CrossFit^® Knoxville

Experiencia negativa: I’ve been doing CrossFit for 14 years and have been a member of 6 gyms. I joined CFK shortly after moving to Knoxville 3.5 years ago. As a busy, middle-aged mom of two, CrossFit is my hour-long escape for community, a fun environment, and challenging workouts. I have a sarcastic sense of humor but always try to be an encouraging, positive presence. Facility (3 stars at best): – Limited barbell rigs – Only one 30# dumbbell that multiple women share – Lowest ceiling height I’ve ever seen (restricts rope climbs) – Missing equipment common in other boxes (GHDs, enough skiergs) – Floors can be dirty on burpee days with dog hair – Running path regularly passes homeless or sketchy individuals Why I’m giving this gym 1 star: Dave, the owner I’m used to light-hearted CrossFit banter, but Dave is extremely sensitive and unprofessional, often belittling people—especially women—in front of the class. He freely dishes it but cannot take it. Incident #1 (about a year ago): During warm-up, as an FYI, I mentioned my rower wasn’t working properly. Instead of checking it, Dave snapped at me, mocked me for not being willing to adjust the damper and embarrassed me in front of the class. The rower was actually broken. He later texted an apology and said I had “rubbed him the wrong way.” Wanting to keep peace, I accepted and even apologized back, and made every effort afterward to be friendly and respectful, often asking how him and his family were doing, trying to remain a positive member of the community. Incident #2: A few weeks ago, during the whiteboard briefing, Dave cheerfully talked about the coaches’ competition. He emphasized that it was “boys vs. girls,” joking about possible consequences for the losing team. He went over the day's workout that included two movements I know he is particularly strong at (I always respected his athleticism). When he asked if there were any questions, I raised my hand and, in a genuinely playful tone, asked, “Who is selecting the workout for the coaches’ competition?” He immediately became flustered and snapped, “I do. What does that have anything to do with you?” I tried to clarify lightheartedly, “I was just curious… because you’re REALLY good at those movements.” Instead of taking it as a compliment, he shot back, “I’ve been doing CrossFit for 15 years. I am good!” After a separate silly question, and he exploded again: “No more questions. I don’t like being accused of cheating. Now I’m pissed!” He stormed across the room. I was stunned that he took it that way and it had escalated so I responded, “I’m sorry! That’s not what I meant!” He ignored me for the rest of class, though he continued joking and interacting with everyone else. A few members later checked in on me because the whole scene made them uncomfortable because they knew my intention (compliment). Even though I really liked the other members and coaches, I paused my membership to reassess. Incident #3: At the next class he coached, I kept my distance. After the workout, I privately asked another coach why she’d left her previous gym. Dave must have eavesdropped, because he later pulled me aside and said he didn’t like me asking someone about another gym. He then told me he was refunding my remaining classes and that I was “done.” I was kicked out after paying for 3 years over a playful compliment and a private conversation. My experience elsewhere: I’ve since joined another nearby CrossFit gym with a far superior facility—larger, better equipment, cleaner, and more thoughtful programming. The owners are friendly and actually ask how members are doing, something I was never asked by Dave or Kari. Former members I’ve reunited with have echoed similar concerns: they also felt disliked or uncared for by the owners. Final thoughts: If you’re considering this gym, I recommend exploring other local options with better facilities and more professional leadership. I hope this review provides helpful insight and encourages improvements in how members are treated.

Experiencia fantástica: Absolutely the best! Life-changing… The coaching, the community, everything…

Experiencia fantástica: CrossFit Knoxville is so much more for me than just a gym. It’s a lifestyle. It’s a place that helps me grow not just in strength and fitness, but also in mindset, happiness, and overall self-development. What keeps me strong and patient through a long workday is knowing that the best hour of the day is waiting for me after work. Each class is thoughtfully structured: it starts with a solid 10–15 minute warmup to get the body moving, followed by a skill or strength component where we learn new techniques or refine existing ones — from Olympic weightlifting to gymnastics to cardio-based movements. Then comes the highlight: the WOD. The coach cranks up the music, and for those few intense minutes, we give everything we’ve got. It’s challenging, it’s rewarding, and it’s always worth it. I want to give a huge shoutout to the incredible afternoon coaching team, Coach Allyse, Clay, Emma, Dave, Karri and all the other great coaches. They are consistently supportive, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in each member’s progress. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned athlete, they meet you where you are and help you push just a little further. CrossFit Knoxville isn’t just about working out. It’s about staying healthy, building confidence, and finding daily joy through movement and community. I couldn’t recommend it more.

Experiencia fantástica: I am so glad I joined CFK almost a year ago! Members encourage each other and push each other each workout! Coaches are knowledgeable and always ready to help! I look forward to my workouts here and enjoy the community that comes with it!

Experiencia fantástica: Best gym in town! Great coaching, programming, and community.

Experiencia fantástica: Absolutely stellar experience here. Friendly coaching staff, great facility, and some wonderful people to get to know in your chosen time slot. The coaches spend the first half of the workout warming you up with the movements and lifts you’ll be doing in the workout with a huge emphasis on proper movement. CrossFit in general seems to have a stereotype of not teaching proper movement, causing injury, but that absolutely isn’t the case here. I have learned so much from my coaches, and it has inspired me to reach higher goals than I thought I could set for myself. I would recommend this gym to anyone!

Experiencia fantástica: I have been going to Crossfit Knoxville for almost two years. It’s a great place to workout, everyone is so nice and supportive and the work outs are fun and challeging. I would recommend to come for a visit!

Experiencia fantástica: I've been attending classes at Crossfit Knoxville since 2012. The classes and coaches are great but the community of members is what brings me back.

Experiencia fantástica: HIGHLY RECOMMEND! The energy at the 5:30am class is incredible! Awesome facility and coaching! I’m here on a work trip and dropped in, everyone was welcoming and even invited me on the post WOD walk! I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in Knoxville!

Experiencia fantástica: Went with my girlfriend (who is much better at crossfit than I) and got absolutely whipped. Attended a morning class and it was very well structured. 10/10 would go again. - Delbert

Experiencia fantástica: Love the community and coaches here! They have the best advice and guidance to help live a healthy life! 10/10 recommend!!

Experiencia fantástica: Great workouts, great facility, great coaches. Whenever I come back to Knoxville, whether for a week or for a few months, Crossfit Knoxville is my home away from home. CFK has become my standard for crossfit gyms, and to be honest, it's made me a bit snobby because now I expect too much from other gyms whenever I'm traveling.

Experiencia fantástica: Great CrossFit gym with phenomenal owners, coaches, and athletes.

Experiencia fantástica: I’ve been a member for several years and don’t ever plan on quitting. Even if I’m living under the bridge in Cedar Bluff and sleeping in an old refrigerator box, you’ll still see me kicking a can down the road on my way to CFK every morning at 8:30. My 3 biggest concerns before starting crossfit was 1) it’s too expensive 2) I don’t want to work out in front of people and 3) it’s too hard. Well, after several years I can tell you that 1) The money is no issue. I’ve actually saved money because I cut out all the unhealthy things that used to cost way more money. 2) You don’t workout in front of people, you work out WITH people. I love my friends at CFK and love the encouragement they from the crossfitters and coaches. Working out alone just doesn’t do it for me anymore. 3) If it wasn’t hard then you’d never grow. I’ve come to need that struggle everyday because it makes everything else in life easier. Trees need wind/adversity to grow strong and so do we. If you’re on the fence just try it out for a week!

Experiencia fantástica: Best Crossfit in town! ❤️

Experiencia fantástica: Even though I fear the workouts, I go, and every time I'm glad I did. The staff is awesome, so helpful without every being judgy.

Experiencia fantástica: Great coaches and an amazing community of incredibly strong and motivating people who inspire each other each day to grow and get stronger together.

Experiencia fantástica: I was looking for a gym that was challenging and had classes to fit my schedule and I found it at CFK on Kingston Pike . I like the class time options and the options the coaches suggests if I can't yet do a pull up for instance. I also like the CFK member family who are very encouraging and welcoming.

Experiencia fantástica: Great programming, great coaching, great community.

Experiencia fantástica: I just joined CrossFit Knoxville - very welcoming community! It’s a large gym with lots of space and equipment to accommodate everybody. The coaches and programming are excellent. No matter your skill level, CrossFit Knoxville is a great community to be apart of to achieve and maintain an active/healthy lifestyle!

Experiencia fantástica: It’s been over 2 years since we moved to Knoxville and the first thing we did we joined the CFK community, we love how we can workout as a family with our now 4 year old Daughter watching and get inspired by strong spirits. It’s a welcoming community, maybe the most diverse place in Knoxville, very fun and family vibes.

Experiencia fantástica: Friends and I did a drop in while in town for the weekend. Had a great experience! Coaches were knowledgeable, and helpful. All the members were super friendly and welcoming.

Experiencia fantástica: I had never done CrossFit before, so I was a little nervous walking into CrossFit Knoxville but those nerves disappeared fast. The coaches and community were incredibly welcoming and made me feel right at home from day one. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I felt comfortable every step of the way. Whether you're brand new like me or experienced, this place makes fitness feel approachable, supportive, and even fun. So glad I gave it a try!

Experiencia fantástica: From the moment you walk in, owners Dave and Karri make you feel genuinely welcomed — their authenticity sets the tone for this incredible box gym. It had been years since I stepped into a CrossFit gym, but every part of the experience was inviting and comfortable. I joined the 6:30 am class with Coach Hannah, and wow — what a treat! She clearly explained and demonstrated everything in the WOD, bringing both warmth and deep knowledge to the session. Every staff member I’ve met has the same energy — they're all driven by a passion for building community. Their love for fitness and meaningful relationships shines through in everything they do. If you're thinking about trying it out, don’t hesitate to join a free trial class. You might just discover a new love for fitness, too!

Experiencia fantástica: Drop In Review… I visited this box while away on a work trip and I have to say I found a new “home away from home”! The gym is extremely well put together, clean and easy to signup and drop in with plenty of class times. The 5:30 AM class was always FULL and such great people to workout with. The programming is simple to follow and they post on their instagram a week at a glance so you can see what workouts are coming (I joined during a “delightful” wallball burpee workout). My experience with Hannah in the AM was wonderful who helped me get settled in and was extremely welcoming. A great box that I’m sure to visit again during my next visit to Knoxville!

Experiencia fantástica: CrossFit Knoxville is an amazing gym community! Every coach is not only extremely knowledgeable but also passionate and encouraging. Very smart programming and so much fun. Every hour I spend at CrossFit Knoxville pays me back untold dividends throughout every other area of my life.

Experiencia fantástica: Solid intro, warmup, strength session, and WOD. Welcoming outmosphere and coaching staff.

Experiencia fantástica: A group of us dropped in for a class while we were in Knoxville for semifinals & we had a great experience! The class was extremely well run, even with it being a large class size. The coach led us through a really effective warmup & then offered continued support throughout the strength & metcon pieces. Highly recommend based off of our experience!

Experiencia fantástica: Great people, great staff, and great workouts!

Experiencia fantástica: I have dropped in to Crossfit Knoxville a couple of times now from out of town. Had a great experience both times. I have been to over 100 CF gyms (boxes) and this has one of the best vibes and coaching of any of them. Had David the first time. Jenn tonight. Members are friendly and welcoming. Doesn't matter if you are in great shape or just starting. Just stop in and check it out.

Experiencia fantástica: Being in town for business, this was the first time I have ever dropped in to a box or even been to another one besides my home box. My home box uses the Level Method and Crossfit Knoxville doesn’t. I felt out of place at first not knowing what to do without the Level Method, but coach Stephen was very kind and patient with me and helped me to get to where I needed to be. The other members were very welcoming and encouraging. It was clean with ample space. I really enjoyed the class I took and have no problem recommending it based on my experience.

Experiencia fantástica: Great experience dropping in for a class. Awesome space and welcoming coaches. I was invited to stay for yoga after the WOD on a Saturday. I would definitely recommend dropping in if you are in the area.

Experiencia fantástica: Great facility, great coaches, great people! I have made tremendous strides during my 7 months. I was welcomed by the other "crossfitters" and have learned so much about fitness, nutrition and how to lead a healthier lifes. I would recommend that you try a class!

Experiencia fantástica: This place is great. Great trainers, great people. I was really nervous when I first joined because I was really out of shape. But everyone there is just so supportive that you forget about all that. I really don't know what that one guy who gave it two stars is talking about, I mean how can you rate a place when you've never been there? Plus $600? Really, where he get that number, because membership is no where near that.

Experiencia positiva: Great experience!

Experiencia fantástica: Awesome place to drop in. Everyone was super friendly. The coaching was excellent! I would highly recommend dropping in.

Experiencia fantástica: I was in town for a week and was excited to learn there was a box near my hotel. I had an excellent experience before I even stepped foot in to the building. I emailed with a few questions and had a speedy response that made me feel welcome from the start. The facility is clean and organized with plenty of space for athletes to move and not be crowded. The coach was thorough with his explanations and demonstrations. The members were friendly and welcoming. I’m glad my first ever drop in experience was at CrossFit Knoxville West.

Experiencia fantástica: I might be biased since I've been a member of CrossFit Knoxville since 2009. The facts are in the CrossFit methodology! IT works if you are open to it and put in the work. I dare anyone to rebut it. In my 13 years here, I've seen Coaches come and go, but I will say for the most part we have coaches who care and who are on their own fitness journey learning and trying to help other be better. Two Coaches we have now I think deserve some recognition, Coach Hannah and Coach Emily, these two ladies work hard at their fitness and they work hard as coaches helping people be better! Thanks Hannah! Thanks Emily! CrossFit Knoxville is one of the best in town so come on it and be better!

Experiencia fantástica: Dropped in several months back while in town. I was welcomed with open arms and an open spot on the rig. Instructors were incredible. Other staff was sure to help answer questions prior to workout. Very constructive, energizing environment!

Experiencia fantástica: You will get whatever you need from this gym. Excellent coaches and a very constructive, positive environment. First CrossFit gym I’ve been to that doesn’t slap you in the face with a bunch of ego as soon as you enter the door. Their biggest focus is you! I’m a “lifetime-worker-outer” and a hard sell. Trust me, this is a place of growth.

Experiencia fantástica: Great environment and great coach

Experiencia fantástica: Great classes, atmosphere, and coaches! Fair price too!

Experiencia fantástica: Top notch coaching. Caring, knowledgeable, invested coaching staff!

Experiencia fantástica: dropped in here for 3 days. Great coaching, clean environment, not to mention the friendly atmosphere. I would get it more than 5 stars if they had medium shirts in stock ;).

Experiencia fantástica: Great classes, atmosphere, and coaches! Fair price too!

Experiencia fantástica: Hands down the best CrossFit facility in Knoxville!

Experiencia fantástica: I love the support that I get from the trainers and other members. I feel like I joined a new family instead of just a gym.

Experiencia fantástica: I love this place! The programming and coaching are top notch. I used to work out regularly, but got stuck in a routine. The constantly varied functional workouts within a very motivated and positive community have allowed me to continue to get stronger, faster, better into my 60s.

Experiencia fantástica: Great environment, they will help you reach your goals!!

Experiencia fantástica: Best place to do CrossFit, the staff and all coaches are certificate and very helpful. The place is spacious and big. Recommend it for everyone.

Experiencia fantástica: If you are looking to make a lifestyle change in fitness and health this is the place you need to be at! Crossfit Knoxville has really helped me with establishing my goals and helping me to meet them. Also, the community is amazing and everyone is friendly and motivating!

Experiencia fantástica: The skills I learned at CrossFit Knoxville as a coach and as an athlete are something you can’t put a price on. As a coach, I’ve always felt l could lead a class effectively, but at CFK, I learned to take extreme ownership of every interaction I made during and outside my classes. My wife and I moved to Hawaii and the management skills, both personally and in a business sense gave me the confidence to go to another box with the ability to make an impact using to tools I learned from CFK. Whether you’re a coach or an athlete looking for a new box to call home, CFK is the place!

Experiencia fantástica: Dropped in for a post Thanksgiving WOD. Registration was easy online. The coach greeted me immediately upon entering the box and told me what to expect. The class was well managed and the space is great.

Experiencia fantástica: The Crossfit Knoxville staff and management are top notch. The very best in achieving the best results for each individual. There is no better value or experience in East Tennessee

Experiencia fantástica: Thanks for putting the nutrition series together. I really appreciate the flexibility on the schedule. Making the class available at 4:30 was a game changer for me as family obligations wont allow me to attend on a Saturday. The class helped me understand why my energy was declining at the time of the workout. After the class, I went to the store and grabbed me some snacks and some protein bars. I couldn't understand why one week I could back squat 200 lbs and the next struggled with 165 lbs. I feel that after taking the class, I am eating more-- and better--and losing inches off the waist while I maintain my weight.

Experiencia fantástica: Very welcoming as a drop in on short notice. So pumped this place was next to my hotel while in town and will definitely be back on my next visit to Knoxville. Thanks guys!

Experiencia fantástica: This is my first crossfit program. I have been going for three times a week for almost 6 months now. The programs offer a tremendous variety, the coaches are knowledgeable, approachable and personable, and the community of members is very welcoming. I enjoy going to the classes and always leave with a sense of accomplishment. Highly recommend!

Experiencia fantástica: Knowledgeable coaches and workouts personalized to your level.

Experiencia fantástica: Crossfit Knoxville has a great group of trainers that truly care about your success based on your personal goals. I've visited other Crossfit gyms, when traveling, and it makes me so appreciative that my home is at Crossfit Knoxville.

Experiencia fantástica: Great place to get a workout in .

Experiencia fantástica: I moved back to Knoxville while my husband was deployed and immediately began working out at CFK. I was welcomed by everyone I met, and it became my new gym home! I love the attentiveness of the coaches. I love the encouraging atmosphere. I love the scaling options. I love the various programming to accommodate the goals of any athlete (as well as the non athlete lol). I am SO excited for my husband to come home, but the worst part about leaving Knoxville is leaving the gym I now call home. I will always drop in when I am in town! Thanks CFK!

Experiencia fantástica: I've been training at CrossFit Knoxville since 2008 where we started in a garage with about a dozen athletes. At that time there were only about 400 gyms in the world and today there's over 13,000. Now we have 2 locations with around 300 athletes, classes running from 5:30a-7:30p, and numerous specialized programs. They've been doing this a long time with great success in changing people's lives. Safety is their number one priority and the trainers are constantly focused on maintaining this with every athlete. I've been to gyms all over the place and very few meet the standards of quality training that CrossFit Knoxville offers. I challenge all skeptics and haters to come by and join a workout before making a judgment. As to cost...it's not $600 a month like the one review states. If spending $40 a month to go to a traditional gym and doing your own thing makes you happy and you're getting the results you want, then keep it up. But if you're there and find value in paying $35 per personal training session because you need the guidance, motivation, and support, then CrossFit is worth trying.

Experiencia fantástica: I've traveled to several different Crossfit Boxes when we travel and I have to say this is one of the best run boxes we've visited. Great People and even better staff that runs the classes. We will definitely be going back next time we are in Knoxville!!

Experiencia fantástica: I've traveled to several different Crossfit Boxes when we travel and I have to say this is one of the best run boxes we've visited. Great People and even better staff that runs the classes. We will definitely be going back next time we are in Knoxville!!

Experiencia negativa: To be up front, I haven't been to the crossfit. I love the idea of it, so I looked up how much it was. But I need help understanding why would I pay $600 per month for this. At $600 per month, how can anyone do this for very long? Are the bathroom fixtures made of gold? Do they supply with you 2 liter water bottles of Fiji water with a 1 hr massage after every workout? Why pay a small house mortgage for this? Honest question.