Welcome to the New Era of PWRGRLS
A Grand Opening Celebration in Sherman Oaks
Some events feel like a turning point. On Saturday, I had the honor of photographing and celebrating the grand opening of PWRGRLS Training, a brand new women’s gym in Sherman Oaks, and the entire day was nothing short of electric. From the moment the ribbon was cut to the final flash tattoo of the night, it was clear this wasn’t just a gym launch, it was a love letter to the women of Los Angeles. A celebration of strength, support, and something so much deeper than just fitness.
Kim, the powerhouse behind PWRGRLS, has created a space that I believe so many of us have been craving, especially as moms, women navigating busy lives, or anyone trying to reconnect with their body in a safe and empowering way. Located right in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, PWRGRLS is built for women, by women. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or someone who’s never stepped foot in a gym before, you’re welcome here, no ego, no pressure, just encouragement.
I arrived early in the morning to capture the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and even then, the vibe was high. There was this hum of excitement in the air, the kind of buzz that only happens when a big dream becomes real. The doors opened, the light poured in, and just like that, Sherman Oaks officially gained its newest fitness sanctuary for women.
Inside, PWRGRLS was alive with energy. The layout is open, beautiful, and intentionally designed. The semi-private training sessions are led by incredible trainers who truly get it, they’re not there to push you past your limits, they’re there to help you rediscover them. It’s all about balance: strength and softness, effort and ease. They’ll challenge you, but always from a place of support.
One of my favorite things (and something that sets PWRGRLS apart from so many other Los Angeles gyms) is the built-in child playroom. As a mom, I can’t tell you how often I’ve skipped a workout because I didn’t have childcare. But here, your kids are welcome too, they get their own safe, engaging space while you take care of yourself. It’s not just convenient, it’s revolutionary. It says: “You matter. Your health matters. You don’t have to choose between caring for yourself and caring for your family.”
Throughout the day, the gym transformed into this full-on wellness festival. Vendors filled the space with fun and functional experiences: there was ear seeding, a B12 shot booth from BTR Mental Health and Wellness, and the most delicious drinks courtesy of Costa Coffee. A muscle compression therapy station from Pause Studio gave guests a chance to recover, and nearby, women were getting mini facials from Positive Glow Skincare and blowouts from Unsubscribe Co — because who says wellness can’t also feel like self-care?
Meanwhile, in the training area, live workout sessions were happening with women lifting, squatting, and cheering each other on with amazing trainers Ruby and MJ. It was sweaty, joyful, and real. It wasn’t about being “fit”, it was about feeling powerful. And I swear you could feel the confidence radiating off every woman in that room.
As the sun started to set, the gym seamlessly shifted into after-party mode. The music got louder, the lights got softer, and the celebration continued. A live DJ spun music while a bartender served up Toast Vodka cocktails and Gran Coramino Tequila (YUM). It felt like the most fun girls’ night out, except it was happening inside a space that exists to lift women up in every way.
There were also local women-owned brands showcasing their goods, from two stylish clothing vendors, to a permanent jewelry station, to flash tattoos being inked right on-site. All night, I saw moms with babies on their hips, best friends sipping cocktails between sets, and women who probably hadn’t taken a moment for themselves in months finally exhaling and enjoying the moment. It was fun. It was real. And it was proof that fitness in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be intimidating, exclusive, or about chasing perfection. It can be community-driven, emotional, and even a little messy, in the best way.
Kim has poured her heart into every inch of PWRGRLS, and you can feel it. It’s a space that honors your body, your journey, and the relationships that support you along the way. Whether you're a mom looking for workout classes in Los Angeles with childcare, a woman who wants to feel strong again, or someone who’s just ready for a fresh start… this place is for you.
I left the event with sore cheeks from smiling, a phone full of incredible photos, and the deepest sense of gratitude that I got to be part of something so special. This isn’t just the beginning of a gym, it’s the beginning of a movement.
Kim, I’m so proud of you. And to every woman reading this, if you’ve been waiting for the right moment to take up space, to try something new, or to reconnect with your strength: this is your sign.
