Bryan and I dropped into CrossFit Virtuosity in Brooklyn this morning. I emailed a day in advance to see if we could drop in and Sam got back to me right away. Once we got there, we were greeted once again by Sam. Emily was our coach (a Games athlete no less) and was obviously super knowledgable. I really appreciate the fact that she spent a significant time getting us warmed up as well as emphasizing good form / technique / scaling appropriately. Drop-in for the first day at CrossFit Virtuosity is free, which is also rare these days. Overall, quality gym and coaching. Highly recommended! read more

Admittedly, I'm a newbie... I've just finished their well-constructed "On Ramp" program and am thoroughly impressed with the facility, as well as the trainers. The trainers were all extremely knowledgeable and fun to work with (even when they were kicking my butt!). After two weeks of training, I already feel a difference and have a renewed outlook on my future workout regimen. It's a whole new way to look at workouts, and I'm enjoying the full body approach (more energy, less time!). If you're looking for towel service and a sauna, this isn't the place for you. But, if you're looking for a community of like-minded people that are both hard-working and encouraging, I think you'll appreciate the CrossFit approach. I"m looking forward to future classes. read more

So you think you're in good shape? Maybe you can lift really heavy things but can't run around the block. Maybe you're like me and can run marathons but need help lifting your bag in the overhead bin on the plane (in my slight defense, I am also short). Crossfit will disabuse you of any notion that you are in good shape. You will be broken down and built back up again. It will hurt. You will lift heavy things and then when you dry your hair the next morning, it will ache. But you will also lift heavy things and feel like the most killer badass on earth for doing it. The trainers at CFV are all good; they have different styles so just try a bunch and see who you like best. They really make sure you pay attention to form but are happy to scale workouts -- they realize not everyone can do everything. It's not cheap (although I think it's worth it) and I wish they played better music (seriously, Disturbed again?). But if you want to get your ass kicked and love it, this is the place to come. read more

The best gym in all of NYC. If you go anywhere else, your literally doing yourself a disservice. Best coaches hands down. Other gyms can say they have good coaches, but there is no comparison. Go there and train with EDUCATED people who travel the work teaching their craft. read more

I have been going to Crossfit for many years and in my experience Crossfit Virtuosity is by far the best Crossfit gym I have ever been to. My past experiences in some surrounding crossfit gyms in Manhattan and Brooklyn have not been so stellar. All of which follow a common theme. 1. You're treated as a number as a lot of these gyms are extremely overcrowded. 2. Due to overcrowding there really isn't much social interaction with your fellow Crossfitters as you would encounter in some of the more intimate crossfit gyms. 3. Teaching technique falls on the back burner as there are too many different levels of knowledge between the members in the same class. 4. Coaches are not properly trained or don't have their proper certifications to effectively teach technique. 5. Due to lack of taught technique you tend to see people get injured often as they are doing complex movements incorrectly. 6. Space is always an issue in NYC and even though some may be in better locations for access they tend to be in highly trafficked areas making it impossible to do anything outdoors such as running. What you get in Crossfit Virtuosity is different: 1. Even though this gym has a decent amount of members it is still a very social environment and a great way to make friends weather you've been in NY all your life or if you're just moving to the area. 2. Overcrowding is not an issue as this gym is much larger than the surrounding Crossfit gyms and they have enough equipment for everyone. 3. This gym prides itself on coaching ability and in my opinion are the gold standard of coaching. No matter what level you are they will repeatedly go over the movements piece by piece. Additionally, this is a great approach as even the most well versed Crossfitters can use refresher every once in a while. 4. It is rare if you hear of anyone getting injured, and the ones that do are usually done because they didn't follow the instructions. Additionally, if you happen to get an injury, weather in the gym or not, the coaches will always accommodate and make personal changes to not aggravate the injury further. 5. Space is not an issue. This place is on the ground level, in an area that is easily accessible, yet off the main beaten path. It is less than a block from a large park, and out door workouts/activities are done with ease. My Experience with Crossfit Virtuosity has changed the way I view Crossfit. Even if you are someone that has never worked out in your life, they will make sure they comfortably get you up to a baseline then work you into the classes. The coaches are highly attentive, they treat you as if you are being personally trained, and are some of the most knowledgeable coaches in the business. Whether you're interested in trying Crossfit for the first time, looking around for a new gym, or are visiting Crossfitter and want to drop in for a workout I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND it, you wont be disappointed. read more

CrossFit is easily the best workout I've ever had in my life. I did it 2x per week for two months at CrossFit Virtuosity and that, coupled with one weekly sprint drill of no more than two miles per week was more than enough for me to climb one of the hardest mountains in the contiguous 48 states. I'll go back when I have something else ridiculously hard that I need to train for. If you plan on going to war, dragging people out of burning buildings, or leading an expedition to the South Pole, then I strongly suggest you spend a few months at Crossfit Virtuosity. read more

This is my third Crossfit gym and I've done numerous drop in classes at gyms when travelling plus a bunch of free intros at gyms around the city. CFV is by far one of the best Crossfit gyms I've been to and I don't plan on leaving. The coaches are really smart and the programming is great. They make sure to spend a good amount of time warming up and ensuring you're doing your movements correctly. The classes aren't too big and it's a good atmosphere. I was really happy at my old gyms but CFV is head and shoulders above the rest. Can't recommend these guys more. read more

Just hit class #200. You can try to do the math from my last review, but it doesn't add up to even 2 classes a week. My progress has been pretty slow as a result, but I'm in the best shape of my life. I want to say something here about my injury experience, especially for fellow chumps who like me had no real experience lifting weight prior to doing CrossFit. I have been badly injured once (had to stop working out for weeks, was in a lot of pain for two-three days). It was completely my fault. I took it easy and got a little treatment from CFV's Dr. Mike, and it's been almost a year and a half without further incident. I think there are a few factors that play into people getting injured that people have a lot of control over, but might not want to own up to: 1) Trying to "keep up" with other people in class right off the bat. If you're really athletic, maybe go for it. Otherwise, be aware! Have you done this exercise before? Have you done it with that much weight before? Have you done it for that many reps? You will always be doing a warm up that you can apply to the workout. Pay attention to how you feel during the warm up, because the workout is going to be a lot harder. Don't be an idiot. Gee, that girl looks like she's doing more weight than me. Newsflash: she can kick your ass. If, by some miracle, you finish the workout and think to yourself "man that was easy" (tip: this will not happen) make a note of it and do more the next time, and the next time for that movement / workout will happen sooner than you realize. I really think impatience / a lack of humility (especially in doing new things) is an underrated cause of injury. 2) Remember to rest over time. If you just did 4 classes in a row for the first time, you might be feeling pretty sore. Take a day (or two) off. Also, spend $10 on a decent foam roller, or show up early to use the ones at the gym (they have a lot). The coaches can't actually stop you from showing up, but it's a good idea, especially as you're ramping up. This can be harder later on, especially if you're enjoying going to class (and you will). The coaches are excellent. They really are. If you listen to them, and you're not an idiot, you will be fine. I did not always listen (what was that about not completely exhaling during the middle of my back squat? Oh right my spine). If you took the time to read this far, just do yourself a favor and sign up. read more

CFV takes coaching very seriously. Each coach has their own personal style but they are working from the same standards.

I was staying in Brooklyn for a few days and decided to try out this box. Top notch instruction (thanks to the coaches, completed my first muscle up!), facilities, and I got an awesome Brooklyn Barbell Club shirt. Couldn't ask for more! read more

I joined crossfit virtuosity in September 2009 and my experience began a transformative journey in my personal health and fitness. I have trained at other great boxes around the country but crossfit virtuosity remains my favorite. Before joining I was doing traditional bodybuilding-type weight routines and long runs for "cardio", I was not in bad shape I must say. A couple of months after joining I had gained more strength and mass than in 2+ years of bodybuilding. I was also at my lowest body fat %, not to mention my energy levels. Crossfit virtuosity taught me to understand my body, not only how to push my limits but also how to assist recovery, how to eat healthier and how to mobilize my joints and muscles. It is an entirely worthwhile investment in your health and happiness, not only for today but for the rest of your life! read more

2 months in and I'm loving it. Still learning, but getting results and getting stronger.

I can count the people that have shaped my life on one hand and two of them are the amazing coaches at Crossfit Virtuosity. Come here to realize the person you've always known is hiding inside you - it's not easy but that's why we all keep going back. Cheers, Ben. read more

I've been crossfitting for a little over 3 years, and have recently moved to NYC. I've tried a couple of the crossfit gyms around, and can confidently say that Virtuosity is the best crossfit gym in NYC, hands down. You just have got to take the L train to Brooklyn and give them a try. read more

Awesome box. I'm visiting and the super friendly staff let me and my beginners friend doing one free work out. Level 2 class was exhausting like hell. Bear walks around rock da house read more

Where do I begin, the coaches are the best, helpful, friendly, masters of their craft. I came from a"rival" box and was welcomed with open arms. My fitness level has increased 10 fold thanks to all the great coaches. Definitely a box to check out, there is none better!!!!! read more

This place is dynamite. They're a legit old-school Crossfit box. I've been a member of Crossfit Virtuosity for about 5 years now and in that time I've visited countless other Crossfit gyms across the country, but this place is by far the best. Why? Top-notch coaching, better than anywhere else, that always emphasizes form and technique first in order to ensure safety before going up in weight. They're also socially involved, supportive of the community, and the place is flat out fun. Full of great members who run the gamut: investment bankers, firemen and women, cops, garbage men, chefs, actors, designers, hetereos, gays, black, white, yellow, purple... you name it. Everyone is welcome to get fit and strong together! I love that. read more

I cannot explain what I feel when I do CrossFit here except that (1) I feel every emotion I have ever felt in my life (and in a really short time span!); and (2) I feel completely, utterly addicted. If you've gotten as far as Yelping CrossFit gyms, then you've probably heard the familiar story: yes, I too spent years at regular gyms, saw really slow (if any) results, and was working my tail off for an hour or more a day. It was not only unfulfilling, but it was pretty much soul-crushing. Every day I'd wake up and try to find an excuse for why I couldn't drag myself to the gym, hop onto a machine, and spend another hour of my life bored and wondering when, dear GOD, that hour would be up. Yeah, this is NOT like that. NOT AT ALL. I don't know what other CrossFit gyms are like, but I'm not leaving this one for anything in the world. I first attended a free intro class (check it out on their site-- they are offered twice a week!) and I can tell you, I was hooked after five minutes. Joey, the coach we had that day, explained to us the philosophy behind CrossFit and some basic movements. He was FANTASTIC. Amiable, hilarious, and extremely upbeat. We then did the most intense workout I had ever done in my life (at the time). Even though we were all racing each other, the camaraderie was really astonishing. And Joey was there to push us. When, for example, one of my reps was wrong, he yelled, "That was dog poop, JK! Do it again!" I loved that. I NEED that kind of push and that kind of attention. So far I am halfway through their On Ramp program, which is the program that you must do before you become a full-fledged gym member. The amount that I have been learning each class is ridiculous. And I am NOT overexaggerating when I say that I can physically see and feel the results already. That first week, Blanco and Elizabeth (two amaaaazing coaches) pushed us ohmyGOD so hard that I actually had to cancel something one day because my muscles were so sore. But the burn was SO good. The On Ramp program is designed incredibly well-- for eight people in the class, we have three trainers. The individualized attention that we all are getting is completely unparalleled, and having a team of seven other beginners really heightens morale. Having the coaches push us like they do and having the rest of the group cheer each other on makes me really WANT to do well, because I don't want to let anyone-- especially myself-- down. Classes are the highlights of my weeks. Finding a reason to not go to the gym is now something I'd never even dream of doing. I love every minute. I am so excited to progress and to become even more a part of this fantastic community. read more

I never in a million years thought I'd be able to run a mile, then do 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and then run ANOTHER mile. But that's exactly what I did yesterday at Crossfit Virtuosity, for a special (and especially tough) Memorial Day workout. Don't worry - the workouts are not always that hard. That one is a once-a-year thing for Memorial Day. And if you can't do a ton of pull-ups or push-ups (like me), the coaches always help you figure out how to scale them so you can do what your body is actually capable of while also making sure you're at least a little challenged. I'm 39 years old (for another three months, at least). I was never very athletic and came to CFV pretty out of shape, riddled with carpal tunnel issues, and was rather round in the middle. I was really shy and embarrassed at first because I was always finishing last, or lifting the lightest weight, and generally being clumsy and weak. But right away, I realized the difference at this place: the people at CFV cheer you on especially hard when you're last or slow or weak, because they know just how hard it is, and they also know that you just might need a push to get across the finish line. Yesterday, I turned to someone working out near me and said, "You gonna run that last mile?" I despise running and was considering skipping it because I was already so wiped out. She said, "Yes. And so are you. You didn't come this far not to go all the way." And, to my surprise, despite my jelly legs, I did it. I finished that workout, the whole goddamn thing. And I felt pretty proud of myself afterward. But it was my fellow sufferer who gave me the push I needed to get through it. That's the kind of community that CFV cultivates. I should also mention that I took three months off from all exercise this year after having major surgery in January. In the two months since I returned to CFV, the coaches have been extremely attentive and caring to my "special needs," making sure I'm not pushing myself too hard or too far before my body is ready for it, and giving me alternative movements to do when the programmed ones are inappropriate for my healing. They've also each gone out of their way to give me extra tips and rehab exercises I can do to work my way back to 100%. They understand how the body works, how healing works, and the time and intention that goes into any kind of recovery. This is a big part of what makes this place special: the coaches each have their own approaches and specialties, which is awesome, and they *all* understand the human body like no one else you've ever met. And they give a shit about how yours is doing. Anyway, yeah. Maybe Crossfit is a cult. So what. There are worse things to be a part of than an exercise cult full of amazing, interesting people. read more

Crossfit Virtuosity is the absolute best, and the things that set it apart from any other gym I've been to are the coaches and the community. I've been a member for 3 + years (including through a pregnancy), and I've only encountered the highest quality coaching and a community who cheers whether you're the first or last to finish a workout. If you're looking to get into crossfit, this is the best place to start. read more

This place is the BEST! The coaches are all amazing, the classes are great, the people are all fantastic and it just gets better and better every day. Do yourself a favor and join this gym right away- you can thank me later! read more

There's working out, and then there is working out intelligently. The coaches at Crossfit Virtuosity gave me more guidance on proper form than every other coach and trainer in my life combined. I also got advice on nutrition, recuperation, stretching, and posture. If you have never worked out with Keith at CFV, I recommend it highly, no matter what your physical goal. read more

CFV is the best gym I have ever been to. I've been a member here for 4 great years. The coaching staff are excellent. They are extremely knowledgable and are very attentive, always erring on the side of safety and function over big numbers. The new facilities are spacious and the administration is constantly adding new equipment and upgrades. Apart from the staff, the gym members area also friendly. The overall community and atmosphere make for an excellent fitness experience. read more

keith is by far the best trainer i ever met in the NYC area. i highly recommend this place. i wish there were more trainers like him around.

if you're looking for the ass kicking, intense, time efficient workout you get from a Crossfit gym without any of the cult-y weirdness you may be expecting to come along with it, this is your spot. great people, really knowledgable (important!) and patient (even more important!!!) instructors, and the gym is clean and huge and awesome. totally drinking the Kool-Aid over here. #burpees read more

I've had the pleasure of going to this box quite a few times. Whenever I'm in the city, I make sure to chalk a few of my hours each day to working out here. Their drop-in fees are extremely reasonable and the staff is great! As a veteran of crossfit since 2007, I have seen and experienced my fair share of crossfit coaches, and the ones at Virtuosity are superb! On the occasions that I dropped in, I worked with the coaches Blanco and Gregg. The exercises I did with Blanco were the most challenging but fun workouts I've had. Ask him about the wooden bar "wobbly" bench and prepare your shoulders to get humbled. Gregg is a fantastic coach who is a hard ass on form and challenging yourself, but that's what you want and need when you're in the last minute of a 12 minute AMRAP and your muscles are screaming. If there's anybody I'd want pushing me forward, it would be him. I highly recommend this box to everyone in the NYC area! read more

i'm pretty new to cross fit. i've always been athletic but since being an adult and leaving it up to myself and not team sports has really made me let myself go. i linked up with blanco at crossfit and he's completely changed that! i've been coming to see him for the past couple months now and he's completely transformed me. he's had great patience but has been extremely supportive and a fountain of knowledge! i think it's because he's been there himself. he lost 100 lbs over the past few years so he can really relate to the struggle of keeping up with a fit life. i couldn't be doing this without him. i strongly encourage people to get to work with Blanco. he's amazing! read more