Crossfit Renaissance has been the best decision I have ever made for my physical fitness and wellness of life. I was at 250 and only 5'10". I've never picked up an Olympic barbell in my life. For years I've struggled with trying to get to the gym and just plain failing at it. Don't worry, I've always had a gym membership though. I had two friends who belonged to this Crossfit Renaissance and was amazed at their progress and accomplishments. Even though they told me how great it was, I still didn't join. I was intimidated. I finally just got fed up with nothing working for me and decided to try it. I just walked in and met Bill, the owner. Just he and I, in an empty gym. I look around and there's all this equipment around the perimeter of the gym, pull up bars, weights, weird things that I didn't know what they were. It was nerve wrecking. Then Bill (who has the physique of a Greek god) starts talking to me about my goals and about normal stuff. Wow, he's pretty cool and down to earth. I sign up and come back for my first on-ramp class. Ever since the first day it was nothing but positive reinforcement from both staff AND other members. People doing twice work I was doing were literally CHEERING me on to finish or to keep me moving. It didn't matter what my ability level was, every workout was and still is specifically tailored to me to meet my goals and needs. And man, the coaches are spot on! It feels like they can predict the future by scaling the workout to make it just hard enough to really push me, but perfect enough for me to finish. A lot of people think the price is too high, but this is a gym were your penny goes a LONG way. This staff is exactly what I needed to keep me motivated. This is a place where you don't pay 10$ to walk on a treadmill in an over crowded gym. Here, you get highly skilled group of trainers that just make the experience phenomenal. They practice what they preach. They know how to have fun, show you the right way to do something, and just simply keep you motivated. There is not a single day where I'm not excited to go to the gym. It's such a great community of people that I truly enjoy being with. This is something that I can not put a price tag on. Take it from me, the guy who was unable to complete a simple 400 meter run on my first day. Now with just over 7 months of training, I can run a 5k without stopping! When I did that, it was a moment I will NEVER forget. I've lost over 35 pounds and continue to get stronger every week and it was all accomplished with the CFR family. My biggest regret is that I did not start sooner. You may feel uncomfortable at first, but don't feel intimidated like I did. Sure it can be scary and uncomfortable at first, but I can not promise you a more welcoming group of people than the staff and members of Crossfit Renaissance. You will be pushed outside of your comfort zone, but it is the only way to grow. And I promise you, you will grow in ways you never imagined. You get results, not hype. read more

If I could give this place a million stars, I would. It is truly amazing and will change your life for sure. I was an athlete in various capacities for many many years before moving to Philadelphia to start school. I was lost when I first moved to Philly, though, because I didn't have my usual athletic outlet to escape the rigors of day-to-day life. I dabbled in competitive running, body pump classes at my school's gym and personal trainers, but, nothing was really doing it for me. I checked out Crossfit Renaissance (CFR) about 13-14 months ago- did a month long trial and IMMEDIATELY fell in love. Crossfit, in general, pushes you to the max and allows you to achieve things you never felt possible. Honestly, given that I had "retired" from my sport of choice in 2011, I didn't think I would ever achieve NEW athletic goals. But, through CFR, I have. CFR is really special and honestly stands above other crossfit gyms in my opinion. Firstly, the staff is remarkable-I've had MANY trainers, coaches, physiotherapists etc. work with me throughout my career and the coaches at CFR have the expertise and wisdom to "hang" with any of the people I've worked with in the past. I felt like all the trainers at CFR knew what they were doing AND knew ME. Meaning, in any given workout, they seemed to know what I could handle, what was too much for me and even knew when I was perhaps being lazy and needed an extra push. They truly care about their members. Also, the other other members of CFR really make the place that much more special. Truly remarkable people from all walks of life who honestly inspire you every single work out. I've made new friends through crossfit (and new friends are always a good thing!) Lastly, I need to mention the facility-it's HUGE, has everything you need and you have the space and equipment to conquer any xfit workout. They also have TIRES you can flip through the huge parking lot-turned-torture-chamber. (It's.amazing. you'll love it). I made the mistake of going to another crossfit gym while out of town, and the lack of space really made the workout hard to complete and I found myself missing the people and trainers at CFR the whole time. Anywhow, this is a very long review but you MUST check this place out if you're shopping for an xfit gym. It's the best EVER. read more

Joining Crossfit Renaissance was the best decision I ever made! It was the first time I had ever joined any gym or exercise program without a friend or family member. I was terrified. I had no intentions of staying after the six week New You challenge. My results were amazing after just five weeks!!! The coaches are phenomenal. The other members are supportive and encouraging. The workouts are never the same and never boring. You work hard. But the results are worth it. I'm doing things I never thought I could do! I go three times a week and I'm about to join unlimited. The workouts, the people, the atmosphere are all what keep me coming back. I never knew working out could be so much fun! And I never in a million years would have thought I'd be upset and disappointed to miss a class. Your fitness level doesn't matter!!! They will teach you and coach you and won't let you fail! When you reach a goal, a milestone or complete a movement you've feared doing, they celebrate your success with you! If you want results, fun and amazing people....CFR is the to go.First time doing CrossFit and this challenge is awesome! I've discovered I can do a lot of things I thought I could never do thanks to my fantastic coaches, Kevin, Bill, Joe and Ed! They push us to realize that our limits are far beyond what we expect. A great place to learn if you're a beginner. Sixteen months in and I could not be happier!!! My jeans are four sizes smaller. I have more energy. I hate missing classes. This is the only program I have done where I am consistently showing up and seeing results. The coaches are phenomenal! The classmates are supportive and encouraging. It's a family atmosphere. The only person you compete with is yourself!! No work out is ever the same. Every workout is tough and challenging. I never thought I would be able to do crossfit. But here I am; loving it and getting better every class. You won't find a better group of coaches than the CFR coaches! Looking for something new that works? Come to Crossfit Renaissance! Update!!!! Almost two years in and still going strong! Making progress and hitting PRs! My favorite part of CFR is that my classmates and coaches have become some of my best friends! read more

For years I had been going to a traditional gym with no real consistency. I had a routine I would do, but I became bored quickly. I needed to try something new and different. A friend of mine was a member of Crossfit Renaissance and suggested I come watch a class. Five minutes in, I knew I wanted to join. That was over a year and a half ago. I'm still here and have been coming three times a week consistently. One thing I am not is bored. I have repeated a workout maybe twice. Our WOD (workout of the day) is constantly varied. Even though I had a little experience with weight lifting, I was still put through 3 Foundational Movements classes to learn how to do all of the lifts properly. Even to this day, the coaches are constantly helping us out with our technique if needed. Bill, Ray and Reese have helped me out so much during my time here. Even though I struggle at times, I know that I am better than I was yesterday. The encouragement from the trainers and the other members is incredible. I never feel like I am being judged. I feel like I am surrounded by people who want me to succeed. As you will read in other reviews, Bill and Joyce (the owners) have created a family atmosphere. Every time I come to the gym, I see familiar faces who have become my friends. One of the biggest issues people have is the price. I completely understand. I waited a few months to join because I wanted to wait until after the holidays. I knew I was going to have to make a financial sacrifice. Once I did, I never looked back or thought about quitting. I finally found something that pushes me to my limits, is getting me in the best shape of my life and has completely changed my life. I actually look forward to going to the gym. Everything you read in my review is why the money is completely worth it. If you are reading this, then you at least have some curiosity about Crossfit. Check out the website for class times and stop by. There are plenty of chairs to sit down and watch. You will be able to judge for yourself. That's exactly what I did and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. See you soon! read more

I came to CrossFit Renascence about a year ago and my life and body has changed forever. Myself, being a 46 year old "weekend warrior", was in search of a new fitness plan. Joining a "standard" gym wasn't appealing to me and working out at home was turning into a chore to get myself off the couch. I wanted more of a primal/organic workout experience. Then about a year ago I passed by CFR and saw people walking along the street holding up kettle bells as they struggled to get back to the "box" as I soon found out what a CrossFit gym is called. As I pulled into the parking lot there were others there flipping a large tractor tire. I had a feeling that I found my spot. I went in and met Bill, the owner and head coach of CFR, and he showed me around. Now let me tell you, don't expect high end workout machines, mirrors on the walls or people standing around posing. What you will find though is everything you need to change your life, period. There are dumbbells, barbells, kettle bells, ropes, medicine balls, benches, racks, pull-up bars, everything but fluff. After talking with Bill about what I was looking for and listening to what he can offer I was sold. If that wasn't enough, the next day I received a Groupon offer for CFR. Now a year later my life is completely changed. I look better, feel better and eat better than I ever have. Bill and Joyce have been there every step of the way with support, advice, inspiration and friendship. I have many new friends at CFR who push and support each other. The "normal" aches and pains that I attributed to getting old are gone. The low energy feeling, gone. The mid-forties stomach, gone. What is here now is a more energized, stronger person that is ready to tackle whatever comes down the road. In closing I will let you know the secret to CrossFit: 1. Show up 2. Train hard 3. Recover 4. Repeat That's it. Easy. read more

My experiences at Crossfit Renaissance has been, and continues to be a transforming experience. When I joined, I had no idea what Crossfit was or what it entailed, I just wanted the amazing results. I started just two months after having my first child and I had no previous athletic experience. I was able to lose all the weight I gained during my pregnancy and more! I found that having no previous athletic experience did not hinder my progress. The coaches at Crossfit Renaissance are able to tailor the WOD ( workout of the day) to any level of athlete, from beginner to expert. The coaches also take into consideration my personal strengths and help me improve skills that challenge me. The workouts are extremely challenging but the benefits are well worth it. In addition to the obvious benefit of losing all 65 pounds I gained during pregnancy there were other benefits I had not anticipated. I found that I had less anxiety and was more active in general. I feel that my general health has improved. I also get excellent nutritional guidance that has helped me change my diet for the better. I also love the community aspect of Crossfit. During a workout, there is no judgment and everyone is extremely supportive which enables you to feel comfortable to push yourself and achieve the best results. In addition, the owners Bill and Joyce encourage the community aspect of Crossfit with regular social gatherings. All in All, I couldn't be happier with the Crossfit Renaissance experience. read more

It doesn't matter what shape you're in, what age you are, everyone is welcomed with open arms. In January, I decided I needed to do something about my weight. I am not getting any younger and I am the biggest I have ever been in my life. I found myself getting out of breath just walking from the parking lot to my office and I couldn't motivate myself to do anything about it. I was always kind of a loner when it came to working out, so I was reluctant to visit the gym. After my first meeting I decided to join the 6 week new you challenge. I still wasn't sure I would fit in and I almost left before I even started the first night. I am so glad I didn't leave! I completed the challenge and feel better than I have in years. Do not misunderstand, I hurt after the workouts, but the more I workout the quicker I recuperate. I am slowly losing weight and getting in shape and for the first time in my life, I am actually losing weight the right way, by eating healthy and exercising. I attend classes several times a week. The staff is awesome! They are knowledgeable and patient. The encouragement you get from everyone, staff and members alike, is second to none. It truly feels like a family! I cannot believe I actually cannot wait to go to the gym! I recommend anyone wanting to get in shape or just find a welcoming place to be challenged and to workout, CFR is the place! #cfrfamily #cfrstrong read more

CrossFit Renaissance has really changed my life for the better. I haven't been to any other crossfit gyms (or boxes) before but I have been at CFR since 2011 and haven't found any reason to venture off. My wife and I joined and no one confused us with athletes. I did some high school sports 10 years ago and she walked out of more P.E. classes than she stayed for. We quickly fell in love the workouts that weren't boring and results came pretty quickly for us losing something around 45-50lbs between us. We never really tracked the results. Their space is the largest in town, but what really sets them apart is that Bill and Joyce, the owners, are more interested in having fun with their friends rather than producing the next CrossFit games champions. Make no mistake the workouts are serious and you will get pushed to work harder than the limits your minds puts on your body. Coming here casually wont really do it. When you walk in the huge roll-up doors expect to work hard and make some great friends. There are always reasons people are getting together outside the gym. Might be a BBQ or moiving help or dance recitals or school fundraisers. These people you work out with become your tribe. Being a part of the tribe has intangible benefits, like the little army of people are at the gym who are watching your kid while you are working out. read more

6 years ago I started at CrossFit Renaissance for. 6 Week Challenge. I fell in love with the challenging workouts and the community! The coaches were knowledgeable and encouraged me to learn the proper technique and push hard. Feeling strong head to toe made me feel confident and capable. And I loved that I could workout with newbies and seasoned athletes, 20-somethings and seniors all in one class. It is a work hard and have fun community that is incredibly supportive. I also learned more about fueling my body from the knowledgeable coaches. I changed how I looked at food - and began eating to support my workouts. I lost body fat and gained a little lean muscle! I loved the mental and physical changes I saw in myself and felt driven to help others feel the same incredible results that I did. I left my corporate job and started coaching 5 years ago!! And 6 months ago, my husband and I bought the business I have grown to love! Our mission is to help the community live healthier and happier lives through elite fitness, nutrition and mindset programs! read more

CrossFit Renaissance is one of the best choices I ever made in my life. I knew I needed a gym that could provide support from both trainers and as well as members which is exactly what I found at CrossFit Renaissance. They offer a variety of classes in nutrition, crossfit, boot camps and even have a Renaissance Youth program for kids and teenagers. Bill and all the coaches have in-depth knowledge in Crossfit, weight/cardio training and have the expertise to help one reach all their fitness and personal goals. All the coaches take the time out to point if your not doing something correctly and how to address it and also recognize when your exceling at something. Also if you are a parent you can bring your little kids as there is a play area and TV to entertain them. The gym is clean and in a pretty convenient location right off of I-95. There is always something interested going on whether it is monthly contests or house competitions. If your looking to get back in shape or need a change, I highly recommend CrossFit Renaissance. read more

Ive been going here for about 8 months now and have really loved everything about it. It is hard and challenging and incredibly rewarding. As someone pretty new to most of the exercises and movements that are essential to CrossFit, I've really appreciated the way all of the coaches and staff have been so helpful in getting to not just complete the workouts, but to make sure that I do it correctly. When I started, I had chronic knee pain that two surgeries couldn't fix and had been suffering from sleep apnea for a few years. Now, my knee discomfort only pops up now and then, and i don't think i could even qualify it as pain. And my sleep apnea almost never occurs. I owe this to CrossFit Renaissance. They have really helped me change my life for the better. I've lost weight, gained strength and am now much more confident in my own skin. If you want to make a change for the better in your life but need help with the how, or need someone to help motivate you, this is the place! read more

I have know Bill since 1998. We met as freshman at West Chester University. Our connection was immediate, we had a mutual passion for hard work and tough workouts. I have had some of the craziest and most memorable workouts of my life while training with Bill. When someone has a work ethic that inspires you, you tend to progress faster because you want know that you are working as hard as they are. Bill has a work ethic for training and coaching that makes me want to be a better athlete and coach myself. His knowledge of training and diet expertise are without a doubt the best in the area. I have only trained at CFR a few times since I live a couple thousand miles away, but when I do, I always take home some knowledge and inspiration to my gym. I know that if I lived in Philadelphia, there would be no other place for me to train besides CrossFit Renaissance. read more

I have been going to Crossfit Renaissance since June, 2016. I have had memberships at so many other gyms and never went with any consistency. I go to CFR 4-5 times a week! I love the community of people who are always behind you. We work hard and we encourage each other to keep going and do a little more. I am 59 years old and when I started I couldn't do regular pushups. I couldn't run very far. There was no way I could lift any weights, do kettle bell swings, or double unders with the jump rope. Now I do regular pushups, am learning how to do pull ups, still cannot do double unders on the jump rope and I have no doubt that I will learn all of those things eventually. The coaching staff is super supportive but not competitive. I highly recommend CFR for anyone who is interested in getting stronger, losing weight, or just feeling great about your body. read more

I joined CFR almost 2 years ago. I was getting bored with running and other gyms and needed a change. I didn't know much about Crossfit but knew it would be a welcome change. The workouts offer a challenge I couldn't get at regular gyms. The staff at CFR are very supportive. They can scale a workout for anyone or anything. I recently had a foot injury(not related to CFR) and had a to wear a boot for 6 weeks. Bill told me to bring a skateboard in and before you knew it when everyone else was running I was rowing with my boot on the skateboard!! I was also able to continue most workouts without jeopardizing the healing of my foot. I have seen welcome results in the shape of my body. (Would be better if I watched my diet better!!!) CFR is close to home for me, has a varied amount of times for classes and a welcoming staff. read more

I had always thought I was in somewhat descent shape. I had played soccer my entire life and still played a few nights per week. I decided to try Crossfit because many of my friends had taken it up. After the first night of my intro class...i realized that I was no where near descent shape. My body ached and i could barely finish my workout. It turns out that was a life changing day. As much as i wanted to quit over the first few weeks, I kept coming back for more. Now, I do not know what I would do with myself if not for CFR. It has become a part of my weekly routine. I am stronger and healthier now than I have ever been in my life. It not only makes you feel better about yourself physically but helps you mentally to keep pushing yourself and creating new goals that you never thought would have been possible. read more

I found Crossfit Renaissance through an ad on Facebook for the New You Challenge. I am a mom of 5 year old twins, and hadn't worked out consistently since they were born. The New You Challenge felt managable - 6 weeks of 3 days a week. I saw it as a way to jumpstart a new workout routine and take some time for me. After 6 weeks I was hooked, and 11 months later I am still working out at CFR 3-4 days a week. Crossfit Renaissance is an awesome place to work out. The owners and coaches are knowledgeable, and encouraging. Most of all, I am constantly amazed by the people I work out with - they work hard, they are focused on improving, they are positive, and they are FUN. I am stronger physically and mentally, and there is no end in sight. Give CFR a try! read more

Like most people I thought crossfit was cultish and injury prone. While I can't speak for every gym I can say that isn't true for Crossfit Renaissance. I was bored with the usual gym routine and after seeing a post for the "New You Challenge" I figured why not. 6 weeks to switch it up and that's it. I kept going. Bill and the rest of the coaches were not only very welcoming but knowledgeable. Not your typical "weekend certificate" types. Their energy extends beyond a paycheck into an actual passion for fitness. The atmosphere is very open and all of the members very friendly. From beginner to advanced everyone is on the same playing field. I'm not one to tell people what to do but I absolutely suggest giving it at least 6 weeks before making up your mind. read more

I found Crossfit Renaissance by way of a groupon. During the intro class I was struck by the explanation about the sport of crossfit and the focus of keeping things challenging, varied, and aiming for ones individual potential. I fell in love and am still drinking that crossfit kool-aid! Crossfit Renaissance (CFR) is a great fit for me because of the people. I love the focus on sport and community versus gear and looking hip. All the trainers have such different personalities but they all share the focus on making you a better athlete. I couldn't recommend CFR more. Each time I go to class I know the challenge of the daily workout (WOD) but I also see all my gym buddies. It is a great place to share community and get an amazing workout. read more

I've been coming to CFR for 2.5 years. I was never an athletic person, but CrossFit is the only thing that has ever helped me change my mentality about exercise and helped me change my habits to learn to be more active. Going to the gym isn't something unpleasant I have to force myself to do. I always feel accomplished and glad when I go. It's been a great way to meet more people in my neighborhood and I love how supportive everyone is, whether they just started or have been coming to the gym for years. If you've ever been too intimidated to try out any gym, COME to CFR!! It won't take you long to realize it is one of the most welcoming places, full of regular people with a wide range of abilities. You'll fit right in :-) read more