★ 5

Slate Strength and Conditioning truly stands out from typical gyms in Seattle. Unlike other facilities where I felt out of place or intimidated, Slate cultivates an atmosphere of genuine inclusivity and encouragement. Everyone—from absolute beginners to competitive athletes—feels welcome, supported, and challenged each day.​
The coaches at Slate are exceptional: they possess deep insight into effective strength and functional training and communicate with clarity, compassion, and expertise. Each class is thoughtfully designed to be engaging, effective, and different from the last, helping members build strength, confidence, and community.​
Slate’s guiding motto, “Give us one hour; we’ll make the other 23 better,” rings true. The facility itself is intimate and well-equipped, fostering a sense of belonging no matter one’s age, ability, or fitness journey. At Slate, everyone is recognized, inspired, and given the tools to succeed.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love Slate so much. It's hard to put into words exactly what it is that I love so much about it (because it is all encompassing) but I will try. Three years ago I was diagnosed with cancer and went thru 8 months of intensive treatment including a stem cell transplant. Prior to my diagnosis I was feeling good in my body - I was pretty active and kickboxing regularly so when a routine blood test came back positive for leukemia, I was pretty shocked. I was told to start treatment immediately and my whole life changed overnight. Over time, I was also pretty shocked at how quickly my muscles atrophied during my treatment. But the one thing I heard from every single doctor throughout it was to "keep moving." They encouraged me to walk every single day no matter how horrible I felt, "even if just to the bathroom. Or to the mailbox." When I moved into my post-treatment recovery phase, I began walking further and further. Instead of the mailbox, I could now walk down the street. Then around the block. Then multiple blocks. On one particular walk, however, I tripped on some gravel and fell and scraped my knees. It was my only fall during recovery and it happened right in front of Slate. When I passed my 1 year mark post-transplant, my team at Fred Hutch emphasized how important it was that in addition to moving, I also needed to incorporate weight training. The treatment essentially aged me by 10 years so it was imperative that I keep my bones strong through weightlifting they said. I had never lifted weights in my life but I trusted their recommendation and searched around for gyms in the area. Slate was within walking distance and I had remembered it from my awkward fall. I reached out to Whitney, told her my situation and my zero experience and she immediately encouraged me to come in. I was hesitant on taking classes because I just didn't know if it was the right fit or even what to expect from a CrossFit gym. I honestly didn't think I had it in me to do what I needed to do. But she was so warm, welcoming and supportive and had me pick up a barbell almost immediately. "You're much stronger than you think," she said. We did a handful of 1 on 1 sessions and it was actually so unexpectedly fun and empowering. She eventually encouraged me to try a Functional Strength class and I was so scared to go but I remembered what my team told me. I had nothing to lose. So I went. And then I went again. And again. And then I signed up for Olympic Weightlifting and eventually yoga too and finally a Strength and Conditioning class. And even some fun fundraiser workouts. And I've met so many people from all walks of life with all different body types and ages and goals for themselves. Every time I walk into the gym I'm greeted by a friendly face, a fist bump, a sweet pup. The coaches are so incredibly skilled and encouraging and I will tell you I truly am stronger than I thought. But I would never have known that if it weren't for Slate. The community here is so special, I could not recommend it more. I actually look forward to going, which is not something I can say I've ever felt about working out. And every time I walk past the spot where I tripped, I think just beyond that door is another place where my life changed.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym! The coaches are wonderful- knowledgeable, encouraging, and they are always there to support you with your technique. The community that you feel when you walk into this space is evident. The workouts are fun and can be modified as needed to fit your needs and ability. I highly recommend checking out this gym if you are looking for a new place to incorporate more movement and community into your world!

Source: Google

★ 5

I first walked into Slate feeling a little out of place and unsure if I’d stick with it. What I found instead was a community that made me want to keep coming back. Whitney has built a gym that feels welcoming and supportive, no matter your experience level.

The coaching team is fantastic. every coach brings their own strengths, and they all genuinely care about helping you improve. Coach Tanner in particular has been great at finding the right mix of encouragement and challenge, making workouts feel purposeful instead of intimidating.

What started as me “just trying out a new gym” has turned into something I look forward to each week. Slate isn’t just about getting stronger, it’s about feeling like you belong and building lifelong enjoyable habits and community that keep you coming!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

SLATE is an amazing gym. I’m almost 60. When I started, I was already dealing with long term shoulder and thumb injuries and definite limitations. The coaches have been incredibly supportive. They modify workouts for me so I can be successful, and I have made tremendous progress. My strength is improving and my skills are improving. When I leave the gym, I leave with a smile on my face because I’ve been challenged, I can see and feel the progress, and the exercise just feels great. Coach Buiford and Coach Jonathan deserve special recognition because they are the ones that modify almost everything so I can succeed, and they have never once made me feel less than for needing modifications.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I have been coming to Slate for over a year and can’t recommend it enough! This was our first time trying CrossFit, and everyone was incredibly helpful. The coaches are knowledgeable and very attentive, always push us to try harder. The community is fantastic, everyone is friendly and supportive. The equipment and facility are nice and clean, with high ceilings that add to the spacious feel. Highly recommended!

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym ever. The coaches are amazingly supportive and knowledgeable. They push you to work hard, but in a way that feels empowering. The community is also warm and welcoming and encouraging. I'm so glad I found Slate!

Source: Google

★ 5

The welcoming and inclusive community at Slate is what keeps me coming back week after week. The coaches, the other athletes, and the whole culture of the gym is like no other I’ve experienced. No matter what your level—I started as a complete beginner—the incredible Slate coaches will encourage, challenge and support you!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great atmosphere and friendly coaching staff. Thank you Whitney, Buiford, and Johnathon!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Slate has been the most supportive and inclusive community of coaches and members! Coaches provide personalized modifications around injury and ability. Slate is a great place to get fit and have fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

I should have posted this review at least quarterly over the 5 years I was a member here before I moved to the East Coast, but I was spoiled. I know now I will rarely find a gym like this again. You should absolutely take the opportunity to check out Slate. You will find an amazingly welcoming, inclusive, member-driven, expertly coached environment to fall in love with feeling good and strong. Over the years I have watched long-time members, first-time gym goers, and former CrossFit competitors train together with the same result each time- positive vibes abound! I go back to Slate as my home whenever I am in Seattle and always will. Thank you always for the community you have created Clay, Karny, and Whitney.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great community for strength and fitness! Knowledgeable coaches, regulars you get to know, variety of equipment and workouts. Slightly older crowd, lots of parents. No pressure to "over do it", just a very supportive, welcoming, positive community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Dropped into a class with my sister who goes to Slate regularly and loves it! The environment was inviting and coaches were kind and knowledgeable. I don’t do CrossFit regularly and felt totally supported at my level, if I lived nearby I’d jump to join this community. Thanks Slate for the awesome experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

Super friendly, great workout, welcoming patient staff and fellow athletes.

Source: Google

★ 5

The vibe at Slate is phenomenal. When I am traveling through Seattle this place is a must stop. The 5am class has a killer vibe. The coach Morgan has great energy. You can tell he is truly passionate about his profession. All the members go out of their way to say hello and make you feel welcome. Lastly, the owner Whitney is great. I sent a late email asking to drop-in and she got back to me immediately. This place is 🔥. 🌲 🤙

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great drop in option.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place and awesome coaches!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

An amazing community of supportive people that really care. If you want to get in better shape but maybe are intimidated, the welcoming group of coaches and individuals here are a perfect place to get started.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The best thing I've ever done for myself is taking 1:1 training from Whitney Voigt. I was nervous to get back into the gym in January—because of old injuries I fight with and being cautious about COVID—but Whit and I talked through it all, she made time and space for me to be in the gym 1:1, and assured I was comfortable with every movement, at every step, along the way.

I don't know how many hours Whit spent studying my injuries (herniated L4-5 and torn hip labrum) but she showed up to each workout with an informed plan and knew things about the injuries, and strengthening around them, I hadn't yet learned. We spent January and February training 1:1, and I gently joined classes in March. I was even able to start running again (Without pain!) and crush a rowing machine, which I thought I’d never do again!

The coaches and members at SLATE are so incredibly welcoming, and encouraging—whether you're a newb or seasoned pro. I've been part of many gyms at many levels and I do not hesitate to say this is THE best.

If you have the chance to take 1:1 training from Whit—even if it's just once or twice a month to check in on form—DO IT. You will NEVER regret the decision.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started CrossFit (now disaffiliated) after a shoulder injury and surgery. I was terrified of the roided-lookimg stereotype lifting ridiculous amounts of weight at blazing speeds. But I gave it a shot. Slate is my second gym and even though I now live ~20 minutes away, it's worth the drive.

The coaches at Slate are AMAZING. First, their focus is good form--not weight or speed. This means you always have someone with an eye on your safety. At the same time they balance encouraging/pushing you with continuing to coach/correct. Not easily done, but they do it right.

The community is equally as amazing. People are friendly and welcoming, encouraging, and just enough peer pressure to push yourself for a good workout.

Are there people who can lift really heavy really fast? Yes. But they're actually the nicest, most encouraging, helpful people there. You're judged on your effort, not your weight/speed.

The space is large, equipment is good, and they've followed COVID precautions well.

I could never keep myself accountable or on track just going to the gym. But having a scheduled workout and signing up for class has gotten me in shape. Can't recommend Slate highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have tried out several gyms in the Seattle area, and Slate is BY FAR the best. The coaches are all excellent, the programming is challenging, and the atmosphere is supportive and competitive. Whitney has even set up tents outdoors so we are still able to attend classes during the pandemic.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member of Slate Strength & Conditioning for a year and half and it has been an amazing, positive, healthy experience. This gym is committed to making fitness accessible to ALL types including those just starting a new wellness journey or those already on their way, young, older, female, male, whatever. That's the beauty of the Slate community - we are here to support one another, learn from one another, work hard and have fun doing it! I know first hand what it is like to walk into a new gym out of shape, no idea what's going on (some would say I still don't know...) and feeling intimidated by all those people. That's why I love the Slate coaches and fellow members - we all belong. We are all committed to doing what we can. Great people and great coaches make all the difference.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is my 5th cross-training gym experience in the greater Seattle area over the last six years. The coaches all have their strong qualities to making your workout the best it can be. The team of coaches has made a significant effort in keeping a clean and safe gym during this years pandemic. Currently in the second lockdown, they have daily warmups and workouts available to members. You can borrow equipment such as dumbbells' if necessary. The coaches also post videos to clarify the movements for the workouts. It's worth emailing and seeing what their program is all about.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaches and an even better community. Slate has a very large (and clean) space, and it’s easily accessible but far enough away from main roads to not have to play high-stakes Frogger when the WOD involves running. They definitely don’t skimp on equipment here, everything is well taken care of and shiny new stuff is easy to find.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaches and great atmosphere with lots of space. Everyone from the members to the coaches are friendly and encouraging. They do not have an elitist attitude which makes it welcoming for all ages and abilities. Rare to find that in a crossfit gym. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great coaching with an awesome, supportive community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Loooove this gym, athletes, and coaches. Very clean, tons of equipment and huuuge.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place, great friends, great WODs. Come join the family here.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym. Good size, nice equipment, good coach and friendly members. Will drop in again when I'm back in Seattle.

Source: Google

★ 5

Fitness and community for everyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

I enjoyed my experience at Slate. Had a temporary situation where I needed a local gym for six weeks, and Clay was very helpful in setting up billing for that specific situation. Gym was great, lots of friendly people and coaches are helpful.

Thanks! Will probably stop by periodically as time allows.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I started 1.5 years ago as a beginner here. Now it’s becoming a big part of my life! I love the workouts and the people here. 😍

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Went in for open gym on vacation. Clay was super nice! Awesome facility, great equipment, and very clean! Thanks for the hospitality!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been at slate for 2 years. It's out of my way but I'm still here because I love this place! I've been to quite a few boxes. Slate has an awesome layout + space, and the community here is genuinely welcoming and supportive.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I couldn't be happier with Slate. Since joining, I've found a great community of people who are friendly, supportive and who love to work out. At Slate you'll find people of all fitness levels, from beginner to elite and you'll never feel intimidated and will always feel challenged. The workouts can be scaled. Even if you can't even do a push up, there's an alternative movement for every work out. And if you can do 50 muscle ups in a row, there will be a way this gym will challenge you. The trainers are all friendly and will get to know you. They'll know when to ask you to add 10 more lbs to the bar and when you're struggling. I tend to push myself a lot and have been stopped by them to get good feedback on my form and in some cases take weight off. Slate wants you to be healthy and will work with you to hit your fitness goals. I've been a member since Feb 2016 and couldn't be happier with the workouts, facility, coaches and friends I've made along the way.

Source: Google

★ 5

Let's start this review with a little life workout background of myself. I was the guy who went in, lifted heavy with low reps because that's what I was told to do to build "BIG MUSCLES". So I stayed that course through my 20's then the 30's came and life. The gym took a back seat! I still would flirt with working out here and there but those attempts were in short bursts. Then the 40's started and the gym stopped.

At 43 I was overweight, not happy with the way I felt or looked. So I decided I needed to go back to the gym. What a wrong move that was, headphones in zoned out with no motivating goals, and slowly lost the drive to go. I was talking about the struggle to a friend and he mentioned Crossfit. My immediate response was "I've seen those guys on TV, there's no way I could do that". On top of that I figured I'd be completely judged for being this out of shape guy walking into this hardcore workout zone! I was so far from wrong.

I walked in to Slate Crossfit and immediately felt welcomed and by that I mean welcomed, not give me your money welcomed. Unfortunately how I felt at some other places I looked at before Slate. I went through their elements class, which basically gives you a taste and some technical aspects. Then the next day showed up to my first class and I must say I was a little nervous. Immediately people were introducing themselves and actually asking me questions to get to know me. It was like the were excited I decided to get into shape. I've been hooked every sense.

The coaching staff at Slate is amazing, professional, and have encouragement coming out of their ears. The facility is clean, well equipped, and what you'd expect out of place where you're going to change your life. Did I mention dog friendly! The thing I enjoy the most is the other members. No matter your abilities they all cheer you on. High fives and knuckle bumps run rampant in that place. Slate is full of all walks of life doctors, financial advisors, pilots, students, teachers, construction workers, you name it we all workout together and cheer each other on.

Joining Slate has changed my life drastically, beyond measure. I've lost 40lbs and I enjoy working out and staying health now and I owe that all to Slate Crossfit, their Coaching Staff, and their clientele. This place will even change you!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've belonged to many gyms and Slate is by far the most inviting, professional place. The coaches are so good at scaling workouts so I do my best even though I've never been an athlete. But I really fell in love with Slate when I become a new mom. They helped me get my balance and stamina back and lose the stubborn baby weight. They showed me how to align my hips after carrying a baby around for hours and how to roll out my shoulders so I could carry him around for a few more. Now I can toss my toddler up like a wallball and my back can take it no problem. Plus, the partner workouts, potlucks, and park days with kids and dogs are a lot of fun, too. Lots of gyms tout the community thing but Slate is the real deal. If you're in the neighborhood and want to workout with talented coaches and nice locals, you should definitely check Slate out.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been doing Crossfit for over 4 years now and have been to quite a number of other places, and there is a reason I have stayed at Slate although it's not the closest Crossfit to me! I am a multi-sport athlete who has always loved to be active; but going to Slate 3-4x a week has helped me be stronger and more confident runner, hiker, biker, snowboarder, and lacrosse player. Slate's programming is thoughtfully designed and easily customizable to your ability level/level of desired challenge. I appreciate a designated 'strength/skill' portion following by a workout. Slate is an amazing community; the coaches genuinely care about your form and function, people are encouraging and fun to be around even when the workouts kick your butt!

Source: Google

★ 5

The coaches are committed to their clients and focused on building strength without sacrificing technique. A great atmosphere whether a beginner or competitive athlete.

Source: Google

★ 5

Slate is a terrific neighborhood box. The trainers are passionate, energetic, and knowledgeable. They manage to produce an environment that is accepting, fun, and friendly, all while pushing you to your limits. Crossfit can be intense, especially for folks like myself who are not twenty years old. Slate trainers are masters of scaling, ensuring that you get a hell of a workout that is suited for your needs while minimizing the chance for injury via a combination of great instruction and adapting the workout to fit what is right for you. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Slate CrossFit has been awesome so far. Jared (owner and coach) is really approachable and explains movements in relation to how you might use your body on a daily basis. Concepts are easy to grasp and one has hope of perfecting proper form to prevent injuries. The coaches do a good job of pushing you to work as hard as you can while also scaling movements for newbies. Most of all, I appreciate that Slate CrossFit is a positive place that's about showing up, giving 100%, and getting stronger and more comfortable in your body. There is no guilt if you miss a session, like to drink beer, or could stand to lose a few pounds... The coaches are just really happy when you show your face in the gym.

Jared told me that the workouts don't get easier but that you get better and stronger... I've found that to be really true. The workouts create a sense of solidarity within each class because they are challenging for everyone regardless of height, weight, physical fitness, and prior experience. The gym has been a great community of people who are friendly, informative, and genuinely excited to see me set personal records.

Lastly, Slate CrossFit is professional in its web presence, blog postings, and sharing of daily workouts while keeping logistical bullsh*t to a minimum. That is much appreciated. Try it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

The coaching is excellent and is tailored to each athlete's individual needs. The members are friendly and do not exude an elitist attitude as is the stigma of some crossfit gyms. People of all experience levels are made to feel at home here. Brand new, top of the line equipment and a large gym space are a definite bonus.

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My wife and I have worked out at a number of Cross-Fit style gyms, and Slate is by far the best. The staff is knowledgeable and informed, the equipment is state of the art, and the facility itself is the best I've encountered. This is a superb workout space with ample room for large groups to workout together without feeling cramped or competing for equipment. The training staff is both willing and able to tailor the workouts to the strengths and weaknesses of their clients in a way that brings quick and lasting improvements in both strength and technique. I consider my membership an excellent investment in my long-term health and well being

Source: Google

★ 5

Slate is my second home. I actually think I spend more time here than at home on week nights. Here's why:

1) The people. I never knew getting into CrossFit would mean making new best friends. That place that everyone knows your name? That's Slate. Everyone says hi and bye as you come and go and despite what you might think would be an intimidating environment, I've never met more motivating and fun people. There are members who are simply trying to stay in shape and members who could hold their own in a competitive landscape. It doesn't matter what your goals are, everyone is friends here.

2) The training. My very first day of CrossFit was with Coach Jared - on June 5, 2012. I still remember that day as one of the most inspiring, humbling, challenging, and entertaining days of my life. Since then, I've significantly improved my athletic abilities. I'm a washed up varsity high school athlete who now is just looking for something to feed my competitive edge while also keeping me in my same pant size. When I go on a jog these days, it's at my high school race pace. I've toned up and have become comfortable lifting bars with more than my body weight. This is due to having an attentive trainer who is a stickler for form and gets to know you as a person and as an athlete such that you are challenged safely both in your strengths and weaknesses.

3) The facility. Sometimes it feels like a playground... but with top-of-the-line equipment that costs way more than a jungle gym. This means plenty of space for you to complete your workout without sharing equipment. It means the ability to have diverse workouts where you constantly switch movements and equipment to work many parts of your body. It means you can show up early and stretch out/get amped up/socialize or stay late and work on some skills without getting in the way of the next class.

This is much more than a gym to me.

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent programming, top notch equipment and space, and a friendly and open crowd. Great for crossfit vets and curious newbies alike.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google