First off, I've been to a gym before. I've been inside one. Never done a lick of exercise there. I have no gym experience. At all. My girlfriend scouted out many boxes and decided upon this one. She set me up to meet with Pete Roulet (owner) who evaluated me with an introductory workout (much less than the standard warm up for members!). I was beat after my "introduction"... and sore. Pete is very approachable and I really liked his take on what "healthy" should be. It may be the same outlook that most trainers and gyms have, but since I have zero experience with them it's new and refreshing to me. I like his vibe. I was always very skeptical about working out in a gym and being "eyed" by all the people. I'm a solitary kind of person so that was always a sticking point. The gym is small compared to my perception of what a "gym" was. I like it. It's more personable. The membership is not cheap but I'm totally fine with it. I can justify it because I know how I am and for the times when I have tried to "workout" on my own, I've failed. If I'm doing something like push-ups and I get tired, I stop. "Workout" done. Being here makes a difference to me that I'm willing to pay for. Having a trainer push me on for 1 or 2 more makes a difference to me. Looking around and seeing everyone else giving it their all makes me think "why aren't I pushing just as hard?" I don't have the motivation or drive on my own and I factor that into the cost of being here. I want the drive but just don't have it in me. I'm really enjoying and appreciating the personal attention I'm able to get here.
The trainers are awesome; Pete, Iz, Rose, Joe and Angel. Thank you. I'm very interested in learning proper form and technique and that is exactly what they are pushing. They provide me with tips and corrections while I'm working out. I love it. Just what I was looking for. I don't think I can say enough good things about this gym. It's small and not intimidating. The staff and members are all great and very friendly. I feel sore all the time. It feels great. I love it. I sleep better. I want to eat healthier (still not there yet). I can feel some improvement in my stamina and strength. It's only been 2 weeks and I'm really enjoying it. I've never worked out before and I can now see the appeal of making oneself better. CFCOA (CrossFit City of Angels) is a very welcome addition to my life! I...
Read moreFor most of my life, I stayed in shape by playing team sports. I never got into a gym routine on my own -- working out alone, with no goal other than working out, bores the crap out of me. I missed camaraderie and the benefits of being in good physical condition, though, and I got to a point when I felt like my day-to-day was suffering (pinched nerves, back issues) due to a lack of consistent physical training. I'd heard snippets about CrossFit from co-workers -- mostly those that made it sound extremely cultish, but I was hesitantly intrigued anyway.
CFCOA was the first (and -- because it was awesome -- only) CrossFit box I looked into. Pete's down-to-earth demeanor and welcoming spirit hooked me right away... as did that glorious feeling of next-day-soreness following my intro session. That was a year and a half ago, and I haven't looked back since.
I enjoy the team-like energy that happens every time I go in for a workout, regardless of the time of day, who leads the class, or how many people show up. It's fun to never know quite what you're going to be doing on any given day (the latter is true of CrossFit in general, not just this box).
I'm one of a handful of vegans at CFCOA, and Pete and the rest of the trainers are nothing but supportive and encouraging. They are humble enough to realize we don't have all the intricacies of the human body figured out, and they encourage everyone to find what works for them. I've had numerous discussions about the pros and cons of meat/dairy/grains/etc., and I consistently feel as though everyone is open to learning and exploring. I've never felt mocked or less-than because of my dietary choices (which keep me progressing solidly, I might add).
To be fair, I haven't checked out other CrossFit gyms; to be honest, I don't have any desire to. This place feels like home, and new members are always welcomed with open arms....
Read moreWriting this review while still in quarantine due to covid-19. My sister and I started coming to this gym sometime in January 2020 and from the very first class, we were in love! There are different trainers/coaches and there are many classes to pick from so whether you are working or a student, there is probably still availability for you to take a class. They also have group activities on Sunday’s which we have not been able to participate in but I’m sure they are great. Again, amazing classes! Great people and this is coming from someone who once strained their wrist after picking up a pencil. The trainers make sure that you know what exercises to do and they really do take their time to show you how to properly do the exercises. My sister and I had previously attended another kickboxing/cross fit gym but it didn’t feel as “home” as this place.
Remember to take consideration of how businesses especially small businesses run during covid-19 and I want to give a huge thanks to everyone here because even during these tough times, the trainers have been encouraging everyone in the gym to continue working out at home or at a park which is great. They have zoom classes and other methods to help those stuck at home to continue working out and I truly appreciate that.
5/5 starts because I cannot rate higher. This is truly a gem of a place filled with great people AND THERE IS PARKING!!!!!!! Not to mention, a place where people actually know your name. Special shout out to Pete for keeping everyone motivated but overall, thank you to all the wonderful coaches here! Hope to see you all as soon as...
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