1. Be Prepared to Try Some Out
Nothing beats firsthand experience. Drop in for a class—ideally at the time you’d normally attend—and then again during their busiest session. Observe how the coaches interact with athletes and how the community engages. The website might showcase certifications and accolades, but coaching quality reveals itself on the floor. Ask yourself:
- Are the coaches engaged?
- Do they give individualized attention?
- Are they invested in every athlete’s progress?
A couple of sessions should be enough to reveal if the coaching culture is dialed in—or dialed out.
2. Peek Behind the Programming Curtain
Politely ask the head coach or owner (they’re often the same person) where you can review the gym’s programming. Not to dissect their periodization strategy, but to see if their style suits you. Programming often mirrors the coach’s background—whether that’s Olympic lifting, competitive CrossFit, powerlifting, or military-inspired training. None of these are inherently good or bad, but they will shape your daily experience. Make sure the vibe matches your goals.
3. Check Out the Community
If the gym has a member spotlight page or social media presence, browse around. You’ll get a feel for who trains there and how active the community is. Whether you’re looking for a tight-knit social crew or just a spot to put your head down and work, this matters.
And yes, even details like music can matter more than you’d think. If every drop-in class is scored to late-90s boy bands, you better hope you’re a fan—or bring headphones.
4. Class Flow & Structure
Some affiliates run tight, structured classes with clear timelines and coach-led transitions. Others have a looser flow with more autonomy. Watch how a class moves:
- Is there a group warm-up?
- Do coaches demo and explain movements?
- Are there clear start and end times?
Also, notice if members hang out and chat after class or immediately bolt. That post-WOD camaraderie can be a big part of the magic.
5. Logistics Matter Too
Check the class schedule, open gym availability, and amenities. If you train before work, make sure there’s a shower. If you like doing extra lifting or skill work, confirm they allow training outside of class. Many affiliates are moving to a “class-only” model, so don’t assume open gym is included.
Final Thought:
You’re not just choosing a gym—you’re choosing a community, a coaching style, and a daily ritual. Take the time to look beyond the branding. A good affiliate should not only challenge you but also support you in ways certifications can’t quantify.
WODsource 
Leave a comment