Fitness Clubs
Dynamic Conditioning Centre
By all accounts Dynamic Conditioning Centre is no ordinary gym. Instead of row upon row of shiny exercise machines, DCC's equipment is an eclectic mix of items including sleds, fire hoses, monkey bars, kettle bells, a wide strip of Astroturf, water-filled barrels, climbing ropes, and a neat ball-and-rope thing that you can swing and bounce off walls.
As I roam the 5400 sq. ft. facility with Lee, my tour guide and DCC co-founder, I keep feeling the urge to run off and play with something. Finally, after we climb an Astroturf-covered incline, I give out a little "yee-haw!" and jump off the raised platform onto a soft "crash pad", feeling like a kid on a playground. The place sure is fun.
But it's not just about having fun: ultimately, it's about getting you in shape. As Lee explains, if some trinket is amusing but doesn't do much to improve your fitness level, you won't find it at DCC. Every piece of equipment is a tool to help you achieve the results you want.
Take the slosh bar - a long cylinder with water sloshing inside, rushing whichever way the bar is tilted. The inherent instability of such a contraption makes for a great opportunity to work the stabilizing core and leg muscles, engaging the whole body. That's what DCC is all about - improving your real-life, functional endurance, strength, balance and agility. Not bulking up a few isolated muscle groups or spending hours and hours on a treadmill.
So, what's a workout at DCC like?
Okay, now it's time for the most exciting part of my visit: the timed obstacle course. Just last weekend Lee and Jared were invited to set up an obstacle course at the Roger's Centre for the 126th Annual Police Games. He shows me the proper way to do some of the more technical elements of the course - and off I go!
Hop, hop, hop - kettle bell swings - push and pull weights and sleds up and down the Astroturf hill - push it, push it, keep going! - jump off the raised platform (yee-haw!) - jump into tractor tire - jump out - go, go, go! - 20 swings of the neat rope-and-ball thing - hop, hop, hop - throw 20 punches at the punching bag - come on, almost there! - sideways hops - zigzag around a line of cones - 20 satisfying sledgehammer whacks of the tractor tire - whew, DONE!
Three minutes and thirty four seconds after the start I'm gasping for air and grinning from ear to ear. I don't know if it's possible for endorphins to kick in this fast, but I'm floating on a bit of a high after completing the challenge. It sure was an intense workout!
Rates and Initiation Fee
A basic membership will run you $100 a month. You can also get an optional start-up package for $399 which includes a biosignature assessment (i.e., your hormonal/nutritional profile), two visits to a therapist, a fitness assessment, a customized workout program and two personal training sessions.
Clearly this isn't a budet gym, but that's the price you pay for individual attention. I'm assured that even for those who don't opt for any personal training, the DCC staff is still there to provide guidance and support. And apparently if members stop showing up, they'll get a phone call asking if they're okay, and urging them to stop slacking off. Quite a contrast with huge gym chains that gleefully collect regular payments from absentee patrons.
Towels, Lockers and Showers
The change rooms, showers, therapy waiting room, as well as other non-workout parts of the centre are modern and inviting, unlike the rugged and industrial athletic playground itself . The contrast defines clear boundaries between the "work hard area" and the "relax and feel at home area" (Lee says free WiFi for members is coming soon and, honestly, this is all I personally ever need to feel at home anywhere).
The change rooms are a bit small though and don't have much in the way of seating. Some benches would be a welcome addition. The gym does have a towel service.
Personal Training, Yoga and Spin
Personal training is $70-110 per hour, or there is group training available to help defray the cost. Spinning is not offered (there is nothing machine-dependent at DCC), but yoga is, as well as a variety of other classes: kettlebells, martial arts, boot camps (regular and women's only). The classes are $15-35 per session.
Food and Juice
There is a fridge with basic staples like water and Gatorade.
Worth Mentioning
Personal attention to every member's need is possible because DCC does not try to over recruit. At the time of this post, they have a membership base of about 45, hoping to grow it to 150. After that they'll look into expanding the space before attempting to invite new members. "We don't want it to be overcrowded," says Lee. "Definitely intend to keep the exclusivity."
Days and Hours of Operation
6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
Discussion
36 Comments
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Been here before, an awesome place! Lots of functional training as well as therapy options. My kinda place.
I love DCC. It's definitely not for the faint of heart and the end of a personal training session might leave you a bit nauseous and groping for the ground as sweat blinds you, but it's SO worth it.
Best Gym in the city BY FAR
I love the DCC:)))))
Awesome workout!!
xx
Lyzabeth Lopez
Top notch staff, you've got to check it out!!!
Kyle Whaley
Physiotherapist
I've been training with Lee for 2.5 years. Hard work and worth it. Never are two workouts the same - love that. It's a conditioning centre for your body, soul and mind. It's been transforming for me. Thanks Lee.
I've been training at DCC for about 2.5 years now and still can't get enough! The staff are very knowledgeable and extremely supportive. The workouts are unique and always challenging. I've recommended it to all my friends. It's truly a great, friendly and fun place to work out!
I've trained with Jared and it's by far the best work out I get.
I've also been training with Jared for a few months, and have seen a huge improvement in my strength, motivation and physical appearance. Even if you're already in shape, he can help take you to a new level!
DCC is incredible, great facility, great coaches and fantastic atmosphere. Training with Tyler for almost a year and now teaching a Strength & Conditioning based Mauy Thai class at DCC (Tuesday at 7pm & Saturday at 11am). The 5 plate push is my nemesis. Hands down the best gym in the city.
This gym is amazing! I have never been to anything like this before and have never experienced exercise like this. I do Blaise's Saturday morning class and have never felt better. DCC has equipment and exercises that may be different but that can give you the results a regualr gym or regular workout classes can't. It is definitely for anyone committed to getting in shape and likes a good ass-kickin'!!!
Ive trained and competed in various sports at various levels (swimming & bball) as a young person and I have been looking for a place to train at an equivalent level of intensity as competitive sports- this is the first place I have been where the combination of strength and conditioning, guided by expert instructors equals the same intensity as varsity/national level training. I would recommend DCC for anyone looking to bring their workouts to new heights - great environment, positive people and awesome workout. LOVE IT.
DCC is an excellent gym with great staff. I've trained with Blaise (trainer extraordinaire!!) for a couple of years, who always pushes to to your limits. Tyler's workouts are brutally tough as well. The equipment allow intense workouts that I doubt are available in any other gym in Toronto. All workouts are in instructor/class format, so it's an amazing value.
I've been training with Blaise and Tyler at DCC for 2 months now and the workouts are amazing - combining both strength and conditioning to give you an intense full body workout.
The use of unusual equipment and techniques such as the tornado ball, rope climb and plate pushes across the Astroturf have tested me in ways I've never experienced before.
I highly recommend DCC for anyone looking to take their training to the next level!
I've been to a lot of different gyms and tried a lot of different work outs. DCC by far has been the best one I've been to. Great staff, great crowd and unique workouts that never get boring. If you want to get in tip-top shape while having fun, this is the place to be.
Alfred "Soon to be new 5 plate record holder" Lee
Top notch facilities and trainers! It's the best that I've been to in Toronto.
Every time I walk (on legs that feel like rubber) out of the DCC door I feel a great sense of accomplishment. Every work out is intense and a real challenge to rise up to. I love it. After getting a little bored of traditional weight training I wanted to shake things up. Training at DCC with Tyler did just that. Man what a workout!!! Everytime. I really like the exclusivity and 'small venue' type environment and the staff/trainers are all really great. If you want a REAL challenge ? I dare ya to train at DCC.
Training at DCC and with Lee opened my eyes to my full training potential. I surpassed my own expectations every session I had.
Its a life changing workout.
Make the investment in yourself!
I've been training at DCC for almost a year and I love it! It is very different from the traditional gyms. It's a lot of fun working out with the unique equipment, like the tornado ball, tractor tire, sledge hammer, and sleds. I actually look forward to my workouts everyday, and I always learn different exercises that I can try out from other members or the staff, so it never gets boring. I would definately recommend working out at the playground.
I've been a trainer for over ten years and I have never been to a facility that is closer to perfect than the DCC for fun, functional, performance enhancing attitudes and programs. You have to see this place. Drop you're traditional gym mentality and explore your potential. This is definitely the place to do it.
DCC is awesome. It's real old time guts no pain no gain type of training but yet there's a personable side to training with Jared. He makes you work hard but he encourages and brings out everyone's potential.
Finally! A training facility that cares about me - the client - and what my needs and goals are. No-where have I felt more welcome and like I belonged than at DCC. The staff here really cares about getting you results and aren't just interested in making a buck. Whether you are interested in getting started or taking your training to a whole new level, stop wasting your time and visit DCC today - BRAVO guys! and THANKS!
They key here is personal attention. I was a member in their old facility, lost 30Ibs! Then I slacked off and disappeared (literally - I moved). Wouldn't you know it, once I resurfaced, Lee and Jared started asking me why I had left, was I still interested in meeting my goals, etc... Before I knew it, I was back in the DCC and am down 20Ibs and going strong. Any gym can offer bells and whistles, but the DCC offers personal attention. You can't put a price on that.
I've been going to this place for a few months now and it's one of the most innovative gyms in Toronto. Their yoga and training regimens are the best I've found.
Fantastic gym! The best sports training facility I've ever been to. As soon as you walk in, you want to work out, run around, have fun, and get in shape, or better shape.
I expected a place this exclusive and hardcore to be really intimidating and snobbish but was stunned to discover the level of support and encouragement. The staff is fantastic and knowledgeable and have definitely motivated me more than anywhere else I've been.
I came to DCC two and half years ago after failing to make the cut on a representative team. The entire staff encouraged and pushed me harder then I have ever been pushed. The unique workout regime was challenging but more importantly fun. The results I got were far above what i would have received in a conventional gym. I can't thank enough the staff of DCC for helping me get to my goals.
Having suffered several injuries over the course of my football career I was looking for an alternative to the usual physio treatments in the market. My overall total body health was addressed, not just the specific injuries and I enjoyed a full season of football for the first time in 3 years. The attentive staff, the environment and a fresh outlook on treatment options, with a whole body approach will keep me going back for years to come to maintain the great health they've helped me achieve.
Cheers to the DCC staff, and best of luck in the new location. Ian.
I have trained with Jared and DCC at their old location. The workouts he put me through were intense and worked the entire body. I felt sore in places I had never before. But most importantly, the exercises are fun and unique. I was doing exercises I had never done or seen before. I loved the kettle ball and the monster truck tire. You won't find some of the equiment they have anywhere else in the city. And with more space and toys, I can't wait to try their new location out.
The team of strenght coaches are amazing, friendly, motivating and they are experts in their field. Don't forget the therapists, Jared, Aaron, Nancie, Karla, Tyson et al really care about their clients/patients and provide top notch service. Nancie & Karla really helped me recover from my injuries so I can continue to train at a high level. DCC has a very inimate family feel and makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome regardless of fitness level. No arrogance or attitude.....I love this place.
This place is brilliant! Lee and Jared provide a customized training experience that makes traditional fitness facilities pale in comparison. Ive been training there for over a year and the results have been outstanding!
I have never been to a gym before, and I will never have to go to another. The workouts are amazing and the staff is amazing. I feel great. Thank you DCC
I've been going to gyms for years. I've see tons of "built" people, but very few are actually "In shape". I play hockey and soccer on a weekly basis. If you play any form of sports or want to actually get "In shape", this is the spot for you. I've worked with Lee on strength and conditioning and I can honestly say that his concept for work-outs and excersices is bar none, the best. It is a refreshing experience to go to a place where the entire staff (From the very top down) actually care about your personal health and well being from all persepectives; mind, body and soul.
I love DCC it is such an amazing centre! I train with Tyler Lees-Schmut. who not only is knowledgable, fun and active, but good looking too.
Owners Lee and Jared creat a positive space for all physical levels, ages, and gender. This small business keeps the intimacy in your personal work out. It offers new ways and NO MACHINES for fun workouts where you're not slagging away on a tread mill.
what ever you are looking for COME IN AND CHECK IT OUT!
this place sounds great! can someone clarify the cost for me? is the $100 just for use of the equipment in the gym and group classes are an addition $15/35 per class? or does the $100 include all the classes? thanks!
Christine - The basic membership is $99/month but we have a two for one special on right now. Our group class membership fee is $120 for unlimited classes which include: various forms of Bootcamp, Muay Thai, Yoga, Kettlebell Training, Core Training, Obstacle Course training, and a class to help develop power,agility,speed. For a complete list of classes and times please visit the following link. http://www.dccentres.ca/HTML/Training/specialty.htm. You can also contact our program director Larry by email (larry@dccentre.ca) to set up an appointment and discuss these options in depth. Have a great day.
I train with Tyler Lees-Schmut, I've been to many gyms before and I feel confident saying he is by far the BEST trainer in Toronto.
Thanks TY!