Altitude training used to be the domain of elite athletes, but at Traverse Fitness, it’s become part of the everyday workout. On South Broadway, this forward-thinking studio has introduced a group-class format where oxygen levels are manipulated to simulate elevations from sea level up to 18,000 feet—no hiking boots required.
“Honestly, it felt like a no-brainer,” says Traverse cofounder Jim Gerber. “Denver’s already a mile high, so we thought—why not take that perk and level it up?” The gym’s Altitude Studio does just that, with science-backed programming that adjusts elevation based on the workout. Aerobic days take you up to 12,000 feet to challenge oxygen efficiency, while sprint-based workouts drop to sea level to maximize output. “It’s not just high altitude all the time. It’s strategic, progressive, and aligned with real training goals.”
Traverse balances performance with accessibility by offering modifications in every class and support for all fitness levels—from Everest hopefuls to anyone just looking for an energy boost before the office. “We want the person who’s never touched a treadmill to feel just as welcome as the ultra-runner preparing for Leadville.” He’s referring to the now-iconic Leadville Trail 100 Run. In the early ’80s, a group of forty-five runners initiated the event—100 miles of high-altitude terrain starting at 10,200 feet and rising from there.
But it’s not just the tech-forward workouts that make this gym unique—it’s the people. “At Traverse, you show up and everyone knows your name,” Jim explains. “That energy is infectious.” The gym fosters connection through a stacked social calendar and a coworking space where members post up after class, building a community that lifts each other up, and for anyone new to fitness, that kind of camaraderie is key.
Recently, Traverse expanded its recovery offerings to include a sauna and cold plunge, promoting what Jim calls “the other half” of fitness: longevity and regulation. “Whether someone’s using contrast therapy to bounce back after a tough workout or manage stress after work, we want to provide the full spectrum of wellness—not just reps and sets.”
The response? “Members tell us they feel clearer, sleep better, and recover faster.” And, in true Traverse fashion, even the cold plunge has become a hub of chatter. “It’s like a recovery ritual and a social club rolled into one.”
And for those weary of South Broadway traffic? “Stay tuned,” Jim teases. “Same heart, another home.”
