CrossFit is a lot of things to a lot of people, good and bad. There's also the public perception of what it is which can lead to intimidation, preventing many from giving it a shot. Its popularity has led to generalizations that take on a life of their own - It's a cult full of crazy, masochistic people who participate in an activity that is often (unfairly) regarded as dangerous. Ok...we are a little crazy and maybe even masochistic but that's all part of the fun!
The point to this intro is that any reservations people may have about CrossFit disappear when you enter the Pendulum doors. Where most CrossFit gyms (boxes, as they're referred to if you're new to this) seem to have an affinity for appearing as dingy and minimalist as possible, Pendulum exudes warmth and an instant sense of belonging from the minute you enter and check in at the beautiful reclaimed wood desk. You're likely to meet the owner, Drew, early on because he's not just the owner but an active and daily leader/caretaker of this safe haven that he and the other owners have created. If you don't see Drew immediately, never fear because the attitude that weaves its way through all its members is one where everyone is welcomed and encouraged regardless of who you are and what your background is (in both fitness and life). That tone is set by Drew and his coaches. It's the clear foundation of the box and the result is what feels more like family than a group of people all with the goal of getting fit (and suffering a bit along the way). Its members all refer to ourselves as the FitFam and it's not lip service or a statement to be taken lightly. Everyone naturally falls into it without effort or force and EVERYONE is welcome!
The facility itself is equally important to the new and experienced. First impressions are everything and what I noticed immediately, having been to a fair amount of boxes in the last several years, was the cleanliness. The look is clean, the equipment is top notch and well taken care of and the use of space is perfect. There are plenty of rowers, bikes, barbells, GHD's, rings and free weights. My favorite part, when I first walked in, are the plates they use. Nothing but quality and class. I never understood why CrossFit gyms look like your weird Uncle's garage, so to find one with some class was refreshing. Yes, I want to grind, sweat, grunt and collapse to the ground with the best of them but I don't want to feel like I need a tetanus shot afterwards either.
For the new CrossFitter, this is a great place. The coaches are all caring, patient, experienced and able to adapt to athletes of incredibly diverse backgrounds. I've seen people who've never been athletic, never exercised and maybe never even thought about it who, weeks later, are sweating right alongside members that have been there for years and they are loving it because they feel like they belong. I've never been to a CrossFit gym whose members are all as encouraging (vocally, most times) of its fellow members. I remember being cheered on by people I didn't even know on my first day.
For the experienced CrossFitter, this is also a great place. The coaches experience and knowledge are critical but, most importantly, they care about everyone's individual goals. If you're looking to competed, there is a path for you. If you're looking to get stronger and lift more weight, you'll have a home. If you're still looking for your first pull-up or handstand pushup but never had the technique to get them, there's always someone willing to help break it down to help you finally cross that threshold. And it's not a sales pitch because once Drew knows who you are, what you are after and what limitations have been holding you back, he will remember (as will the rest of the coaching staff) and you'll be supported through those challenges to achieve your personal goals.
Pendulum has come to mean a lot to me. It has become a second home and its members are an extension of my family. I am shocked to read the review by Amers D. calling it clique-y and unprofessional. Everyone's experience is different and bad days happen to everyone, but I came from a box that were both of those things and they were undeniable. That is why I left after nearly 3 years there and I only did so specifically because I found Pendulum. Since arriving, my growth (personally and as a Crossfitter) has been exponential. I've competed and made the podium, I've improved all my lifts by margins I didn't think were possible and, most importantly, I look forward to seeing my FitFam and that keeps me walking through the doors each day, even on those that I'd rather not! They put it over the edge when they convinced my wife, who vowed to never join, to not only take the intro class but got her to fall in love, join and now we get to enjoy getting fit together!
I am grateful to Drew, Chris, Dario, Johnny, Mon, George and Kelsey for all they do. Come Live Life in Motion! read more