CrossFit Gym Opens in Glen Ellyn

A new approach to fitness has arrived in Glen Ellyn. 

CrossFit Glen Ellyn is unlike any other gym in the area. Typically, gyms have rows of ellipticals, treadmills, and weight lifting machines. CrossFit is all about conditioning and core strength and "specializes in not specializing." The workouts are broad and vary every time, incorporating forms of gymnastics, and squats—a sort of back-to-the-basics approach.  

Many have taken to the CrossFit lifestyle. NBA stars and law enforcement officers aross the country now incorporate the workouts into their regimens. But it's more than just a workout, for most it turns into a new lifestyle. 

A group of men opened up the CrossFit gym in Glen Ellyn, 22W 580 Poss St., and they want to stress how anyone can succeed at their gym.  

"If you're serious about fitness you need to be here," said John Conquest, part owner. 

The CrossFit philosophy is that a beginner can do the same workout as a pro-athlete, so long as it's scaled back appropriately. Watching a typical workout on CrossFit might intimidate most, but Conquest encourages everyone to give it a try. 

"Just walk through the front door," Conquest said. "The hardest part is walking in the door."

The gym's first member, John Carlin, has been addicted to the workout ever since he stepped foot in a CrossFit gym back in 2010. Carlin admits he was intimidated at first but soon became a believer. "Nothing [else] has given me the consistent results," said Carlin. His words of advice to those new to program?  "Whatever limitations they think they may have—it's purely mental."

For those interested in starting a CrossFit regimen, the gym, located off North Main and Poss Streets, offers free Saturday classes. For more information visit CrossFit Glen Ellyn's website.