★ 5

Such a welcoming and community minded gym! I am completely new to functional fitness and it has been wonderful learning from the coaches there! Nice class size so you can get personalized attention. They offer a free trail week as well.

Source: Google

★ 2

I am giving this place two stars because the classes were always unorganized; people talking while the coach is starting the class. The training by the coaches is hit or miss. Some coaches are very thorough and not only do a good job breaking down the movements but do a good job teaching the technique. Other coaches seem to be more focused on being friendly and PC. An example: you go to a class at a popular time, but aren’t there early. So you have to get a spot in the other room, or outside on the uneven asphalt. The gym has no PA system, and the coaches are all to worried, or ignorant, to project their voice loud enough to be heard. The lack of volume is made worse by the fact that people are talking while the coach is talking so you have trouble hearing what is being said. Depending on the coach the workout will either be excellently portrayed and explained, or a so-so explanation will be given and you are just expected to deal with it. After that you run to your space and start the workout. The floor in the next room resembles something like a skateboard park; outside you can’t workout in the middle where everything is flat because the landscaping company that is behind X-Fit hates the owners and always seems to be driving a dump truck into their business while a workout is happening. If the workout involves running, you are forced to cross a busy street, or two, because the coaches/owners are to stupid to get a distance wheel and mark off the appropriate distances in a way that circles the block(which would be safe, smart, and convenient for everyone.) Last but not least politics is added to every workout that involves new members by asking people their pronouns. I imagine the pronoun thing is a real plus for some of the members, as it definitely a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. The gym also plays a lot of bubblegum pop music; again probably a draw for some members. Save your money go to PXM. Better coaches, class times, music, and more welcoming without the politics.

Source: Google

★ 5

Outstanding community of humans that want to stay healthy and live life to the fullest. I've been a member since the beginning of the year and ❤️ love it! Darcey, Ozzy, Fatimeh, Astrid, Eli and new Coach Cortney are fantastic.
You should come take a few classes. Very economical, particularlyly if you make it a habit.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a fitness professional myself, I admire and look to the inclusive, inviting and professional atmosphere HW offers to inform my own training methods. This gym offers incredibly thoughtful training and their approach would make anyone feel like they are capable of more. Chicago is lucky to have this safe space to get stronger, together.

Source: Google

★ 5

We dropped in twice while visiting family nearby. Great gym, super well equipped with tons of room. We loved it, it will be our home away from home gym every time we come to visit!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love you Darcy! and this fantastic gym you've created. As a 62yo F former endurance athlete, became so bored w conventional health club. Training w Darcy since Nov 2024 and loving the results, goal to age strong & fit. This is a pillar for both my mental & physical health. Just try it out!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been a member at Hardware for about 6 months and I’m so glad I stepped foot in the door. It took me a while- because I don’t like to work out. But, Hardware has changed that mentality. I’m so glad I found a gym that has a sense of community. The ‘big box’ gym is not for me, and this is exactly what I was looking for. They are my biggest cheerleaders, my friends, my coaches and overall amazing humans. I can’t recommend this gym enough. I’ve learned so much, got stronger, got more confident and love my gym days. If you’re looking for a gym to push you, teach you and train you. This is the gym for you!

Source: Google

★ 1

I was a member at Hardware (HW) for 3 years. HW is a Black, queer, woman-owned business and supporting a gym with those values felt incredibly meaningful to me. The environment was inclusive and welcoming. The coaches were knowledgeable, encouraging, and invested in member progress. I built great friendships, regained momentum in my training, and loved having a gym so close to home.

About 6 months ago, I shifted away from group classes and began following a program written by one of the coaches at HW. I was still using the gym regularly, just not attending coach-led classes. Given this change, I asked if HW would consider offering an "open gym only" membership, a model that many gyms in the city already offer. The owner declined. I respected her decision, every business has a right to set its own structure, but this contributed to my decision to leave. I ended up joining a gym nearby offering open gym access for $65/month, much less than HW’s $210/month unlimited membership.

When my gym partners and I decided to leave, we were transparent with the owner. We made it clear that this wasn’t a permanent goodbye but that HW’s structure didn't align with our training needs or budgets at this time. Unfortunately, after we gave notice, there was a noticeable shift in how we were treated. Where there had once been friendliness, there was now avoidance and discomfort. It became difficult to feel welcome. Despite our efforts to remain cordial, the energy had changed.

After leaving, we noticed our credit card info was still stored in HW’s booking software, Zen Planner. We contacted ZP to have it removed, but they referred us to the gym. When we asked HW to remove our cc info, the owner responded with a passive aggressive message, implying the request was unreasonable and that no one had ever asked for this before. We clarified that this wasn’t about mistrust, just a standard digital privacy concern in the event of a breach. Still, the response we received was defensive and unnecessarily curt. One of my gym partners followed up with a thoughtful message to thank her and offer honest feedback. He emphasized the financial reasons behind our decision, the lack of flexible membership options, and our disappointment in how we were treated after giving notice. Rather than taking the feedback constructively, she responded with more defensiveness, suggesting that asking for a membership option she didn’t offer was disrespectful and continued to deflect responsibility for the tone shift. It's difficult to understand how asking for a service or membership option could be viewed as disrespect. She also stated that our fitness journey wouldn’t be where it is without HW and her. While I understand wanting to feel proud of your business, it felt dismissive of the consistent effort we had put into our training. It gave the impression that she expects credit simply for providing a space, regardless of how members experience it.

We left because our training needs evolved, and we found an affordable and flexible gym that aligned with those needs. The unfortunate part was the emotional fallout that followed. It reinforced a growing feeling that honest, respectful feedback isn’t welcomed at HW. While we once imagined returning, the way things were handled by the owner has made that unlikely. A disappointing end to what had been a meaningful chapter.

There are things to appreciate about HW. Some of the coaches are excellent and the facility is well equipped. Many have made real progress there. But those positives are overshadowed by inconsistent leadership, defensiveness around feedback, and unprofessional behavior when members make decisions that don’t align with the owner’s expectations.

As a former business owner of 14+ years, I’ve come to understand that running a business doesn’t place you above the people who support it. It doesn’t entitle you to praise or deference, especially when your actions fall short of the values you're promoting.

If you appreciate professionalism, mutual respect and open communication, HW may not be the right fit.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware is so welcoming. The community is such an important part of this gym and, as such, is actively invested in by the owner, coaches, and members. We celebrate each others accomplishments and gains and encourage everyone regardless of where they start - truly meeting people where they are at. They ask for feedback and act on it, including adding classes, adjusting programming, and having a kids room to accommodate members needs.

No matter how I feel or what's going on in the world, every day I go to HW is the right choice. Come for the muscle gains, stay for the joy and community.

Source: Google

★ 5

I first joined Hardware as a member and immediately felt at home. The community here is welcoming, inclusive, and motivating in a way I’ve never experienced at another gym.

Not long after, I approached Darcy (the owner) about offering sports massage within the space. She was incredibly fair and supportive in making it happen, and it’s been an honor to work with both Hardware members and the larger community.

Darcy leads with strength, compassion, and integrity, creating a gym that pushes you while always having your back. I’m grateful to both train here and collaborate with her. Hardware is truly a gem. Pull thru and give it a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been a member at Hardware for over two years. I’ve never felt more at home in a gym! Like I found my place. My people. From the moment I stepped in, I knew this was a place where everyone was welcomed and supported, no matter where they were starting. This gym is truly special, led by an incredible owner who is a professional football player and a fierce advocate for inclusivity. She brings unmatched strength and compassion to every session, balancing a drive to push you with the understanding to meet you exactly where you are. Her family (wife and two kiddos) welcome you as an extension of their family.

The community here is unlike any other—it’s a safe space to be yourself, work hard, and grow stronger, both mentally and physically. I’ve found that my goals are not just heard here, they’re championed. Whether you’re new to fitness or an experienced athlete, this place will challenge you while always having your back. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a supportive, empowering gym experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware is an absolute joy. The facilities are fabulous, the leadership is welcoming and accommodating, the prices are highly reasonable, and the members are respectful, kind and friendly but give you your space. I'm in my forties and have tried many gyms and studios, and this is one of the very few where I've ever felt at ease. It's a great choice for folks who are not athletic by nature, who are feeling out of shape or who are simply shy or anxious. It's also a great choice for confident, experienced athletes who want a wonderful workout. I can't say enough good things about Darcy, the co-owner, who is an incredibly patient, thorough and good-humored personal trainer. Definitely give it a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware Strength and Conditioning has changed my life. I was hesitant to join at first because of past experiences in other fitness establishments, but my experience with the coaches has been amazing, encouraging and inspiring. Thank you for creating this space and encourage me to bring my authentic self in every single workout.

Source: Google

★ 2

Updated review after being a member for 3 years:

I initially enjoyed this gym due to the variety of programmed workouts, the gymnastics skills classes, and the olympic weightlifting classes. I stand by it being a good physical space, a good place to start or restart your fitness journey, and a way to explore the “functional fitness” / “crossfit” methodology if you’ve ever been interested in checking it out.

Ultimately, I chose to leave the gym due to the cost (~$210/month for an unlimited membership, which includes Open Gym access available ~4-5 hours a day). The 3x/week membership is $165/month and does not include access to Open Gym. I stopped following the scheduled programming in favor of exploring my own programming (needing to utilize Open Gym to do so).

Upon deciding to cancel my membership, however, there was miscommunication with the owner. The owner initially took it as a personal insult that I was reaching out to remove my credit card information from the planning app used to book classes. What should have been a simple request turned personal and nasty. In this digital world, I urge everyone to check out the "haveibeenpwned" website to see just how easy it is to have your digital information compromised.

The owner displays a detrimental mentality that bleeds into other aspects of the gym. Feedback is not solicited in regular intervals: any organic feedback seems to be taken as an attack on the business & the owner vs. being seen as suggestions for improvement; there is a lack of safety precautions for members that WILL lead to injuries; the owners mock members within earshot of other members; and there is a perverse incentive to become a coach for the free monthly membership. In my opinion, coaching is a full-time, professional occupation.. not something that anyone with limited fitness knowledge should be able to do as a side gig to save themselves the cost of a gym membership. I could write out a whole host of other reasons but will cap it here as the aforementioned reasons are enough for me to prevent me from returning.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been a member of Hardware for almost 2 years now, and it has been absolutely life changing. Hardware is such a gem in Chicago, and in the fitness industry at-large. If you are looking for a business that values inclusivity, representation, building community, celebrating health and fitness wins at every level, and leaves out toxic competitive vibes, this is the place to join.

Hardware is a gym that truly celebrates and supports its members. They offer a free week trial and a variety of classes - strength training, CrossFit, HIIT, yoga, and one-on-one training. Coaches are hands-on, friendly, and do a great job catering to every fitness level. Give it a try. You will not be disappointed!

Source: Google

★ 3

I was at Hardware (HW) for nearly 3 years, and it was a big part of my life during that time. It helped me get over a lull in my movement routine. I found a few attentive and knowledgeable coaches who helped me learn a lot, and generally felt welcomed in the space. Hardware claims to be an inclusive, non-judgmental space that welcomes progressive values. I would’ve agreed at first, but my experience over time – particularly upon my decision to leave – proved otherwise.

Membership costs are pricey, even though on par for similar crossfit-type facilities : $210/month for unlimited (including open gym access during limited hours), and $165/month for 3 classes/week. Two years into my time at HW I decided to follow programming separate from group classes (which are the main attraction of this space). Ultimately HW’s fees just didn’t fit into my budget any longer, especially since I wasn’t attending group classes and only utilizing open gym. I found lower cost open gym options in the area and let the owner know I would be cancelling my membership, after she let me know that open gym-only memberships weren’t an option at HW.

I wouldn’t have posted this review and shared more details of my experience at HW if the owner hadn’t responded the way she did. After I cancelled my membership, interactions with the owner became very strained and tense; it was clear she took my leaving very personally. When I requested my credit card information be removed from ZenPlanner (software the gym uses to process payment) after my membership ended, her response was unprofessional and hostile as she stated she didn’t understand why I was leaving HW – despite my being upfront about the financial motivation for my leaving. What’s more, requesting payment method removal after you’re no longer using a service is basic data privacy best practice; I found it baffling that this was perceived as a controversial request.

Communication continued to deteriorate and the owner was increasingly disrespectful. I had previously expressed to her that I would like to return in the future should my budget and fitness needs change; that is no longer the case, sadly. Out of respect for other members and the owner, I previously wouldn’t have shared the following information in a public review – but given the turn in demeanor and communication (particularly given that HW markets itself as a values-driven, progressive, and inclusive space) I feel compelled to be transparent about other aspects of my experience that weren’t positive:

- Inconsistent coaching: Some coaches were great, but others gave minimal feedback which increases injury risk. Some fitness goals I shared were met with discouragement and derision.

- Member treatment: The owner often dismissed feedback or met it with defensiveness. Some members received unadvertised perks, while others were denied similar accommodations.

- Safety concerns: Basic precautions (e.g., safety bars) were sometimes mocked rather than encouraged.

- Inappropriate behavior: Multiple mocking comments about disabilities and unaddressed member/coach misconduct contradicting the gym’s inclusive branding.

HW has so much potential to be an incredible fitness space, but ownership conduct and lack of professionalism is stifling opportunities for improvement and pushing out loyal members. I hope to hear in the future that these things have changed for the better. I wrote this lengthy review because I had such a mixed experience at Hardware and wanted to share it transparently, and because I had no other avenue for providing this feedback. Much of my time there was very positive – and some of it was extraordinarily difficult. If you are considering Hardware, you will likely get a lot out of the experience – but you will have to seek it out and navigate the messier aspects that come with the territory of supporting small businesses.

Source: Google

★ 3

I was a member at Hardware for a little over two and a half years. The gym has a strong community vibe, with some truly great members and a few standout coaches, and I did enjoy parts of my experience there. However, over time, I noticed a steady decline in both the programming and the overall management of the facility.

Despite the gym’s impressive size, equipment shortages were a regular issue—even during reasonably sized classes—which often made it hard to complete the workouts as designed. The programming lacked variety and progression, and coaching was hit-or-miss. Some coaches were engaged and helpful, while others seemed more focused on conversation than actually leading or offering feedback, leaving classes feeling disorganized.

A major concern was the lack of attention given to new members. I often saw beginners lifting with poor form and receiving little to no guidance—even in small classes where personalized coaching should have been feasible. Coaches would go through the warm-up and workout briefing, and then mostly step back during the session itself.

Functional fitness and CrossFit can be incredibly effective when coached well, and the community at Hardware does make it a fun and welcoming space in many ways. Still, due to the inconsistent coaching and lack of structure, I’d be hesitant to recommend Hardware—especially with other local gyms offering more consistent support and professional oversight.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m not a super athletic person but I’ve fallen in love with group crossfit-style workouts. Hardware is by far the best I’ve ever been to. The coaches and other members are all good vibes. The workouts are well designed and you can scale them to your level of fitness.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have had memberships to gyms in the past, but I've never felt like a belonged as a member until Hardware. Not being familiar with most of the concepts was intimidating only until I walked in the door for the first time.

The coaches are all incredibly knowledgable, friendly, and helpful. There's a great Foundations class specifically for those who are new to the fitness world. Every class begins with a friendly conversation and inquiry about how people are feeling and if anyone needs specific instruction or modification due to injury or other reasons.

This is an inclusive environment in all ways. There is truly no judgement whether you're 20 or 60, fit or not, first-timer or crossfit veteran... you're treated as part of the Hardware community and that feels awesome.

The workouts are good and tough (though scaled for each individual as needed). And there is enough variation to keep you from getting bored. They are well designed to help advance your fitness level without being too overwhelming. I never thought I'd be able to do a rope climb or a toes-to-bar (or most of the things we do in class) but yet now I can.

Each class has a well crafted warmup and post-workout stretch with a true focus on preventing injury. This is also something I appreciate a lot. It's not about tough workouts and pushing yourself to the limit, it's about doing those things safely and correctly to avoid injury. It's been over a year since I've been a member and I have never seen anyone tweak anything or get injured.

I look forward to every class (even at 6am) and am so thankful I found Hardware!

Source: Google

★ 5

Incredible community, great box for both beginners and advanced athletes. I love that the gym has a variety of classes available to all members including gymnastics classes, HIIT, Yoga, and Olympic Weightlifting.

They also host wonderful community events for members :)

This gym is a must if you’re in the area.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Coming from general and climbing gyms, I had always heard the rumors of crossfit, from injuries to odd workouts, and some pretty toxic macho man behaviors.

This is not that gym. I have found such an inclusive environment with truly wonderful people of all backgrounds. It is a supportive and caring space where you feel listened to and you're needs feel met. The workouts are odd and it can be overwhelming at times but the people there have your back.

If you're new to this kind of activity, take it slow, go light, and for God's sake ask questions. The coaches are more than happy to talk you through any sticking points.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started at hardware about a year and half ago never having touched a barbell before and not really knowing what to expect. This gym has an amazing, opening, and welcoming community with athletes of all levels. I can’t recommend this place enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been coming to Hardware for ~5 months now, and I absolutely love it! Hardware's training staff is friendly, warm, and incredibly knowledgeable. I love that I always know I'll get the appropriate warm-up and thoughtful instructions on the workout so I never have to worry about getting hurt. I've seen myself get stronger and more confident in my body since joining, and I see myself at Hardware for a long time! Thank you Hardware!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely, 100% join this gym and wonderful community!!

It is a special environment and business that is already fantastic but still continues to improve!

The coaches and members are super friendly and helpful; the team introduces new people upon arrival so you learn everyone’s names on the first day; it’s a relaxed and LBGTQ+ environment.

Darcy and her team are doing a great job here and no one should hesitate to give it a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been doing CrossFit for over 10 years! Hardware is hands down one of the best communities I’ve ever been a part of! Coach Darcy and the coaching staff are awesome. The stretching and mobility leading up to each work out is always great, and I love how each coach has their own twist on it. The community is great too very welcoming and always encouraging everyone. This is the first CF gym I’ve ever been too that is open 7 days a week. The fact that they have Open gym M-F & Sunday is just awesome. The kids room is the last thing I will mention. It is a lifesaver for me. If your husband travels for work(me) or maybe you’re a single parent. You can bring your kids(3 & 6) and let them play on the room while you work out!! If you are wanting to try CrossFit out def try out Hardware. You will not be disappointed! I always leave feeling so happy!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great workout and a great environment. Just moved to Chicago and Darcy and team have been so welcoming and have built an environment where we can great workout and feel welcomed into the Andersonville community.

Source: Google

★ 5

A great community and a great place to workout. The coaches are all very good at teaching and making sure you are doing things correctly and at a level you are comfortable with. Classes are full of variety so you are always engaged doing something new or different.

Source: Google

★ 5

Killer workouts. Welcoming community. Inclusive vibe. Bomb music. I am loving this gym! My husband Matt and I just moved to Chicago from Boston and joined 2 weeks ago! Darcy and the entire staff and community could not be more friendly, kind or welcoming. We already feel part of the family. And having a kids space in the back makes it so easy to stay on track even when our littles are with us (4.5 + 2 yo). And those workouts! I am blown away - I am already feeling stronger. Can't wait to see my Boston friends and family and make them feel my big muscles :)

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware is one of my favorite places to go each week. The coaches are extremely knowledgeable and good humored, the facilities are clean and organized, and the community is unmatched. No matter where you are in your goals, each session ends in sweat and celebration.

Source: Google

★ 5

There isn't enough to say how much I love this place so here are some highlights:
*Safety is a priority. I have never felt pushed to do more than I can.
*It really is for all abilities. Every workout has a scale, and everyone is encouraged to do what they can be successful at
*The coaches are kind, smart, encouraging, and patient. They know everyone's name, notice improvements, and give constructive 1:1 feedback every class.
*The community is incredible. We make new friends, hang out before and after class, get excited about new people joining, and just have fun together while working hard. Misery loves good company 😉

Source: Google

★ 5

I needed a new gym for a variety of reasons, but primarily to regain strength after a back injury so I tentatively explored joining at the end of 2021. The owner of the gym met me at a time that was convenient for me on a very, very cold morning to show me around and tell me about Hardware. I told her about my recovery and how I wanted help to minimize reinjury risk and she explained how the coaching staff provides adjustments in real time in every workout. I joined up, learned (and continue learning) a ton about correct form, and have significantly increased my strength and health over the last year.

I was familiar with gyms and weightlifting before I joined, but not crossfit specifically. There are a ton of novice and intermediate level folks and a sprinkling of really expert level individuals. Everyone's incredibly friendly and helpful. I highly recommend Hardware for all experience levels.

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been training at hardware for just over a month

I'm totally new to both CrossFit and weightlifting and I'm really excited about the strength and stamina I've gained in such a short time

The vibes are immaculate and the coaches are amazing motivators and teachers. If you're looking for a gym in andersonville I cannot recommend hardware enough

Source: Google

★ 5

1 month into membership, and loving this gym community so much! The coaches are friendly, knowledgeable, and clear. The workouts are challenging and emphasize mental endurance as well as physical abilities. I have already seen significant benefits to my mental health, as well as my body composition changing (attending 3 classes a week). I feel stronger and calmer. I am looking forward to each workout and am very grateful to the ownership, staff and other members for creating such a positive environment.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware has changed my life in ways I never imagined. Going to this gym is often the best part of my day.

The community here pushes me to challenge myself and makes me feel supported even on hard days. Especially on hard days. As a non-binary and queer person, I don’t often feel welcomed at gyms, but Hardware changed that. There are many queer folks here, and the community generally cares about making everyone (queer or otherwise) feel like they belong.

I’ve been to a few CX gyms, and the coaches at Hardware are by far the best: attentive, helpful, technically knowledgable, and generous with their energy. If you’re new to all this, don’t worry, the coaches will take care of you with modifications, extra explanations, whatever you need. Workouts contain a good variety of movements. Music generally above average.

Ugh, like, ya know, it’s just the best place.

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is hands down one of the best cross fit gyms around. The equipment and space is more than ideal, it is always clean and organized, the workouts are of high quality, the coaches are very attentive, and it is a welcoming community to all no matter what your fitness goals are

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been to various crossfit establishments and Hardware is by far the best. The instructors are not concerned with your fastest time or your heaviest weight. In my experience this leads to injury. They work with you to understand YOUR thresholds and what they should be, not the group or the person next to you. Also there's alot of diversity within the membership, from novice to experienced. Everyone is super supportive no matter where you are in your crossfit knowledge! I Love HARDWARE

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I have been members since March of this year and we’ve had a great time and have seen serious improvements in our body composition and strength. The biggest benefit of Hardware has been the impacts on our mental health. The coaches are all so kind and the camaraderie is special. We don’t see ourselves as “CrossFit” people but appreciate guided workouts that hold us accountable. We think Hardware is the perfect blend between pushing you to do your best and being mindful of proper technique and form to avoid injury. This gym is perfect for beginners through elite athletes and you’ll fit right in regardless of your level.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaching, great community! Have been a member for years and I love that I'm still finding ways to challenge myself at Hardware.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out here for a couple months. The people are friendly and the coaches are supportive and helpful. The space is great and it gives you lots of space to stretch out and do the workouts. The workouts can be "scaled" to fit most any fitness level. It is a cool place all around.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member at Hardware for nearly 5 years and wouldn't dream of working out anywhere else. The classes are super challenging, the coaches are extremely knowledgeable and encouraging, but above all, the community is amazing. As someone who has major baggage from being bullied in gym class for my entire K-12 life, Hardware has been the chance for me to reclaim fitness. Everyone who sets foot in the gym is supportive and kind; we treat each other with respect and lift each other up. This is what working out is supposed to be like.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hands down one of the most inclusive gyms I have ever been a part of. As soon as you walk in the sense of community is palpable. Everyone will greet you and make you feel welcome!

The gym is pretty big compared to most CrossFit gyms. I love that I can stick around after class and work on extras without being in the way of anyone else. Not to mention there’s all the fun CrossFit toys to play around with!

Coaching staff are all amazing at what they do. I learn something new every time and love that they push me and challenge me in ways I never thought possible. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete staff make sure you move well. They care so much about you and your well-being in and outside the gym. Truly all wonderful humans!

Definitely drop in or join you won’t regret it!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been going to Hardware for over 3 years and cannot be more pleased with my experience. All of the coaches (especially Darcy) are compassionate, friendly, and inclusive. Everyone is welcome here regardless of athletic ability or identity. As someone who never felt comfortable in a gym setting prior to joining Hardware, I could not I could not be happier with my experience or give a more glowing review of this gym. What a lovely group of people to be a part of.

Source: Google

★ 1

Staff lacks professionalism. If you want to be part of a gym where members and staff behave as if they’re still in junior high school; where destructive gossiping and cattiness is prevalent, then this is the gym for you. However, if you want to be part of a community that is welcoming and supportive of your fitness goals, there are far more superior gyms out there. When you are paying a premium price tag for a gym, being treated with decency and respect should be the least of your worries. This is not the case at Hardware Strength & Conditioning. Give your money to another gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Oh Hardware how do I love thee? Let me count the ways ... actually, I don't think Google will let me type that much. Suffice to say Hardware is a lovely, welcoming place where you can get fit, make friends, and have fun in a non judgemental environment.

Source: Google

★ 5

This isn’t just a gym. It’s more of a community hangout where you can also get fit. I love this place and I always feel welcome.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I can't say enough good things about this place. By far, the most inclusive and welcoming gym in Chicago-proper. The coaches are top-notch and the building is clean and spacious. Definitely drop in, you won't be disappointed!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The friendliest gym I’ve been to since starting CrossFit in Texas 10+ years ago. Great coaching and programming, lots of community events, and super friendly members. The gym space is huge and clean also, plenty of indoor and outdoor space to follow distancing protocol when needed.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing place !

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is truly a place for ALL (levels, experiences, backgrounds, identities). The facilities are wonderful (10,000 square feet) and they are in the process of expanding and adding more (kids zone space, massage/physical therapist). Coaches are caring, attentive and knowledgeable. This place feels like home.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member here for over a year. I love all of the coaches- shout out to Adrian! They are down to earth and can help anyone at any fitness level achieve their goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

The best box in city

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This is gym is easiest one of the best CrossFit gyms in Chicago. It tough to find a gym that has both thought out and intentional workout plans and intelligent coaching. George and his team provide amazing insight to the proper way to do movements and have developed WODs suitable for all athletic abilities. Plus you get to workout with some pretty kickass people!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out here for the past three months or so and I really really like this gym. The coaches are attentive and encouraging and my fellow athletes are some of the friendliest people I have met in Chicago.

I am totally new to CrossFit and I love how all of the workouts are adaptable for all people in the room. Everyone works at their level and gets a great workout every time.

Source: Google

★ 5

George and the whole Hardware clan are fantastic. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing workout and instructors!

Source: Google

★ 5

Very clean CrossFit gym. Coaches provide great pointers. Very friendly to drop-ins. Worked out there while I was in Chicago. A+++

Source: Google

★ 5

Cannot be more highly recommended. GOOD PEOPLE.

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware is simply the best! It's an amazing gym and community to be a part of. <3

Source: Google

★ 5

Great workout -- tailored to your ability. Excellent instruction! Great way to meet new people.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place! Really helped me make healthy changes in both working out and nutrition. Coach Tony is one of the best there is.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Hardware CrossFit is a solid gym and the best one around for medium-sized CF boxes. The coaches are excellent as owner and head coach George forges them from competent athletes into exceptional trainers. I greatly enjoy the inclusive community that HWCF fosters and often find myself caught in intriguing conversations outside of the WODs (Workout Of the Day). HWCF: Recess for Adults.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

George and Jess (the owners) are intentional in making Hardware CrossFit an incredibly welcoming, diverse box. I've been a member of HWCF for a year now and I'm definitely sticking with it. Members from other boxes constantly comment how "clean" and "friendly" and "incredibly competent" HWCF is - and a lot of our members switched from other boxes! If you are curious and want to give CrossFit a try - this is definitely a great place for you.

Source: Google

★ 4

You hit it hard and they abuse you, but it's worth every moment of pain!

Source: Google