Is this Wandsworth’s toughest gym?
A former contestant from BBC’s Special Forces: Ultimate Hell Week opened a gym based on his special forces training in Clapham Junction last week.
CrossFit Shapesmiths opened on Saturday April 23 with an impressive 250 people in attendance for the ribbon cutting and to get a taste of what to expect from gym co-owner Lee Steggles and the coaches there.
Mr Steggles took part in the BBC TV show last year where he trained with some of the hardest special forces in the world, such as the Israeli Special Forces and NAVSOG, the Philippines Special Forces.
The gym has been three years in the making and Mr Steggles was delighted his dream project was welcomed with optimism from those who came to the opening day.
“People were totally blown away with the facilities and it was just a fantastic day,” said Mr Steggles.
“The value in our gym membership is the fact you get your coach’s eyes on you all the time.
“We build a rapport with people and we really value the psychological side that comes with joining a gym.
“All coaches hone in on that and push you to get the best results.
Since opening just a week ago, 70 people have already joined the gym with gymnastic rings, pull-up racks and the like.
Invictus Games athlete Ibi Ali who lost his right arm below the elbow in Iraq, visited the gym during the week.
Mr Steggles said: “That was really cool to see and it shows that CrossFit is for anybody and anyone.
“He lost his right arm but he still gives no excuses to work as hard as he can.”
If you’re afraid of sweating then you’ll have to look elsewhere according to co-owner Richard Dean.
He said: “You have to come ready to push yourself every day, and it is very addictive.
“People who stick with it generally make it a lifestyle.”
So confident are they that you will become hooked to their re-imagination of a CrossFit gym they offer a free taster session for everybody.
You can visit their website here.
Image courtesy of CrossFit Shapesmiths, with thanks
