As a nearly 60-year-old mom who has spent decades embracing fitness as a lifestyle, I’ve been to my fair share of gyms, boot camps, and pop-up workouts. My Fitness Pop-Up Workout group and I recently had the privilege of trying out ISI (Iron Sharpens Iron), a local group fitness gym located in Arlington, Texas. Let me tell you, this gym turned out to be a hidden gem that truly impressed us with its organized chaos, enthusiastic leadership, and attention to detail. Here’s the full rundown of our experience—from the moment we walked in to the last bite of their post-workout tropical smoothie breakfast burritos!
First Impressions
Walking into ISI, the energy was palpable. The gym is medium-sized, and at first glance, the room felt almost too small to accommodate the 40+ participants in our workout session. However, the clever layout and use of space immediately stood out. There’s a large TV mounted on the side wall displaying the workout flow, which made it easy to follow the different circuits. While it could have easily descended into chaos, the staff and trainer had an incredible way of turning what could have been a crowded mess into a perfectly orchestrated symphony of fitness. #OrganizedChaos was the theme, and it worked brilliantly.
The gym itself was clean and welcoming. It’s evident that the owners—a local Arlington family venturing into their first gym business—have poured their heart and soul into this place. From the friendly greeting at the door to the motivational quotes scattered around the facility, you can feel the community vibe they’ve worked hard to foster.
The Trainer: Jona Lowe
Our session was led by Jona Lowe, a young, middle-aged trainer with a calm yet commanding presence. At first, Jona struck me as somewhat soft-spoken, almost shy in her demeanor. But as soon as the workout bell rang, she transformed into a powerhouse of confidence and motivation. Her approach to coaching was both encouraging and inspiring, and her ability to make everyone feel seen and supported was unmatched. She dished out high-fives like candy on Halloween, and her energy was infectious without being overwhelming.
What stood out most about Jona was her ability to keep the workout flowing seamlessly while maintaining the group’s energy. Even during the instructional period, she made sure we stayed moving, which kept my heart rate up. That’s a rare skill—most gyms lose valuable time explaining exercises, leaving participants to cool down and lose momentum. Lindsey’s ability to engage and instruct simultaneously was a huge win in my book. If I had to nitpick, I’d say she could work on projecting her voice a bit more during the high-energy moments, as the music and noise of 40 people can be a lot to compete with. Still, her calm demeanor under pressure made her a fantastic leader for our workout.
The Workout Experience
The workout itself was a high-intensity, circuit-based session designed to challenge participants of all fitness levels. The TV on the wall displayed the different stations, which was helpful for visual learners like me. Despite the crowded space, the workout was well-organized, and transitions between stations were smooth. It’s clear the ISI team has put a lot of thought into how to maximize their space and create an efficient flow.
The circuits were tough but doable, with modifications available for those who needed them. I loved the balance of strength and cardio exercises—it felt like every muscle in my body got some love! And let’s not forget the atmosphere—the music was pumping, the energy in the room was electric, and Lindsey’s encouragement kept us all pushing just a little bit harder. By the end of the session, I was drenched in sweat but smiling ear to ear.
Attention to Detail
What truly sets ISI apart is the attention to detail. After the workout, the staff handed out cold, clean, eucalyptus-scented towelettes to every participant. It was such a small gesture, but it made a huge impact. There’s nothing like a refreshing towel to help you cool down and feel pampered after a tough workout.
And just when I thought they couldn’t top that, they rolled out tropical smoothie breakfast burritos for the class. Yes, you read that right! Post-workout nutrition is crucial, and ISI nailed it with this thoughtful addition. It’s clear that they care about creating a holistic fitness experience, not just a place to break a sweat.
The Owners’ Story
A big part of what makes ISI special is the family behind it. The gym is owned and operated by a local Arlington family who’ve taken a leap of faith into the fitness industry. This is their first venture, and it’s inspiring to see how much effort and heart they’ve poured into making ISI a success. Their hands-on approach and commitment to their community are evident in every aspect of the gym, from the friendly staff to the well-thought-out workouts.
Final Thoughts and Rating
Our Fitness Pop-Up Workout group had an amazing time at ISI. From the welcoming atmosphere to the challenging yet fun workout, every detail was carefully crafted to provide an exceptional experience. Lindsey Monae’s leadership, the gym’s creative use of space, and those post-workout perks all contributed to a memorable morning. We’re giving ISI a glowing 5-star rating for their ability to deliver an organized, energetic, and inclusive fitness experience. If you’re in Arlington, TX, and looking for a gym that’s more than just a place to work out, ISI should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast
