Building Community & Muscle at Bru Barbell
Published October 2026
Fresh off of their grand opening, meet Tyler McGuire and Bru Barbell!
Tell us a little bit about Bru Barbell!
Bru Barbell is a 24/7 strength facility aimed to help individuals reach their fitness goals. We provide excellent equipment and focus on the community. Personal training with one-on-one sessions is available.
What inspired you to start a business? How did this feeling grow once you actually started your business?
My long-term goal of owning a gym turned into reality when an opportunity for this building was presented to us. Having been a member at previous gyms and a strength coach inspired me to want to create a unique environment for the fitness community.
What aspect of your business makes you most proud to be a business leader in our community?
Building this facility with my wife and seeing the impact we can have on others.
How do you #LoveUnionSquare?
By showing up for others! We wanted to keep the great traditions the previous business had at our location (e.g. community fridge, community garden), but also provide our own flare. We have frequented other small businesses since moving to Somerville in 2024.
If you were to plan the perfect outing in Union Square, where would you go and what would you do?
Coffee at Vinal Bakery, brunch at The Neighborhood, shopping at Bow Market (usually buy a record from Vinyl Index or something from Blue Bandana Relics) with a snack (currently loving the empanadas from Buenas), find an indoor low maintenance plant at Ricky's or Rococo, dinner and fun at Vera's.
Do you have any fun facts that someone might not know already?
Our gym is named after our dog, Bruin Bear. He is a goldendoodle and our first dog together. He has been with us through many life stages and we are very excited to put his name in lights and go through this new chapter together.
Any last thought to share with the Square?
We want to build a welcoming community at our gym!
Bru Barbell, open 24/7, is located at 35 Prospect St. Follow them on Instagram to keep up to date on gym happenings!
