I have waited 2 months to write this review in order to give this gym an honest assessment. My opinion has not changed since day one. This is hands down the best gym I've ever trained in. Here's why: My experience has been that most crossfit gyms don't train proper technique. Either they're poor coaches that can't spot bad technique (or don't know how to address it), or they're cynical bastards that only care about getting you in the door. So how is MARVEL different? Within the first two weeks of training at MARVEL I hit several new PRs. It wasn't that I had suddenly gotten stronger. It was the result of receiving good mechanical and technical instruction for the first time in my training. In fact, it was rather upsetting. I thought of all the countless times I had performed these movements in front of other coaches who never said a word. Here's another way that MARVEL distinguishes itself - MARVEL coaches do not take a one size fits all approach to training goals. While I think anyone who wants to be a Games competitor would excel at MARVEL, other training goals are validated as well. In fact, one of the first things Ashely did with me was to sit down, review my strength numbers, and help me develop some new goals. Why is this important? Because training in a place that emphasizes technique and realistic goals makes you a better athlete, and better ensures that you will still be able train years down the road. In my opinion, to do anything else suggests you ought to take a hard look at what it is you're all about. read more

This place is awesome! I have just joined within the last month and I have loved every second of it (even through the burpees). I am new to the CrossFit style workout, and I was extremely hesitant to join because I didn't know how to do any of the stuff listed on the workouts. Ashley is amazing. Even though, I wasn't the only person in the classes, it still feels a lot like a personal training session. She takes the time to make sure you are doing the lifts properly and safely, not just when you first begin, but every time you attend. Also, the other members of Marvel have been great as well. I remember the first time I attended a class, I felt like I was doing terribly (and I probably was), but Ashley and the other people in class were so positive and supportive that it made me try even harder. I've been going to a regular gym for a while now, but I have seen more gains in the past month with lifts and cardio, going to Marvel, than I have in a year working out alone. If you have been thinking about joining somewhere that does "CrossFit" style workouts, this is the place to join because you will want to keep coming back. Now, let me tell you about some burpees.... :) read more

I have to say this is the absolute best place to work and train. All of the trainers are super dedicated to making sure you do things the absolute correct way to get the maximum effect out of everything that you do. I have to say that all of the members during your sessions are super supportive of your efforts. It is really like having an extended family. This is really the first time in my life that I really feel "down" when I miss a day. I am committed to coming in to push through because I know everyone else in the gym is committed to doing the same thing. This gym should be the model on how effective coaching and establishing a positive atmosphere can make a positive gym experience for everyone. I am totally "in" for the Crossfit experience and this will be my gym. read more

So many good things to say so little time! What makes North Raleigh CrossFit so great is a combination of the excellent coaching and the people. I've been to other CrossFit boxes and hit a wall because the coaches weren't able to give me the attention I needed. Ashley has a great way of making everything logical... the movements make sense. Example: some coaches will just say 'squat deeper' Ashley will watch you and then tell you what you need to change to squat deeper. Going to class is like being with family - we encourage each other, share in our triumphs and help each other when it's a tough day. If you're looking for a place that's not intimidating and has probably the best coach in the RTP area, come on in and work out with us! read more

I can't say enough good things about this place. Ashley (head coach & owner) is ALWAYS available and is very knowledgeable. The gym is very well equipped (see pics) to handle any kind of training you want: CrossFit, power lifting, olympic lifting, regular muscle head stuff... Everyone has different fitness goals, most gyms will have a set programming regimen and will not let members deviate from that bc "it distracts other members" or "we can't let everyone do what they want"..... This gym is different. If you are a competent and responsible lifter, they let you train for your goals. The programming is very very easily to scale up or down depending on your fitness level. read more

I love Marvel Strength and Conditioning - Ashley is an awesome coach. The workouts are a great combination of strength and conditioning and you get lots of personal attention from the trainers to make sure you're doing the workout properly - so you don't hurt yourself and so it's as effective as possible. In the past I've done a lot of bootcamp style workouts, which I love. I was hesitant to try Marvel because of the weightlifting but I'm glad I did. After all you need that muscle to burn fat! The gym is in a convenient location for anyone in the Triangle and Ashley is super flexible with her time and sharing her expertise. read more

I can't say enough about how much I love NRCF. I came into the box super nervous and afraid I'd never be able to keep up, but from day 1 Ashley, Jonathan and Jess made me feel like I belonged. I have never felt less than any of the other members because I've needed to scale, in fact NRCF has some of the best members. Everyone encourages each other and is super supportive. I've dropped into other boxes in the area and no one compares to Coach Ashley. She has helped me find both the mental and physical strength that I never knew I had. I mean it when I say NRCF and crossfit have totally changed me for the better! read more

The coaching at Marvel is some of the best I've ever encountered. It's obvious there is a real commitment to helping members reach their goals, whatever they may be (getting stronger, losing weight, etc). I got my first muscle up and i'm dropping under the bar faster than ever on the Olympic lifts. Nothing like hitting a 20 lb PR with a few technique improvements! And as an added bonus I've never had so many compliments on my physique before. I never thought I would look better in my 30's than I ever did in my 20's. Now i look forward to hitting the beach!!! Def give this gym a try read more

I'll start by saying that this is the friendliest Crossfit gym that I've ever been to. I've been doing Crossfit for 3 years and have worked out in dozens of gyms around the world on my travels. I look for 3 things in a great gym: 1) Knowledgeable and enthusiastic coaches 2) Ample space and equipment 3) Friendly and supportive workout partners I have not found a gym before North Raleigh Crossfit that met all three criteria. What Ashley and Jonathan have built at NRCF is the real deal! I enjoy every workout and the gains that they bring. Love this place! read more

I have been a member of the gym since it opened and I can't speak highly enough of it. Prior to joining I had been crossfitting regularly for about 5 years. After joining, thanks to excellent programming and coaching (I have not varied my attendance or diet much) I have seen big jumps in all of my lifts, and workout performance. The gym has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, and is a fun place to workout. Sometimes they even let you pick the music :). I would recommend this gym to anyone looking for great crossfit style or boot camp classes!!!!! read more

I live in Maryland but came to Marvel for a drop in and loved it. Ashley is a great coach and I really like the way she programs. I also think she's had some great ideas in setting up this new gym, which I have shared with the owner of my local CrossFit affiliate, such as online reservations for the lifting platforms. There's nothing more annoying than showing up early to lift before a class and finding out all the barbells and space is taken. If I lived in Raleigh I would definitely sign up for Ashley's gym! read more

I'm not someone who likes to exercise, but I've been here for almost two years! The coaches here (Ashley, Jonathan and Jess) are all encouraging and very good at what they do. The community of members is great and the atmosphere is not intimidating at all. The workouts are varied and there are always a million ways to scale. NRCF has been going through some space expansions recently and it's really exciting to see the new space come together. Come out and give it a try - you'll be hooked! read more

I have been a CrossFitter for nearly 3 years. I have worked out at 3 other gyms and must say I love this space, the coach and the community. The work-outs will kick your butt, but you will see results. It is a very positive environment and super fun. The coach/owner Ashley is wonderful with new and seasoned CrossFitters or Outlaw program followers. You should come check out this gym, because you will keep coming back. read more

If you're not ready for cross fit, try their bootcamp! I have been taking NRCF bootcamp for about 6 months and have only great things to say. The instructors are fun and encoraging and the small groups are like having a personal trainer. I love not having to think about my workouts and they are always challenging and different. I have gained strength, endurance and confidence in my workouts. read more

I am new (again) to working out in a gym. After many years at home with my 5 children I knew it was time to get back to "work". At Marvel I was met with encouragement and excellent training. I have been pushed to do the things that I didn't think I could. I love the coaches, the friendships, and the environment at Marvel. I highly recommend Marvel to you and would love to see you there! read more

I highly recommend Marvel Strength & Conditioning! The head coach/owner Ashley is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. There's no shortage of equipment and there is always space to workout. Everyone has different goals and Ashley likes to take time with people to help them achieve those goals. Everyone you meet working out there is extremely friendly and willing to encourage you. read more

I've done Crossfit since 2008. I've NEVER experienced the level if care and coaching that Ashley and Drrw provide day after day. I've PR'd ALL my lifts, and I feel that at 34, with years if military service undery belt, I'm finally in the "best shape if my life". Crossfit games 2014? Sure. Why not. Thanks for some excellent work and coaching Ashley!! read more

I've been coming to Marvel for about 3 months and love it. I had never done the 'Crossfit style' workouts before - Ashley does an awesome job teaching the moves and tailoring the program to my limited knowledge and abilities. The coaches and members are all great people and very supportive. If you aren't working out here, you're missing out!! read more

I have trained at a lot of places and Marvel is definitely the best. The Crossfit programming is top notch and I have had more PR's here in the last 6 months than 1.5 years prior. Ashley is an amazing coach but it is all the wonderful and friendly people that train here that make it truly special. I can't recommend Marvel enough. read more