Anyone that has visited other CrossFit boxes around the country probably already knows that we have a world-class facility that we call “home” at The Hill. It’s one of the largest CF spaces in the country, outfitted with tons of top notch equipment that we get to play with daily. Yet, in my mind, that is not what makes CrossFit Memorial Hill so unique and such a special place. The Community…the people…more specifically, each of you reading this…is what truly separates The Hill from just another gym in my mind.
There are days that I’m completely blown away by the atmosphere inside our box. In fact, it’s most days. As a coach, it’s such an amazing feeling to look around and see brand new members getting pointers from one of the original, fire-breather, athletes…Or to see the first person done yelling and cheering for the absolute last person, clapping for them as they finish their last few grueling reps…or watching two strangers, drenched in sweat, peel each other up off the floor and help each other put their equipment away. I could write example after example, and each one makes me more proud than the last. You all make this place so special in that way…so keep it up!
If you have no clue what I’m talking about, and you’re just into CrossFit for the workout alone, then I think you are missing out in a huge way. Some of my closest friendships have been forged within the walls of CFMH. You can help to shape your experience here. Show up early, say hi to folks, learn people’s names, welcome new members with open arms (chances are they are nervous and even a little scared), be encouraging, share tips (WOD tips, nutrition tips, or, hell, even tips about where you get your hair cut for that matter). Chances are, you can get a good workout in at any globo-gym/fitness chain in town, but rarely are lifelong friendships made there. The person on the treadmill next to you at Planet Fitness probably isn’t going to call you if you don’t show up tomorrow. And I don’t know about you, but I’ve never seen someone pick up some dumbbells to do the final few reps of a bicep workout, in unison, with the stranger next to them at Lifetime Fitness.
Ultimately, this Community was created by each and every one of you. We are a young gym, celebrating our 1 year anniversary next month, but the relationships formed inside the walls are very real. It’s because of all of you that I absolutely love being at The Hill each day. Whether I’m teaching a class, or working out next to you, it’s always one of the best parts of my day. Keep contributing to that…continue to do your best to make it an even better community than the day you first walked in. It’s your Community, folks. All we did was outfit a cool space…you guys and gals did the rest. Thanks for being so awesome to each other!
-Chad