CrossFit Rehoboth takes on new approach

CrossFit isn't necessarily what you see on TV. That's what the new owners of CrossFit Rehoboth are trying to get across as they begin their new venture.

"CrossFit the sport is much different than what we have here,” said Andrew McConnell, coach and business administrator. “There's much more of a fitness community. It's not easy and it's intense training, but there are certainly variations for every fitness level.”

McConnell recently joined the CrossFit Rehoboth team and new owners Hans Fuller and Billy Klemkowski. Prior to taking over the business, Klemkowski was a member, and he believes the business is moving in an inspiring new direction. He said the gym is very focused on individual improvement, while staying in the group setting.

“I feel fortunate that I have two of the premier fitness professionals and trainers in this area who are helping all our athletes,” he said.

Fuller has been training full time since graduating high school five years ago. He said shortly after graduation, he bought a gym membership and has been working out five to six days a week ever since.

“I joke with everybody who comes in here that I'm the product of the fitness environment,” he said. “I'm 22 years old and titled as business owner. Being put in that leadership role just demonstrates what someone can do if they have their mind together.”

The extreme passion for fitness doesn't waver with McConnell, who graduated from The College of New Jersey with a degree in business administration. Prior to CrossFit Rehoboth, he worked two years at The Firm as a manager and trainer. He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and has achieved Levels 1 and 2 of the prestigious Gym Jones training program.

For new clients, Fuller suggests they come into the gym and briefly talk about the CrossFit program. Then, he said, they recommend a one-hour orientation program that familiarizes clients with proper form and other basics. After that, he said, clients are thrown into the mix.

“The best thing to do is introduce you into the classroom because you're going to learn faster being surrounded by people who are doing it correctly,” he said.

In that setting, Klemkowski said, members will find encouragement and camaraderie from fellow athletes. He said the group approach has developed a tight-knit community, one that has spawned many friendships outside the gym setting.

But to do that, Fuller said, people have to first walk through the door, which can often be the hardest part. He said people need to realize not everyone will be an expert their first day.

“For all of us, it's going from crawling to sprinting,” he said. “It doesn't matter where you're starting or where you plan to go, there's a place here for you.”

He used Klemkowski as an example. Klemkowski is the owner of Jake's Seafood, with two locations in the Cape Region. Despite the time required to successfully run his restaurants, he still finds time to make it to the gym several times a week.

“He's got every excuse to not workout,” Fuller said. “He has this, that and the other, but if he has time for this, what's to say you don't have time for this?”

CrossFit Rehoboth is on Oyster House Road, parallel to Route 1, across from Big Fish Grill and Arena's. Since taking over, the new owners have upgraded the gym with new equipment and other amenities.

Various levels of membership are available, including an unlimited monthly membership for $135. While it may seem expensive, Fuller said, he believes clients get their money's worth.

“We're excited to be able to offer this service to people,” he said. “We really want people to take advantage of what they're going to get relative to price.”

For more information about CrossFit Rehoboth, go to www.crossfitrehoboth.com or call 302-227-3636.