“There’s no drama at my gym.”
We’ve heard that before. And, at most CrossFit gyms, there are likely minimal conflicts. Day-to-day spirits are high, most members get along, and enjoy a regular sweat sesh together.
- However, it’s hard to imagine a gym without one or two rep-shavers, (somewhat) friendly AM-versus-PM rivalries, and even a few borderline toxic personalities.
A recent episode of the Not In My Box podcast (created and hosted by Danny Lehr, founder of Caffeine and Kilos and an affiliate owner) featured a discussion between Lehr and two CrossFit OGs, Wes Piatt and Blair Morrison, about gym vibes. They explore the theme that gym culture isn’t an accident; it’s the product.
They begin the conversation by asking whether certain behaviors are acceptable or unacceptable at their respective gyms.
- Dogs at the gym? Unanimously acceptable.
- Doughnuts after a workout? A 50-50 split.
- A member wearing AirPods during a workout? Unanimously unacceptable.
“Every gym has its quirks, but that’s what makes its culture,” Lehr says.
So, what influences a gym’s culture positively or negatively? CrossFit is unique because it’s based on a specific methodology, yes. But it’s also rooted in community and competition. That can mean different things depending on the gym.
Regarding competition, most gyms keep a whiteboard, either physical or digital, to track results. So what about the rep shavers? They’re everywhere, and the three discuss how they handle these tricky situations.
The men also discuss the CrossFit Open and how much emphasis to place on it each year. They agree that it can serve to peak members’ interest and help build hype and community.
- This year, especially with the return of the Quarterfinals, Morrison will push the Open more than in previous years. Piatt sees the Open as a litmus test of whether he’s keeping his members healthy, how they compare globally, and whether his programming is setting them up for success.
The three go on to discuss in-house competitions, when personalities within the gym just don’t fit, and the influence owners have over their gym community.
Catch full episodes of Not In My Box here.
