I'm a person that has tried a little of everything: boxing, running, cycling, HIIT, etc. I tried crossfit in a traditional box setting a few years back and loved the workout, but not necessarily the box. I strongly believe it takes a great workout routine, a strong motivating coaching staff, and a welcoming group of members to create a motivational and successful atmosphere. After completing two half marathons I decided to amp up my workout routine. Running alone wasn't giving me the physical results I was driving for. As a larger person I've always been a bit hesitant to jump out of my comfort zone and into an elite athlete atmosphere. Needless to say I was a bit anxious walking into Ohio Strength--Home of CrossFit Italian Village for the first time. Quickly scanning the environment soothed my anxiety, by seeing people of every ability level performing the workout like a badass. Everyone was very welcoming and no one was there to judge anyone but himself or herself. The 3 fundamental classes taught by Ryan were no joke. It was very comforting to be with a group of beginners like myself. Ryan is very passionate and knowledgeable about the sport. His main goal isn't the weight you're lifting, but instead teaching you proper form so you can stay safe and healthy while progressing. The workouts are pushing you out of your comfort zone. They are hard. They are sweaty. They produce the most rewarding feeling that makes you want more! Overall I'm looking forward to calling CrossFit Italian Village my home. Being with a community of like-minded people drives me to be better every day! If you're on the fence about joining crossfit, come to Ohio Strength--Home of CrossFit Italian Village! You won't regret it! read more

I'm almost three months in and I'm so glad I took a leap of faith and did the free class back in February. I went into it simply looking for a more affordable substitution for personal training, but it has become so much more. I spent the last year transforming my lifestyle through diet and exercise but it was all driven by a need to lose weight...which is great, but it's not a sustainable motivation. You burn out, you beat yourself up, etc. My favorite thing about this gym and Crossfit in general is that I actually look forward to working out and have goals that extend beyond wanting to be thinner. I'm more excited about being able to squat lower or use a lighter band to do pull ups than I am about a number on the scale...which is going down by the way so you still get in great shape...You just actually enjoy it and challenge yourself and set goals and build muscle and break PR's and meet nice people. To make things more specific to Ohio Strength, every coach I've had has personally introduced themselves to me, remembers my name, helps me with modifications, encourages me to do things I think I can't do, etc. The owner, Ryan, cares very much about providing quality programming and welcomes feedback. Whether you're an experienced Crossfitter, or brand new like I was, I highly recommend this gym and these coaches. read more

I am one of those people who insisted that Crossfit was not for me. But 6 months ago, a friend convinced me to do a free trial at Ohio Strength and I'm so glad she did. This place is so much more than just a gym. The people here are fun, welcoming, and always ready to help out. And it's one of the few gyms where I've ever felt comfortable admitting when I don't know what I'm doing and asking for help. That says a lot for the type of community Ryan (the owner) has built at Ohio Strength. But aside from all the warm fuzzies, the progress I've made here is incredible. On top of learning a bunch of new lifts, I've seen huge jumps (50-100%) in my max on all lifts. As much as I'd like to say that's just me reaching a whole new level of beast mode, I'm pretty sure a lot of that is also because of all the coaching on proper form I've gotten here. The amount of knowledge on proper technique Ryan and the other coaches at this gym have is just awesome. I know I can always count on them to set me straight on form and then encourage me until I hit the goals I've set. All in all, a fantastic group. Listen, I'm not one to write reviews for anything really. But Ohio Strength deserves a review. I love everything about this place. read more

Ohio Strength is a great gym! The space is large and allows for dynamic movement and classes. Classes are fun in this strong community of members. Instructors focus on form and individualized attention. I've tried a lot of Crossfits (3 others in Columbus) and this is the one I finally joined as a member. We do a lot of pull-ups here and I have improved my pull-up output 500%! I started with one pull-up and now to 5 after a few months at Ohio Strength. They also have Yoga and Bootcamp. I'm a fan of the yoga here because it is challenging and Ryan directs well to encourage proper form. The only thing I think I'd add is more box jumps and Funk music...but I might be a weirdo that enjoys listening to Parliament while feeling the burn. Funky Fridays If you are interested, just try a free class. The nice thing about this gym is there are no high-pressure sales. No fine print. You can do month-to-month if you prefer and nobody will judge you or shame you if you change your mind. Other corporate gyms I've attended in the past have given me zero tolerance for pushy tactics and bottom lines. You won't get that here, and it's like Cheers...where everybody knows your name...and they're always glad you came. read more

I've been going to CrossFit Italian Village for approximately 6 weeks. I've seen a tremendous improvement in my quality of life, diet, sleep hygiene, and overall strength and cardiovascular ability. (e.g. I raised my 1 rep max bench by 20 lbs in two weeks!) I'm the guy who asks fifty questions about various movements and techniques, and why something is done the way it is - Ryan is the guy who answers all my questions without hesitation, and with the knowledge I would expect from a coach. I'm always a bit worried about people getting injured or pushing themselves too far when lifting free weights, but Coaches Ryan and Nick are constantly aware of their surroundings and will correct you if there's room for improvement. Both have a thorough knowledge of exercise science, and it shows in their explanations of the movements. The best part, IMHO, is watching my strength and ability improve over time. The box uses the Wodify app, which tracks improvements, class schedule, and allows me to review and comment on other members. I highly recommend this box for the outstanding coaching staff, welcoming environment, and use of top-of-the-line Rogue equipment and the Wodify App! read more

I joined Ohio Strength 2 1/2 years ago. At the time I was looking for something to challenge me, get me back in shape, and meet people as I was new to Columbus. This was the best decision I've ever made. I played multiple sports throughout High School but quickly fell into a monotonous routine of underwhelming workouts in my adult life. During my first week of CrossFit onboarding the owner, Ryan, worked with me one-on-one to ensure I learned proper technique and felt confident in my movements. I had never held a barbell in my life. Fast forward and I am now in the best shape of my life, I am stronger and feel better for it every day. Not only have the small victories over the past few years made all my hard work worth it (my first pull up, clean and jerking my body weight, my first muscle up), but the camaraderie and sense of community that I've found at Ohio Strength is like none other. I've made life-long friends here and for that I'm truly grateful to Ryan, all of the coaches, and members that make me look forward to going to the gym every day. read more

Most people hear "Cross-Fit" and automatically file it under the "too extreme" or "not for me" category. I have been fairly athletic throughout my life and wandered into Ohio Strength looking for a break from the norm. I have now been an active member of Ohio Strength for just over a year and can not think of one negative effect from my membership. I have made multiple #gains throughout this year. I've extended my friend circle, increased my overall muscle mass, tailored my eating and have become a better version of myself. Ryan is not just a coach, he has built a safe zone that challenges you daily but is always there as a guide when a workout is too much, not enough or if you just feel stuck. This past year has seen exponential growth in membership, class variety and a new geographic location. This is an Italian Village gem and I urge everyone to check it out, give it a chance and reap the benefits. read more

Having grown up playing sports in high school and college, I was always surrounded by teammates and coaches that pushed me in the weight room, making it was easy to put in the extra effort for desired results. After college, I tried to continue going to the gym and follow a training program, but my local gyms lacked that camaraderie I loved and relied on in college. I then turned to Ohio Strength to try it out and am so glad I did. I found the knowledgeable coaching and programming I was looking for, a great community of old and new friends that pushes each other to get better every day, and the positive environment that makes going to the gym one of the best parts of the day. I highly recommend Ohio Strength to anyone, whether you're an experienced lifter looking for a fresh start or just beginning your weight training journey. read more

I LOVE this gym! I have worked out in the past at places like LA fitness and other cooperate gym chains and have always enjoyed working out. I found that most of my gym time was spent on machine and doing workouts that I was only comfortable with. I was missing out on weight training and so much more. Crossfit was something I have always wanted to try but I was really intimidated by it, I was wrong! All the amazing coaches at Ohio Strength make you feel so comfortable, help you with techniques in becoming the best you can be no matter what your fitness level may be. It truly is a community and a wonderful one to be part of. Everyone is encouraging and ready to give advice and help overcome any obstacles you may have! Try it out! First class only cost you your time and there's a good chance you will be hooked! read more

Ohio Strength = Game Changer. By the sixth fundamentals class, I was completely hooked. The coaches are knowledgeable and passionate, the workouts are smart, and the members are a blast to train with. Be prepared for quick improvements if you're consistently attending. (I can already feel a difference.) This is exactly what I needed in my exercise life, which was stale, repetitive and unfocused. I'm eager to see what the fitness future holds for me - I have a feeling it will be chock-full I things I never imagined. Exercise is medicine, and Ohio Strength was the exact prescription I needed. (Although a little cowbell can't hurt.) Warning: side effects may include improved fitness and body composition, increased energy, stamina and confidence, healthy camaraderie and improved quality of life! read more

I've been working out at Ohio Strength since January 2015 and couldn't be happier! The owner, Ryan, is extremely knowledgeable about CrossFit and everything that falls under the umbrella of living a healthy lifestyle. If you have any questions about lifting, weight loss, healthy eating habits, yoga, etc. - Ryan is the guy! The other coaches, Amy, Laura, and Nick are also extremely helpful and friendly, which makes the gym not only a great place to work out and get fit, but also a warm and inviting place to hang out and meet friends. I'm a huge advocate for this place and recommend it to pretty much everyone I meet. Whether you're a novice or pro when it comes to CrossFit, this is the place to be!!! read more

I joined OhioStrength looking for a new and more healthy way to workout after I found myself with two stress fractures and basically unable to exercise at all for about 6 months after the 2014 Columbus Marathon. I am so glad I joined! I've been a member since June, and I feel so much healthier, and for the first time in the past eight years I am not experiencing any overuse injuries! This is HUGE! I am improving every day, and am never afraid to ask questions or ask for help or advice with the movements. The programming is well thought out and the coaches are always happy to answer questions. So happy I found this gym and to be a member of the Ohio Strength community! read more

I started attending classes at Ohio Strength a month ago to be closer to my work, and have had such a positive experience so far. All the coaches are extremely knowledgeable and kind. As a new client, I felt comfortable right away and welcomed by clients who had clearly been going there for multiple years . Someone showed me where to find all the needed equipment and quickly answered my initial questions. There are four nice shower rooms available that make it easy for me to get ready after the morning class, and it's a great way to start my day. I look forward to continuing to meet new people and getting stronger! read more

I love this gym! Lots of space, plenty of equipment and great coaching. Ohio Strength also offers a variety of programming from beginner onboarding fundamentals courses to traditional CrossFit wods to cardio Sweat classes. In addition, they offer nutrition and dieting programs for an additional cost. The gym members are fun folks and all skill levels are welcome. Friday Night Lights workouts during Open Season are a blast and members and guests alike enjoy intense, but friendly competition, camaraderie and a potluck to boot! And don't forget the annual holiday party come Christmas! Always a good time. read more

Crossfit Italian Village is a great gym for anyone from beginners-highly experienced. Ryan is incredibly knowledgable and very motivating. He makes sure everyone is doing things correct and does so without making you feel "picked on", embarrassed, or "called out" for doing it wrong. He truly cares about each and every person being successful at their own level! Being a mother of two young children, I never thought I could do half of things I can do after just one month at Crossfit Italian Village. I HIGHLY recommend you to stop in and check it out for yourself! read more

Fantastic gym! The owner, Ryan, is always very hands on, and his commitment to his members is unparalleled. He talks to every new face that comes in the door, whether it's a potential member, or just someone in the neighborhood stopping by to check out the gym. The new space is a huge improvement, as the size of the old gym was restrictive in the number of people who could workout in each class. Ohio Strength has more than enough equipment for the class sizes, and Ryan's programming involves structure and consistency. Check it out! read more

I had never done CrossFit before, I wasn't sure want to expect. I met some amazing women who are empowering that I am glad to call frends still to this day! I'm not going to say it was a cake walk and getting there seemed to be hard (mainly cause I wasn't feeling it that day) but once I got there I was good!! I met my goals I set for myself! You get into it what you put out! CrossFit was hard at times but everyone is there to help push you through it.. I had an great experience, and a lot of fun!!! read more

I had been wanting to get involved with a crossfit gym for a while but was skeptical about whether I could do it or if it would be a good fit. Ohio Strength has absolutely sold me! The owner and all of the trainers are fantastic and can adapt to every skill level. Not only is there any easy to use app to register for classes, track your progress, view the WODs, but now they offer Yoga and Olympic Weightlifting. I definitely recommend giving it a try! Great people. Great gym. Great culture! read more

I love the atmosphere at this gym. The people and coaches are very nice and it truly makes you feel like you are part of a fit family. I look forward to coming every day..and lets just say working out is not something I would usually look forward to. But being able to crush a workout and burn calories with a great group of friends is the best feeling. Not to mention the results are pretty great as well. I have went from 159lbs to 139lbs since starting in January. Definitely recommended read more