Matthew Barris
October 20, 2017 11:55
I have been doing CrossFit for over 3.5 years. I've been a member at a few different gyms and dropped in at several others. CrossFit Strength Haven is the best gym in the area, whether you're looking to try CrossFit for the first time or you're looking to make a change and improve your fitness. I've been privileged to be able to have worked out with these coaches in the past and to have gone through several workouts at this facility, and this place is fantastic.
The Space:
In terms of the physical gym space itself, this place is top notch. I have spent lots of time working out at some boxes nearby, including Voodoo CrossFit 512, Bat City CrossFit and Crossfit REP. CFSH is far bigger than any of those boxes, both in overall square footage/floor space and in ceiling height. The floor space is important because you may have workouts that involve many different movements and you need to have room to throw a bar around, do sit-ups or jump rope, etc. without having to worry about dropping a bar on another athlete. The ceiling height is important because you have plenty of room to hang a rope or rings from the ceiling and get a full 20' rope climb or gymnastic movements on the rings. Plus, the space is brand new -- the owners put a lot of work into setting the space up.
The Coaches:
This is the most important aspect of a CrossFit gym. Too many CrossFit gyms have coaches that don't spend enough time actually coaching -- they'll quickly go over the aspects of a workout and then just throw you into it. They won't spend time explaining and going through the motions, they won't stop you if you're doing a movement incorrectly, and they won't provide the right encouragement and investment in their athletes.
The coaches at CFSH do it the right way. If you aren't experienced in some of these movements, they'll take the time to teach you. They'll modify the workout for any level of athlete. They'll tell you to use less weight until you're actually comfortable and proficient with a movement. If you are experienced, they'll watch you and provide valuable feedback on form and technique to help you continue to advance your training. Overall, they're very friendly and helpful for all levels of athletes.
The Community:
Having friendly and welcoming coaches tends to attract friendly and helpful athletes, and that's exactly what has happened here. The athletes that I have met at CFSH are great people to hang out with, both inside and outside of the gym. During the grand opening event, people at all skill levels showed up to check the gym out, and everyone was welcomed into the gym. The people were encouraging and helpful. I've also done a few of the Open workouts here and witnessed the environment as everyone cheered on athletes attempting to get their first muscle-ups or hit a new PR. As you may hear from time to time, CFSH is a "judgement-free zone." All athletes are encouraged by the coaches and the other athletes. This is a real community that I'm happy to be a part of.
The Price:
Very attractive. This gym is just getting off the ground and therefore has very competitive membership packages.
Drop in and give this place a shot. You won't be sorry.