Boise CrossFit — Attraction in Garden City

As a lifter for the last 18 years, I was really excited to try something new and start CrossFit, and my first two weeks with Shane’s classes were great. Shane was attentive, encouraging, and gave thoughtful, safe modifications for movements that were too advanced for me as a CrossFit beginner. I was disappointed to learn that my second week with him was also his last.

When Andy, the owner, took over his classes, my experience changed drastically. At my first class with Andy, he arrived late without any acknowledgment or apology, and then immediately scolded another member who came in late.

Unlike Shane, Andy was unable (or unwilling) to provide appropriate substitutions for advanced movements, which left me feeling judged for needing safer options.

Throughout the workout, he was disengaged, spending most of his time on his phone, computer, or at the front desk instead of coaching. When he did interact with the group, it was mostly through dismissive “jokes,” such as calling us “misfit toys” and nerds.

When he did finally show some attentiveness to our workout, the form cues he gave me were confusing and unhelpful. I’ve worked with trainers over the years, and I’ve never experienced a professional coach offering such ineffective corrections.

This was the worst gym experience I’ve ever had due to Andy’s unprofessionalism, lack of attentiveness, and judgmental demeanor.

I emailed to cancel my membership the same day, but days later I still haven’t received any confirmation. This lack of response stands in sharp contrast to the prompt attention I received when first inquiring about joining and further underscores the unprofessional way this gym is run.

If you value professionalism, coaching, or even basic respect, look elsewhere: this gym...

I joined Boise CrossFit 5 months ago, first time CrossFitter. Andy and the coaches (Chris, Dani, Ian and Jim) have been doing an amazing job making me feel home and part of the team. They have all along been paying close and ongoing attention, providing me coaching and tips to improve my technique, pushing me to stretch myself but never asking to go over my capabilities, insisting on the form before the performance, etc. Which does not mean they let me get away with easy workouts. Like for anyone out there, I do suffer and sweat bullets - but that’s what CrossFit is all about in the first place, isn’t it ? Boise CrossFit’s slogan is that they have been building better people since 2008. Even if I have only been there for a rather short period of time, I can witness that this is what Andy and his team do. Both physically and mentally … I only wish I had joined them much...

I visited Boise Crossfit for one week while traveling and absolutely loved it. Andy and Kelli were extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and were very effective coaches. Andy was able to coach competitive athletes and absolute first time beginners (my parents) so well, that my parents did not feel intimidated, and had a new desire to get healthy via crossfit. Boise crossfit also has Crossfit Games and Crossfit Regionals qualified teams and athletes, so more advanced crossfitters can find a wealth of competition if they so choose. Not only is the gym itself a premier gym, the other members of the gym were incredibly hospitable and made me very welcome introducing themselves in each class that I attended. If you are traveling in the area, or are even living in Boise interested in crossfit, I highly recommend...