Testimonials
“What I like most about Crossfit is that anyone can do it! I never lifted weights in my life before this. You could say I was a “cardio chic.” Then, I started Crossfit and was lifting weights from day one. It doesn’t take any prior experience and anyone can do it: old, young, small, big. Crossfit doesn’t discriminate! The variety of people in Crossfit only adds to its community appeal.
My favorite lifts/movements would have to be Low Bar Back Squat and pullups. I also have a love/hate relationship with rowing. This stems from when I did novice crew in college. It hurts so bad but it’s great!
When I think of Crossfit I think of…… Endurance, Stamina, Versatility, Community, & Badass!”
- Jamie C.

Jamie Testimonial

Jamie climbing the rope
-Photos and interview courtesty of http://blog.mollietobiasphotography.com/
Anna Calleson Testimonial from Vanguard Gym on Vimeo.
Ryan Charaba Testimonial from Vanguard Gym on Vimeo.
Holly Testimonial from Vanguard Gym on Vimeo.
“When I was trying to decide whether or not to do CrossFit, people kept telling me that a good box would make the whole experience. I wasn’t entirely sure what that meant, but everything I wanted and needed (whether I knew it or not) from a CrossFit box was found at CrossFit Manassas.First, the coaching is top-notch. The workouts are explained clearly with multiple demos of prescribed as well as scaled versions of the movements. There are no dumb questions and we are encouraged to ask questions if we do not understand something. The coaches are incredibly patient, and they definitely know their stuff! Their knowledge and patience has helped erase much of the “fear factor” that comes with some of the lifts – especially the snatch. You are in very capable hands at CrossFit Manassas.
The coaches are also very good at establishing a “team” atmosphere. Before joining CrossFit, I saw an online promo that said CrossFit was the sport where the loudest cheers are for those last to finish. That is so true at CrossFit Manassas. While people are at different stages of their fitness journey – no one is made to feel weak, incompetent, or “bad.” The coaches and other athletes will give you all the motivation and encouragement you need – you just have to give it all ya’ got.
There is also an abundance of equipment. Lots of bars, lots of plates, kettlebells, rowers, Airdynes (wish there were fewer of these…), etc. Anything you think to be necessary for any WOD, they have and they have plenty. The equipment is plentiful and well taken care of by both staff and athletes. The WOD area is also bright and big. It really is a beautiful place to workout. It never feels grimy or gross; the area is very well-kept. The WOD area plus the nice equipment just pumps you up and makes you want to get in there and USE it!
CrossFit Manassas is just a great place to workout and get fit. This is a gym for beginners as well as CrossFit “pros.” They have a sign above the door leading to the WOD area that says “No Egos,” because you are supposed to check your ego at the door. The members do it, too. No one is above anyone else, even though we are at different stages of our CrossFit journey. You will make friends, and you will get in shape … and then you’ll wonder why you didn’t join sooner!”
-Kim B.
“Joining CrossFit Manassas was the greatest decision I ever made. I’m a police officer and I need a fitness program that is functional for my everyday life and career. I enjoy coming to the gym and strive to give it all I have in the workout of the day. The camaraderie from the staff and members have made me hunger for fitness success. I have noticed a difference in my life and physical abilities do to the training at the gym. Crossfit is fun, educational, and challenging. I never thought I would have fun in a workout, but with Crossfit you will. The gym has top notch equipment, and the coaches are all knowledgeable and motivating. I’ve made friends, learned about the value of teamwork, and learned more than I thought possible about exercise. I would like to thank the entire staff and members for making my experience at Crossfit Manassas a life-time commitment.”
-Jason M.
“I really appreciate what you are doing for me. I like how the coaches are responsive to our individual needs and help me reach my personal goals. I appreciate the cleanliness of your gym and your up to date equipment. I have improved my power cleans by lifting 90 pounds from the trainers. I come more frequently than I did at other gyms. I like the Facebook/journal set up because it motivates me to keep track of my progress and monitor my success.”
-Kim D.
“I joined Vanguard gym a little over a year ago. Crossfit is a great general conditioning program, but there is only one reason I joined Vanguard gym: coach Doug. Before signing up I had stopped by on three different occasions to watch a class in progress; each time coach Doug was present. It was clear that he takes personal pride in everything that goes on at the gym, from the Thai boxing and jiu jitsu classes to the Crossfit and other fitness classes. He deliberately maintains a great atmosphere that supports a wide range of ages and athletic abilities, from housewives to active duty military and competitive cage fighters. At Crossfit Manassas no one should feel intimidated, but everyone is definitely challenged. More than a year later, no matter how much fitter I get it is never enough (for me) – and that it a good thing. I recommend Vanguard Gym absolutely without reservation to anyone who wants to make a commitment to getting fit and having a great time.”
— John Cary, MD
“There are three things needed for a good Crossfit Gym:
- Proper Gear
- Knowledgeable Trainers
- Motivating atmosphere
Crossfit Manassas provides all of this on a daily basis. Along with the excellent workout curriculum, the team aspect continues to motivate me to make the most gains possible. Whether you have a specific goal or are just maintaining your general fitness, Crossfit Manassas has what you need.”
— David T. Richey, 2LT, USMC








