Thursday, February 11, 2010

Executive Fitness Starter Programs in March 2010


There are several sessions starting the first week of March. Register now to reserve your spot.

Group 1: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:15pm and Saturdays at 7:30am, starting Tuesday 03/09/10 - SOLD OUT on 2/09- Thanks!

Group 2: Mon/Wed/Fri at 6:30am , starting Monday 03/08/09

Group 3: Mon/Wed/Fri at 7:30am , starting Monday 03/08/09

Group 4: Mon/Wed/Fri at 9:30am , starting Monday 03/08/09 "2 for 1" Special

Group 5: Mon/Wed/Fri at Noon, starting Monday 03/08/09

Our 6-week Executive Fitness Starter Program is designed for those of you who are out of shape and want to get started on an exercise program that really works. If you finish, I guarantee that you will be stronger, faster and just plain feel better. You will lose weight, but how much is really up to you.

You don't have to be an executive, just someone between the ages of 18 and 80 who wants to get back in shape but doesn't know how to start.You will train in a small group of people (6 max) three days per week. A CrossFit Certified trainer will instruct and manage your group at all times. You will learn the correct way to perform our Level I and Level II functional exercises using proper form and technique. All exercises will be scaled to your current ability and fitness level. If that sounds hard to pull off, it is. That's why we get the 'big bucks'!

The 6-week program consists of 18 one-hour training session and the costs $270 per person. The cost is $249 if you repeat the program. Please contact me for more details or to request a particular time slot that is not currently scheduled. Call 440-915-7856 or email bill@crossfitcleveland.com . I also have a flyer available online, click on CrossFit Executive Fitness Starter Program Flyer.

We are offering a 2-for-1 Special to fill the new 9:30am Monday, Wednesday, Friday time slot. If you sign up below, indicate the name of the person who will be joining you. You will receive a confirmation that the two of you are registered for this program at the special 2-for-1 rate.


There are several recommendations on my LinkedIn page if you care to check them out.

You can reserve your spot by paying here:


March 2010 Start Times

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

2nd CrossFit "Out-of-Work" Workout 2/15/10 9:00am

We're hosting the second CrossFit "Out-of-Work" Workout on Monday 2/15/10 at 9:00am.  Register online at Eventbrite's registration page.

You can read more about the first event here.  Crossfit Out-of Work Workout

Sunday, February 7, 2010

CrossFit "Out-of-Work" Workout - Free on Mondays

We're doing our part to help people who are in transition and actively seeking new employment.  We can help you get in better shape and energize you in your job search. There is absolutely no cost or obligation to attend this event.  It's our way of giving back to the community that has been very good to us.

Please note that pre-registration is necessary to attend this event each week, Crossfit Cleveland "Out-of-Work" Workout on Eventbrite. 


We will teach you the proper way to perform several exercises and modify them to fit your current fitness level.  You will then participate in a Crossfit-style workout led by a Certified CrossFit Instructor.
  • Increase your energy level
  • Feel better about yourself
  • Develop a 'don't quit' attitude
  • Feel like you can do anything.
You can also meet and network with others who are also in transition and the job-search mode.  Who knows, you just might make a contact that will help you find that job.
 

We'll start with a warm-up that includes instruction on a few basic exercises. You will be taught the proper way to perform the exercises to maximize the benefit and reduce the chance of any injury. Then your group will be coached through a workout consisting of the exercises you just learned.  The workout will be followed by a brief cool-down period and some light stretching. You'll be done and ready to go in just under an hour. We do have one shower facility for you to use following the workout.

Times will be announced here each week. There is a limit of 15 reserved spots per this group workout. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early, we start the workout right on time. Late arrivers are not permitted to join a class in progress, but are welcome to stay and watch.

Click here to register each week for the Crossfit Cleveland "Out-of-Work" Workout on Eventbrite.

If you have questions or need additional information before hand, please call Bill Russell at (216) 812-7841

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Member Spotlight - Christine Mauersberger





Christine has been working out with us for close to a year now. We're very proud of her progress and incredible dedication to getting back in shape.  Here is what she has to say.

"I heard about CrossFit in March last year and thought this type of exercise was not for me: an overweight woman, approaching 50. I wasn’t always heavy, however, I had gotten into a tough spot with a huge weight gain in my late 40’s. So I thought, why not just do it?

I started with the Executive Fitness Program in April 2009 & have been a regular member since September working out at least 4x/week. I’ve encouraged several friends to join and they’re just as hooked on CrossFit as I am.

Every aspect of CrossFit has helped me dial-back the weight gain and restore my overall health and happiness: from the expert coaching of Bill and Staci to the commitment members have for each other’s success.

As Bill says, 'The proof is in the pudding', I think you can see my proof in these photos and I’ll be back on this page with more changes later this year when I turn 50. There are no shortcuts to anywhere worth going­—I like where I’m headed.

I am an artist and graphic designer and live on the near Westside in Cleveland with my artist-husband George and my feisty 91-year-old mom Bertha who sometimes lives with us too."

You can find Christine working out with us four to five times per week.  If you haven't met her yet, please stop and say hi.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Don't do this at a globo gym, or they'll kick you out.

Kate Rawlings, aka 'Killer' from Crossfit Cleveland, shows us a few things they would never let her do at her old gym.



If you've never had to a drop a barbell, chances are you've never really lifted your max or pushed yourself to your limit during a workout. Getting chalk on your clothes and all over the floor is just part of the day at a CrossFit gym.  You need it sometimes to maintain your grip during heavy deadlifts, high rep pullups, muscle-ups and any other exercises that demand a strong grip.  Sorry, we don't wear gloves in a Crossfit gym.  However if you must, Mark Rippetoe insists that they match your purse.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

What is CrossFit? Get started here!


Why CrossFit? To get better results from your fitness routine.
People come to us when they need to get back in shape but can't do it on their own. Whether you don't know how or just don't have the discipline to stick with a workout program, we'll get you on track to get in better shape.



CrossFit training is based on high-intensity workouts that average 15-20 minutes, and anyone can do them.  We offer instructor-led group workouts for people of all fitness levels.  CrossFit works for everyone - Navy Seals, MMA Fighters, soccer moms and even lazy executives.

You workout in small groups with a trainer supervising everything.  We teach you the proper form and technique on the exercises and modify each one to your fitness level. The workout changes every day so you don't get bored. You will continue to get results, unlike other programs where you hit a plateau
 after a few weeks, get bored and quit.  Doing CrossFit will get you in the best shape of your life. It's hard, but it works.

Watch our "What is CrossFit" video to see our members doing our workouts and hear what they have to say about their results.





How to start.
We offer a Basic Intro Workout every Saturday, except 2/13/2010, at 11:00am at our gym located at 17140 Madison Avenue in Lakewood, OH. You don't need to pre-register or sign up for anything, just show up about 10 minutes early.  You can attend three Basic Intro workouts at no charge in order to sample our training. If you prefer to watch the first time instead of participating, you are welcome to do so.

If you can't make a Saturday at 11:00am, we will schedule a 'first-time' workout for you with a CrossFit certified trainer. Your first workout is free. Please call 216-812-7841 to schedule your first workout. Or you can email bill@crossfitcleveland.com .

Where and when do members workout?
You can find our location information and workout schedule on our CrossFit Workout Schedule page. These times are for members. Unfortunately we do not offer unscheduled 'drop-in' sessions for new people.  We ask that you attend a free one-hour Foundations Class once you've joined to get you prepared to join our group workouts.

Can CrossFitters drop-in?
We do allow experienced members of other CrossFit gyms to workout on a 'drop-in' basis when they are in town. The fee is $15 per day or $30 for unlimited workouts in any consecutive seven day period. This also applies to previous members of CrossFit Cleveland. If you haven't been in for a while, stop in for a workout and see what's new. A call or email ahead of time is appreciated, but not required.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

CrossFit Gymnastics Certification Seminar



We're excited to be hosting a CrossFit Gymnastics Certification Seminar on February 13th & 14th at CrossFit Cleveland. It is both for trainers and people interested in learning more about performing and teaching the gymnastic movements that we use in our workouts.

This training seminar is taught by Jeff Tucker and his crew from GSX Athletics. I've had a beer or two with Jeff and have watched him in countless videos - he's great and funny as hell. We are limiting on-line sign-ups to the first 15 people. Please check out the Crossfit Gymnastics Certification registration page for more details. Please let me know if you have any questions about this event.

We are also hosting a CrossFit Endurance Certification Seminar on the last weekend in August. I'll have more details once the registration page is online. Toby Jurging of SPC CrossFit in Hudson is also hosting a CF Endurance Cert in early June in case that better fits your schedule.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

CrossFit Fundraiser for families of the Ft. Hood tragedy

CrossFit Fundraiser for families of the Ft. Hood tragedy

Many in the CrossFit community were affected by the tragic shootings at Fort Hood, but none as directly as one of our affiliates, Lumberjack Crossfit .  Four members of that affiliate were killed.

CrossFit is launching a hero WOD fundraiser for our four fallen Soldiers. On December 5th, we are asking affiliates and individuals to do two things: participate in the workout (as a display of solidarity with Lumberjack CrossFit) and to reach out to family, friends, and strangers to donate whatever you can.

On Saturday December 5th at 10:00am sharp, CrossFit Cleveland will be hosting the Lumberjack 20 WOD for individuals wishing to participate and show their support. Please let me know if you plan on attending so we can be prepared for the crowd. This event will be in addition to the workout of the day for members during our normal Saturday hours of 8:30am until 11:00am. If you don't choose to participate in this fundraiser, you are still able to do the regular workout that morning.

Here is our official Project LumberJack Crossfit fundraising page. All donations go directly to the cause.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

CrossFit Cleveland 5K Plus*

We had 60 people sign up and 47 actually finish our first annual 5K Plus workout on Saturday October 10th, 2009. The weather cooperated nicely as our participants completed our workout consisting of 10 rounds of a 500 meter run, 5 pullups, 10 pushups and 15 squats. Dave Heine finished in first place with a time of 27:35 and Jeff Koha was a close 2nd at 29:15. All times are listed at the bottom of this post.

In addition to having a blast, everyone helped do their part in raising over $1,000 for two local charities. The Lakewood Christian Service Center and the USO of Northern Ohio will each receive a check for one-half of our proceeds. These two organizations were selected from the many recommendations from our members. We felt it was important to help deserving families as well as support our troops. Of course, this would not have been possible without the help of our sponsors and prize donors.

If you know any of the following people, please thank them for supporting us.

We recognize and thank our eight sponsors, all of whom donated $100 to the event.

Northeast Court Reporting - Staci Russell

www.necourtreporting.com

Stonehouse Grill - Cindy Yorke & Scott Hornblower

www.stonehousegrill.com

Jim Kukral's Success Bootcamp

www.5DayBootcamp.com

Brightguy, Inc. - Greg Atwell & Lisa Matuszny

www.brightguy.com

Northshore Tax & Accounting - Jim Strunk

Color by Numbers Salon in Lakewood- Natalie Bosau

Casey's Sports Bar

www.caseysoflakewood.com/

Donald Martens & Sons Ambulance Service – Dean Martens

www.martensambulance.com

We also thank everyone who donated prizes for our participants.

Skyvision Centers, Dr. Darrell White

Donald Martens & Sons – Dean Martens

Color by Numbers Salon – Natalie Bosau

Mindful Motion – Tamara Murphy

Lakewood Massotherapy – Lakewood, OH

Rock Bottom Brewery – Cleveland, OH

West End Tavern – Lakewood, OH

Blackbird Baking Company – Lakewood, OH

Nature’s Bin – Lakewood, OH

BrightGuy, Inc. – Greg Atwell

Heinen’s – Rocky River

The Reagle Beagle - Lakewood, OH

Savannah Bar & Grille, Jim DePaul

Convenient Food Mart – Lakewood, OH

CrossFit Cleveland

Dave and Ryan Weber of Axent Graphic did a fabulous job on our t-shirts and gave us special pricing for this event. You can find them online at www.axentgraphic.com

Staci and I would like to thank our volunteers who lent a hand before, during or after the event – we could not have done it without all of you.

Karen Wazbinski – Registration & ‘Last Minute Project Manager”

Shane Scott – Traffic Cop/Crossing Guard & J.A.F.O.

Troy Bratz

Carol DeMinico

Kevin Laing

Dean Martens

Lisa Matuszny

Christine Mauersberger

Jillian Neimeister

Adam Pelleshi

Phil Reid

Cat Viola

Darrell White

Audrey Williams

If I forgot to list someone, I’m sorry. It’s been a crazy couple of weeks!

We have pictures posted on our CrossFit Cleveland Facebook Fan Page

Last but not least, here are the final results.



Last Name First Name TIME
Heine Dave 27:35:00
Koha Jeffrey 29:15:00
Fischer Michael 29:33:00
Bratz Troy 30:12:00
Carroll Peter 30:14:00
Heil Tom 30:33:00
Lehman Eric 30:50:00
Colarusso Anthony 30:59:00
Pelleschi Adam 31:55:00
Jochems Rich 32:03:00
Stevenson Richard 32:40:00
Morris Scott 33:12:00
Laing Kevin 33:25:00
Hayes Chris 34:55:00
Stewart Michael 35:04:00
DeMichele Peter 36:24:00
Fremman Thorin 36:40:00
Gibb Eric 37:20:00
Strazar Nick 37:24:00
Davis Tom 37:44:00
Flannery Patrick 39:10:00
Beauclair
40:33:00
Fuehrer Rick 40:33:00
Thomas Andrew 41:33:00
Atwell Greg 41:55:00
Mcmahan Adam 43:37:00
Comerford Bill 58:14:00



Modified Division

Maggio Marielena (8) 34:30:00
Sinacore Steven 36:40:00
Blankenship Linda (6) 36:50:00
Heckel Asya 37:13:00
Millward Aimee 37:57:00
Winters Sarah 39:07:00
Morse Kristi 39:10:00
Tortoreti Tricia 41:20:00
Large Matt 42:03:00
Williams Audrey 42:52:00
Newcomb Denise 43:24:00
Morino Dana 43:46:00
Reid Phil 44:02:00
Hendzel Beth Anne 44:17:00
Haney Shana 44:43:00
DeMinico Carol 49:35:00
Neimeister Jillian 49:42:00
Viola Catherine 49:46:00
Veres Cassandra 50:45:00
Owens Kimberly 53:07:00

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

CrossFit Executive Fitness Programs in October

New Executive Fitness Starter Programs begin in October.


Group 1: Tuesday & Thursday 7:15pm & Saturday 7:30am - Starts Oct. 20th SOLD OUT, Thanks!

Group 2: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 7:30am - Starts Oct 12th

Group 3: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9:00am - Starts Oct 19th

Group 4: Monday, Wednesday & Friday noon - Starts Oct 19th

Group 5: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 3:30pm - Starts Oct 19th






October 2009 Start Times





Our 6-week Executive Fitness Starter Program is designed for those of you who are out of shape and want to get started on an exercise program that really works. If you finish, I guarantee that you will be stronger, faster and just plain feel better. You will lose weight, but how much is really up to you.

You don't have to be an executive, just someone between the ages of 18 and 80 who wants to get back in shape but doesn't know how to start.You will train in a small group of people (6 max) three days per week. A CrossFit Certified trainer will instruct and manage your group at all times. You will learn the correct way to perform our Level I and Level II functional exercises using proper form and technique. All exercises will be scaled to your current ability and fitness level. If that sounds hard to pull off, it is. That's why we get the 'big bucks'!

The 6-week program consists of 18 one-hour training session and the costs $270 per person. The cost is $249 if you repeat the program. Please contact me for more details or to request a particular time slot that is not currently scheduled. Call 440-915-7856 or email bill@crossfitcleveland.com . I also have a flyer available online, click on CrossFit Executive Fitness Starter Program Flyer.

You can reserve your spot by paying online our Rates and Payments Page. Scroll about half way down the page for the payment button and look for scheduled programs in the dropdown menu.

There are several recommendations on my LinkedIn page if you care to check them out. Here are some comments from several past participants... (these are real people even though I left off their last names, stop by and meet them yourself.

Michael D. a.k.a. TechCzar

How do your results compare to your initial expectations? Exceeded all expectations.

If someone asked you about the program you just completed, how would you describe it? Damn challenging. If you are not going to be devoted to the program - I would not do it. But if devoted - then it is the best exercise program you could do.

"Bill is a great coach and will inspire you to goals that perhaps you thought were not attainable. I will be honest and say that when I first reviewed the CrossFit methodology I thought it too difficult for me. Six weeks later, I have lost weight, two inches around my waist, my confidence is at an all time high. Nothing is impossible. But none of it would be possible without Bill's diligence and coaching."


Linda S.

What did you like most about the program, if anything? Small group, great instruction, very encouraging environment.


Can you share with me what gains/losses/improvements you’ve made in the past 6 weeks?

7 lbs less, 2 inches waist, 3 inches over the kiester, and stuff fits a hellova lot better.

The other day I took my propane tank to the local propane guy for a pre-season filled up. Previously, I’d need two hands and a hip thrust to get it in the back my vehicle. Then I would have picked it up & waddled w/two hands (struggling the whole time) thru the back yard to the grill. After the tank got filled this time – w/out even thinking, I picked up the tank with one arm and curled it right into the back of my vehicle. When I got it home, I grabbed it out of the car and walked it to the grill with one hand like I was carrying a large cotton ball. That was an unanticipated (and pleasantly surprising) measure of progress.


Bernadette M.


What did you like most about the program, if anything? I liked the community based environment offered by CrossFit which fosters both friendships and healthy competition which in turn supports pushing each member to their next goal. It is unlike any other gym or fitness program I’ve been a part of and reminds me more of when I played team sports.

I also thought that you (Bill) gave great instruction and are extremely knowledgeable about CrossFit, the exercises, and fitness in general.

If someone asked you about the program you just completed, how would you describe it?

It is a great introduction to the CrossFit philosophy and lifestyle. The program teaches a whole-body work-out based on calisthenics, bodybuilding, gymnastics, and other sports. Most, if not all, of the exercises are designed to use your upper and lower body simultaneously, rather than isolating one muscle group.

Also, from an economic perspective, it’s a great deal—it’s like getting group personal training at a fraction of the cost.


Catherine R.

Can you share with me what gains/losses/improvements you’ve made in the past 6 weeks?

I didn’t follow your advice (to take measurements on day 1) and have no hard numbers to compare. I can only say I feel better and stronger. However, when I was at the St. Patrick’s Day parade and my 50-lb five-year-old complained he couldn’t see, I was able to pick him up on my shoulders from a crouched position, crouch back down with him on my shoulders because he dropped his hat, and carry him around without much effort. THAT’S exactly why I wanted to be fit in the first place!!


If someone asked you about the program you just completed, how would you describe it?

Rigorous, but scalable. Results-oriented. Not for people who want to read Cosmo while pattering along on a treadmill. It requires focus and determination. A Crossfit workout is like giving birth at times – it’s just you and your pain, and the people around you seem like they’re miles away.


Terry C.

What did you expect to get out of this 6-week program? I felt I needed a trainer to jump start my exercise program. Bill pushed me to do things I would never do myself.

How do you feel now compared prior to starting the program? I feel I have more confidence and I can handle anything you throw my way.

What did you like most about the program, if anything? I got motivated by others in the class. if they can do it, so can I!

Liz J.

What benefits did you get out of this 6-week program, if any? I feel so much stronger, and feel like I have a decent grasp on most of the exercises. And, I am definitely becoming a CrossFit addict.


Did you receive enough instruction and personal attention? I feel that we had great instruction and I certainly feel like I got my moneys worth.


Katherine H.

What was the main motivator for you to participate in this program? I wanted someone to show me how to strength train and make sure I was working out correctly to get results.


Did you receive enough instruction and personal attention? Yes It was enough without being overbearing


Can you share with me what gains/losses/improvements you’ve made in the past 6 weeks?

My running route is much easier and the Crossfit workouts are less painful than they used to be.


Would you recommend this program to your friends or co-workers? Yes-I already have been. It’s great for everyone no matter what their level of fitness is. It’s totally different from anything they’ve ever done and it works so much better than regular gym workouts.


Patrick G.

What did you expect to get out of this 6-week program? My expectations were to increase stamina, lose weight and get in overall better shape. I also wanted to increase my vertical leap and lower body strength for basketball.


What was the main motivator for you to participate in this program? My main motivator was that I needed a jump start to get fit and this seemed to be the right call.


How did you feel while working out in the first few sessions? I felt very good after the first few sessions. I was definitely pushed to my limit, tired and learned a lot.


How do you feel now compared prior to starting the program? I feel ten times better than when I began the program. The results I saw were much better than I had expected.


What did you like most about the program, if anything? I like everything.

What did you like least? Its all good.


Did you receive enough instruction and personal attention?
Yes. I definitely had plenty of coaching and attention to ensure my form and technique on the exercises were correct. I also received specific instructions on how to achieve my own goals.


How do your results compare to your initial expectations? Blown away.


Can you share with me what gains/losses/improvements you’ve made in the past 6 weeks?

I would estimate I have lost anywhere from 10-15 pounds, lost 2-3 inches in waist and I am in much better shape.


If someone asked you about the program you just completed, how would you describe it?

I would say its an intense, yet addicting workout regimen that achieves high level results in a short period of time. It honestly reminds me of a great sports practice or conditioning program, but in a much shorter amount of time.


Would you recommend this program to your friends or co-workers? I have already recommended this to multiple co-workers and have brought in one to try it out so far. I tell everybody. I tell people it’s a workout that everyone can do. I have explained that this is all stuff that I was unfamiliar with but was easy to learn and the results are incredible.



Overall, what would you change, add, remove, modify about anything to do with the program, facility, people, group size, equipment, schedule, length……….? I wouldn’t change a thing.


I have plenty more if you're curious, just ask.