dormant for years, with the parking lot of the shopping center remaining largely empty. All that survived of Warhouse Gym were a few shirts and gym bags purchased by people, as well as cherished memories and photos.
However, in 2023, Warhouse is reopening, this time as “Warhouse Strength” and under new ownership. Let’s explore the vision the new proprietors have for the gym’s future.
What Was Warhouse Gym?
Warhouse Gym was located in Reading, Pennsylvania, and recognized as one of the most hardcore gyms on the east coast, alongside others such as Atilis in New Jersey or Bev Francis Powerhouse Gym in New York. Established by Rob and Dana Linn Bailey in 2015, Warhouse Gym offered a premier training facility for those serious about high-level lifting, strength, and conditioning.
Not only was Dana Bailey the first Women’s Physique Olympia champion, but Warhouse also hosted numerous professional athletes such as Larry Wheels, who achieved remarkable PRs within its walls. 4x Mr. Olympia winner, Jay Cutler, and even C.T. Fletcher, the star of Vladar Films’ CT Fletcher: My Magnificent Obsession, trained at Warhouse, which delves into his pain, struggle, and hardships.
Despite the gym’s significant popularity, the political and economic climate of 2020 unfortunately impacted Warhouse Gym. Many businesses faced closures during the global health crisis, and Warhouse Gym was among them.
Rob and Dana left a heartfelt message to patrons before officially closing:
“THANK YOU
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE FOR ALL THE SUPPORT. THE WARHOUSE HAS BEEN A FUN CHAPTER IN OUR LIVES. ALL CHAPTERS EVENTUALLY COME TO AN END, AND NEW CHAPTERS OPEN. DUE TO REASONS OUTSIDE OF OUR CONTROL, WHG WILL BE CLOSED INDEFINITELY OCTOBER 26TH. WE THANK EVERYONE WHO ATTENDED THE EVENTS AND LIFTS OVER THE LAST 5 YEARS.
ALL ACCOUNTS WILL BE CANCELED AND NO MORE MEMBERSHIP FEES WILL BE CHARGED.”
Following this, equipment was auctioned off and gym owners, alongside those looking to equip their home gyms, flocked to Warhouse to acquire memorabilia. With the equipment gone, it seemed the gym would never reopen.
The Birth of Warhouse Strength
Nevertheless, in 2023, Warhouse Gym has been rebranded to “Warhouse Strength” by an enthusiastic couple, and is set for opening on December 16, 2023.
A young enthusiast named Brittany Dotterer, who cherished the original Warhouse, decided not to let it wither. Brittany expressed that Warhouse was her sanctuary, even during challenging periods like her cancer treatments. Regardless of what kind of day she was having, she found solace in lifting weights at the iconic gym.
She convinced her husband, Justin, to join her on this endeavor, which has been a rollercoaster ride. Thankfully, despite numerous challenges, the pair managed to get everything operational and are excited to welcome people to Warhouse Strength.
Gym Specifications
Brittany’s goal with Warhouse Strength is to provide a serious training environment, whether the objective is fat loss, gaining muscle, or other fitness goals. Brittany aims for the gym to be a place of serious transformation, free from distractions like young gym goers who sit on their phones for extended periods, pose in the mirror after each set, and contribute to a toxic environment, often referred to as gymcels.
Warhouse Strength will feature an array of new equipment, including squat racks, pendulum squats, numerous machines, and dumbbells ranging from 5 lbs to 150 lbs. Additionally, the facility will offer amenities like a tanning bed, a red therapy room, and massage therapy for recovery. Despite anticipating a busy gym, Brittany and her husband will ensure it remains clean, organized, and retains the powerful atmosphere of the original Warhouse, even enhancing it. They aspire to recreate the hardcore vibe seen in gyms like Metroflex, where Ronnie Coleman trained.
Supplements
Unlike many commercial gyms with just vending machines, Warhouse Strength will be well-stocked with a variety of supplements to support overall wellness. Offerings will range from pre-workouts to protein powders, along with a smoothie bar for post-workout snacks or meals, providing ample incentives to stay a bit longer and pick up a few supplements or a refreshing smoothie.
Conclusion
All in all, Pennsylvania is gaining a revamped hardcore gym definitely worth adding to your list of visits. Brittany and Justin Dotterer are committed to sustaining the atmosphere that Rob and Dana established.
Will you check out Warhouse Strength?
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