Where: 1444 W Willow St.

What makes it special: An incredibly friendly community.

Every CrossFit gym has a focus on community and a general sense of we’re-in-this-together, but this is the first time I’ve ever been at a class where everyone introduces themselves to each other. If you’ve ever walked into a CrossFit gym without knowing anyone before, it can be an intimidating experience. Not that I was counting, but my class was approximately 40% female. Score, ladies. If you’d rather work out with all ladies, CrossFit Chicago has all-female classes too.

The box is also in the more industrial West Town area (just down Elston from Stanley’s Produce), which is great for any workout that includes outdoor runs as the streets are clear.

What you can expect from the workouts:

Everyone in the class got a lot of coaching before the workout started and there were two coaches with the class to ensure that no one was doing anything stupid. I’m not usually the first to quit a workout because something hurts (which I’m learning slowly that is a mistake), but my knee is being a baby and the workout was super-intense and squat-centric. My knees also aren’t feeling running and walking down stairs either, so to be fair, the workout didn’t hurt me, I hurt me.  I hopped on a rowing machine and kept working out while the class lifted, gasped and spit through the super-tough workout.

Want to try it out? Your first drop-in is free. Just email [email protected] to get started.

(Image courtesy of CrossFit Chicago)