Goose Island CrossFit^®

Fantastic experience: I am a personal trainer and a high skeptic of CrossFit. The coaches at this gym are definitely knowledgeable highly educated and very attentive. I truly enjoyed my experience at Goose Island CrossFit. I got a better workout in a friendlier environment there than I have in years! A definite must do Chicago!

Fantastic experience: I love GICF! It has a great community and the coaches are awesome! I feel like there is a good balance of people with a lifetime of fitness/sports experience and others who like me came to CrossFit, had a life changing experience and decided to commit to a new lifestyle. They have nutrition help, a community garden, the facilities are excellent and the people are just a lot of fun to be around. Check it out!

Fantastic experience: I could spend this review singing the praises of CrossFit, but I will let other people do that. Also, visit the Goose Island CrossFit (GICF from here on out...) website and look at their blog for some great posts about CrossFit from a non-athlete's perspective. What I will say is this: if you want the best CrossFit experience in Chicago, GICF is the place to go for one main reason: *phenomenal* coaching. Noah, the owner and head coach, is the best coach I have interacted with in my two years of CrossFit. I have been a member at two CrossFit gyms and visited others in the Bay Area (NorCal CrossFit), Seattle, Texas, and Sydney (CrossFit Active). None of those gyms are slouches and a couple are world renowned. But Noah's coaching (he's the owner and lead coach) beats them all. There are three big reasons why: safety, continuous improvement, and fun. While I have never been to an unsafe CrossFit gym, Noah looks out for his members at a different level. He is *constantly* pushing us to scale our workouts so we don't injure ourselves. He keeps an eye on our form and skill level and recommends alternative movements. He proactively makes suggestions and if he sees you in pain or if something just looks off he will notice and make sure you stop and stay safe. In my two years of CrossFit I have had the least nicks, scrapes, torn blisters, and general problems of any three month period in my CrossFit "career". I would actually say that working out at GICF is the safest way to get a great workout. It is certainly safer than working out on your own, and Noah's experience and certifications are unparalleled. You won't find this level of knowledge from a typical gym personal trainer or even at most CrossFit gyms. Second, continuous improvement. My experience at most CrossFit gyms has been that once you have the basic form down for things like the squat, clean & jerk, etc, the coaching more or less is reduced to "nice work!", "try harder!", "you can do it!". My first six months of CrossFit was non-stop improvement as I got down the basic form. My next year, though, was a big plateau in most areas. But after three months at GICF, we had our first week of testing movements, and I am happy to say the PR (personal record) train has started up again. I've PR'd *every* *single* *thing* we have done with one exception, and I *barely* missed that one. Why? Because every time we work on a lift, Noah is going around to everyone in the class and doing everything from teaching basic squat technique to beginners to video recording the initiating movements of my deadlift, clean, and snatch and showing me exactly where I am going wrong by comparing my movement to videos of world class olympic lifters. This sounds *super* gym-nerdy and it totally is, but the results speak for themselves. I'm improving. And so is every other person at GICF. Finally, GICF workouts are just straight up fun. Ridiculous warm-ups (everything from full contact "don't drop the pizza" to the aptly named "There and back again" Hobbit-themed warm-up) a variety of twists on traditional weightlifting schemes (ex: 1 rep max your backsquat, then go straight into 8 minutes of as many reps at 60% of that max as possible) ... inventive... q&a's during stretching/mobility/torture sessions and crazy stuff like wheelbarrows, hammers, forced rest in a "for time" workout, rowing penalties for dropping the ball in a set of 25 wall balls... You get the picture: you will never feel bored. There's always a twist. To top all of this off, GICF has great facilities and equipment. It has free parking. It is clean and well organized. There are showers and towels. It isn't *glamorous*, but it is far more than the typical barebones functional but nothing more CrossFit boxes you typically see. If your goal is anything from simply improving your personal fitness to competing at the highest level in whatever athletic pursuit you have, Goose Island CrossFit is the place to go.

Fantastic experience: The only regret I have is not joining the gym sooner. I joined in March 2022, and I don’t know where the time has gone. Originally, I was skeptical and wasn’t sure that CrossFit was a good fit for me; since joining, I’ve gotten stronger mentally and physically. I can honestly say I wake up looking forward to coming to the gym every single day. Not only will you get a killer workout in, but the community (coaches and athletes) makes it all worthwhile. I highly recommend stopping by for a class.

Fantastic experience: Incredibly supportive and welcoming community. You’ll be challenged to push yourself. Knowledgeable coaches— they took the time to break down novel movements, were patient, and gave good/specific feedback. Especially appreciated as a total newbie to CrossFit!

Fantastic experience: I originally tried out Goose Island CrossFit because they had a free parking lot but I have stayed because of the environment. The coaches are incredible and all of the other athletes are welcoming. I started with very little crossfit experience but have learned so much in just four months. Can't recommend this gym enough if you're thinking about crossfit or if you're a seasoned pro

Fantastic experience: Goose Island has been a home for me and my boyfriend for the last year and a half. The team of trainers fosters a community that is unmatched by any Chicago gym. I recommend anyone interested in Crossfit or getting into Crossfit for the first time consider Goose Island as a new home. Thank you Rachel for everything!

Fantastic experience: Went for an introductory class and it seemed like a very nice gym. Friendly people in the class, very helpful coach (first time we'd ever handled a barbell), gym was clean and tidy. Very welcoming to new comers who had no idea what we were doing. I have been to no other crossfit gyms to compare it, but we had a great time for our first intro to Crossfit.

Fantastic experience: Couldn't recommend it more! Great clean box with a welcoming community of members and coaches. Amazing backyard too for a beer or just enjoying after a great workout. Thanks Rachel for having us, and great meeting Amber too. Lovet it! Thanks!! Greetings Norwegian crew

Fantastic experience: I really loved doing crossfit here. I was brand new to it in November and the coaches were really friendly. They are all very helpful and willing to teach you. I felt very welcomed everyone here is very friendly. Great experience only left because I moved to a new city. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Simply an amazing place to workout! The Club is clean and well kept! Parking is available right outside the club. I am constantly learning and evolving with the workouts that are presented. I can honestly say I look forward to walking through the doors for a workout and always feel amazing when I leave. Instead of being just a scan card, this place knows who you are. You are a member that gets acknowledged by your name, you feel seen. Rachel and the team at Goose Island Crossfit thank you for all you do.

Fantastic experience: Thanks to Goose Island Crossfit for seeing me through my two pregnancies with healthy babies. I joined GICF at 8 months pregnant with my first baby and worked out until 4 days before delivery with both kids. While I've done crossfit since 2015, in becoming a mom I had to modify, slow down, pause, recover, and practically start over from scratch physically and mentally. A lot of times I am retesting and resetting my limits and working through boundaries that weren't there before kids. Every time I'm in the gym I'm giving it all I've got that day despite consistent sleeplessness, overstimulation from toddler energy, ft work, pt school, household management, or whatever the world throw at me that day. It takes a lot of persistence and patience but I'm lucky to have the support of Goose Island members and trainers to work through it. To all the momfitters our there, keep up the great work for you. You deserve it! With time, I hope to regain all that can be recovered. Thanks for the continued encouragement!

Fantastic experience: This is a great Crossfit gym. You’ll be in contact with and greeted by Rachel, the head coach and manager of the gym. Her programming is all done from scratch and it’s killer. I’ve trained and dropped in at other CrossFit gyms and the programming here still seems more comprehensive and superior. All the other coaches are great, too. Equipment and gym facility are clean, new and nice as well. Solid 5 stars.

Fantastic experience: I joined Goose Island CrossFit about a year and a half ago and it has been an amazing experience so far. Not only is the programming on point, but the community is incredible. The gym hosts numerous events throughout the year including competitions - they're always a great time and are a great way for the community to come together. I highly recommend checking it out if you're traveling through or looking for a new gym to join.

Fantastic experience: GICF is the best! I was new to CrossFit when I joined and the coaches were so patient and took extra time during the first few weeks to teach me proper technique. Everyone was so nice from the beginning and I love the community activities we do. It’s a great place to get to know new friends! I’m now 7 months in and don’t plan on stopping CrossFit anytime soon! I’m stronger and healthier and more important, I actually enjoy working out again! Can’t say enough good words about this place!

Fantastic experience: I joined Goose Island over a year ago and it’s been one of my favorite fitness experiences! The coaches and classes are excellent but what really stands out is the community they’ve created. So many gyms (particularly class based gyms) are ‘get in, get out, don’t talk to anyone’. The experience at GICF couldn’t be any different. You get great workouts and make progress towards your fitness goals as well as get to know really great people! Couldn’t recommend Goose Island more!

Fantastic experience: I could write a book about all the positives that have come out of spending time at Goose Island Crossfit.. It's simply a great gym run by their great staff. Whether you are completely new to crossfit, or an experienced athlete, I highly recommend Goose Island. Not only will you get smarter, better, faster, and stronger, but you'll become part of the amazing community along the way.

Fantastic experience: GICF is like a second home to me! I joined about 2 1/2 years ago when I saw a 6 week challenge ad from them on facebook and thought “eh might as well”, with no real intention of sticking around for long. After getting out of an emotionally abusive and body-shaming relationship, I was very hesitant to join a full-fledged gym for fear of not being fit enough or not fitting the supposed ‘body-type’ I assumed would be the norm. But DAMN was I happily surprised by the welcoming, diverse, and supportive community at Goose Island CrossFit! The coaches are incredible at helping make adjustments and scale to what works best for you, and the rest of the community are the friendliest bunch who are always there to cheer you on and celebrate your achievements with you. I’ve grown stronger physically, and have overcome so much anxiety about my body because of GICF, and I could not recommend it more highly ❤️

Fantastic experience: Joining Goose Island CrossFit has truly made such a difference in my life since moving to Chicago! The gym environment is a really welcoming and encouraging place to become stronger or just work on individual goals. I went into CrossFit nervous about learning new movements, but the coaches were all helpful and encouraging. On top of that, the community is so welcoming and fun to be a part of.

Fantastic experience: I joined Goose Island (and started CrossFit) in 2019 and haven’t looked back since. I was looking at a few other CrossFit gyms but knew once I dropped into Goose to try a class that I was home. The other gyms were lacking what Goose offered from the second I walked in the doors: expert, individualized coaching and place that you felt like you can be yourself and continue to improve. The coaches and the community are the best around. The programming puts you in a position to continually exceed your expectations and each class feels personalized to what your working on. They offer additional classes in Olympic lifting and gymnastics, which allows you to further work on these skills. The coaches actually care about athlete improvement and know you by name. You don’t feel like dollar figure, but an actual member of a community. The manager/head coach does a great job of bringing the community together and affording us the opportunity to meet and get together with all of the members. 10/10 would recommend.

Fantastic experience: This place is absolutely amazing. When I first walked into Goose Island CrossFit almost three years ago, I couldn't do a single pull-up, run a single mile, and had never picked up a barbell in my life. I admit I was a bit intimidated and almost quit after my first class, but I am SO glad that I didn't. The coaches are great at helping newcomers scale the movements to the best of their ability to make sure you are not overwhelmed, and as you progress (which you will), they push you to be the best athlete that you can be. Three years later and I have completely changed my body and my mindset with huge credit going to the coaches and community at Goose Island CrossFit. Highly Recommended.

Fantastic experience: GICF is the place to be!! I had been doing Crossfit for a little under a year before joining; I don't even know where to begin but saying that I was welcomed right away. The community that GICF has is spectacular and the relationships that I built along the way are just as special. All the coaches do a fantastic job of programming workouts (form, mobility, strength are all taken very serious) and keeping your body guessing. One thing I really appreciated about the team at goose island is that they invoked a really fun atmosphere; workout competitions, weekend events, and an all-around 10/10 support system. I highly recommend stopping by and talking to Rachel LaPorte about joining and doing an intro class.. you'll never look back!

Fantastic experience: Absolutely the best in the world! Everyone there is amazing super welcoming to the gym! The coaches there are well trained and can help make any adjustments or scale any move necessary! Definitely check it out it is amazing!

Fantastic experience: Best Place I have ever worked out. I never thought i would do Crossfit. It was scary to me. I started a Challenge their with coach Rachel doing other things besides Crossfit. One day i decided to try a Crossfit Class and I was hooked. I realized Crossfit is for Everyone if you have the right Crossfit gym and Coaches. I would recommend them to everyone. I have come along way and it is because of Coach Rachel and the rest of the Coaches.

Fantastic experience: Goose Island CrossFit was my first experience with CrossFit and after a few classes I was hooked! The coaches are extremely knowledgeable and adapt the workout to any experience level. The community is great as well, everyone is very encouraging, and they have trivia nights and party’s where you can get to know everyone better. After 6 months I lost 20lbs, built lean muscle, and have way more energy. I highly recommend this gym.

Fantastic experience: I was new to CrossFit when I joined Goose Island and I couldn't have picked a better place to learn. The coaches were super helpful; they coached me through all of the exercises and made classes fun. The members are also awesome, my fiancé and I continue to hangout with friends we met through GIC. Additionally, they continue to invest in new equipment and their facilities are pristine. I can't say enough good things about it and would highly recommend it!

Fantastic experience: This gym has changed my life & has given me so much more than I ever thought I would get out of gym. GICF is not only a community, it is a family. The moment we walked into the gym we were greeted and welcomed and knew that day that GICF would be our new home. Everything the coaches do is intentional: from the programming, to diet consultation, to hosting competitions & parities. Rachel and Noah truly live and breathe GICF, and it shows. I’ve gained knowledge, muscle, confidence and friends from GICF.

Fantastic experience: Goose Island CrossFit: Great coaching staff that also work out alongside you. They are very attentive and knowledgeable. I love the friendly yet real competition with the goal of pushing each other to the next level. Truly a no judgement atmosphere where all share the pursuit of health through nutrition and exercise. One of the best hours of my day when I am there.

Fantastic experience: I loved being apart of the Goose Island CrossFit family for the 6 week challenge I took on! Everyone is extremely helpful and welcoming. I was a beginner to CrossFit and the coaches were amazing... I left feeling empowered that I can do anything! Definitely recommend this place to anyone looking to start or continue their health and fitness journey.

Fantastic experience: I just completed the CF-L1 training course at Goose Island. The facility is great and the owners are so friendly and took really great care of us. The amenities provided to the members are really nice and from all of the photos of the members spread out all over the box, I can tell it is a really awesome, tight knit community! I'd love to come back and visit and work out again!

Fantastic experience: I joined the Goose Island Crossfit’s 6 week Challenge at probably the worse time of the year. Right over the holidays. I spent years watching my weight going up and down. I never reached an ideal level before being discouraged or derailed. So, I thought this 6 week challenge could be the speedy change that could help me get over the hump. Just before Christmas I met with the owner Noah. He explained what the expectations were to be in my behalf. “Follow the meal plan and go to 3 - 1 hour workouts per week.” I stuck to that plan alone. I did not do extra workouts outside at all. Even through Christmas and New Years celebrations, I stuck to the plan. As a result I saw a dramatic change in much more than the number on the scale. I’m feeling better. I view food differently. I enjoy working out so much more with the groups. It feels like I’m a part of a supportive team. My results? -31.5 lbs and -6.9% body fat in 6 weeks! Therefore, I can say with extreme confidence that Goose Island Crossfit can help you reach your goals! Therefore

Fantastic experience: If you're looking to take your fitness to routine to the next level, or simply get a jumpstart on it, Goose Island Crossfit, its team of coaches, and members can guarantee you the support necessary for the results you are looking for. As a dedicated yogi, crossfit never crossed my mind as I viewed it as something that would make me big and bulkly (nothing wrong with that, just not what I've been looking for). However, I was proven wrong. My experiences with Goose Island Crossfit have been nothing but awesome! I achieved goals that I never thought I would be able to (lost 9% body fat in 6 weeks!) and learned so much about both working out and nutrition, which I have carried over into my everyday life and made daily habits. This is without a doubt the best fitness program I have ever committed to and completed. It seems a little intimidating and almost impossible at first, but keep with it and I promise you will not be disappointed! Noah, coaching team, and members--thank you so much for all you've done for me and continue to do for others. This was truly a life altering experience!

Fantastic experience: Goose Island CrossFit has quickly become a second home. I've been a member here since March 2018, and my one regret is that it took me so long to walk in that door! The coaches are welcoming, knowledgeable, and committed to helping each member reach their goals. Whether you come to GICF with previous CrossFit experience or not, everyone is always supportive and excited to see others grow and improve. If you're looking for a place to workout, meet some really great people, and become part of a community -- you've come to the right place. Shoutout to Noah and everyone else who makes GICF the wonderful place it is!

Fantastic experience: Man what a ride! I’ve been trying to get into better shape and in a more sustainable / healthy routine for a while now. I’ve tried multiple gym memberships, Classpass, Groupons and none of them really worked out for me. After I ran the marathon in 2016 I kind of fell off the healthy wagon and kind of lost my ways. By the end of 2017, I was only able to fit into one of my pants and knew things had to change. I was lucky enough to find Goose Island Crossfit and start their 6 week challenge. I would have never imagined that the results could have been this successful. I lost about 16 pounds and 6.2% body fat in 6 weeks and am so grateful to Noah and his team for helping me find my way again. It was one of the best gym environments I’ve ever been in and loved working with all the top-notch instructors. Because classes were small, they were able to really dedicate and focus on each individual’s development. Plus all the people who work out here are super friendly. They were always willing to help out when I was struggling with a new equipment or exercise. In the short amount of time I’ve been here, I was able to learn a bunch of new ways to train my body as well as improve my eating habits. I’ve come a long way since 6 weeks ago and feel a lot more confident with my body and feel much more energized on a daily basis. I highly recommend GICF for anyone looking to lose weight, get into better shape or just looking for a gym to exercise while having a blast at the same time!

Fantastic experience: Noah the owner is not kidding when he talks about results, the meal plan provided by him definitely works, the workouts are killers but definitely worth it, all the instructors are great, they make sure that you achieve your goals, complete your workouts without being injured and work with every individual abilities, they also keep an eye on you every time you are there to help if needed, I could say nothing but good things about this place, I was here for 6 weeks for a weight loss challenge and was able to achieve a goal that I tried to achieve for the past 5 years, in this place I was able to do it within the first week, I lost 27 lbs in 6 weeks. The members in this place are very welcoming and they motivate you as well to do your best, the environment is very different to a typical gym different people with different abilities but definitely all working out as a team, Keep up the good work guys!

Fantastic experience: I've been going to GICF for almost a year now and it's been fantastic. I love the coaches, they are always attentive, helpful, and encouraging. I love the variety of work outs. Tim, the head coach, programs killer wods that push you to be the best you can be! I've been doing crossfit for almost 3 years and I'm never going to be a regionals athlete but I leave the gym a little fitter every time I go. But the best part of the gym might be the people there. Rather than just being people you work out next to, they become your friends! Would recommend anyone looking for a new gym to give GICF a try!

Fantastic experience: Such a good feeling to lose all the Holiday weight that was put on. Before joining this 6 week challenge, my clothes had gotten a bit tighter and face got a little fatter. I've always wanted to dive into Crossfit but the moment had never position itself. I have to say, these workouts and meal plans are on point. In only 6 weeks I've gained more muscle than fat, and I've lost over 20 pounds. Goose Island Crossfit is defiantly a gem in Chicago.

Fantastic experience: This was exactly what I needed to get motivated and continue my quest for fitness and health!! Noah and the coaches are determined to help you hit your goals and push you outside the comfort zone of a “normal gym routine”. The workouts are intense and the meal plan is strict, but results are undeniable!! I reduced my body fat by 9.7% in just 6 weeks!! I feel tone and stronger than ever!

Fantastic experience: Visited Chicago this past weekend and was recommended to visit Goose Island CrossFit during my stay. Bring a fellow box owner, I must say that Noah and his team are above and beyond most Crossfit gyms I’ve been to, including my own. Afterwards I sat down with him for tips on how to improve my gym. Being an experienced CrossFitter for over 6 years, I’d say this is one of the best boxes I’ve ever been to. Noah really knows what he’s doing. Just ask to see his own before and afters to see for yourself!

Fantastic experience: My experience at Goose Island Crossfit was nothing but motivating, challenging and fun! It was a perfect way to start out the new year and change the way I saw food/fitness. Noah and the rest of the team are inspiring human beings and I wouldn't have been able to get to my goal without them! My life and health habits have changed for the better because of this place!

Fantastic experience: I've been a member of Goose Island for almost a year now. After attending other Crossfit gyms around the country in the last 5+ years, I really appreciate Goose Island's excellent coaches and community. Everyone is very supportive and dedicated to helping others achieve their goals.

Fantastic experience: I have attended Goose Island Crossfit for the past year and I can fully say I've never been more committed to a gym's programming this consistently for this long ever! Noah and all the coaches are so kind & helpful and everyone at the gym supports one another and pushes each other to be better. It's a true family feel here, with dogs, kids, & lots of hanging out in addition to work outs - Plus free parking too :) I would highly recommend Goose Island to anyone looking for the motivation and support to become more physically active and healthy!

Fantastic experience: I just completed my 6 week challenge with Goose Island Crossfit and really enjoyed the experience. Always skeptical of Crossfit before, Noah and crew really created a welcoming, informational, and challenging environment to be a part of. Every coach and gym member I encountered were friendly and welcoming to new people. Nothing but nice things to say about this place. Thanks!

Fantastic experience: The gym facility is great clean, best rogue equipment and got patio to workout outside! The coaches are great super helpful to achieve your goals and the people are so friendly and motivating. Joining this gym was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Fantastic experience: I have been with this gym for the past 11 months and it has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Noah and the other coaches are always willing to provide assistance to all skill levels. While there are many aspects of Crossfit that can feel intimidating to beginners, the community at Goose Island Crossfit is welcoming and encouraging. Additionally, GICF offers fun competitions, parties, and other community events that bring members together in the pursuit of health, fitness, and fun! If you're interested in making long-lasting healthy physical choices, you owe it to yourself to stop by Goose Island Crossfit.

Fantastic experience: As one who has never had an affinity for working out in gyms, Goose Island Crossfit has completely changed my outlook. Noah LaPorte takes the time and effort to create an atmosphere that is friendly, inclusive and challenging. His knowledge, experience and personal attention make all the difference! Quality equipment, quality training and people make for successful outcomes. This is bar none the best gym experience I've encountered.....

Fantastic experience: My first time ever doing crossfit. I'm blown away at how great the experience has been. Noah and his team are experts. It's like having a personal trainer every time you work out. I'm not lifting heavy weights nor was I in great shape. I feel great and notice the results in the 6 weeks. Highly recommend Goose Island CrossFit!

Fantastic experience: Noah is great at introducing newcomers to Crossfit. He is very patient and cares about you actually understanding the basics before he moves on. Each instructor follows this philosophy and it shows in the accommodating environment that is created at Goose Island CrossFit. Great place for regular workouts!

Fantastic experience: I waited years to take the plunge in to Crossfit...and I am LOVING IT! What an incredible group of trainers and sense of community at Goose Island Crossfit. Noah and his staff did an incredible job helping me address concerns I had about previous injuries, focusing on safety and form first, and providing one of the best coaching and training environments I have ever experienced. Not only our the instructors great, but their positive energy and commitment to helping others is reinforced by every single member of this community. Whether you are a gym rat, someone looking for a change, or simply trying to be more active, I highly recommend giving Goose Island Crossfit a try. You will NOT be disappointed!

Fantastic experience: Thrilled with this place. I had been considering CrossFit for quite sometime, but was very apprehensive to start what I considered to be a pretty intimidating workout. While the workouts do kick my ass, my anxiety was quickly relieved when I began understanding how the classes function. I am just about 6 weeks in, making steady improvements, and excited to see both the changes in my physique and CrossFit skills. I highly recommend this place to anyone who has been considering beginning CrossFit.