I get classes for free at other gyms since I work as a martial arts trainer, but I still choose to pay to come here. Why? For Coach Tim's Dymmelisms and a great workout that keeps me strong AND flexible. Enjoy read more

I've been a member for close to a year and it's been life-changing. I find myself (REALLY! Honestly!) looking forward to every 6am class. With all the research on the importance of strength training (muscle mass being a predictor of longevity, etc.), I was looking for a way to add strength-focused workouts to my routine. Feels like I've found a sweet spot - the class is small enough to warrant personal attention / corrections from the coach; but it's nice to be part of a group and be inspired by folks who are waaaay ahead of me in their fitness journey. In the past week, I've been traveling and did 4 drop-in classes in gyms in Florida and the Lake Tahoe area. On the positive side, I felt well prepared - I'm definitely a beginner but I am competent enough to join a class and know what I'm doing. On the other side (maybe also positive?), these visits made me realize how different CFPA is from other CrossFit facilities: 1) classes are smaller - we typically have 10-12 people in a class, vs what felt like 20-30 in the other gyms. 2) the coaching is MUCH more involved - at CFPA, I get feedback/corrections at EVERY class. Tim makes sure I do the exercise correctly. He encourages me to push myself but also looks out for me not to take on too heavy of a weight and injure myself 3) the tradeoff between quality and quantity is different - we do less stuff, but we walk through the technique and practice the exercise before diving into it To summarize: Tim is a phenomenal coach and CFPA is a great facility if you are looking for a long-term partner in your fitness journey. read more

Great trainers and environment. Last July, I went to an intense yoga retreat and was so sore I skipped some of the workshops. I started CrossFit in October. This year I returned to the yoga retreat and breezed through 3-5 hours of yoga a day while most people around me were whimpering in pain! CrossFit has really built my strength, motivation and physical confidence. Tim and Andrew are amazing trainers and sticklers for form. The community feel is really nice also. read more

I joined CrossFit Palo Alto in the middle of the pandemic. My goals were to continue my strength training journey and hopefully make a friend or two along the way. Yes, I can squat deeper and deadlift close to my bodyweight now (I'll have to write another testimonial about my Home Depot "you must go to the gym?" "nah, I crossfit" story). But I have made more than a friend or two. My 7am family and Coach Tim are the reason why I signed up for the CrossFit Games Open without hesitation. I wall-balled, burpee'ed, and snatched but I ultimately went to be nervous with, spur on, and beam with pride for my 7am family. And then commisera(ble)te with the next day when we had to get through that dreaded first warm-up squat. If you want to get stronger and gain a family, come check out CFPA! The commiserating also includes lots of potlucks, dad jokes, and believing that you have one more rep in you when you don't think you do. read more

CrossFit Palo Alto - 7am family - Trainers Near Me - Mountain View, California

I started at Crossfit 6 months ago, and love it! Owner/Coach Tim provides a great community and atmosphere. You will be challenged to workout harder then you have before, but also will be supported by the coach and other members to help you succeed. I've already learned a lot more about fitness, and have picked up other health/wellness tips as well. If you want to reinvent your workout and try something new, I recommend scheduling the intro class! read more

This review is long overdue. CrossFit Palo Alto is easily the best fitness experience I've had and I'm a lifelong athlete. The focus on functional training is a great foundation for other activities like running, swimming, cycling, hiking, and just an active life in general. It's a low key, no pressure experience and I would recommend this to anyone regardless of their age, fitness level, or goals. The coaching is first rate and they will modify the exercises for you accordingly. It's really a great family, welcoming vibe in a cool vintage building. They do meet-up events and special workouts on holidays too. I'd give it 6 stars. read more

PUT YOUR FITNESS ON AUTOPILOT. I have been going to CFPA for 2.5 years, starting when some students were still working out in masks. I probably missed only a few days from my usual 3x week schedule. CFPA is a neighborhood gym, but I see folks commuting to it from all across the Bay Area. I recommend the gym as a great way to put your fitness/strength training on autopilot. JUST SHOW UP. You sign up for a recurring schedule (2 or 3 times a week, always the same time) and just show up. It becomes a habit. You don't need to negotiate with yourself whether you feel like going to the gym today. It's on the calendar. If you could not make the time due to an occasional conflict, schedule a makeup, that easy. Then, when you show up, you do what the coach says. The coach takes care of picking activities - you don't need to keep track whether it's a cardio day or a leg day. They mix and match in a way that challenges all parts of your body over time. You don't need to think anymore (and sometimes I even snooze a little, but never when the coach explains the workout ;) ). The best place to snooze is on the rowing machine. If I needed to do more thinking at the gym after a long day at work, I would have avoided going there. PERSONALIZED FOR ANY LEVEL OF FITNESS. The coach takes care of ensuring you don't hurt yourself and explains every move every time: the correct ways of doing it, ways of messing it up, and ways to scale down. The coach offers options to scale things down (make them easier but still challenging you in a way that you are working up skills and strength to eventually get that move right -- for example, a pull-up, handstand walking or touching toes to bar). It sounds completely impossible but I know I will be able to do those things. I feel close to making a pull-up as time goes by. Meanwhile, because the level of challenge is so personalized (all the options and tools to choose from, and no pressure), you get a very diverse and inclusive environment - surrounded by folks with all levels of fitness, pregnant moms, folks discovering the joy of fitness, professional athletes - sharing the floor. WARM AND FUN COMMUNITY. The coach makes the time fly by offering a mix of chatter, humor, "Self-help Bookstore" wisdom, and "Silicon Valley Gossip". It's almost like going to a happy hour (or a kids birthday where you chat with other parents), only you also get the benefits of staying and becoming more fit and no sugar-induced tantrum to manage afterwards. Throughout the year, this gym will organize community events such as Christmas parties, holiday hikes, and special workouts for days like Memorial Day, New Year, 4th of July. That's when it feels even more like happy hour, with potluck and such, and dozens of gym members that seem to have raised their kids while going to the gym. And alongside those "dinosaurs," you always have a handful of members who visit the area for a summer internship at Stanford or even a work trip from out of state. Makes it very easy to get started and blend in right away. Now I just need to put my nutrition on autopilot, and I am set for life. read more

Workouts are chellenging but completely worth the outcome - greater strength and resiliance allowing me to participate with energy in all other aspects of life. Tim brings motivation, coaching, inspiration, and casual conversation to every workout. read more

CrossFit Palo Alto has been instrumental in increasing my endurance and physical strength as well as balancing my mental health. Though I'm no longer a member as I've moved away, I was a member here for 3 years and thanks to Tim and his guidance, I have the best cleans and snatches my new CF gym has ever seen. Okay, maybe not best but they've all commented on my good form and that's all thanks to Tim and his teachings. Coach Tim is incredibly knowledgeable, motivational, supportive and cracks some of the best dad jokes you've ever heard. Another thing I am grateful for at CFPA is they don't let your ego outweigh the weights. If you're new to CrossFit but you workout and can bench press 200lbs and you want to snatch a 60 pound bar but have never snatched before, that's great but find another CF gym. At CFPA it's all about form, not the weight and until you have your snatch down with an empty bar, don't expect to add any weights. I've watched too many people add too much weight when they don't have their form down and hurt themselves. I truly miss this place but will definitely do drop ins whenever I'm in town again! read more

Completely torn hamstrings (grade 2 left, full tear right), a severely narrowing spine (stenosis), degenerative arthritis, slipped disks, and nerve damage affecting the way I walk and move. Sounds like a nightmare for a coach but, when I met Tim he didn't flinch. I started working out with Tim before the shutdown and it really changed my life. I was so messed up I was doubting I'd ever move right again. I still walk with a limp but I can move gain. I'm getting better and better. I got my juice back and I'm only getting better. Tim and CFP have made a huge impact on my life. I say this with the utmost sincerity, I think it can impact and change yours too. read more

This is my 12 year anniversary with CrossFit Palo Alto. I'm grateful for CFPA having such a huge, positive impact on my life, and feel confident anyone who gives it a try would feel the same. It's a gym, a community, professional, excellent programming, challenging but scalable workouts, and dedicated coaches focused on proper technique. Regardless of fitness level there's something for everyone. You just have to be willing to do the work and you will see results. Thanks CFPA for being an instrumental part of my life, and enabling other parts of my life. read more

I became a member of the CrossFit Palo Alto on 09/19/2020 and it was the best decision I have made in a while. Tim is a great coach! He is knowledgeable, patient and has been helping me a great deal on this new journey. It is a wonderful and supportive community. It is for sure nice to see the changes in by body, but more than that, it has been transforming my life for the better in all areas. I highly recommend CrossFit Palo Alto for those looking for improvement all around. Go Tim!! read more

CrossFit Palo Alto - Grateful to CrossFit Palo Alto for this great accomplishment! - Trainers Near Me - Mountain View, California

I dropped in to CFPA last week for a great quartet of workouts. I was in town for business and reached out to them through their website about a week before. They responded the same night and worked out enrollment easily over the next day or so via email. The price was reasonable and they were very accommodating with my schedule. I attended classes with two of the coaches: Graeme for three of the mornings and Tim one morning. Both were competent, attentive, and took the time to ensure I was comfortable with the exercises and helped to scale any of the movements as needed. I especially appreciated them going that extra mile since I was only visiting for the week! The calisthenic-focused warmups really got the heart pumping and muscles warm. The WODs and strength sections were challenging, but not overly so. At all stages the movement instruction was clear and well demonstrated and the classes were run to a tight schedule. Lastly the other folks exercising were warm and inviting. It is a great and supportive community with very little ego. With the bonus of lots of joking and camaraderie! All in all, I highly recommend anyone looking to join, whether to drop in or as their regular local gym, to consider CFPA. You can't go wrong! read more

I cannot rave about CrossFit Palo Alto enough. Really, I can't. It's difficult to pinpoint what it is that stands out the most, so I'll just share a few reasons I've remained a loyal CFPA athlete for a few years now... -Tim, the head coach and owner, cares deeply about all of the people who come through his doors everyday. He takes this work seriously, and it shows through everything he does in class. One thing I especially appreciate is that when we have a new-to-CrossFit member join our class, Tim especially spends time with them to ensure they understand the movements and find success. This really speaks volumes to the kind of person and coach Tim is. During each class, Tim takes us through a thorough warm-up, explicitly models the workout, explains and models how each move can be scaled, and then supports everyone through the whole workout. There is no guesswork, and safety is a priority, which I know can be an issue in some places. -Each class is very diverse and welcoming. My regular class is the 5am MWF, but I have also dropped in to many of the other classes when I needed to tweak my schedule. In all the classes I've participated in, the people have been welcoming and encouraging of each other. Everyone is at a very different place in their fitness level, speed, and body type. I have never felt intimidated or 'out of place' which I know many people fear in gyms. Also, I have been the last person to finish the workout many many times- but, so has everyone else. CrossFit is not a contest between athletes at CrossFit Palo Alto- it is a welcoming place where everyone pushes themselves and each other to find success and 'do the work.' CFPA is a gym without ego. -Graeme and Alma, the other two coaches at CFPA, are both dedicated and professional. I used to regularly attend one of Graeme's classes and have dropped in to Alma's. They exude the same professionalism and knowledge base as Tim. They also both take the time to make sure each person in class is properly moving and finding success. -As for the gym basics... it's spacious compared to many CF gyms, the class sizes are intentionally capped and kept small (there is no fighting for equipment or space), there are two large bathrooms & a water fountain for bottles, and the place is kept cleaner and better organized than most gyms I've been to. -All in all, if you choose to put in the work and attend class regularly at CFPA, the rewards will come back to you in ways that you do not even expect. Five years ago, I started with CFPA hoping to get in better shape. Years later, I'm in great shape, confident, have found a wonderful community of people, and now I welcome the hard work. -Finally, in 2016, I underwent hip surgery to correct dysplasia that was not caught until my 30s. Since my surgery, I have progressed in ways I didn't even imagine were possible thanks to Tim & Graeme's knowledge base/support and my own hard work. After surgery, when I started back at CFPA, I could barely squat, run, or jump. Two years later, I'm squatting, running, and jumping without pain or fear. Tim and Graeme took my hip issue into consideration during every single workout, offered movement modifications, and helped me progress in ways I really could not have done without them. For this, I am so grateful. So, if you are hoping to find a gym you can call your own, and are willing to 'do the work,' you'll also find a home at CrossFit Palo Alto like I have. read more

As of 2021, I have now been going to this gym for TEN YEARS. It is a place of true fitness, support, and community. Everything I wrote five years ago is still true. It's still a place that works for anyone: My class has everything from fit 20-somethings to senior citizens in it, and people who've been doing olympic lifts for 20 years to people who've never done a proper squat in their life. It's still a place of tremendous community: we build each other up, build friendships, and support one another. When Covid first hit in spring 2019, the gym closed down and the owner lent his stuff out to anyone who needed a bar or a dumbbell or something so they could stay in shape even while his business was shuttered and under duress. Once we got permission to re-open outside (and the owner invested in outdoor tenting to make it happen), dozens of people showed up to help move equipment around. And somewhere in the last 5 years there have been vacations, friends, and marriages borne of connections made at the gym. For further detail on what you're signing up for with Crossfit in general and CFPA specifically, read my original review below. read more

CFPA, the owner, Tim, and the close-knit (but not exclusive) community here changed my life. The things I have learned and experienced here have impacted so much more than my physical ability. When I started at CFPA 4 years ago, I was a busy mom with a stressful tech job and struggling with the unexpected death of a close family member. Once a competitive athlete, I hadn't worked out regularly for nearly a decade. I knew from the first intro session that there was something different about this place, and Tim. I spent the next few years training regularly, feeling my physical, mental and emotional strength and resilience increase with every workout, failed lift, high-five and sweaty recovery. Under Tim's skilled and watchful eye, I trained safely throughout my entire third pregnancy and made a steady recovery in the gym post-partum. I met (and exceeded!) my goal of being able to do a single unassisted pull-up before my 40th birthday. Even as a busy working mother of three coming to the gym before dawn, I developed deep, meaningful friendships with inspiring and supportive women. I discovered a totally new kind of confidence, strength and satisfaction. When the gym was forced to temporarily close its doors due to COVID, Tim generously lent his equipment to anyone who needed or wanted it and started programming for us from afar. Armed with the knowledge, good habits and equipment Tim gave me, I used daily workouts at home as my primary coping mechanism for months of a stressful, isolated shelter-in-place order. The borrowed equipment and remote programming has been much more than just a workout. It has been my lifeline. Providing an outlet, a connection to my friends, to community, to any sense of normalcy. The skills Tim taught me, and the programming he continues to provide, allow me to do something every day - even on my own - that makes me feel great and reminds me that I am absolutely strong enough to handle the heavy load I carry each day. Over time I collected my own equipment but when I went to return what I had borrowed, there were so many unexpected tears! Crying over a barbell?! Then I realized the tears weren't about the barbell and the weights. Returning the equipment made me feel like I was on my own. Like the connections and the lifeline were gone. But they're not. Not at all. In fact, I am stronger and more supported than ever. I will continue to do the work until and remind myself that I am built - and have trained - to do hard things. If you think CrossFit is too intense, you need to be in shape before you start, or that it is competitive, cliquey or dangerous, think again. Pay a visit to CFPA. I promise you won't regret it. read more

Appreciative for the love and respect that this place has for it's members and community.

Want to change your life? Want to be a part of a great community? Want to meet life long friends? Come to CrossFit Palo Alto!! No, seriously. I've been a member at CrossFit Palo Alto for about 8 years now and they'd have to kick me out of this place to get rid of me. This community holds a special place in my heart. All 3 coaches Tim (owner), Graeme and Alma have basically seen me grow up and have supported me through everything life has thrown at me so far. You'd think after 8+ years I'd get bored of these workouts, but no, the programming continues to be constantly varied while also pushing me to reach and achieve new goals. I'm extremely grateful that CFPA was able to remain open during COVID. I don't know what I would do or where I would be without CFPA and the community! It doesn't matter where you are in your fitness journey, CFPA is for everyone! The coaches will ensure that you feel safe and comfortable both with your fitness and with COVID protocols. Stop thinking about it and just sign up and show up! This place is more than just a gym! read more

I have been going to CrossFit Palo Alto for over three years and I love it. The coaches are great and really help me where I need it (and yell at me when I need it too). The whole gym is a wonderful community. We all work together to help out each other, especially during this covid crisis. Tim has been putting up workouts with demos and modifications 6 days a week on Instagram! My whole family has gotten involved in the workouts even my 5 and 9 year old. I really can't say enough good things about this gym. read more

CFPA is fiercely dedicated to its community members. It is a place that emphasizes hard work while building a strong sense of community. The coaches are incredibly talented and able to teach the movements in ways that enable you to understand them and grow as an athlete. CFPA provides a place to push and continue to grow. I am incredibly grateful for the time, dedication and knowledge of the coaches and support of the CFPA community which I now call family. As the head coach Tim always says - you will continue to learn how to move better and get stronger while doing it. read more

I completed one year at CFPA and love it here. I started during the pandemic and the facility took all necessary precautions. We had classes outside under tents before we transitioned back inside. Several folks I work out with have been here 5 plus years -- it's a testimony to the coaches and the team that run the place. I have trained with Graeme in the last year and he always focuses on improving your form and demos multiple variations of the workout from easy to hard. No need to be intimidated if you haven't done CrossFit before, you push yourself to do what you can and you start scaling once you have mastered the correct form. The community is great and people really care about each other. Working out here gives me the energy to get through the day. If the timing works for you, Tim the owner and coach teaches an all women's class at 9:00 a.m. on (M,W,F). If you have never done CrossFit or lifted weights, don't worry, walk in with some patience and you will be surprised. read more

I will be forever grateful for my spot in the classes at CFPA! I started CrossFit the beginning of March and it has immediately improved so many aspects of my life. The concept of functional movements from doing CrossFit has paid off big time in my everyday life. Routine movements of getting up and down, lifting, reaching, and overall endurance make this 52 year old feel young, confident, and accomplished. CrossFit has also improved my hobbies of surfing, hiking, running, biking, golfing, and volleyball. I look forward to this winter's ski season. The days of sitting on the sidelines are over. Because of CrossFit I now enjoy without hesitation taking part in any and all physical activity with family and friends. My journey began by scheduling the introduction to CrossFit class with Tim Dymmel at CFPA. Tim taught us the history, benefits, and process of the sport. Immediately intrigued I joined the women's class MWF @ 9:00 - I've never looked back! I've finally found the fitness routine that makes me want to return. I'm constantly learning something new physically and mentally. Tim is an inspiring coach who shares his passion of CrossFit with expertise and patience. Tim and all of the coaches at CFPA are so experienced that they help scale workouts to each individual. I've even seen them accommodate those with physical limitations and/or temporary injuries. This type of personal attention makes CFPA a place for all - no matter who you are. The folks at CFPA they have created an amazing community of inclusiveness that inspires and motivates me. I was so wrong to be intimidated about trying CrossFit. If you've ever thought about doing CrossFit, CFPA is the perfect place to start. Schedule your introduction. Find your spot in one of their classes. Enjoy your life with enthusiasm and longevity. CrossFit Palo Alto has empowered me to give my best to ME! read more

I didn't expect CrossFit to be like this. I'd checked out a couple of others over the years and came away with the stereotypical perspective. CFPA is anything but. I love this place - amazing coaches, supportive atmosphere, no pressure, tons of encouragement, and zero drama. In one of my earliest sessions, I picked up a kettlebell and Tim (head coach and owner) told me I could use a lot heavier weight. I thought 'here it comes' - and then he explained that I shouldn't think of lifting the weight but moving the weight. And he showed me how. And he was right. And I was totally sold on the philosophy of this place ... My primary coach is Alma and there are not enough positive words in the dictionary ... Alma is fierce about form, demonstrates everything to the whole class before each workout, and seems to see what everyone is doing at the same time. She takes the time to ensure everyone is warmed up, set up, and being safe -- and she gives feedback and guidance 100% without judgment - same tone and approach with anyone from the most seasoned to the newest in class. I'm pretty fit by some common standards (e.g., wear a size 2 and can hold my own in yoga or SoulCycle) - but I want to be strong, and that's why I came here... I'm lifting less weight today than almost anyone in my class but nobody cares - because it's super clear the only person I'm competing with is myself. There's zero judgment and there are people at every level. I see my progress literally with every session and am constantly surprised and inspired by what I can do. This is the workout I always get out of bed for at 5am, even on days when I didn't get enough sleep. read more

Originally reviewed 09/10/10: My wife is a trail runner. I like to cycle and run, but mostly to manage my pork and beer intake. We've heard of CrossFit for a while and decided to give it a try. Tim's a great trainer/motivator. Having a class atmosphere makes the workouts more fun too. In general, we both hate machines and weights. I've always found it boring. But boring this ain't. We're hooked after 4 weeks and looking forward to more Updated 05/26/15 This coming August will be 5 years. Check my review in another 5 years, I guarantee you, I'll still be here. I used to think I was in shape but not until I tried CrossFit did I realize what that actually meant. I admit, I started this journey out of vanity, I hated some vacation pix because I thought I had a big gut. That ego blow got me in here. The community, coaching, and life improvement has kept me here. Just turned 48 YO and I'm in the BEST shape of my life. Sure, you can achieve fitness and nutrition goals w/ any program but if you're looking at the CrossFit route, CrossFit Palo Alto is worth your time. Owner/coach Tim Dymmel has put his soul into these walls and it shows. He cares about giving the best to his athletes in terms of coaching, nutrition advice, recovery, scaling, you name it. In return, he expects the same dedication out of his clients and I can guarantee you he gets it in spades. Let's be honest, this is Silicon Valley and we (including myself) have a TON of options for CrossFit boxes. I live in Menlo Park and work in Santa Clara but I'm committed to this box even if it's not the most geographically convenient. My wife and I are both members. Our kids have grown up here. We've made lifelong friends here that I now consider family. I would not hesitate to take a bullet for these people. This is the community that CrossFit Palo Alto's built and the community is our best asset. I've traveled to boxes all over the US (Alaska, Hawaii, California) and the world (Hong Kong, Philippines, China), and nothing compares to CrossFit Palo Alto. With this new location, we've gotten even more space. AND, we now have our own in-house therapy with Dr. Matthew Smith and his EverAthlete Performance. Come by and drop in. You won't regret it. read more

This is my review from 1/21/2012 when it was at it's previous location: Just go. Stop reading all the reviews trying to figure out if this is right for you or not. Just go. You won't regret it. It will change you life...seriously. I used to do a bootcamp 5 days a week and didn't get near as much results as I have in doing Crossfit 3 days a week. I"ve been to other Crossfit "boxes" in different cities and I honestly think CPFA is one of the best. Other boxes (crossfit gym) have you warm up on your own and the WODs (workout of the days) are done with very little help from the coaches. I went to one where people's forms were all out of whack and the only thing the coach said was, "Good job" every now and then. That's not helpful if you're about to throw your back out from bad form. Tim will make sure to check your form and help you out with corrections when needed. I've been there a little over 3 months and Tim has pushed me each time when he thought I was ready to scale things a little harder. I never think I can go for the heavier weight but in the end I make it through the work out having just completed more than I thought I could. It's a great feeling! Review update 5/18/15 A little over 3.5 years later I'm still at CFPA. It's been my longest lasting relationship with a workout regime ever. Sure I've dated rock climbing and bootcamps and various team sports, but the breakups were always inevitable. And like many people I've had long standing noncommittal relationships with globo gyms. It was always nice to know it was there when I wanted, but again not enough to keep me. And then I met CFPA. Like all long term relationships there was the honeymoon phase (read above review). This time, I knew this was different. Over the years there were times where I didn't want to go, but I did. There were times where I wasn't feeling the love, but I made a commitment to my coach and classmates to show up so I did. For the most part every, M, W, and F at 7am for over 3 years I have made the commitment to CFPA because CFPA was committed to me. Even if I had a long stretch of absences, CFPA always welcomed me back with open arms and a kettlebell. Go because you will be better for it if you do. Go because if you're willing to commit, CFPA will commit back. Through your good days (the ones where your beating personal records) and bad days (the ones where you're not sure if you'll make it through the workout) just keep going and the rewards will soon become evident. read more

Edit: It's been over a year since I joined CFPA. I'm still going strong to CFPA 3x a week and loving every second of it. Our gym recently moved to an even bigger, better location. One thing I failed to mention in my original review is that the community at CFPA is amazing. The friendships that I've made at CFPA continue to grow with each tough workout. We encourage each other and will continue to cheer until everyone in the class finishes. Original Review Below: I walked into my first CrossFit class on a Saturday a little over 8 months ago. I had recently finished my first marathon, battling through injury after injury throughout my training process. I was looking for a program that would help me build some leg strength and get me back on the road running injury free. I can safely say that CrossFit Palo Alto has not only helped me get over my nagging running injuries, but it has also far succeeded all of my expectations. Before I started doing CrossFit, I had a lot of concern about sacrificing form for speed. I've learned that the coaches can make a huge difference. The coaches at CFPA do a great job of going over all movements to make sure that you're moving safely through the workout. When I first started, Tim paid extra attention making sure that I wasn't going injure myself. He also helped me select weights to ensure that I would be challenging myself, without going overboard. Working with Graeme has also been awesome. He always has great pointers on how you can improve your form. The classes are kept small to ensure that the coaches can spread their focus amongst the class. One of the best features CFPA is the fact that you are signing up for specific days and times when you join. At first I thought this was severely limiting. However, it forced me to plan my schedule and held me to my workouts since I had a specific time and day I was signed up for (the hardest thing about any workout regimen is showing up). Another great part of this is that you quickly get to know other members in your class since. I've already made a number of great friends through CFPA. I started off with going just 2x a week and during that time I saw incredible improvement both in form and strength. Recently, I upped it to 3x a week and really love the extra workout each week. I dropped into other CrossFit gyms and every time it reminds me how great the program is at CFPA. I can't recommend this box enough. read more

This is the best workout I've ever found in my life, and I've done a LOT of different things. This is the only one where I really feel stronger and can measure my progress compared to 6m ago or a year ago. I've been coming for two+ years now. There's a range in the gym all the way from Olympic swimmers down to 60+yr olds and people out of shape or recovering from an injury. Mostly it's what you'd expect in Palo Alto -- 20-something's and then suburban parents. Tim & the other coaches are terrific about teaching you how to scale the workout to be challenging *for you*. The atmosphere is encouraging each other, not competitive (well, competitive with yourself). And they always, always review the form when it comes to the weights -- I've never seen coaches so conscientious. My aunt did crossfit down in LA and the gum was packed with actors and super-buff athletes, with hard rock music and an intense vibe. CrossFit Palo Alto is the OPPOSITE of that. Serious Fitness, results, and fun. If you'll notice, most (all?) of the reviews are 5-star. What does that tell you? Come throw down with us. :-) read more

I've been at CFPA for 1.5 years. I'm almost 50, and I can honestly say I'm in the best shape i've been in my entire life. Tim and the other coaches do a great job of keeping you safe while encouraging you to progress. There is NEVER pressure to over-extend or risk injury. I'm not an elite athlete, and I've never been "athletic". I still can't do a pull-up unassisted (but I can do 50 with the right assistance). Yet Tim and everyone else at CFPA make me value every accomplishment. Find me another gym where people cheer and clap louder for the LAST person to finish a workout or run than for the first person that finished. One thing I watch is how Tim works with people in my class that have some injury or limitation due to prior surgery. He will tailor every workout for them for months and months until they get back to being able to do the "normal" workout. Even people who permanently can't do the "normal" workout are always accommodated instantly. At first I was not that thrilled about being "stuck" in one specific class time (for example M/W/F at 9am). I thought not having "open gym" was going to make things inconvenient. I quickly saw the immense advantage of this - you actually get to "bond" with your class and create a routine that encourages you to show up week after week. I don't think I've ever missed a class for a reason other than travel. The new facility (as of 2015) is great. Easy to reach, easy parking, and plenty of space. read more

Great place to drop in for a WOD if visiting from out of town or if you live locally, have been thinking about joining Crossfit, or seeing what the hype is all about, this is the place to go! Great facility, great coaches & great community. They have been my home away from home this week while traveling in California. Tim is a great coach and knows his stuff. Everyone was super friendly and made me feel welcome from the moment I stepped into the door! I highly recommend this place to everyone! read more

Almost 5 years ago, at the recommendation of a friend (and still a current CFPA member), I attended an "introductory CFPA class". From that first class, I was hooked. I have always enjoyed cycling and to some degree a little running, but Crossfit was something totally different and I really liked it! Now, several years later, I can say that I love it. I can't imagine not having CFPA be a part of my weekly routine. My overall fitness level has improved and I feel so much stronger on my bike and when I run. Before CrossFit Palo Alto, I had never stayed committed to a workout "class". But CFPA is different. It isn't just a class. It truly is a community and it is one that I look forward to being a part of several times a week. That is a huge part of what has kept me focused and coming back year after year. Tim, the owner of CFPA and also my class trainer, is awesome. He knows what he is doing and he is a great motivator. I encourage anyone even thinking about Crossfit to sign up for their first class! Just do it. I know for me personally, it was the best overall fitness decision I have ever made. read more

It has now been nearly 2 years since I first joined the MWF class at CrossFit Palo Alto and I can honestly say I'm the strongest I have ever been. Tim understands what my goals are and how I can do my best to meet them - both in and out of the gym - and has been a champion in my corner to do so. I was hesitant at first but reassurance from Tim that this was not only scalable for my fitness level from the beginning, but also something that would be supportive and fun as well. The intro class was a great view into what we do on a daily basis. Classes are structured for maximum benefit of the members, ensuring each of us gets 1:1 instruction and support and a real community forms in the class, I've been with some of the guys in our class for the entire time. I have learned more about my fitness, my ability to push past my limitations, and toughen my mental/emotional life as well. While I still have a way to go to hit my goals, I have done more than I ever thought possible. Since joining CFPA I have visited a few other CrossFit gyms when on the road for travel and I can confidently say Tim runs a first class organization. He stays away from the gimmicky moves and remains focused on solid, consistent movements that enable us to hit our personal goals. Thanks Tim, Graeme, and the entire team for all you do. read more

It was really hard for me to commit to any work out (I tried personal training, regular gym, boxing, dance) before joining CrossFit Palo Alto. So I gave me one more chance to enjoy working out and CFPA ended up being a life changer for me. It's not only the different work outs (so you don't get tired of it), but also how coach Tim is a great leader, full of experience and sense of humor. And, yes, very serious about his business and about our health (physical and mental). And the community is simply amazing, I made good friends for life. The group always cheers us up to finish the work out :). I just need to thank CFPA for everything and for setting this new standard in my life. Working out has been a big pleasure since I joined CFPA :) read more

Just hit my 6 year anniversary with CFPA. Turning 62 this year, have never thought about quitting. Still learning, still leaving class feeling alive, and most of all still loving it. So grateful for the Crossfit Palo Alto community for keeping CFPA going during COVID, my life and my mental health thanks you, Tim, Graeme and Alma. Don't know what I would do without you all! read more

Posting my original review here... ****UPDATE AFTER 1 YEAR**** Love, love, love this CrossFit gym. Top notch instruction (ALWAYS form first, despite the stigma about CrossFit being reckless)... great community... and the new gym is more spacious. Which is nice. I went from a total newbie who hadn't exercised much at all in years, to putting up decent times and approaching men's Rx weights on many of the metcons. Most importantly, the teaching and community has helped me fall in love with CF and fitness, which is life-changing on multiple levels. Highly, highly recommend. If I had any gripe, it's that I would love to do more at the gym, like a dedicated Olympic lifting session or open gym. But that's minor, and overall, I can't complain. There have been times when I've considered moving from Palo Alto, and then I think, "Wait, I can't leave the gym!" LOL. ****INITIAL REVIEW****** Only had one class so far, but I really enjoyed it. Was crazy sore but impressed by the guidance and level of help from the coach. I was able to go at my own pace (being so new) yet it's clear that this is a long-term journey where I'd be pushed to develop powerful skills and fitness levels. Tim is a cool, funny guy who really knows his stuff. The atmosphere is serious and spartan, but in a good way -- these are not classes you dabble in and then stop going to -- you want to show up. I can't wait til my next class.... read more

If you are thinking about doing CrossFit, just stop thinking about it and do it. If you are thinking about where to do CrossFit, join CrossFit Palo Alto. Tim is awesome, facility is awesome and coaching is first class. The community is great and very welcoming. Just join! read more

I was a walk-in at 5:50am-10 minutes early and was told I couldn't work out at the 6am class, because the one person their didn't have time to get me an electronic waiver. I have been doing crossfits across the states for years and this is "A FIRST". Was amazing that I had to leave as soon as I got there due to "insurance" concerns Lesson if you ever want to work out at this place make sure you do the electronic waiver that can only be sent to you. So when I got to my room at 10pm think I would of got the waiver if I requested it then? Disappointed CrossFiter read more

I love CrossFit Palo Alto. April marks my one year anniversary at CFPA. In this time, I've completed over 150 workouts at CrossFit Palo Alto. It's been an incredible journey so far, and in my time at the box, I'm in disbelief at how many times i have set goals, then those goals have been exceeded. I set newer higher goals, and again and again, those goals are met and then left behind. I thought this astonishing personal progress in fitness would be the major draw, but in reality, the bonds built with other members and coaches of CFPA, albeit unexpected, are what keeps me going back. Those people uplift my spirits on days that are difficult, make what seem like super challenging workouts possible, cheer for each other in our accomplishments and push through our weaknesses. Some friends have asked me why I don't go to an earlier class and get the workout "out of the way". My response recently has been, "Because i don't think of my time at CFPA as something that i need to get out of the way". I truly look forward to my time there, and it's my treat for the end of the day; to be at an amazing box, with thoughtful programming, excellent coaching, and classmates that i truly adore, is the perfect way to end a day. All this, knowing that I will be challenged and can push myself to my limits in a environment full of care. What else can anyone ask for? read more

This was my original review on 2/11/2009: I've been working out off and on for twenty years-gyms, personal trainers, trail running, etc-and i can tell you that nothing I've done in the past has been able to improve my fitness level better than what Tim has done with me at Crossfit PA. In just a few months of working out with him 2-3x per week I've already broken through to new levels of strength and conditioning and I know I have more to go. Tim is a great coach and brings a wealth of knowledge on CrossFit philosophy and understanding of strength movements to the table. I feel like the sky's the limit in terms of where my fitness can go. Plus, CrossFit PA has a great location and a great vibe. Check it out, but be careful, you might get addicted... Updated 5/28/2015: It's 6+ years later, and I'm still at it 3x per week. CFPA is way of life and my CFPA community is like family. Has been for some time now. I'm turning 44 in Sept. and I've never felt better. I'm more mobile and stronger than I've ever been. And I'm not a very gifted person physically. Honestly, I'm a pretty average guy. I just come in regularly, do whatever is on the board and let the programming take care of itself. The results happen because the coaching and programming are top notch. But CFPA is more than just getting a workout in. It's about doing it with others, struggling together, encouraging each other. The family feel is the glue of it all, and it starts with Tim, the owner. He knows every person's name in the gym. He cares about each person, you're not just a customer to him. And he *actually* coaches you, which is not true at other boxes I've visited when traveling. And by the way, there are plenty of articles out there about people getting injured at Crossfit. In my 6+years at CFPA, I've never been hurt in a workout. (That must be close to 1,000 workouts). We all get a little something we have to work through every once in a while, but I've never had anything serious happen. Again, it's because of the careful programming and quality coaching. I wouldn't have stayed at here this long if it didn't work. Hope to see you at CFPA soon! read more

I began my Crossfit training at CFPA a few years ago before moving from the area. Now when returning to Palo Alto I always drop in for multiple classes. The members are always extremely welcoming; making up the fantastic community of CFPA. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and provides the insight for all types of lifts, gymnastics movements, and other exercises to help the members perform to the best of their ability. In my most recent visit, Tim gave me a few queues for the snatch leading to a 10 pound PR @ 225. If you have any interest at all in joining a Crossfit gym in the Palo Alto area, I would absolutely recommend CrossFit Palo Alto; you will not regret your decision! read more

I've been a member of CrossFit Palo Alto for over two years, and I can tell you this is no ordinary cross fit box. Gym owner Tim is a great coach and most importantly a great teacher of proper form and movement. As a personal fitness trainer myself I appreciate Tim's dedication to programming, nutrition, motivation and safety. He has created an environment where everyone feels welcome regardless of your level of fitness. If you're tired of grinding out workouts that are not fun and not producing results than I encourage you to drop into CrossFit Palo Alto, I am pretty certain you'll be hooked like I am. read more