★ 5

Fantastic local gym. Great community and a really strong emphasis on mobility and injury prevention.

Source: Google

★ 5

We are a family that moves every few years so I have been a member of many CrossFit gyms around the country and overseas. Since moving here I have checked out a few different gyms in the area and Adaptation has won me over! The first day the owner, Amy, greeted me and showed me around. One of the coaches, Ryan, who was doing his own workout stopped what he was doing to introduced himself and make me feel welcomed. All the members I’ve chatted with have been super friendly and supportive. I was even told that my kids are welcomed as long as they don’t distract the class. The gym itself is pretty clean and organized for a CrossFit box and there is plenty of free parking ;)

I already feel at home at CrossFit Adaptation and I’m looking forward to getting to know the community better!

Source: Google

★ 5

I go to CrossFit teens at this gym. The environment is very welcoming and the community it’s so friendly. I would recommend signing you or your kid up for classes, kid classes, or teen classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 2

While this gym may be a great fit for elite, high-level athletes, our experience was that it is highly exclusionary, unwelcoming to others, and expensive.

Demographic and Community Mismatch
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The owner (Amy) came right out and said that most of their gym is comprised of single or newly wed professionals that don’t have kids (early to mid twenties). If you are not already at ~95%-98% peak physical fitness level (or want to dedicate the time to get there) and striving for that top couple percentage points, you are not the clientele they are looking for. This made the gym feel intimidating and exclusive, rather than supportive or inclusive of various fitness levels.

We felt "unfit" for their demographic and to be told that is such a passive aggressive way, felt like a personal attack and it was really hard not to take personally.

Facility and Location Concerns
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We would have worked out in a smelly basement if the community was right, so I don’t think this is a big factor, but since it might be for some, I wanted to highlight it. The facility itself feels dated and less maintained than other modern fitness centers. A specific point of concern is the exterior running area: you will run through the neighboring Jiffy Lube parking lot or along the busy 4 mile run narrow sidewalk. Something to just be aware of. Although aesthetics weren’t important for us, it might be for someone out there.

Pricing
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It’s $140 for the first four classes (a mandatory class called “Elements”), which felt really high, but we were willing to make the investment if it was the right community. Unfortunately, no one was direct in their communication that we weren’t welcome and it came through some very passive aggressive emails from the owner (not the coach we had been working with). After that, it’s about $250/month.

It's probably important to note that most of the people in our “Elements” class we started with didn’t finish as it seemed most. My guess was that they didn’t feel welcome or weren't fit enough to complete the class.

Recommended Alternative: Fort Myer Physical Fitness Center
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For anyone with a government affiliation (active duty, civilian, or contractor), we highly recommend the Fort Myer on-base gym. This facility is free for all eligible patrons and offers a vastly superior fitness experience:

- Modern Equipment: The gym is regularly updated with beautiful, state-of-the-art equipment.

- Space and Variety: It features tons of rooms, including dedicated functional fitness/CrossFit areas, a full indoor track, basketball courts, and comprehensive free-weight and equipment rooms.

- Accessibility: It is an inclusive, spacious environment suitable for a wide range of training needs and fitness goals, from basic strength training to advanced functional fitness

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this place. Keeps me healthy physically and mentally. No frills - just good coaching and results.

Source: Google

★ 5

Member for 5 years — incredible owners, coaching, and community. Couldn’t ask for a better gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

I came to this gym ~November 2024. I was feeling down from losing my previous gym community, but CrossFit Adaptation welcomed me as one of their own as soon as I walked in the doors. I had Omar as my coach for a Saturday morning class and the way he hyped me up made me feel like a CrossFit Games athlete! Jim, one of the owners, always is available and present when you have questions on movement standards and how to get better at something. He truly wants you to become a better individual all around. The community at CFA is so incredibly special and has become near and dear to my heart. CFA recently won Best CrossFit Gym in NOVA for 2025 and if you come on in, you'll instantly realize why!

Source: Google

★ 5

We love this gym and this community. We live in SWDC and drive out the Arlington because we found this to be the best community in the area. Quality coaching, varied programming, and a solid vibe all around.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

We joined in January 2024 and absolutely love this gym and the community. It's a large space with great coaches and friendly people. While we sadly had to leave this gym due to moving, we still love to come back every now and again to work out. Under new ownership, there have only been improvements to the programming and the gym as a whole.

The community here is unparallel to anywhere I have been before and I would highly recommend joining or dropping in here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fantastic gym that has a wide selection of workouts and room and has a very friendly and accepting atmosphere

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm an out of towner and I found my gym away from home. This place is excellent with helpful coaches and fair drop in pricing. Great and helpful even for a relative beginner like me. Friendly athletes all around. Join the 530am crew!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

A fun environment, amazing programming, and fun people and coaches. All the latest equipment and gear you need is there and ready to go for both classes and open workouts.

Source: Google

★ 5

We shot a commercial here today and we had a great time. This gym is for the true lifter. It is equipped several pairs of Olympic rings, climbing ropes, medicine balls, foam rollers, kettle bells, free weights, row machines, weighted swinging bats, huge tires for flipping and Olympic bars for Olympic lifts. The cast and crew were a great team to work with and the icing on the cake was this location.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

A great CrossFit affiliate. Awesome programming, great coaches, and lively membership. In 2019, I dropped in regularly for 6 months. They have tons of elite cross fitters in their membership. The 5:30 and 6:30 am classes are well attended, which was a really nice change from my home gym. The coaches ensured I felt welcomed, remembered me when I came back, and (most importantly) helped me improve my technique.

Their programming is AWESOME. Within a week, workouts rotate well among different areas of focus and skills. The lifting programming builds over each 12-week period so athletes can make consistent gains. The notes on the workout in their app are really informative and can help you make the most of the workouts. In 8 years of CF, their programming has been the best I've experienced. The best CF programming I've used
If I lived in Northern Virginia, I would definitely join this gym.

For a membership (even a punchcard), they require either their foundations course or a brief test-in. While this can be annoying, it ensures that novices build the proper skills and techniques without slowing down the classes.

Source: Google

★ 5

Very friendly, came to this for a drop in session. Great space and good equipment.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The best box I’ve been to! Such a great range of folks both beginners and those nearly experts. The trainers are phenomenal with a TON of personal experience to bring to their training styles (prior gymnastics, games appearances, Olympic weight lifting competitions etc.) which really help with technique to improve. I’ll miss these folks dearly since I’ve relocated. Don’t even hesitate...join this box!!

Source: Google

★ 5

CFA is top notch! We started about 10 months ago and have been impressed since walking through the doors. The programming is thoughtful, deliberate...and you're guaranteed to be challenged--both mentally and physically. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable and helpful in correctly executing the technical movements, and vigorously encourage all members--from the newbie the seasoned athlete. The sense of community is impressive and is experienced when members celebrate milestones with a thunderous applause and loud cheering! So...stop debating and check out a free class. You'll be glad you did!

Source: Google

★ 5

Having recently moved to Falls Church, and being somewhat new to Crossfit, it was a bit overwhelming to figure out which gym I wanted to join. After dropping in to a few other gyms, the crew at Adaptation was nice enough to let me spend a week at their gym, and after that it was a no brainer to make it my home gym. The coaches are extremely knowledgable and friendly, and the programming is excellent. In the short time I've been there, I've seen significant improvements in my lifts and benchmarks. The atmosphere is incredibly accommodating for veteran and novice Crossfitters alike, and I've been extremely satisfied with my decision to join their growing community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Level I coach passing through the DC area and stopped by this box for one day session. Met the owner Dave who also coached the class. Excellent experience. This Box is the epitome of the Crossfit mission and community. Great vibe and energy, everyone was welcoming, the workout was killer and the facility had everything you need. If I lived within 20 miles, CF Adaptation is where I would train.

Source: Google

★ 5

Best box in Arlington

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm picky about my gyms (been doing Crossfit for 5 years), and tried 4 area gyms before settling on Adaptation after moving to the DC area. I don't regret it one bit. I made HUGE improvements at this gym, on all fronts. My mile run improved by 2 minutes, and all of my strict lifts improved by at least 10 pounds. The programming and coaching are great. I went to the midday classes, and always experienced a fun and lighthearted, yet challenging atmosphere. I've moved away, but look forward to dropping in when I visit! I miss it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Very friendly, came here for a drop in session. Great space and good equipment.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaching and facilities

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined CFA in July 2014 as a true beginner to the sport. From the moment I stepped into the free introductory class, I felt welcomed. This gym is open to athletes at all levels. Each workout offers scaling options allowing you to challenge yourself at your comfort level. The coaches are approachable, knowledgeable and committed to the safety of the athletes. The community is very supportive and encouraging. The programming is challenging and provides me with great results. Good facility with plenty of equipment and space. I highly recommend CFA to anyone looking for a gym in the Arlington/Alexandria area.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great Gym, Curtis and Torp are great dudes who were able to work and suspend a membership with no hassle with a guy going overseas. Military friendly gym and just good people overall.

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm coming up on five years as a CFA member. I was tired of the boring classes offered at other gyms and personal training was too expensive. CFA has great coaches and programming. They take the introductory elements program seriously and ensure that members work safely through all movements.

The best part is the clientele - a great mix of athletes and working professionals, all looking to push themselves get a little bit better.

If you're looking for something different and want to try something new in an unpretentious setting, this is the place.

Source: Google

★ 5

I began Crossfit a little over 2 years ago at another gym in Alexandria but I was no longer happy there so I started to research other gyms in the area and found Crossfit Adaptation. It was a hard decision to leave my old gym because they had a great community but I am much happier at CFA. I did not do the intro class at CFA since I had previous Crossfit experience, but I did do a test-in prior to joining to ensure that I didn’t need the intro class. I really like the test-in option because it ensures that those in the regular classes know enough to get thru the WODs without monopolizing the coach’s time.
I attend the 0530 class, which is usually a medium class size, some days it’s busier than others, but regardless, I have never had a problem with equipment or getting through a WOD. I really enjoy their programming and the people are very friendly. I also like that CFA has the early morning class (so I can get to work on time), open gym hours, a barbell skills class on Sundays, yoga and their Barbell club. I feel that I get a lot for the money and always feel challenged, plus I have seen a lot of improvements in the 3 months I have been at CFA. I like that CFA has a good mix of beginners, intermediates and some really bad a** athletes, I find that it motivates me to get stronger/faster and work on my goats.
I have found all of the coaches knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and encouraging. All of the classes I have attended have had only one coach, but they do a great job of watching everyone and providing instructions and tips. One issue at my old gym was that it was a much larger box, which meant there were multiple coaches and assistant coaches and it felt like I was often given conflicting information- I have never had that problem at CFA.
I attended CFA’s Sunday Olympic lift workshop once as a non-member (paid their drop in fee) and I found it very helpful and I would recommend it even if you are not looking for a new gym. There is rarely enough time in a normal WOD to breakdown the Olly lifts, but the workshop allows the time to go over all the complexities of either the snatch or the clean and jerk (One Sunday they will go over the snatch and the next Sunday it will be the C&J). Once I joined CFA, I took advantage of the workshop a few times because it was included in the membership cost. I just recently started the Barbell club and I am really enjoying it.
I would highly recommend CFA is you are new to Crossfit or if you are a seasoned athlete. Take the time to invest in your health, surprise yourself at what you are really capable of and meet some great people.

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely love CFA. Ive been a member for almost four years. When I started I could only hang from the bar, now I can do both strict and kipping pull-ups. Ive made many life friends at the gym and look forward to showing up each day. The coaches are great and always have great tips. Ive visited other gyms and find CFA to be the best.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member of CFA for over three years now. The reason I have stayed with this box for so long is not because I love crossfit (which I do) but because of the amazing program/facility they run. I have dropped in at over a dozen other gyms, and I have not seen another box that is of the same caliber as CFA. All of coaches are encouraging, knowledgeable and efficient. They want you to get better at crossfit and help you to improve daily. The programming is challenging, fun, and always different, which I love. I have seen huge improvements in my overall fitness level. Finally, the best part of CFA is the community. Everyone is welcoming and you become a part of a family. If you are looking for a box in the NOVA area, this is your gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

CFA is an outstanding facility with very friendly and patient coaches who teach you all the different aspects of the various different exercises Crossfit has to offer.......different techniques, how to properly stretch for them, different alternatives for some movements (like a Handstand push up which I can't do)
There is a real sense of community here and everyone is very friendly always willing to help each other out and encourage each other during the workouts! There is an extensive warm up with lots of stretching getting you ready for whatever the WOD (Workout of the Day) is, incorporating numerous different Yoga techniques ensuring that you stay injury free during the various movements. Curtis (Owner) and Dave (manager) are both great guys and great coaches that work extensively with you over time helping you improve and challenge yourself! FREE workout every Saturday at NOON where you can learn about CFA, definitely check it out!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I started working out at Crossfit Adaptation in November, 2014 with their elements program. I was a true beginner, and I definitely don't consider myself to be an athlete. I was recovering from an illness and I wanted to find a workout option that would have some community. I'd heard really good things about Crossfit from a few friends, so I decided to try it.

I chose Crossfit Adaptation because although they were not the closest option (there are a few others near me in Old Town) they seemed to have a vibe that felt more laid back and not at all cult-like (something that cross fitters are often accused of being). I also liked the idea of having a startup/on ramp program rather than just trying to jump into something entirely new to me.

I was pretty impressed with the elements program. It was taught by one of the coaches, Aviv, and he was really patient and made it clear that he didn't think anyone's questions were stupid or too elementary. He reviewed a lot of material with us, and it really helped me gain some confidence in the major crossfit movements.

Once I started going to the regular classes, I felt really accepted by the coaches and the other members even though I was a beginner and had to modify and ask a lot of questions about the workouts. I was very much supported and got a lot of help from the coaches. Many people complain about the cost of Crossfit, since it has a higher price than most typical gyms. But what you may not realize is that you're paying for a LOT of trainer time. Not only do you get more attention in the classes, but I've never had a coach turn me down if I asked for extra help or instruction either before or after a WOD.

The workouts are tough, but there are a lot of scaling options. This isn't one of those places where you feel constantly pressured to do more than you think you can manage. Yes, the coaches encourage you, but no one wants to see an injury and there isn't any pressure or a sense that you're not doing a good job because you aren't "lifting heavy". They also offer additional skills classes on the weekends that are included in your membership.

The programming is solid and although I think my progress is slower than most, I have been able to stick with it - which is something I can't say for nearly any other workout or sport I have tried. The variation and the great coaching are the main reasons, as well as a LOT of classes that pretty much suit any schedule. They also have a Falls Church location.

Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined this gym in Dec. and absolutely love it! Prior to joining I had been a member of other gyms but wasn't getting anything out of them. I had paid tons of money for a personal trainer and even remember one of my goals being to do a push up. In the year I had that personal trainer I didn't achieve that goal. However, after 4 months of going daily to Crossfit Adaptation I was able to do one! This place is more then a gym. The support and friendships I've made along the past 8 months are priceless. I'll never forget the free class I went to thinking this gym is only for fit people who are interested in competing. After the free class was over I told the coach what I was looking for which included losing weight and getting healthier. She said something that truly stuck with me, if you can get your mind around the intimidation factor and walk through that door you've already accomplished something huge. So from that day on I fell in love with this place and am proud to say I've lost a total of 30lbs. When people ask me why I pay for this gym rather than a cheaper 24hr one I say I'm paying for so much more then a gym membership. I'm paying for 200 plus members that individually encourage me and help me gain confidence in myself everyday. I can't recommend this place enough. Try the free class on Saturdays!

Source: Google

★ 5

Joined last September and have thoroughly enjoyed every visit! The coaches and competent, helpful, and professional.

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 1

I went to Crossfit Adaptation to check out the facilities and look into becoming a member. However, they do not give a good Crossfit experience. If there is a way to make a Crossfit gym into a Globo Gym, they are trying. They gym looked overcrowded, and the owner, Curtis, showed up late to our introductory meeting. Then, even though I am familiar with Crossfit moves, it seemed like he was talking down to me. One of the most common complaints about Crossfit is that it is pretentious because they don't consider you a good "Crossfit Athlete," unless you know all of the moves and can perform them perfectly. Those critics must have gone to a gym like Adaptation. A good Crossfit gym is one that is personal and is focused on improving your fitness level. They care about getting you involved - completely opposite of how Adaptation operates. The owner, Curtis, couldn't care less if I joined or if I never came back - and with 20 coaches and full classes, why would he? The reason Crossfit is great is because coaches can help you during the classes and correct your form during the workouts. From what I can tell, there are two reasons why Curtis wanted me to take the beginners class. 1. They are greedy and wanted to charge me 225 dollars for something that I don't need. 2. They are not going to be able to provide you any individual help during classes because there are too many people. Neither of these things would happen at a GOOD Crossfit gym. The best thing about Crossfit in DC is that there are lots of other choices, so you don't have to settle for a bad experience like at Adaptation.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google