Training with Coach Payne has been a great experience. He pays close attention to form and takes the time to explain things, which makes a huge difference. It’s not just about going through the motions. He mixes in stretching, mobility work, and nutrition, so it feels like much more than just a workout.

He also brings a great balance to his coaching style. Sessions stay light with his sense of humor, but he’s serious about mindset. He’ll remind you that most limits start in your head, which pushes you to go further than you thought you could. He meets you where you are, challenging without overwhelming, and genuinely cares about your well-being, focusing on both body and mind.

The workouts are always varied and engaging, which makes it fun and keeps me motivated to show up. The gym itself is clean and has a welcoming vibe. Overall, Coach Payne creates an environment where training feels less like a chore and more like something you look forward to. Highly recommend.

-Ritu A.

NO PAYNE....NO GAIN!!!

Coach Payne has 28 years of experience in kickboxing, and his knowledge and expertise really show in his training. He is highly skilled and ensures every session is effective and engaging. His team of assistants is incredibly friendly, creating a welcoming and supportive environment. The gym atmosphere is always positive and motivating. Coach Payne structures the program in a way that makes you feel like you’re getting a semi-private session, providing personal attention while keeping the energy of a group class. Highly recommend this gym for anyone looking to improve their skills and fitness!

-Siamak D.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Bags and Barbells! I originally joined to focus on my strength training goals while my husband needed a place for his physical therapy exercises - and wow, did we hit the jackpot with this gym!

My husband has been working through his PT exercises in the same space. The trainer is phenomenal at accommodating his needs and modifying workouts as he progresses. It's been so encouraging to watch him learn about what he needs to do and how he can do it.

What makes Bags and Barbells extra special is how they've created an environment where both serious lifters and those with therapeutic needs can thrive side by side. The equipment is always clean and well-maintained, and there's never a shortage of weights or machines when you need them.

I love that they don't just support us while we're at the gym - they send us home with exercise "homework" too! My husband has his PT routine to practice daily, and I've got my mobility drills and accessory movements. Our trainer holds us accountable in the most encouraging way. This take-home approach has definitely fast-tracked our results!

I look forward to my workouts every single time! There's something magical about a place where I can chase my fitness dreams while my husband works on his recovery - all under one roof. If you're looking for a focused space that truly offers something for everyone, look no further than Bags and Barbells!

Can't wait for our next session!

-Monica R.

I've been coming to Bags & Barbells for a few weeks.  It is great! you never get bored, the workouts are dynamic and varied; a total body workout.  Coaches Marc and Stephanie are involved with 100% of your workouts, they care about accountability.  The combination works.  Kickboxing, strength training, flexibility.  Do yourself a favor and give this establishment a try.

-Alex C.

The best kickboxing gym in Johnscreek/Alpharetta. I have been training with Coach Payne for the past 8 months and I improved alot in terms of my kickboxing skills, strength, endurance and cardio. Although it's primarily a fitness gym, I come here to train kickboxing.

Show up consistently, with intent to achieve your goals, Coach Payne and his team will make sure you do achieve them, no matter how "unrealistic" they seem.

I'm glad that I chose this gym.

-Rithvik G.

Coach Marc is great.  He is energetic, very friendly and supportive to his members.  The kickboxing class is fun.  The set up allows the members to do different rotation so there is never a dull moment. The schedule is flexible, so it's very convenient for busy people like me.  I'm glad that I found this gym 🙂. …

-Vien F.

I love Bags and Barbells! It is the best place to work out.  My personal trainer, Marc Payne, is one of the best trainers I have ever trained with! The place is new, the equipment is new, and the service is excellent. I highly recommend Bags and Barbells!

-Omar "The Sociologist" A.

I’ve been going to Bags and Barbells for just over a month now, and can confidently say that the workouts here are incredible, and will absolutely help on your weight loss journey. Prior to coming here, I had no experience with kickboxing, but Marc has been a great teacher (and drill sergeant honestly) and I feel like I’ve been making steady progress. Highly recommend this gym as a fun, refreshing way to workout!

-Bowler

This kickboxing and personal training studio offers way more than just a quick workout,  the staff, Priya, Paula, Stephanie and the owner Marc are always here to support you every step of the way!

-Marc P.

Awesome kickboxing gym, the most personalized fitness experience you can get anywhere! Always a trainer there to work with you on your form and technique. unique combination of cardio, strength/weight training and kickboxing. Also the assisted stretching program is great for recovery

-Stephanie A.

Love this gym. It has cardio, boxing and weights all mixed into your workout. Coach Marc, is very friendly, motivating and is there to coach you through each work out. It’s so great to have that personal touch from the owner. The workouts are fun (which keeps me motivated to keep coming!) and very convenient as there’s not a set time to show up.  Definitely try it out!!

-Emily W.

I’m so happy I found Marc! He has made an amazing difference in the quality of my training. I came for kickboxing, but Marc is intense and focused on my progression and it’s like having a personal trainer. His 25 years of experience, and his personal dedication, really brought my workout to the next level. He is always encouraging me to show up, and honing my technique, and very friendly. Great to work with. The gym is very clean.

-Maria H.

I am a long time member of Lifetime Fitness in Alpharetta, GA since 2006. The amenities at Lifetime are exceptional, but I truly never received the quality training that i deserve especially when their rates and personal training are marketably high. However, as mentioned, i enjoy the amenities, especially the pool (INDOOR & OUTDOOR). That's why I am still a member, but if you want true fitness or personal trainer without flare; and get the quality training to meet your goals without injury, I recommend Mr. Payne. He's experience, knowledgeable,  and provides direct attention that everyone deserve. Coach Marc Payne is a very experienced trainer. His rates are reasonable and affordable compared to the Fitness centers around the North Fulton County area. I plan on continuing to work with Mr. PAYNE at Bags & Barbells as loyal customer. I hope you try him. You will not regret it.

-Debra L.

Awesome gym with a great minded owner!! Coach Marc always has a fun workout and it hits a different body part every time.  I leave feeling so happy and good. Just wish I could make it there more. He has really worked with me and accommodated me the best he can to get to a workout in. I'm a Mom of 3 kids:) He is really invested his clients and their long term success.

-Sweeti S.

As an active senior who prioritizes nutrition and fitness,  I am extremely happy to have a new gym/workout studio in the area. Having had Marc as a former personal trainer, I know how knowledgeable and devoted he his to fitness and health, and especially his enthusiasm to help others to get stronger and healthier. When he was my trainer, he first assessed my physical abilities and weaknesses in areas that needed improvement. He identified that I needed to work on my overall strength and balance. He has a wonderful personality and, and after initially speaking to him a while at the gym, I realized just how much functional training experience he has and how much he knows.  As he worked with me, he helped motivate me to push myself to discover just how much more I could actually do. He’s hard-working and has an enthusiastic fitness and nutritional ethos that is really wonderful. I’m sure his family is very proud of him. Anyone who has the opportunity to look for a local gym? Should definitely check him out because he’s no joke and you’ll definitely get a good workout with a trained professional. Who knows what he’s doing and can help you to push through your limits.

You’ll like him, and he’s serious and enthusiastic about what he does,  and about getting the results you want.

-Denise S.

Absolutely love this family owned gym! It's a very flexible walk-in kickboxing gym with a personal trainer for busy parent like me. I don't have to worry about a fixed class start time showing up late or missing it.  The workouts are never the same and it doesn't get boring. Coach provided a week trial for free and wasn't pushy in enrolling me, which was noteworthy.  It's been three weeks and I am already starting to see results. Thank you, Coach Marc!

-Sumalatha S.

I can not recommend enough! Marc is not only a motivating and knowledgeable trainer, but rehab coach as well! I struggled with knee and elbow joint issues for years and he is the only person who has helped alleviate the pain so I can work out issue free again. He has quickly become my go-to when I need advice on nutrition or injuries. He is also my favorite trainer to spar with! Marc’s classes are fun, engaging and exhausting. HIGHLY recommend trying out Bags and Barbells to find out for yourself!

-Debbie M.

Great workout, fast paced and Marc the owner makes it fun and challenging.  It’s 10 rounds and each round is a different type of workout with one of the rounds being with the trainer and hitting into mitts which is extremely fun and takes your breath away.  Marc is a true professional and knows his stuff.  I signed up the whole family as we all enjoyed the environment and working with Marc.  Oh and on another note it had to be the cleanest gym around which is nice to see.  Marc takes a lot of pride in the cleanliness of his gym and that is evident from the moment you walk in the door.  Give them a try, you won’t regret it.

-Golf4 Fun

Coach Marc is awesome! He's really motivating, knowledgeable and encouraging. The kickboxing and  fitness training is a full body workout I didn't know I needed. The gym and training equipment is new and always clean!

-A Dena

Marc is an incredible coach. One of the things I admire about him so much is that he’s always continuing his education and learning more about the best way to train and help clients of all types. He sees the potential in people and will make you feel like you’re a champion whether you’ve been training for years, or it’s your first time stepping in a gym. He values cleanliness and good customer service. Marc is a self starter. I couldn’t recommend Bags and Barbells more.

-Olivia C.