Life’s a Sport

Back-to-basics fitness tailored so you can stay strong and live long.

We’re Proud To Be Locally-Owned + Operated Since 2021

What We Offer

All classes are capped at 12 people and led by experienced coaches who offer modifications for every movement. Class lengths range from 45 to 60 minutes.

  • Our Signature 1-Hour Class

    Each class includes:

    STRENGTH
    A focused rotation through foundational lifts: bench, squat, deadlift, and clean.
    Built to help you lift with power and proper form. All levels welcome, modifications provided.

    HIIT
    A 10–13 minute conditioning block using bodyweight and light resistance to build endurance and intensity.

    ACCESSORY WORK
    Three targeted movements that complement the day’s strength and HIIT work, with a focus on core stability, mobility, and injury prevention.

  • High-intensity interval training + weights. It's the perfect combo to kick your butt back into shape with a community that has your back. This 45-minute class is guaranteed to get you results. We focus on the top four strength movements—push, pull, squat, hinge—for the first 20-25 minutes, followed by a 10-15 minute HIIT portion—all-out intensity, scaled and modified to fit your skill level. Each week the program will rotate between uppers, lowers and full-body sessions. Learn how to build strength, take control of your body-weight and move out of your comfort zone with the guidance of our professional training staff. Suitable for all skill-levels.

  • A 45-minute class that embodies high-intensity interval training. Looking to sweat and kick your butt into shape? This one’s for you. Our low-impact, high-intensity workouts are backed by science with intervals that will guarantee a boosted metabolic rate by elevating and lowering your heart rate with forced rests between movements or rounds. This class doesn’t include any heavy weights or anything overhead, but is still highly effective. We believe in the mantra: work smarter, not harder. But make no mistake: we’re here to move as fast as your form or skill-level allows. This class has a rotation of four separate styles of workouts to ensure you don’t reach a plateau.

  • A class designed to improve your mobility and reduce injury. In this 45-minute class, you'll complete a short bodyweight HIIT followed by rehab-focused movements and stretching. Perfect to recover from a long week or get you ready for the week ahead.

  • Looking to train in a more intimate setting, by yourself or with a small group of friends or family? Our staff of highly-educated and experienced trainers are personable, friendly and will help you quickly reach your goals. Prices vary depending on schedule and group size. Please contact us to discuss

  • Inclusive Fitness For All

    Welcome to an environment where all ages and skill levels thrive, supported by our individualized coaching and thoughtful programming.

  • Mindfulness in Every Move

    We believe in a holistic approach to fitness. Our classes emphasize mobility, safety and strength— not just physical goals.

  • Community Over Everything

    Here you’ll find a friendly, supportive network of like-minded individuals, all committed to their health and fitness goals.

What our community is saying

  • “I have been coming here for 6 months and really love the class, workouts, and environment. Especially as a physical therapist, I love that each instructor is knowledgeable and can modify exercises accordingly.”

    Manroop Chawla

  • “The entire team there always meet you at your level, working with you to set goals and achieve results. I began taking classes here at the recommendation of my former trainer, who moved away from the area, and I have never regretted trying them out.”

    Alison Curtin

  • “The coaches are fantastic - collaborative, motivating and they spend the time to understand your fitness goals and work with you individually to make them happen. Best of all, you feel like you're part of a community that's having fun at the same time as getting/staying in shape. If you're looking for a gym in Montclair, definitely check out Char Fitness!”

    Peter Vaughn

  • “I got into the best shape of my life with these trainers. The exercises are high intensity but adjustable for different expertise levels, the trainers always stress form and safety, and the classes are always different and fun. I’m so happy Char is a part of Montclair.”

    Eugene Roymisher

  • “Never been super into weights/strength work but they make it fun and focus on form/form correction more than any similar classes I've taken. So glad I found this place, and super convenient location for those living near Bloomfield Ave.”

    Calla Murphy

  • “Love this place! Clean inspiring & great coaches & trainers. The classes are dynamic. Do yourself a favor & do the 1 week trial! I used to be super into CrossFit and burned myself out with injury and burnout. I love CHAR sustainable approach to fitness in a supportive environment.”

    Linda Andrews

  • “The coaches are motivating and knowledgeable. They take the time to help you tweak your movements and improve your workouts so that you see noticeable progress over time. The classes are challenging yet fun. You will be supported and encouraged.”

    Andrea Dominko

  • “Shortly after moving to Montclair, in mid 2021, I found myself looking for a new gym and I’m so glad I ended up at Char. They have a ton of class times and every workout can be scaled up or down based on fitness level or injuries. I’ve dealt with a few minor injuries and the coaches are always happy to give me alternative exercises.”

    Matt R.

  • “The workouts will challenge you, but are completely modifiable for whatever your fitness level. The coaches are knowledgeable and aware of each client's attitude toward exercise. I personally like to be pushed, but that's not for everyone and they recognize that. Also, the steps they take to ensure a clean and safe experience is second to none.”

    Greg Cuoco

  • “I worked out at Char for 9 months of pregnancy! The Char team was knowledgeable and supportive throughout - helping me adjust as needed and sharing guidance on how to work out most effectively.”

    Rachel Schmidt

  • “I don’t usually write reviews but Char Fitness is the absolute BEST. I recently moved to the area and tried a few classes, but Char was the perfect find. It’s also by far the best HIIT class I have had in years.”

    Lauren MIchael

  • “The CHAR community and team is unlike any other in the Montclair area. They are welcoming, funny, kind, and create amazing workouts. One of the things that I love most about the club is the sense of community - in every way possible”

    Maggie Ross

  • “Char Fitness is simply top notch. Great gym with an exceptional staff. I've always been part of a gym in the past, but Char is next level. The workouts here are extremely curated and you can tell that a lot of thought goes into each workout and movement.The workouts always have adjustability and fit every level, from beginner to advanced. Workouts here are always changing up and it's always fun and engaging.”

    Mark Mettias

  • “The instructors are well informed and motivating and the workouts are tough but modifications are always given and you are encouraged to go at your own pace to get maximum benefit. Reasonably priced, clean, and a great, encouraging environment. Highly recommend!”

    Deepa Jajoor Coston

  • “A good friend referred me, and I'm glad he did. I've been recovering from shoulder surgery and have had a bad back for years. With just a few personal training sessions I am already on the road to recovery and am feeling stronger every day. Never have I been to a gym that feels more like a community than this place. It's not just a place to go and sweat. It's super clean and has a great vibe that make you feel like you are a part of something bigger than just a gym.”

    Aaron Spielberg

  • “By far the best gym I’ve been to. The coaches are wonderful and super welcoming. The workouts are definitely high intensity, you leave there knowing you got in a really great workout. It’s a very comfortable atmosphere where I feel I can scale the workouts to my abilities but you still want to push yourself! I find myself wanting to go and not even having to really push myself to get there like I did with other gyms.”

    Jenna Cassidy

  • “Hands down, best choice I’ve made training at Char Fitness! Coaches are amazing and offer tons of support and encouragement on your fitness journey. The workouts are tough but rewarding and produce amazing results quickly if you commit to it! Char is definitely a great addition to the community!”

    Lydia Rosada

  • “Great gym and welcoming environment. Trainers are encouraging and helpful. Perfect for beginner and advanced alike. You'll sweat. A lot.”

    Philip Dorian

Over 150 Five Star Reviews on Google, Yelp + MindBody

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FAQ

We hope your experience at Char Fitness Club is seamless. If you have any more questions about the space or our classes please feel free to email or call us!

  • Absolutely! In fact, we're thrilled to have you on board. Char Fitness Club is a welcoming space for individuals seeking to reintroduce themselves to a consistent fitness routine. Our experienced trainers are dedicated to guiding you through a gradual and safe progression, ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident as you embark on your fitness journey with us.

  • No, our classes are not like CrossFit at all. At Char Fitness Club, we offer a distinct format that prioritizes safety and inclusivity for all participants. Our approach focuses on well-structured movements that are easily modifiable to suit individual abilities, ensuring that proper form is emphasized to prevent any risk of injury. We do not use barbells in our HIIT workouts.

  • We recommend 3-4 sessions a week for the average Jo or Joey, but this question really depends on the individual. Our team is happy to discuss once you come in for your first session!

  • Tap or sparkling? Just kidding... but yes we do have beverages (water, bodyarmour, protein drinks etc) available along with water from the tap!

  • We do offer yearly memberships. That can be 12 monthly payments or all upfront, but yearly memberships are contractually bound.

  • If you are looking to come in occasionally (once or twice a week) then a package is for you. If you want to take advantage of more, a membership would be recommended.

  • We always suggest consulting with a healthcare professional for injuries. However, if you are able to move with modifications, we welcome you! We can always modify to work around any nagging issues.

  • Street parking is accessible on Hartley St., Washington St. and Bloomfield Ave.

  • We have two bathrooms, both unisex.

Schedule a Visit

We can’t wait to get to know you and show you the space.