Wednesday, April 24, 2013

LaLanne Fitness

LaLanne Fitness Powered by CrossFit

Last week I was in the city for a customer onsite.  Before heading back to the South Bay, I decided to stop by LaLanne Fitness, which was the closest CrossFit gym to where I was at.  I've been meaning to stop here a few times in the past, but plans fell through.  However, I do remember what was common across all visit attempts: they were all deadlift days!

I came in for a class last Thursday with Scott.  This is what we class did:
  • Warm-up: 3 rounds: 15 air squats, 8 cartwheels, 5 bridges.  Deadlift review.
  • Strength: Deadlift: 5x3
  • 3 rounds for time:
    • 20 Deadlifts 185#/115#
    • 20 Pull Ups
    • 20 Wall Ball Shots 20#/14# to 10'/9' target


Some things I really liked here:
  • Large, beautiful facility.  There are high ceilings and lots of skylights.  I think it is approximately 10,000sqft... which is large for a CrossFit gym, but HUGEEE for being located in the city.  Plenty of usable space.  There's even a set of large garage doors that open up to a back alley for running.  The only caveat here is the neighborhood can get a little sketchy.  You have to ring a doorbell to get in.
  • Loaded with a variety of equipment.  In addition to the typical set of CrossFit equipment, they also have: tires, reverse hypers, large mats, sleds, and even plates down to 0.25#.  Equipment is well organized.
  • Timely classes.  Classes start and end on time.  I also like how the class did the strength component of the workout together.  Scott also gave everyone some helpful suggestions during the class.
  • Great community.  Everyone treated me like one of the group. 
  • Monthly programming available in advance... and also easy access to previous months programming.
  • X's on the floor.  Great for ensuring safety in a crowded classes.
  • Paleo foods for sale, and StrongTable pickup location.
  • Clean bathrooms.

Some things that could use improvement:
  • $25 drop in fee.  No, you cannot waive the fee with a shirt or by purchasing a shirt.
  • No dropping weights... at least not until they fix the walls and/or floors to be more sound proof.
  • No water fountain.

Some pictures:
2. View of front.

3. View of opposite end.

4. Racks and benches.

5. PRs board & dumbbells.


6. Cubbies, mobility, food.


7. More. 

8. Pull up bars down the left side of the gym.

9. Skylight and rowers.


10. Rings.

11. WOD board.

Great gym, great vibe.  Check it out sometime.

Nearby Gyms: CrossFit SOMA/United Barbell | CrossFit Golden Gate | Arena Ready CrossFit (other side)