The Rec Center CrossFit

The atmosphere is inviting. The people are encouraging. The coaches are all supportive and caring.
Parking: there is a small lot in the back of the facility, but there is also plenty of street parking
Saturdays: bring a friend — it’s free!
The classes are 1-​hour long and are generally broken down into three components:
(1) warmup
(2) strength/​skill practice
(3) conditioning
This review is long overdue — I came across the Rec Center unexpectedly in 2011 while taking a coffee break at Handsome Coffee Roasters (now, Blue Bottle). As I was waiting in line for my cold brew, I noticed the barista pouring my drink was wearing a cast on her arm. I began chatting with her, first about coffee, then about the arm cast, which eventually led to crossfit. The «barista» happened to be Erika behind the [coffee] bar, who was just helping out at the coffee shop while the Rec Center Crossfit was still getting ready to open its doors. Erika mentioned that she and then boyfriend, Charlie, owned and operated the Rec Center Crossfit (located next door) and encouraged me to drop by again once they officially open. Not needing much convincing, I saw the doors open a few months later and decided to drop-​in for a class. I went in not having heard of Crossfit before and without any assumptions or expectations. Needless to say, my intrigue evolved into a curious excitement — there was an unexplainable nostalgia for this place that was still new to me but had me coming back for more.
I had done some resistance training in the past only using the standard gym machines, so the majority of these crossfit movements were new to me. I had never done any type of olympic lifts before either, so that was a fun skill to learn. When I first began at the Rec Center, I mostly went to the 1PM class and had Charlie to coach me through the various movements. The classes were smaller during that time of day, so it felt like we each got special attention when it came to practicing good form. However, as my schedule changed and I tried out the other classes with various coaches, I soon realized that practicing and maintaining good form during the workouts was a priority at the Rec Center Crossfit, regardless of class time or class size. With such intense workouts, it’s extremely reassuring to have coaches who are constantly watchful and place great emphasis on preventing injury above all else (i.e. if they notice that your form is fading, they will encourage you to reduce the weights).
As I’ve urged friends to try out crossfit, I’m often asked if there is a «intro» class for beginners. I assure them that all classes at Rec Center are all-​levels and that everything can be tailored to fit your personal goals and needs. All the movements can be scaled. There is no pressure to use the same weights as the next person. The workouts are simply for and about you — your goal sets, your limits, your expectations, and your personal bests. Thinking back now, I would say that I really appreciated that the Rec Center didn’t segregate the «beginners» from the rest — not only was it inspiring for me to work alongside more experienced members, but it also cultivates an inclusive environment — which I believe is what the Rec Center is all about.
When I moved out of DTLA in 2013, I decided to take a break from the Rec Center due to the commute/​traffic. During that hiatus, I thought it would be simple to jump into another local crossfit box — but I just found myself jumping from box to box, trying out their intro/​complimentary classes, and then moving onto the next. I ended up just taking a break from crossfit entirely, as I gave up trying to find another replica of the Rec Center in the SGV/​Inland Empire area.
The Rec Center is so aptly named, as working out for me feels more like a recreational sport than a chore. Charlie and Erika have done an amazing job curating a space for people from diverse backgrounds to come together and find commonality. After leaving the Rec Center and then returning in August 2015, I can now attribute the nostalgia felt at the Rec Center to the camaraderie of being part of a [sports] team — the perfect balance of community, competition and fun. If anyone reading this is new to crossfit or is interested, just drop by and try it out — you’re guaranteed to meet some really lovely people!
Thanks to all the coaches for pushing us through every workout — Charlie, Erika, Chris and Aimee — you guys are wonderful!

I’ve been coming to The RecCenter for about 2 – 2.5 years. I was hesitant on trying out this «crossfit» thing but my boyfriend convinced me to try it «once» so I came in very intimidated. The coaches were very helpful and motivating. They broke down the movements, explained and helped me through my forms and techniques, made appropriate modifications to the workouts for my level. Additionally, I fell in love with the community that I instantly got hooked on it. Everyone who comes to this box is very easy to talk to and we all motivate each other. I love the fact that there is no sense of «douchy-​ness» at this box even though there are many different levels of athletes. Everyone stays and cheers on other atheletes until the last one finishes. It’s very motivating! I moved away for about 8 months and when I moved back there was no hesitation in going back to The RecCenter. It was like I’ve never even left!
The programming is great. There are 2 parts for every class. Part A is more of strengthening-​related and Part B is the actual WOD-​usually a series of diff. Movements within a given time frame or number of rounds for time. I love the olympic lifting class on sundays and team WOD on saturdays.
Thanks to coach Charlie, Erika, Chris and Amiee I am much faster, stronger and healthier than when I first walked into the box.
If you are ever in the area, check it out. You will NOT be disappointed!

As someone who has struggled with staying in shape their entire adult life, I had always been afraid of trying crossfit. Although I had lifted weights in the past, I would look at crossfit and think, «that’s not for me, it’s too extreme.» Boy was I wrong…
Charlie and the staff are not only kind, welcoming, and encouraging. They build the programs in such a way that whether you’re new to crossfit, or a seasoned pro, you will get an amazing workout. I’ve been a member for nearly four months, and I can honestly say that am in the best shape of my life. I’ve never felt this great or confident before.
On top of that, the facility is amazing, and everyone there just wants to see you be the best you can be. It’s apparent that they love what they do, and they genuinely care about each individual who walks through the door.
Simply put: It’s the gym version of the show Cheers.

So now that I’ve been at the The Rec Center for 1.5 years, I feel like I can share a comprehensive account of my experience with Crossfit and at The Rec!
As a High School athlete, used to a lot of high intensity output, I was searching for a comparable work out. I tried EVERYTHING from Barre to Yoga to personal trainers. Personal trainers were as close as I got but, I was basically doing some exercises from Crossfit already andddd it was too damn expensive.
Like most people, I was pretty intimidated by Crossfit. There’s a lot of talk and criticism. I even emailed Mean Streets and never followed through because I was chicken! But in March of 2014, I knew I HAD to make the lifestyle change to be healthier.
I literally trusted my fellow Unilocalers with a couple of my own must-​haves:
*Flexible Hours: My previous job required grueling and unpredictable hours so I needed to be able to work out early/​late. The Rec has a great range of hours — 6am all the way to 8pm!
*Location: I used to work in Mid-​City so I wanted to be able to come back to my apartment to shower before going to work. They have showers there too, by the way!
And then, one Monday morning at 6am, I just showed up!
Things I really appreciate at The Rec:
*Programming: It’s quite incredible to think that I’ve been consistently sore EVERY DAY for more than a year. You’re always getting a workout, no matter what — even if you’re just doing your own body weight because you’re new to lifting. I also love that Saturdays = Team WOD (workout of the day) where you partner up to finish a workout. And, programming is kept interesting — there used to be run club, yoga, & now there’s cardio! Lastly, the programming here is NOT broken up by how good you are. Everyone does the SAME workout. If you can’t RX (do what’s «prescribed» for the WOD), then you scale however you need to.
*Coaches: EVERY SINGLE coach makes sure you have proper technique in everything you do — from pushups to bench pressing to squats. They’ll always demo to make sure you know how to do it and do it right.
*Community aka the people at The Rec: They say stereotypes have some truth to them. And with Crossfit, I can see why the «elite» can be very standoffish because well, they’re really damn good. However, even the best of the best at The Rec are some of the most humble people I know. And, it’s fine that they take 5 minutes to finish something when you need almost 15 minutes, they’ll be right there cheering you on. Their beast mode & dedication honestly keeps ME inspired.
All in all, I really am so much healthier than I was last year. Crossfit’s functional training helps in all aspects of your life. I ran my first half marathon last year — coming from a girl who has never entertained running more than a mile! & It’s no big deal to lift my luggage into an overhead bin. Plus, carrying hella groceries are a CINCH now too!

I stumbled across the Rec Center a little over a year ago on my way to have coffee at Blue Bottle. As a medical student with no money, I was hesitant to join, but it continues to be every bit worth it. My experience at the Rec Center has been fantastic. Charlie, Erika, and every single one of their coaches is knowledgeable, supportive, and inspiring. All of the coaches emphasize safety and proper form, and I never feel bullied into using bigger weights than I am ready for, like I have at other gyms. My workout at the Rec Center is the study break I look forward to all day, and I’d recommend this gym to anyone!

Great people
Great WOD’s
It’s just great.
The trainers break every movement down so any one can just jump in and do the WOD of the day.
Very friendly

I can write a book of the many successful experiences that I have had at this box. From the first day that I joined coming in at 370 lbs and completely out of shape I could tell that if I was ever going to succeed at loosing weight this of all places would be where I could accomplish that feat and 11 months later still overweight but by 70 lbs less I can tell you that coming to The Rec Center was the solution to my ongoing ups and downs of weight loss. Far from shedding the pounds I have gained so much more than what I initially signed up for. The WOD’s are designed to strengthen your core and with that you gain muscle, flexibility, stamina, endurance and strength all of that was what I had already lost when I tipped the scale at 300 lbs. The WOD’s here are all intimidating at first glance and at first experience but all I can do is repeat what the coaches use to encourage you to continue on «it takes time but you will get there» and from my personal experience that is correct. The great experience doesn’t stop at loosing weight and gaining all of what I have mentioned there is plenty more to gain as the owners whom also coach the class have managed to create such a wonderful atmosphere that makes you feel like you are working out with friends and family. Its awesome to belong to such a great box where you don’t only work out for your own benefit but also to not disappoint your new family that is always cheering you on and congratulating you for your accomplishments. Last but not least the coaching staff is the best and always bring out the best out of you. Thanks The Rec Center I am proud to be a member.

Update! More than a year later, still loving this place. Coaching is top-​notch, family vibe, and no douchebags (which can be hard to find in the world of crossfit). I can’t imagine being anywhere else!

So I’m a rookie/​newbie at Crossfit and at the Rec center, having just joined about 3 weeks ago. I chose this place after researching other crossfit places in LA, and am very glad that I did so. There’s plenty of parking, the trainers are knowledgable, helpful, and approachable, and there’s no douche bags (which seems to be an issue at other crossfit boxes). Charlie (the owner), never hesitates to help and make sure your form is correct and he constantly works with me to modify some exercises I can’t do yet since I’m still recovering from (shoulder) tendinitis. The people here are friendly and make you feel welcome and the workouts will kick your ass. All in all, I have no complaints and am looking forward to improving me fitness here.

I’ve been working out here for a year now, and feel compelled to update my review. I’ve learned so much about fitness – what I am capable of – and what I want to be capable of, from working out here. I suspect that statement might be true for anyone who commits to the programming at a lot of crossfit gyms (or «boxes» if you must).
What really sets this place apart from a lot of crossfit joints is the community that Charlie and Ericka have created – there is a very welcoming and fun energy here. Sure the programming is demanding, and there are quite a few inspirational and dedicated athletes – but it’s not a bunch of crossfit zombies in weird tube socks looking to cannibalize the first person to admit to eating pizza. Even if you’re not looking for a «community experience» (I sure wasn’t), you’ll find that this environment sets you up for personnel success.
The gym is quite diverse (a huge plus), and folks with a broad range of fitness levels are sweating it out together and cheering each other on. If you have been curious about crossfit, but have some angst about group/​class type stuff this is a really fun and comfortable environment. If you’re an experienced crossfitter, the programming is creative, balanced and challenging every time – Charlie knows his shit.

In the year that I’ve been going to Rec Center, I’ve noticed so many changes. Not only in the shape of my body, but also the size of my friends list. Rec Center CF has created a community of people that are so encouraging and awesome, I don’t know where I’d be without them.

This place is awesome! I walked in seven months ago, completely out of shape. I had never worked out in my life, couldn’t even do an air squat.
The results I’ve seen are amazing. I’m now lighter, stronger, and more flexible.
The coaches are not only knowledgable; they truly care about their member’s fitness goals and safety.
The members are friendly and love to help new members feel comfortable here.
Try it out! Your first visit is free!

I loved the poster they had mounted on the wall that said:
«Stronger than yesterday.»
This quote makes me feel like I can accomplish anything!
The community was heartfelt…
Right when I walked in there was a super warm welcome.
My coach Sean that was teaching at 7pm was supportive, knowledgable, and encouraging to everyone. We had a really great bunch of 15+ CrossFitters of various levels.
After our round of introductions, we started with a warm up of a 600 meter run around the block.
Then onto 1000 meter rows over three heats.
We wrapped up the session with the following WOD (Workout of the Day).
12 min AMRAP (As Many Reps As Possible):
25 Doubleunders or 50 single jumpropes
15 Rx (recommended weight) 25 lb Yellow Kettlebell SDLHP
5 Muscle ups or in my case scaled with 5 chest to bar with bands.
I ended up finishing 5 rounds.
The reward was just being able to finish knowing that I tried my best.
Bonus: 1^st class was free!
I’m a sheer fan of this box!

What can I say? I just LOVE this place. Crossfit is fun and I say that as a person who has previously NOT been excited about exercise. I’ve never stuck with one type of workout; hopping from boot camp to yoga to running to spinning, to pop physique, etc. Nothing could hold my attention for very long. But, about a year and a half ago, I tried CrossFit at the Rec Center and I have stuck with it! I’m definitely not bored. And, the best part is that I’m actually seeing RESULTS, which is the whole point, isn’t it? I’ve never been in better shape in my life; clothes are looser, muscles are more defined, strength is improving, etc.
For those (like me) who aren’t in tip top shape, you won’t feel intimidated here. Yes, there are amazing athletes who are lifting an astonishing amount of weight, but every workout is scaleable to fit your level. Start where you’re comfortable and advance at your own pace.
If you are thinking about trying CrossFit, I would highly recommend going to The Rec Center. Also, the owners are super cool. I mean, they throw gym parties. You can’t beat that!

Possibly the best CrossFit box there is in downtown LA!
Two Thumbs Up!

I’m a Bar Method and spinning kind of gal and if I want something hardcore I’ll take a bootcamp class. I never imagined I would be lifting weights, doing pull-​ups, or box jumps. I hit a plateau with Bar Method and it wasn’t as fun as it used to be so I took advantage of the first free class at Rec Center. I was impressed with how strong all the girls were and how welcoming everyone was. I’m about 3 months into CrossFit and I see a difference in my strength (not so much in my weight since I have an issue where I eat way too much…) and my ass looks great from all the squats ;)
I’ve been to 2 other CrossFit boxes and I can definitely say that I love the atmosphere at Rec Center much better. Everyone is welcoming, encouraging, and no one judges if you can’t lift a lot. All the coaches stress on form and always go over in detail all the movements. This is the box to join if you’re into non-​pretentious atmosphere!

3 month update:
Since my initial review I’ve moved over two notches on my belt, I’m swimming in most of my clothes, and family/​friends notice a huge difference. I keep hearing leaner and muscle-​lier haha. If results are what you’re looking for then this place for you!
Seriously though, I cannot thank The Rec Center CF enough for what they’ve done for me. I’ll be back at the 6 month mark…

Dropped in here last Saturday for their partner WOD. The people here are warm and inviting. Felt like I was already a part of their box by the end of the workout. I’m definitely not new to CrossFit, but their programming was fun and challenging at the same time.
I love the area that this box is located in, it’s actually pretty neat to see the demographic of people. The coffee shop next door has some amazing coffee too, but that’s for another review. I would definitely drop in again.

After having a bad experience from a nearby Crossfit, I decided to give RecCen a shot. I had suffered some previous back injuries, and couldnt do everything in the first WOD, but the atmosphere and staff were outstanding. I’ve been going for about 7 months now, lost 25lbs, and can squat over 300 and bench 240lbs. Before I started I had a hard time moving around my house, let alone do russian kettlebell swings. This is thanks to the guys and girls at RecCen Crossfit.
Charlie, Erika, Brian and Lauren are all excellent trainers and clearly love what they do. There has never been a day where I havent felt welcome in the box, and they are all very knowledgeable about form and technique to improve your WOD performance (a big stickler for me). Crossfit can be intimidating when looked from the outside, but I have always been treated like family by the staff and members.
If you are looking for a crossfit gym downtown, this is the one you need to go to, hands down.

It’s been almost a year and I’m still going. Everything I said in my original review still holds up. What’s even more impressive is that a great community has grown within the Rec Center, yet it’s still incredibly welcoming to newcomers. Everyone is supportive of each other’s efforts, whether you’re Rxing (using prescribed weights) or not.
Beyond that, the Crossfit workout régime just works. We just finished a 35-​day Paleo challenge. In those 35 days, my body fat percentage dropped 4% (about 13% to 9%), my lean muscle mass went up 5 lbs, and I lost 6.4 lbs of fat. I’m far from being the strongest or fittest person at Rec Center, but even I’ve seen great results. A big part of that improvement is thanks to the motivation I got from the Rec Center community.
Nearly a year in, I appreciate the Rec Center even more than I did when I wrote my original review. I continue to highly recommend this place!