The Loprinzi Special

There's a gym here in Portland called Loprinzi's. It's something of an institution, and though I can't vouch for it personally, I've heard nothing but great things about it. I'm looking to join this week; something to fill the gaps between running, biking and yoga.

All of the Yelp reviews pretty much laud the same things: it's no-frills, no-nonsense and charmingly old-school. In fact, it's hardly changed since 1948 (!!!).

You can watch this wonderful video where Bob Hill, the current owner, talks about it:

I look forward to experiencing it for myself soon. If nothing else it's a place to and sit in the sauna when the colder days return.

I also can't help but think of Izzy Mandelbaum from Seinfeld every time I bike past the sign:

I always secretly hoped that Loprinzi was like Izzy. Then I could make a joke about their personal-training programs — "The Loprinzi Special." For $20 Loprinzi will call you a wimp while you lift. For $30 he'll punch you in the stomach at the end and call you a sissy!