3/19/2011--I have been training at CrossFit Elysium since August 2010 (going on 7 months now) and I have nothing but praise for this gym and it's coaches (Paul, Leon and Stacie). 

Background: I was very active throughout high school and most of college but found myself not taking care of myself throughout grad school while working fulltime. After gaining 30 pounds, I decided to get back into shape. I hit the gym the way I used to but wasn't really seeing any results. I had heard of "this crazy workout program called CrossFit" but was too afraid to start it (#1 because I thought I'd fail, #2 I knew it was more expensive that a standard membership to a corporate gym). My frustration with lack of results finally outweighed my fear and I joined Elysium. 

All I can say is that decision changed my life. Crossfit works. However, I want to make it clear it does not work like a magic pill. You can not pay to have a membership here and not go and expect results. It will be hard....but you'll love every minute of it at Elysium.

You'll be sweating and working your butt off, whether this is your first time working out in 15 years or you're a seasoned athlete. But you'll also have three very supportive, awesome coaches cheering you along..making sure you are doing your best and giving yourself the credit you deserve for doing all this madness. You'll also have a close knit Crossfit family, who you'll look forward to working out with everyday. 

As for my perspective on the price now? I would give up cable, my phone, my car, *everything*..... before giving up my Elysium membership. It is *that* valuable to me. In fact, considering you get "personal training level attention" at each workout (classes are 1-6ish people), I can't believe I ever considered it "expensive". 

I've completely changed my body in the last 7 months and I'm so happy. I feel like I'm back to my athlete shape again. It feels really good to see the progress on the waistline and strength. It also feels good to have everyone else see it too ("oh my god! you look great..have you been working out?"...."haha. ohhhh yeah, you have no idea.") I also can't believe the progress I've seen all the other Elysium members make. It's truly inspirational to see what my Elysium friends are capable of. 

If Crossfit/Elysium peaks your interest in the slightest bit, don't be scared. I HIGHLY recommend stopping by and chatting with Paul and looking at all the awesome pictures of members on the walls, or stop by for the free community workouts (Sundays @ noon). 

I love this place.