Jevon Huang
October 19, 2017 06:39
My CF experience: 5+ years, been a part of over 5 gyms during this time.
Community: Everyone is friendly, outgoing, and easy to talk to. 312 provides an open environment that is not intimidating to fire breathers or newbies to CF. Everyday they have a "question of the day" when explaining the WOD where you introduce yourself and answer a random question. This was a great way for me to get to know people and for me to know them. I haven't been to a gym yet that has such a simple way of getting to know everyone's name.
Level of competition: This is one of the most diverse gyms in terms of competition I have been to. It has the complete range of individuals finishing top 300 in the region, individuals who are almost able to do every workout Rx, and individuals who are just starting out. The competition is whatever you want to get out of it--there is plenty of individuals for you to compare a great score against if you choose. However, if a competitive environment is not for you, then there is also plenty of people who are just there to get a great workout in. This is the first gym I have been to that does not have an elite level athlete. Honestly, I find it better this way because everyone has their weaknesses and fortes--there isn't that one guy or girl who stomps you everyday and you feel forever inferior to.
Class schedule: they have a competitive schedule for Chicago offering classes to fit nearly anyone's schedule. This is however the only gym I have been to that does not offer a 5 or 5:30 AM class (I usually attend the 6 and luckily this fits my schedule for now).
Pricing: Upon joining this gym I did a lot of research about every gym in the downtown Chicago area and even some in the northern neighborhoods. You will NOT find a gym that has lower pricing than 312. If you love crossfit and know you will be doing it you have no reason to pay a month-by-month yearly membership rate. Additionally, if you qualify for a discount because of your career the membership is even lower. Comparing this other gyms less than 2 miles away that cost $245 a month is hilarious.
Equipment: 312 has all the essential crossfit toys. They recently bought all new air-dynes and dumbells as well. This gym isnt afraid to spend the money on equiptment if it is needed or will enhance their clients experience. The only thing they dont have are slam balls...which nobody needs because theyre pointless. Oh they also dont have fat bars but you also dont need those unless you've run out of ideas for programming.
Programming: I have been a part of gym thats send teams to regionals every year, some even to the games...yet 312 is by far my favorite programming. They rotate through different coaches which makes the programming non-biased and constantly varied. It is always well thought out. The program is challenging and pushes my limits. You will never come to a day at 312 and find yourself annoyed that the programming consists of just air squats or push ups...aka things you could have stayed at home for and not why you pay to go to a CF gym. They always provide a varied amount of movements each week that hits all of the moments. You will get in plenty of light, medium, and heavy barbell work in wods.
Coaching: The gym schedule allots for about 6-8 coaches. Depending on the class you go to the coaches may vary from day to day. The coaches all care and are willing to critique form and improve your fitness level. Over my time here, I've noticed every coach has their forte at different movements...once you figure out who is good at what you can pick their brains apart to help you improve on those movements too.
Misc: they offer protein, snacks, pre workout, killcliff, water. They come up with new T-shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants designs every few weeks-months to always give you something new to wear if you want.
Overall, I would highly recommend this gym to someone who: is very experienced at CF OR brand new to CF. They have the coaching and atmosphere to provide the complete CF experience.