Berkeley CrossFit

I’ve been coming to BCF for over a year now. I came originally for the coaching but have stayed for the community. My noon class is the best part of my day. The environment is fun, motivating, but not intimidating. (Owner) Coach Chris is just a good human being and I’m honored to not only count him as my coach but my friend, as well.

This place is well equipped and solid training team, plenty of space, and clean. I would absolutely recommend this place.

A friend of mine has a number of friends who CrossFit here, and know the owner, so it was an easy place to walk in to coming from the city. People here were really nice, let us use all of their things (jerk boxes, barbells, leaving a mess of weights along the way, foam rollers/​lacrosse balls), and were pleasant when all we really wanted to do is lift (and take a photo with Charis!). Parking was a little tricky since we parked in the neighborhood, but since it was a pretty quiet day, it wasn’t a big deal. The gym is huge (in comparison to SF sizing), and has a number of pull up racks, barbells, kilo plates, pound plates, rowers, and other mobility devices. If you’re in the East Bay, definitely stop by Berkeley CrossFit for a good workout or open gym, and don’t forget to buy a t-​shirt!

I walked into Berkeley Crossfit a 50+ male, about 40 pounds above my ideal weight, and without any recent history of regular physical activity. The coaches were exceptional in recognizing my weaknesses and addressing them through accommodations. It was over 2 months before I could do a front squat without assistance, but just another 3 months until I was able to do a full weighted front squat pushing more than 150 pounds. (Your results may very.)
What is truly superlative about the staff and community at Berkeley Crossfit, is that throughout the time I was developing the strength and stamina just to complete each workout, I felt completely supported. My accomplishments were celebrated and I was supported in my struggles. (I was cheered on by the staff and community members as I completed WOD after WOD well after everyone else had finished, cleaned up and were preparing to walk out the door.)
Additionally, due to the careful attention and coaching I received, I have suffered no serious injury. Indeed, my joints have a regained a suppleness and strength which I lost in my 30’s.
I have poked my head into Boxes with better equipment, nicer facilities and the like. But Chris, JP and Charis (my regular coaches) are each exceptional. They are trusted advisors who know when to push, when to give guidance, and, best of all, how to make each workout both safe and fun.
In the end, I have lost a significant amount of weight, gained strength and stamina that I haven’t had since my teens, but i go back, time and time again, for the smiles, laughs and sense of encouragement. There is nothing like reaching into yourself for one more rep, striving to complete one more set of pull-​ups waiting for Chris to bark «Piece of cake.» and feeling a sense of satisfaction when out it comes.

I’m proud to say that I’m in the best shape of my life and I owe it to Berkeley CrossFit. The exceptional coaching staff are very attentive to all members and are dedicated to improving each individuals health and fitness. We have members from all walks of life and with very different athletic backgrounds. Don’t get discouraged if you’re new to weight training. Each workout can be scaled to your level of fitness. The trainers here at Berkeley CrossFit put a heavy emphasis on developing proper form and technique so that each individual builds a strong foundation and learns the basic mechanics of each movement.
I have tried a variety of different strength and conditioning workouts and CrossFit is by far my favorite. For one, no other style of working out has even come close to producing the results that CrossFit has. CrossFit will make you look and feel good within a relatively short amount of time. Furthermore, the sense of community that CrossFit embodies is great for personal growth, as each member encourages one another to push harder and achieve their goals. You also get to meet great people as CrossFit attracts members who are generally driven, and conscious of their health and fitness. Additionally, CrossFit workouts are constantly varied. You never do the same work out twice, which is why I find CrossFit so attractive.
If you have the work ethic and you demonstrate a commitment to improving your life, Berkeley CrossFit can take you to levels of fitness you didn’t think were possible. In summary, Berkeley CrossFit has had a profound impact on my health, fitness, and overall happiness. I feel very fortunate to have found Berkeley CrossFit and I encourage everyone to join!

As a member of Berkeley CrossFit for almost 2 years now, it’s very difficult to express how great a place this has been for me in a brief review. After moving back to the East Bay after college, I searched around for a CrossFit gym in the area and found that while there were a lot to choose from, none had workouts as fundamental as BCF. While many gyms complicate their workouts for the sake of appeal and/​or to seem more advanced, I saw that BCF stuck to what really works: running, squats, pull-​ups, etc. – movements that are basic, simple and effective. So, after stopping by on a Saturday afternoon to check things out, I decided to give it a try.
Fast-​forward almost 2 years, the time has just flown by. While many things have changed (a new, bigger gym, more members, a new coach), the aspects of BCF that kept me coming back have endured. Not only are the workouts still tailored to the fundamentals, but of greatest importance, is the community. It is as tight-​knit yet as open and welcoming as imaginable. The coaches are kind, supportive and knowledgeable, but above all encourage you to push yourself, a sign that they truly do want you to improve (and get your money’s worth) and not be content just because you showed up. They’re also not shy about doing the same workouts, right alongside you. The members of BCF are diverse, of all ages and backgrounds and of many distinct experiences. This is an integral part of what makes the community an uplifting one. The gym not only works hard together, but also makes time to go out and celebrate birthdays, big life events, and holidays. You’ll not only meet great people at BCF, but you’ll also make great friends, mindful of you as a person (not just a workout buddy) and supportive of your personal endeavors.
I greatly encourage anyone and everyone to give Berkeley CrossFit a try, whether you’re new to CrossFit or simply new to working out. After the hour is over, you’ll wish you had done it sooner.

I have been CrossFitting now for close to a year. There is no other box that I love to call mine, than Berkeley CrossFit. Here you find excellent coaches and a community that keeps you coming back for more.
For starters, the coaches are exquisite. Contrary to some posts made, there is encouragement to try your best. There is a difference between doing a lift recklessly and listening to the advice and what a coach believes you have the potential in doing. Not mention, emphasis on technique in all lifts is simply amazing. I love the technique and skill I have developed with Olympic lifting — trust me, after visiting other CrossFit gyms, no one does an emphasis on technique and skill under the barbell as well as Berkeley CrossFit.
In regards to the community here… Folks here are welcoming and encouraging. I was intimidated when I first began but members assured me that with time it would fade away and it sure did.
In all honesty, my life has changed since joining CrossFit. I feel stronger — physically and mentally. It assists with all aspects of physical and personal life, plus it is my favorite outlet. There is no other community that I would rather join than Berkeley CrossFit.

I called BCF home for 19 months and it sure was a lot different before this place moved to its current location. A loyal member I must say. March of 2014 was when my run here ended due to a shoulder injury during a in house competition. Crossfit is community based. There are good things and bad things… I can share my experience and observations the time I endured here… Especially since I have been around a few boxes so I have something to compare to.
While more people signed up, less coaches were available. Having about 15 people in a class and about 1 – 2 coaches on the floor most of the time while other coaches works out on the side was eh. More coaches needed! Parking became lame! Woding for a 5−6pm class and finding parking could be a pain! Taking laps around the block in the middle of rush hour sucked as people got in the way. You had your «advanced» group but in compete denial. With time you get to see who the «favorites» and «cool kids» are. One of the male coaches is VERY opinionated and can be an ass per say. He will make fun of what you wear, what he thinks is cool and what you should do or say outside of the box. Not once was i reached and asked how my shoulder was, or dis anyone recommend anything for me to do (such ad stretches). You get pushed extra hard here and heard many members complain about the amount of weight that was pushed on them. A little too much where you are prone to injury. If you put in the work and effort you will be helped and attended.
As the box grew new equipment started to come in. GHD machine, more bars, more rogue equipment, sleds… you get the picture. Pretty cool! Unfortunately since you get a lot college students here many don’t last that long. Pretty good monthly price compared to prices around the bay. Some people are very welcoming and cool. But unfortunately the closeness of the group had been lost from when it was across the street. People started to get too competitive, too serious and it sucked the fun out of it. I just didn’t want to show up anymore. The people changed and working out with the same people is what makes you want to come back! The little thing that made this place special was lost sadly…
I enjoyed my time here while it lasted. Sad for me to leave but perhaps I’ll drop in sometime in the future to wod with a friend or two. It’s a great place to drop in! Good luck to everyone here and remember, think outside of the box and don’t get caught up in your own little box/​mindset. Go explore and see what’s out there for you!

I love BCF! I hit my one year mark a few months ago and wanted to wait to give it a review based on the kind of improvements I made over 12 months.
I love it here. Just in terms of having a place to workout that is fun, comfortable, and welcoming… this is the place. A lot of members become friends and chat and hang out and that’s my favorite part. CrossFit has definitely helped my fitness level, made me stronger and more comfortable with my body. Also, my traps. They rule.
The coaches definitely know what they are teaching and great examples of what hard work and dedication can bring you. Everyone is strong but encouraging for anyone new and/​or that is nervous about starting.

5 stars for a free class (?!) I just drove by and saw sign… I’m going to have to go! Not sure if/​when/​how often they have a free class but I might have to find out. The sign was for that day, too bad I was stuck at work when I saw it. Standby for updated review after workout…

Coaches Chris and JP make the place a notch above the rest. Their programming is excellent and they are great motivators with a good attitude that permeates their gym. They moved from a small space into their current location but classes can get crowded in the evenings. As an introductory Crossfitter, I find the evening classes (particularly 5 and 6 PM) to be a little more «elite» than the morning and afternoon classes as well as more crowded. I should point out though that the coaches do a great job programming and have made sure to avoid creating tracks that have the elite athletes getting all the coaching on one side of the gym while the less experienced folks are neglected. Everyone gets plenty of input and I have found that I have grown considerably in just a short time.
Parking in the area can be tight so be sure to arrive early (also to avoid that pesky tardy burpee penalty). The folks I have met there are great people and they socialize both in and out of the gym. There are some elite athletes but most of the regulars have been going to the gym less than 1 – 2 years. Generally everyone is very approachable and the atmosphere is friendly and inviting. I suspect I will be coming to this gym for years to come.
Some may feel the cost is a prohibitive, but you truly do get excellent coaching and for the area, the rate is quite reasonable.

This is an excellent Crossfit gym. The coaches are top-​notch. They are very knowledgable of form and technique, and quite friendly. The new facility is spacious with plenty of room for large class sizes. I highly recommend this establishment.

They moved the gym to a place (that is huge!), a little more towards University Ave. There is now plenty of space for you to work out before, during, and after class. They still have the same excellent coaches in Chris, JP, and Jenna that really want you to achieve your fitness goals. From starting here in October of 2012 to the June of 2013, I have lost a total of 40 lbs and am currently in the best shape of my life. I really owe it to the to the training and diet program that Chris and JP helped design for me. If you haven’t already, I would suggest trying out a free class session by checking out
or better yet just dive in like me and sign up for the On-​Ramp class and get started on your fitness goals.
Side note: This is also conveniently located next to Lanesplitter and Rainbow Donuts for those of you trying to eat some food after working out. I got to admit that eating a donut with my protein shake definitely is pretty enjoyable.

I’ve worked out regularly at a few different Crossfit gyms in various cities, and Berkeley Crossfit is by far my favorite. The space is relatively small, but the classes are small as well, which makes for a positive, intimate workout experience. The regular crowd is very friendly as well. Chris, JP, Alfredo, and Willy — the coaches — are all awesome guys and are very knowledgeable about fitness, technique, and maximizing performance. It’s also relatively inexpensive compared to other Crossfit gyms. I believe unlimited classes are $ 140/​month, whereas you’ll pay upwards of $ 220 in the city. So if you go 15x/​month, you’re looking at less than $ 10 per class.
Highly recommend this gym. Check it out.

I’ve been going here for over a year and I love this place. I’m not just addicted to CrossFit but I’m addicted to BCF’s great coaches, the community of friends and athletes, and the excellent programming. I’ve been to other boxes and I’m happy I found my home away from here — a place that allows me to push myself at my own pace (and to the limit each time, if we’re being honest) and realizes that I’m never going to get to the Games. It’s just enough to daydream about it.

Ok, so I don’t actually go to Berkeley CrossFit. But my fiancé does.
As much as I love hearing about his work out of the day, whether he «rx’d» or not, or how many muscle ups he did (this is sarcasm), the best thing about his crossfit obsession are the resultsssss. Our wedding is this October… and it’s a destination wedding. and the destination is Cancun. CrossFit was necessary. This has also been the only workout to keep his attention long enough to bear results.
Lastly, I hear the guys that run the gym are pretty cool. I always hear about new nutrition and meal planning advice. Plus, they’re friends of my good friend. It’s a win-​win, really.

Home away from home. I showed up, and felt right at home. Chris le legit-​est coach eva was so very helpful — he shared a great deal of time helping me with the split snatch. I am visiting home for TG, and it was awesome to have a hardcore work-​out, and some attentive coaching. The box was clean, the peeps were ‘down’, and the class size was perfect. I miss Crossfit Oahu, but this box made me feel right at home. I wish I was able to get there more than once… until next time fantastic BCF!

I’ve been going to Berkeley Crossfit for a couple of months now and I can already see and feel the difference – I’m already stronger than I’ve ever been before. The classes are small and fun and Chris is a fantastic trainer. He comes over and makes the small adjustments that suddenly make a huge difference. He’s really observant and takes care of the people he trains. I go in the mornings so I haven’t really trained much with JP, but he seems really nice.
The gym is really super friendly – I really like the people I work out with and we’re supportive and not really competitive. I have been to boxes before that are really intense and that’s nice and all, but the WODs are hard enough without everyone getting super stressed out about it. I’d say that Berkeley Crossfit was laid back, but I get my butt kicked every time I go!
Personalized, intense work-​outs that keep me coming back for more!

I have dabbled in several other Crossfit programs before… most tend to be cliquish and of a cult like quality. After having our first child… my goals were simple: Build up my Cardio, lose about 20−30lbs…all in the hopes of being around for my kid in the future. Berkeley Crossfit fits the bill.
Chris and JP… Not only are they really nice and helpful (with all levels of members) but work their butts off in building their new business. I wish them luck… and with all of the additional new members… it shows they are on the right path.

I try to do strength training on my own when I’m at the gym, I really do, but those big machines with all the attachable bars and hooks confuse me. How do I hook this on here? Am I even doing this right? I’ll attempt a couple of reps, give up and do some cardio. Which is why I need classes like CrossFit. Trainer, please tell me what to do because I can’t come up with moves at the top of my head.
When I heard about free classes at Berkeley CrossFit this week in honor of their grand opening, I had to give it a go. Apparently no one in Berkeley is willing to get up and work out at 7 in the morning because I was the only one there (being a morning person sure has its perks — free personal training session!).
Chris, the coach, was great and ensured that I was practicing the proper form for each of the moves. Wall ball squats, sumo dead lifts and military presses were KILLER for me, but so effective. I’m pumped to make CrossFit on the regular.