★ 1

Decent gym, but easily the most sub-par in the area.

Classes typically start late. Every class I attended started about 10 minutes late. They wait for their "regulars" to arrive, get changed, and be ready. This is highly inconvenient for anyone who arrives on time, or who is not considered important enough to be waited on.

The coaching is just flat out not up to snuff. I've been to many gyms over many years, and these guys are just here for some extra cash and it shows.

The manager is the stereotypical gym-bro manager. Pushy, salesy, cocky, and fancies himself more of a drill sergeant than a crossfit coach.

Their website lists class times that are not accurate, so if you show up to a posted class time be prepared to potentially be turned away. How could you have known there wouldn't be a class at the posted time? You couldn't.

Finally, ever been to a gym that is easy to sign up for but impossible to get away from? Yeah, that's what you'll get here. As I've moved around the country, any CF gym I've signed up for I've been able to leave with a quick email or 30 second conversation with the manager. Here, there's all sorts of conditions that have to be met, its a huge pain and guaranteed to cost you money.

There's a lot of CF gyms in the area, a couple within a few minutes drive of this one. I can't imagine any reason to pick this gym over the objectively superior others with better coaching, lower fees, more, and predictable, class times, easier cancellation, and better facilities.

The folks running this place own a few other gyms, and they very much go for the corporate empire vibe more so than the personal touch typical of most others gyms.

EDIT IN RESPONSE TO OWNER:

Upon reading your reply, I have realized my previous rating was far too generous and am downgrading it to 1 star.

I am in no way, nor have I ever been, affiliated with this gym apart from being a paying customer.

My review was based solely on my own experience, and your response only serves to reinforce my points. Rather than being big enough to own mistakes or make adjustments, you invent a story about a former employee to avoid taking responsibility for a dissatisfied customer.

For what its worth, your reputation precedes you. In speaking with other local gyms to join after being dissatisfied with yours, other coaches and owners were universally, and remarkably, unsurprised by my desire to leave your gym specifically.

Source: Google

★ 5

Only been here for local competitions, but the gym is huge. Very spacious, friendly staff, and great facility.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Best CrossFit in Madison. Very knowledgeable trainers, many class options, scaleable workouts and inviting atmosphere. Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place to get a workout done. Have a variety of knowledgeable and friendly staff who can assist you one on one if you want or also give friendly advice. A variety of classes and programs available for all your needs. They do have a very friendly kid care on site. A variety of free weights and machines for your workout needs. A variety of elliptical and running machines as we

Source: Google

★ 5

Being a member of Empire Fitness for 10+ years I can say that Empire is the best gym!!!
The atmosphere at Empire Fitness is amazing. There is an excellent, friendly and knowledgeable staff! The members at Empire are amazing also. All considered Empire is like working out with best friends and family!!!! Thanks for being awesome Empire Fitness!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Staff was very friendly.

Source: Google

★ 3

Source: Google

★ 5

Dropped in while visiting the area for work. Great gym, coaches, and community. Highly recommend visiting if you are in the area.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Found my tribe.

Source: Google

★ 5

GREAT COMMUNITY to workout with! Fantastic coaches, multiple class times, and great environment to workout in! Very affordable & love this box!

Source: Google