The Bar is a 24/7, 365-days-a-year strength and conditioning gym located in Middlebury, Vermont. It is the only gym in Addison County offering truly unlimited access, which allows for expanded opportunity to use the gym by anyone at all hours of the day or night. The Bar provides a specialized training environment tailored to Powerlifters, Strongman competitors, and serious sports performance clients. Our facility has equipment that is unique to the state of Vermont, complete with a contemporary design and energetic environment.
Most importantly, it is owned and operated by accomplished local athlete, James Wells, who has a passion for strength training.
about the bar
about james wells
James Wells grew up in Addison County, Vermont where he started powerlifting 15 years ago. Before finding his calling competing in the powerlifting world, he dabbled in wrestling and MMA.
Jim has worked with clients to achieve a wide variety of fitness goals, including competitive powerlifting and bodybuilding. Coaching is one of his greatest joys, and owning a gym is a dream come true.
Jimmy holds all current untested USPA Vermont State records for squat, bench and deadlift in the 75kg category. In 2024, he won the USPA National Powerlifting Championships for his weight class and placed second in the IPL World Powerlifting Championships on Team USA.
Jim and his partner Caroline live in Middlebury where they co-operate The Bar.
FAQs
how are you open 24/7?
The Bar is open 24/7 because all members are able to obtain their unique access code that unlocks our doors after purchasing a pass or membership. Once paid for, members or guests can access the gym by unlocking the door with this code through bluetooth.
why is no one else here?
We are a staffless operation! One of the benefits of having access to our facility 24/7 is that you may have the place all to yourself sometimes. Don’t sweat it—we’re covered.
what if my access code isn’t working?
Technology can be temperamental! Make sure you have the Gym Master app downloaded, you are logged into your account, have up to date billing, and that your mobile device’s bluetooth is activated. We apologize for any tech issues you encounter along the way and are committed to making things right. Please email info@thebarvt.com and we will get back to you within 24 hours. For more emergent needs, reach out to Jimmy at 802-989-3012 and he will get back to you as soon as possible.
What if i can’t make my payment right now?
We understand times are tough right now! Please email info@thebarvt.com explaining your situation, and we may be able to grant access without payment. We always work to accommodate our clientele and can adjust individual member settings if extenuating circumstances arise.
do you have a shower? how about changing rooms?
Yes, and yes! We have two changing rooms and a full bathroom, complete with a single stall shower. Shower use is first-come, first serve. Please be respectful of all patrons and limit your private shower time to five minutes or less as the lock on the door to the bathroom removes access to the entire restroom.