Coach Elise is seriously the best. From day one, she's been incredibly energetic, welcoming, and clearly knows her stuff. She goes out of her way to make the gym feel like a supportive, inclusive space, especially for newer members. Elise is always paying attention to form, offering thoughtful corrections, and making sure everyone is training safely while still getting stronger. She's the kind of coach who makes you excited to get out of bed and come back each morning. read more

Programming/coaching isn't great. The coaches are more babysitters than actual coaches with informed points of performance. There are better CF gyms in the area with more engaged ownership and quality coaches. read more

Great community of peeps. Always pushing me to my limit. I find a lot of joy working out there

Perfectly OKAY programming if you're looking for a good sweat. Think of it like a HIIT work out, blended with CrossFit. The people and staff are super nice, and welcoming. That said, If you're looking for technical depth you might have to take advantage of their open gym. Additionally, they have Olympic lifting and gymnastics one off programs at additional cost you can pay through the year, for dedicated skill work. They're really good! But usually, CrossFit gyms weave this type of work into their regular program. read more

Ballard CrossFit was my home gym (and really, second home) for over three years. I recently moved out of the area and was so sad to leave this gym and community! I've visited many CrossFit gyms, and BCF has the best programming I've ever experienced. The coaches focus on long-term understanding of movements and muscle memory in correct positions as well as proper form. This approach prevents injury and really ensures a good foundation of movements. Ballard CrossFit also offers a Barbell Club and Gymnastics Club for athletes who want to take their mastery of movement even farther. Beyond programming, the coaching cues here are consistent (throughout your workout, not just occasional or while doing "strength") and very helpful. Each coach truly cares about all members and finding a way to coach them individually - not just using the same coaching techniques for all athletes. I feel like I have such a good understanding of how I personally can improve my technique after being coached here for years. And the community - I can't say enough great things about the people at this gym! It's truly a judgement-free zone of athletes who care about you as a person and are genuinely happy to see you every day. I looked forward to working out after work daily, and when I visit Seattle now, a visit to Ballard CrossFit is on the top of my "must do" list. read more

Ballard CrossFit was my body's home base for 5 years. I tried out a few other CrossFit gyms, and this is hands down the best. The major difference for me is the staff. They keep athletes safe, challenge you just enough to go beyond what you think you're capable of, and really care about building a community of camaraderie, support, and fun. Before I tried CrossFit, I wasn't sure it was for me. I'm so glad a friend invited me to do the beginning series with him, because it led me to become the strongest and fittest I've been in my life. I love the variety of disciplines that CrossFit combines - workouts always feel fresh, never boring, and I strengthened parts of my body I probably would have avoided on my own. No matter your level of experience, age, or how fit you appear to be, you will be both challenged and celebrated here. Beyond its regular classes, Ballard CrossFit has offerings to enhance nutrition, proper weightlifting technique, preparation for competitions, physical therapy, social gatherings, and more. Thank you for all that you do, and especially all that you've done for me and my health, Coaches Carlos, Erin, Joe, Brian, and Paige. read more

This place is great! Super clean and plenty of equipment. Programming is appropriately varied and love that they offer clinics such as gymnastics and barbell. Coaches coach and offer corrections during the wod, which is always appreciated. Classes are busy but not insane. Lots of members at all levels (low intimidation factor). I also love their flexible membership options and parking lot (yes! it's true!) read more

Four classes into the 6-class on-ramp series and I've never been so hurt, sore and motivated. The atmosphere is encouraging with a little competitiveness and the teachers are pretty fucking amazing. (Did I mention they're all in excellent shape?) I won't bore you with the details of what CrossFit is, what it can do and how much it sounds like a cult. But this is definitely the thing to do if you want to get in shape as quickly as possible. The location is not bad - it's situated on a busy street and the parking is a little tough. But the runs are down a narrow residential street and I don't think the neighbors are too happy about a gaggle of runners dashing across their front door. While the acoustics in the gym are horrible with a capital "WHAT?" the roll-up doors are nice, the equipment is new and they utilize the space very well. My only wish is they had showers so I could workout during lunch. What are you waiting for? Go do it! read more

Moving in or Dropping in....get in here! Myself and some friends recently traveled to Seattle to attend a friend's wedding, and we decided to get some fitness in in between the many rounds of poutine and beer. Coaches Brian and Aaron were friendly and welcoming, immediately making all of us feel like we were regulars. The gym used to be an auto garage (I think), so it was spacious, easily accommodating the various rigs, barbells, weights, bands, boxes, etc. No overcrowding and plenty of room for activities. Brian coached the class, and his description/demonstration of the proper form for the Olympic lift (in this case, the Power Clean) helped me to better visualize the proper mechanics as well as to identify some of the flaws in my technique. All in all, I left with better technical skills than when I arrived. The WOD was great, a team workout, and everybody there worked their butts off. It is super motivating to see people really getting after it and having a great time while they do it. Bonus: LOTS of doggos who are all too happy to get pet-pets from friendly humans. TL;DR - go to this gym, it is awesome Thanks, Brian! read more

I have been working out at NW CrossFit (via Out of Bounds Fitness) since they opened in March and I have been very pleased with the place. Everything is brand-spankin' new. The place is clean. You end up working out in small groups & get very individualized attention! No two workouts are the same. The workouts are very challenging, and they'll kick your ass, but you'll be glad you did it, after all's said and done! I can honestly say I'm stronger and more fit now than I ever have been... and the TRI's I do get easier and easier as I get stronger and stronger. read more

My bf's been a member of NW Crossfit since 2009. He's been trying to get me to join for a long time. Finally I gave in when I saw a groupon for the on ramp program. I've been going since July 2013 and I can definitely feel myself getting stronger ( now I just need to give up my candy addiction). The coaches there are great... Very encouraging and helpful when it comes to movements you haven't mastered. Crossfit was very intimidating for me to start but NWCF made me feel right at home. I highly recommend joining if you are considering it. read more

I started with their beginner on-ramp series and 2 weeks of unlimited classes. I liked Northwest Crossfit so much - I decided to stay a member after the beginner on-ramp series. I previously went to a Cross Fit gym and learned some of the basics before the gym closed down so I was forced to try something new. I chose Northwest based upon their location, schedule, reviews, and pricing. In the beginning series, I learned some new moves along with performing certain things I could not do at my previous gym - such as double unders, kipping moves, etc. I truly believe Northwest has great trainers as I was able to do things I couldn't do before just by making my form better. Also, their WODs (work-out of the day) are intense and much more of a work-out than what I'm used to. The beginner series helps you to prepare for these WODs but after you are done they have "beginner friendly" time slots that will get you more comfortable in going. I feel once I passed the comfort level in the first few weeks, I am no longer discouraged from attending. Yes, there are a lot of people that attend Northwest but everyone is so friendly and encouraging in addition, there are multiple skill levels so I felt I wasn't the only beginner. I see some of the other members that have only been going for about 4 months and already are preforming very well. This gives you a lot of motivation to continue to come back. Overall, I highly recommend Northwest Crossfit. Even if you are nervous about starting a crossfit program, their beginner series really helps you gain confidence and learn the proper techniques. Lastly, I do want to comment that the coaches care more about your safety and having the proper form than just pushing heavy weights. read more

We had an awesome drop-in experience this afternoon. The head coach was super knowledgeable and engaging, the members were incredibly welcoming, the facilities were outstanding, and (most importantly) the workout was killer! If you're in the area, definitely stop in -- you won't be disappointed! read more

I wish there were more stars - 5 just doesn't seem to do it for me. I love this gym. There is SO much jargon written on CrossFit and that it "causes" injury. The only thing that causes injury is improper technique. I LOVE that the coaches here are really serious about getting your technique right before letting you run wild. If you actually listen to them - you'll come out faster and stronger. Really though, what makes this gym a 10-star is Coach Carlos. I have been coached in many sports, including rowing at a collegiate level and every athlete knows that a coach can make or break you. You can have five teams with the exact same skill set - but only one will come out on top. What is the deciding factor? The coach. With a military background - Carlos has a "no bullsh*t" coaching style. But you know he's harmless when he spoils his pup that he brings to work! CrossFit is perfect for anyone if done right. It can be modified for anyone at any activity level. I love the Ballard CrossFit location because its like a little family. Members are supportive and the energy level is contagious. I would recommend this place to anyone and everyone that wants to get in the best shape of their lives. read more

It's unlikely that you'll see a negative review of this place as their contract requires that you sign a non-disparagement clause. I saw that clause, didn't sign, and left. read more

A little background on me -- I joined Ballard Crossfit (then NWCF) this past fall, too nervous to jump into classes so I started working 1x1 with a coach. I even thought this was going to be too much for me, but I found incredibly encouraging staff and members waiting for me every time I came into the gym. Now I'm with the rest of the big kids and sweating my booty off, but I can't share enough how this would have NEVER happened if the team working and running Ballard Crossfit wasn't as amazing as they are. If you're already in great shape looking for a place to workout, Ballard Crossfit has what you need. Even more importantly in my book, if you're not in great shape and looking for a place to take the first steps in getting into control of your health, Ballard Crossfit is for you. Seriously! I never would have thought it either, but this place is fantastic. Sure, you're not going to have fancy locker rooms like the overpriced gyms around here, but in exchange for those so-called amenities you get friendly people that actually care how you're goals are going and are willing to help with a concept anytime you ask. I'd much rather have this than the alternatives. Oh yeah, It's important to call out I've never been "sold" on anything, unlike other gyms I've been to. Great stuff is happening here! :) read more

Awesome place with super Friendly staff and members! I dropped in for a class while in town and it was a great experience! Thanks Ballard Crossfit! read more

I hadn't worked out in 5+ years. I haven't been in shape for longer than that. This place is helping me change my habits and do it in such a healthy way! The trainers are great! They're knowledgeable, they're approachable, they're helpful in modifying workouts to a level where I can do them even when people around me are hardcore and going up in weight they show me exercises that will build up the same muscle groups I'll need to eventually do the recommended movement. I've had injuries and they've made the workout work for me. They're amazing. The other attendees are also great. No one cares how I'm doing other than that I'm doing what I can and they'll cheer me on. It doesn't matter that I'm doing push ups on my knees, if one of my fellow "WOD-ers" finishes before me, they cheer for me to get through that last 5-10 push ups. I'm seeing improvement. I'm doing movements I didn' tknow I could. And I met my first goal after 3 months -- to hike a trail I love without getting winded. I'm now onto my next set of goals with more hiking and skiing fun to come! read more

Wow, kind of late for this review, but Ballard crossfit left such an impression on me I had to make sure I left a review on my experience. My fiancé and I were visiting the Seattle area and had only joined our local crossfit here in Hawaii a few months prior. We decided to do a "drop in" at the Ballard crossfit and we were a tad intimidated because this was our first time going to any other crossfit. That said, within seconds we were greeted with friendly smiles and jokes from the owner, Paige, who was visually excited to have some visitors from out of town. Besides the friendliness from the owner, the first thing I noticed was that the facility was very clean and everything looked meticulously maintained. Paige was actually instructing the class the day we came and we were treated to an amazing workout, encouragement, and enthusiasm. After the class, we talked story and exchanged some great stories and laughs as we headed into the holiday weekend ( we were in town for Memorial Day weekend). The facility and class was top notch in all the right ways: clean, friendly, well maintained, knowledgeable, inviting, and professional. There are multiple areas for different workouts, a back room with tons of extra equipment and body work accessories, and even a swag area to purchase some healthy treats or apparel. Two months later we are still talking about this trip and our experience at Ballard Crossfit. We would love to come back next time we are in the area and would be pleased to have anyone we met attend a class with us at our local box. read more

Ballard CrossFit - Us (far left) with the owner Paige and my brother (far right) - Gyms Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I have always been an active person and enjoy physical activity. That being said, I am very easily bored by self-directed workouts at the gym and have always enjoyed an intense workout. I had heard of CrossFit and wanted to give it a try but was waiting for an introductory offer so I could find an affordable way to try this out. I found a deal for the two week intro class plus two weeks of unlimited classes. I signed up and was enrolled in a beginner class. The class was a good size, 12 people at the most if I remember correctly. We were all in the beginning class together and had class together 3 times a week for the two week duration. During this time most of us became friendly and the environment was very positive and encouraging. There were three trainers there for the first night. They explained a lot about the concepts behind crossfit and what to expect. I was anxious but excited. Even though there were people with many different fitness levels there each person was challenged, but not so much that they didn't come back the next time. Most of the hour long class was focused on technique and learning skills, as well as warming up. Once I "graduated" from the beginner class to the regular class there was less time spent on technique unless there was a portion of the WOD (workout of the day) that was new to one of us. The entire month I participated in CrossFit I was never once injured. I did get sore, though! The classes are fun and the trainers are nice and very encouraging. I always felt like a million bucks when the workout was done and had so much energy. It was completely addicting. The cost of a membership is currently beyond my budget, but I hope soon to be able to afford it. While costly, there were many times when there were only a few people working out per trainer, so it seemed very close to personal training. The trainers know your name and greet you and are very friendly. I liked knowing they were observing me and they would come to help me with my form whenever I needed it. The cost is worth it, and it's an investment in your health and well-being. I hope my budget allows for it soon. :) read more

Fun community and great coaches! If you want a warm, accepting Crossfit gym, this is the place!

I have been tremendously impressed with NW Crossfit since day 1. - The manager at the Ballard gym, Megan, is tremendously helpful, inspirational, and fun. - Each and every class is new and challenging, extremely challenging - The coaches are all great and will push you to be YOUR best whatever that means for you. - And I have been pleasantly surprised by the welcoming I have received from other more experienced members. All and all I am very happy that I finally mustered up the courage to join and would recommend this gym for anyone looking to do Crossfit. read more

If you are ever looking for a place to drop in that has lots of open area for your own programming, this is it! Paige and Joe were kind enough to let us drop in and do some oly lifting on the side even while classes were going (of course check with them ahead of time!) Friendly, Welcoming, clean and well equipped! Bonus: I also got a couple of PRs and a celebratory cheers from everyone! Thanks again for your hospitality and sharing a great experience! Best, Aaron read more

Did 2 classes while in town for business. Great gym, interesting programming, and friendly coaches (and members). I'm already looking forward to my next visit. And Paige; the owner, was super helpful and cool. read more

Best gym EVER!!!! Crossfit is something I could do indefinitely. You get personal training every workout, the coach gives you a structured warm-up and goes through all the exercises so you've got proper form and know exactly what you're supposed to be doing. Half way through each workout, I feel like I'm hitting the wall, then I realize that there's a group of people going through the same thing next to me and I push on. Crossfit is a community affair and the coaches really care about their clients. Each workout, you record your results online and see the results of your friends (a NW Crossfit facebook if you will). Do not be intimidated, every exercise can be modified to your level of fitness and people of all shapes and sizes can benefit and be successful. The key is to stick with it. I am by no means active or athletic, but Crossfit gives me the opportunity to do the same workout as the elite, all-american, college scholarship, marathon, triathlon inhuman beasts of fitness and learn from them. I find myself breaking through obstacles in Crossfit w/ exercises I couldn't do in the past and its mind-blowing. Thanks for making me so excited to workout, I just wish I could do it all day every day! read more

Been coming to Ballard Crossfit for about a year now and couldn't love it more. Great gym, great coaches, and great members.

I was visiting from out of town and staying in Ballard so I checked out Ballard crossfit. I joined Crossfit about 6 months ago and love the philosophy of functional movement and community at my box so was looking for something similar. I also signed up for the Open for the first time amd was nervous doing the first heat in a new box. Ballard crossfit was really responsive over email and very welcoming of me the day of. I was pretty nervous going into the open, but the coaches made me feel more at ease. My coach, Brian, was very helpful and encouraging during the workout. The group of folks there were also really great. Lots of cheering me on and congratulations after the workout. Definitely a great box to join or just drop into!! Thanks Ballard Crossfit!! read more

My wife and I have a friend that has trained at NWCrossFit for years. We just moved into the neighborhood and so I decided to give it a try. I have never done CrossFit but I love it. Part of my comfort with it is that the instructors are good at what they do. They are knowledgeable. They make time for you, individually. I have been going at times when the place isn't packed. I just completed the OnRamp and am in week two after the class ended. The other day I went in and didn't want to do the class routine, so I worked on my own. The instructor came over, mid-class, and gave me some pointers as my form was off on one of my movements. My wife just started, too, and likes it. I ask everyone i can there how long they have been doing it. Lots of people have been going for year. Couples... they even bring their kids in (there is a very small space for a couple kids to sit behing a gate). Bigger kids can sit on benches and watch, too. This is a GREAT facility, too. Lots of windows and natural light. When it gets hot out they can lift their wall/doors to get even better air flow. I recommend the place and will keep going! read more

Dropped in for a month while I was in town for work and was so happy I chose Ballard Crossfit. I felt welcomed by members and coaches right away and got an awesome workout every day I was in town. In addition to normal workouts, coaches took time after class to help me get movements I was struggling with(chest to bar) until I got it and incorporated it into a workout! Would definitely recommend to anyone in Seattle and looking forward to coming back to Seattle and visiting again soon! read more