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About Us
Fivex3 Training is a strength-focused gym dedicated to helping people build lifelong fitness through effective barbell training.
As a Starting Strength Affiliate Gym, we use simple, proven methods to develop strength safely and efficiently. Our personalized coaching, individualized programming, and straightforward approach create an environment where training is intentional, progress is measurable, and strength is built with purpose.
Conveniently located in Brewers Hill with easy access to I-895 and I-95, we’re proud to be the only black iron gym in Baltimore.
If you value hard work, practical training, and a supportive community, Fivex3 Training is here to help you get stronger.
Meet our coaches
Emily Socolinsky
Owner/Coach
Emily has been a certified Starting Strength Coach since 2010 and is also a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach and Madd Dogg Athletics cycle instructor.
She holds a Master’s in Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Dance from UMBC. With over 20 years as a professional dancer and teacher, Emily integrated strength training and cross-training to enhance her performance. She trained at the Baltimore Ballet and Baltimore School for the Arts and performed with several notable dance companies. Since 2015, she has also been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, bringing a dynamic range of movement expertise to her coaching.
Diego Socolinsky
Owner/Coach
Diego has been a certified Starting Strength Coach since 2010 and is also a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach.
With over 30 years of training experience, his diverse athletic background includes martial arts, rock and ice climbing, mountaineering, running, and cross-country cycling.
Jay Mund
Coach
Jay has been a certified Starting Strength Coach since 2012.
He has competed in wrestling, running, and weightlifting. Jay holds a Master’s in Special Education from Johns Hopkins University and works as a Behavior Specialist for children with autism.
Craig Brooks
Coach
Gretchen Mester
Coach
Gretchen is a StrongFirst Level Two Kettlebell Coach. She is an economics professor at Anne Arundel Community College.
Considering Joining?
Here’s What You Need to Know
We get it, choosing the right training program can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you feel confident before stepping into your first session.
We offer two core programs:
- Basic Training (Small Group Bootcamp): Full-body, high-impact workouts in a small group setting. Expect dynamic warm-ups, core work, strength circuits, conditioning, and stretching—all in under an hour.
- Barbell Training (Starting Strength model): Learn and build strength through fundamental barbell lifts. This program starts with four one-on-one sessions with a coach before joining the group, and is great for those looking to build serious, long-term strength.
Both programs are built to help you move better, feel better, get stronger, and tackle issues like back pain or shoulder stiffness. Want to explore more?
Short answer: No. We’re not CrossFit—but we get why you’d ask. Some of the exercises overlap, but our pace, programming, and philosophy are different. Many of our members are former CrossFitters or even current ones who train with us a few days a week. It’s all about finding what works for you.
Basic Training: 45–60 minutes
Barbell Training: 60–75 minutes, depending on your experience and progression
Both programs include a full warm-up and cooldown to keep you healthy and progressing.
No reservations needed once you're a member!
For Basic Training, just schedule your first session with us so we can get you set up.
For Barbell Training, you’ll start with four private sessions to learn the lifts—then you’ll join the regular group sessions as a member.
You might be a little sore at first—that’s normal when you’re getting stronger! But our focus is on smart, safe progress. Every workout is scaled to the individual, and we’ll never ask you to push through pain or train to the point of burnout.
Most members train with us 3x/week, with active recovery or rest on the other days. That’s the sweet spot for long-term strength and sustainability.
We hear this concern a lot. The truth? Most women don’t have the hormonal profile to “bulk up” quickly. If your body changes, it’s likely due to gaining muscle without yet losing fat—which is where nutrition comes in.
Our training will help you build strength, improve your shape, and feel more confident. Combine that with mindful eating, and you’ll be amazed by what your body can do.
Nope. That’s what makes our community special! We’ve got brand-new lifters, seasoned athletes, and everyone in between. We meet you where you are and scale workouts accordingly. No intimidation here, just progress, support, and a whole lot of high fives.
At most commercial gyms, that $39/month only gets you access to the gym & equipment. At Fivex3 Training, you’re paying for professional coaching every time you walk in the door.
- Personalized attention in small groups
- Intelligent programming designed for results
- A safe, supportive environment
- Modifications for your body and goals
Compare that to a typical gym: one personal training session/week could run $320–$400/month on top of your membership. Here, you’re getting personal coaching in a group setting. Every session.
Still have questions? That’s okay.
We’re always happy to talk through your goals and recommend the best fit. Your strength journey starts when you walk through our doors, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
