I absolutely love this gym and the coaches…read more
Been going here for the last 3-4 months. I was lucky enough to be introduced to the place when I was in a 28 day rehab for alcohol (yes, you read that right) this past May 2019. The treatment facility I was housed at took us to the gym 3 days a week, and I can't begin to tell you how excited I was the first day our alcoholic/drug addict group went to Industrious. If anyone needs exercise it is definitely someone who has been high or drunk most of the last few years of their life!
When I found out it was a CrossFit gym I was beyond stoked. Pullup bars, chalk, a big open floor, gymnastics rings (haven't touched them in years), barbells, those damn assault bikes (I hate those things, ha!)... I was so happy!
I'll never forget the first couple times I went in there with my treatment group, I got to meet the owner, Stephen, and some of their coaches: Austin, Crissy (best smile ever), Erik, Kaybree, and Faith. They are just the nicest people around. And guess what? They are super athletic, no joke. Just watch them workout during open gym. They definitely walk the walk, they don't blow smoke up your ass, and I love that. They are nothing short of amazing humans.
My exercise background should be mentioned: I have been a member at 24 Hr Fitness (and other commercial gyms) for years (which by the way, they've installed pullup/squat rigs & lifting platforms and using olympic barbell plates... trying to copy the CF formula..?? Hmm), and mostly did calisthenics exercises with some barbell squats and deadlifts thrown in for fun. I have always enjoyed exercise, it made me feel good. I never ever thought of going to the gym as a burden (unless I was hungover), it was the highlight of my day. I did some CF a few years back, super inconsistently... like 1 time a month??? Does that even count?? I had some idea of what CF was like, but forgot how much work it takes to actually be good at it. I've gotten so damn lazy over the last few years, I needed someone to kick my ass and this was just the ticket. For a more seasoned CrossFitter, I bet you'll like this gym too.
They also make sure you don't so something stupid and injure yourself! They are very much in tune with every athlete's limitations (anatomical, injury, etc.). Austin & Kaybree in particular have been helping me figure out barbell skills for the last couple months. They have been so patient and helpful. I'm learning something every day, even if it means I'm not adding weight to the bar. I got to meet Erik and Faith a few times when I was in treatment and I told them how I wanted to learn to handstand walk. They were immediately helpful and demonstrated (show offs!) their mad skills. So cool. How many other gyms do you have your coaches walking on their hands like it's no big deal!!??!
Anyway, as part of my exit plan from treatment I vowed to sign up ASAP. The next day I went in and did a 6 months paid-in-full (shoulda just did the year). Best thing I have done for myself in years. Let me explain! I came from a very dark time in my life. The last few years I have been battling depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse. I literally fell apart and lost motivation to do things I used to really enjoy... like EXERCISE!
These boys and girls give me something to look forward to, something to improve on, something to share, something to be proud of. And that's feeling healthy and accomplished. Even if I struggle to complete a workout or can't do a movement or lift (believe me, there are TONS of things I have issues with), I still feel like I did something positive and got a little better and learned something that day. We don't become awesome in a day, right?
The other thing I want to add is that I used to really dislike group exercise. I'm kind of a loner, really. But this place has completely changed that. I love being around the other athletes and coaches. It is super motivating and there is tons of good energy. And lots to get motivated about!! When you see someone nail a big lift or skill, I think, "shit, I want to do that!!!" I never got that feeling at a commercial gym. Too many people mirin' and flexing their biceps and buttcheeks and taking selfies! Ha!
I'll close by saying that I am very grateful to have found Industrious. You guys really have changed my life and I feel like a functional, healthy human being. Performing constantly varied movements at high intensity! And then passing out in a pool of sweat!
:-)
-Mike Palmer