CrossFit 696

Lisa, for my second time going to a class I thoroughly enjoyed the energy, motivation and passion you brought with you. Kept me going til the end, even when I was feeling like cutting it back towards the end. Thank you!

Chris is always upbeat and motivating in every session. He comes up with more ways to strengthen abs than anybody I’ve ever met - whether it’s through targeted planks, dynamic leg raises, or creative core circuits that keep each workout fresh and challenging. I could say a lot about this gym, but mostly it just makes me better. From the moment I walk in, the energy is contagious, and there’s a constant flow of encouragement that pushes me to keep going even when I want to quit. The coaches’ expertise shines through in how they adjust movements to fit my level and check my form to make sure I’m getting the most out of every rep. Plus, the fun vibe keeps it from feeling like a chore - it’s a place where hard work and enjoyment go hand in hand. As long as you show up, you will never be disappointed! The combination of energy, encouragement, expertise, and fun at CrossFit 696 is something you have to experience to understand.

Absolutely wonderful! Looking forward to more classes with her!

This was my first time coming and I was impressed with the professionalism and the attention given to me to make sure I could handle the exercises that were being done or if I needed to to them different. Going again on Thursday. Hope I have the same coach

Ryan was straightforward but humble about the exercises. He welcomed us newcomers on bring a friend week and didn’t appear to impact the exercises of the tenured folks. Long story short, we felt like we had been exercising with the rest of the group all along. As an instructor and former athlete it was great to see the “tell em what you’re gonna tell em, show em what you told em, now have them do what you told em and showed em” methodology. The course corrections and feedback were also concise but non-judgemental so you addressed the behavior and kept moving through. Highly recommend Ryan for newcomers and I’m sure the veterans would say the same for them.

First lesson, Marianne was excellent. Made me feel comfortable within the class and gave great instruction on how to do the exercises. Great class!! Thank you!

Rachel is a wonderful coach, and I love spending my early Monday mornings with her at CrossFit 696. She brings such upbeat and motivating energy that it immediately lifts the whole room. Throughout the class, she carefully watches everyone’s form and effort, making sure no one gets left behind or pushes too hard. When she sees someone struggling or needing a change, she offers clear modifications that fit their level perfectly. At the same time, she knows exactly when to encourage me to push beyond what I thought I could do, helping me improve without feeling overwhelmed. Her balance of motivation and attention makes those early mornings something I actually look forward to.

Appreciate the positivity and support!!

You are da’ bomb 😁 Boxing lesson next time!

I absolutely love the way you make each of us in class feel important and that we can achieve what we might feel as impossible. I've attempted to try things id never try to do on my own. I still have a long way to go but im very happy with classes and training.

Always a great start to the day with Chris coaching. Great warm up and prep for the workout, and motivation to work through all the movements with confidence and correct form.

Marianne was awesome and made me feel so welcomed dropping in!

Great experience, friendly and welcoming environment. Informative coaching that was lively. Made the class fun and energetic. Will be back every time we visit. Thank you for the great experience.

Lisa was so welcoming from the moment I walked in, which immediately made me feel comfortable in a new environment. She led the class with clear, easy-to-follow instructions and demonstrated each exercise herself, so I knew exactly what to do. Throughout the workout, she noticed when someone needed extra guidance or a modification and offered helpful adjustments without making it feel awkward. The energy in the class was positive and motivating, and Lisa’s encouragement kept me focused even when the exercises got tough. I left feeling accomplished and looking forward to coming back for more. This kind of teaching makes CrossFit 696 stand out as a place where you’re supported and challenged in the best way.

Class was great today, as usual Matt was fired up, ready to motivate funny at times and fun in general. He was specific on exercises, gave plenty of options for ways to do the day’s exercises. At the end of the day I had a great work out

Class with Coach Chris is always so fun! He makes us laugh and also makes sure we are challenging ourselves. A couple days ago I was getting frustrated with myself, he immediately saw that on my face and made sure to make me feel 100% better about it and was just so encouraging. Can’t recommend CrossFit 696 enough, it’s more than just a gym, it’s life changing.

Lisa is awesome! She takes the time to explain each movement clearly and offers helpful tips on improving form, which really boosts my confidence during workouts. From the moment I walk in, she’s welcoming, making the gym feel like a friendly community rather than just a workout space. Her knowledge shows in how she adjusts exercises to fit my level, ensuring I’m challenged but never overwhelmed. Because of her guidance, I’ve noticed steady progress and feel more motivated every session. It’s that combination of support and expertise at CrossFit 696 that makes coming here so rewarding.

Fantastic, couldn’t have a more supportive group of coaches!

Lisa is very knowledgeable, funny and is a strong leader!

Good class today. I like how you jump in when trainees are coaching to move and motivate us then you explain to them quietly why you did it! Always motivated in your class even when I don't have it together you get me through it!! I've said it many times I wouldn't be where I am without Fitness Concepts and 696!! Thanks to all coaches!!

Class with Chris is always great! I especially appreciate his positive energy, how he encourages each and every person in class, helps with making adjustments to form and setting goals and expectations for the workout!

Always encouraging. Always comes up with great ideas to help me with my short comings.

Coach Matt is always so motivating during classes at CrossFit 696. He keeps the energy high and encourages everyone to push through even when the workout gets tough. Throughout the class, he is constantly providing constructive feedback - whether it’s helping me adjust my form on a lift or suggesting a better pacing strategy during the WOD. I really appreciate how he notices the small details, like when my technique starts to slip and steps in with clear, practical advice that helps me improve right away. He’s one of my favorites regarding his coaching style because he balances pushing you to do your best with making sure you feel confident and safe. Being in his class leaves me feeling challenged but accomplished every time.

Yay! Rachael is the best. She always comes to class with the best attitude and brings the good vibes. She helped me learn to climb the rope and I couldn’t have done it without her coaching. Keep being awesome! 😊

Awesome awesomeness as always! Thank you Mare!

I had a great class...im new and Jay was very aware of that and helped me out a lot, he's a great trainer!

Marianne is a motivating, attentive, and compassionate coach. She consistently notices when my form starts to slip and gently guides me back to proper technique, which has helped me improve. She checks in during workouts to see how I’m feeling and adjusts the movements or weights to fit my energy level that day. Her encouragement pushes me to keep going. Marianne’s genuine care and support are a big part of why I have stuck with CrossFit for 5 years at CrossFit 696 - she makes every session feel challenging but achievable, and I always leave feeling stronger and more confident.

Great class today. Love how helpful and friendly everyone is. No complaints about anything with CrossFit so far!

Lisa was very attentive and encouraging during my class! She helped me improve my form for the overhead lift we were doing so that I could exercise more efficiently and safely. She’s very knowledgeable and broke down the mechanics of the lifting form so that it was accessible for me. It was a great class!

Patrick was attentive, knowledgeable, and encouraging!

I was amazed at how Chris could really keep his eye on everyone and help tailor the exercises to each individual need. He checked on me regularly and I was never confused and I could see he was also doing that for everyone else. I felt challenged but not overwhelmed - it was perfect!

“Open the window!” It was one of the best cues I’ve ever heard and one that will stick with me when snatching a KB. Pat brings so much passion and energy to coaching that it makes it fun for all.

I just wanted to share how much I enjoyed Coach Ryan’s class — it was fantastic! He’s incredibly knowledgeable about Zone 2 training and really helped us understand the benefits for both muscular and cardiovascular endurance. The class was not only informative but also motivating. I left feeling stronger, more energized, and excited to keep improving. I can’t wait for next Sunday’s session!

Ryan did great coaching! He was engaging and supportive. Any suggestions to form were very kind. Lifting safety was a top priority and he was very encouraging!

Coach Matt 5:15 FITedge class: what stood out to me was sense of humor and the coach using our names during the class and while giving feedback. It creates a personal connection and made the instruction feel more individualized but also engages the class as a whole.

I always enjoy Matt’s class - he gives great instruction, is motivating, and makes class fun!

Great class. Chris helped me keep the bar closer during my squat cleans. I felt the improvement almost instantly. Thanks!

Class was run well as is typical! They’re is a lot going on and Jason keeps it going explaining and adjusting program as needed to fit the people,how many and level of conditioning people are in. Hard to do

Your class is always filled with energy and good vibes! Loved it- great way to start a Monday! Thank you!💕

My experience was amazing. Chris made me feel welcomed and like a hero for being there. The whole team welcomed me. I am way out of shape and not able to keep up the way I would like to, but within just a few minutes at the class all my insecurities went away and I had a great time. I left there feeling amazing, physically, mentally and emotionally. This is a great group, and I will be back.

Coach Eric is awesome! He’s so knowledgeable about everything especially Olympic weightlifting. He’s more than happy to help you when you need it, always correcting people to help them become better Crossfitters. I highly recommend taking his class!!

Awesome job

Always a great class when Chris is coaching.

Brandy’s Functional Training is a great class! She is very knowledgeable and watches for proper form or where I need to take an option. I truly enjoy this class!

Always love Mares classes ❤️

I really appreciate the adaptive resources provided and continued support.

Coach Chris suggested not going for a 1 rep, but doing 3-5 reps well. Great advice after being away for awhile.

Love the Olympic weightlifting class. Rachael provides great feedback in a thoughtful, easy to understand way. I feel like my form and lifts have improved dramatically as a result of her coaching!

I always know I’m in for a great class when Rachael walks in. Smooth flow and beyond encouraging. Set your clock for 5:15 on Mondays and see what you’re missing! You won’t be disappointed.

Excellent energy and coaching, and the play list was the bomb!! We were dancing during our rest, amazing way to start the day

I felt like he paid attention to me and I found his comments helpful. I tried to focus on doing what he said.

Amazing!! 🤩 Always helpful, informative and inspiring!!

Helpful coaching, super friendly and encouraging!

I had an amazing workout with you today. It was a very well rounded routine.I learned some new exercises/ techniques. Looking forward to training with you again. Thanks Matt!

Mare always makes class Enjoyable and I never leave there gym without a huge smile on my face! Laughing my way through class even on the hard days, she has some of the best energy!

Eric works hard in the Olympic Lift class to make sure your technique is correct. He gives pointers and feedback allowing you to build on your lifts. He gives adequate time to warm up and explain the workouts

She's always awesome! Lisa is so accommodating to everyone's particular needs. She provides great feedback, encouragement, and genuinely cares. Everyone here does. I could write this same review about all the coaches.

Excellent coaching per usual! 😊

Great class as always!

After being away on vacation for a week, I expected my usual struggle to get back into the gym. But I missed the energy, the structure, and the push that comes with being around the 696 community. The first workout back felt so good to sweat, move, and get back into a routine. There’s nothing like that post-workout feeling to reset the mind and body. Grateful to be back and for the encouragement from the amazing Coaching !

Chris always explains things really well and keeps a good eye on everyone, helping people work on their form and encouraging safety. The warmups are always great prep for the workouts, and he brings great energy to his training.

Holy crap, Tanya kicked my butt! I was not expecting such an aggressive workout but man, glad I showed up. Tanya was always offering modifications when she saw me struggling and it really helped. Can’t wait for the next one!!

Coach Jason is fun, super approachable and tailor-made a workout to accommodate my physical limitations during class.

Positive way to start a difficult week.

Colleen is a very relatable energetic coach. Colleen had modifications available and explained WOD well demonstrated each movement and gave encouragement throughout the WOD.

As a newbie, Coach Jason made me feel welcome from the start! Supportive and encouraging to help me push myself to my potential! 🙂

Big thank you to Coach Colleen! I am recovering from a hand injury and she guided me with perfect modifications to ensure I still had a great workout. Not only did she guide me at the beginning but checked with me throughout the workout to make sure I was good. Afterwards we spoke about what I can do ongoing to keep up with proper movements as I work my way back. I feel she truly cares about my well being.

Tanya did great. Got me through all the movements while making sure I did them all correctly.

Patrick was amazing! Loved the training session.

Coach Kiwi never disappoints!!

Is A mazing

Rachael was so great, super motivating and encouraging 😊 Looking forward to more classes !

She’s such a badass coach! And I like the way she explains proper techniques, super helpful!

Coach Matt Cali is amazing! So professional and motivating with a touch of sarcastic humor to make it fun and almost make you forget you’re working out. Highly recommend!

Amazing she’s the best good energy

I honestly love going to this gym. The coaches want you to succeed. I've been to other gyms, planet fitness in the past, did taekwondo. I did not enjoy going to the gym and taekwondo was not something I enjoyed doing once my friends stopped going. I was judged by others at planet fitness and taekwondo. This gym is clean, thats a plus. The coaches want to help. My oldest daughter and my youngest daughter also go to this gym. We have nothing but positive things to say about this gym. Thank you!

Rachel is super motivating! She is supportive and gives individual guidance. There’s no judgement for modifications. I really look forward to her classes!

Rachel is awesome. Very clear instructions about the routine anbd willing to say it more than once. She also walked around to check form and give little pep talks to keep me motivated.

He always has his head on swivel. Great coach

Pat is simply awesome. The guy is an absolute machine but is modest about it most of the time. He is a great coach, he modifies movements to make them acceptable for me. The guy will even go over movements at the end of class with me. Of course all the coaches are fantastic!

I am always amazed at how this class is run .The coaches are always there to help out and make your experience the best that your ability is .They are always pushing me to my exercise ability. I absolutely recommend trying this class or just the gym .Very friendly and your like family ,we welcome any one don't be afraid .It's your health...

Great! Very helpful.

enthusiastic

Awesome class. Shaina was effective in teaching to my level (very beginner) and helping me to use good form and stay safe through my workout. She kept the energy positive and gave encouraging feedback throughout the class.

Thorough and patient, fast tempo, coming back!

Dropped into CrossFit during Bring a Friend Week and had the pleasure of being coached by Chris C. Thankful he took the time to check form on a movement I’ve never done and made it click so that it was a smooth movement. I appreciate that Chris kept the energy high and fun while also making sure the work was being done correctly.

Instructed me on how to use the machines, checked in, and gave words of encouragement.

Colleen was great! Safety first

Ryan was awesome! He was very attentive and gave me great pointers on how to make my deadlifts better - I really appreciated the feedback

Chris seemed experienced and knowledgeable. Class atmosphere was very welcoming and supportive. Workout was challenging and felt great!

Thankful for the motivation and clear workout instructions from Chris. He gave helpful suggestions for scaled work as needed. Great experience!

Very supportive and knowledgeable!

She was great. Kept the circuit going smoothly.

Chris was great explaining everything and keeping the motivation up.

First class with pat was tonight. I loved it you can feel the passion he has for crossfit and the members. Always pushing you to find that extra that everybody had inside them. #RicFlair wohoooo

Rachael was awesome! I’m super thankful for her coaching, encouragement, and pointers throughout the workout!

Rachael was a great instructor very helpful seeing it was my first experience she spent the time I needed to go over any issues I was having.

Great first day back - thank you!

Amazing!!

They did really good

Having Matt Cali as a coach has been a total game changer. His positive energy is absolutely contagious, making it a healing environment both physically and mentally. It sets the tone for the entire class, every time. He knows how to motivate each individual person in their own way, understanding each person operates differently and has their owns goals. He always knows the type of support to apply that gets you to push just a little bit harder, with a mutual commitment of helping you become the best version of yourself— both inside and outside of the gym. This comes naturally to him. He has a way of making each and every person feel seen, supported and valued, no matter their fitness level or where they are in their own journey. He truly is everyone’s biggest fan. His guidance, encouragement, and genuine enthusiasm create such a motivating environment. Honestly, having him coach is always the best part of the class. The gym just wouldn’t be the same without him.

Lisa always does a great job at engaging with each athlete and ensuring they understand the proper movements and how to scaled based on the individual’s capabilities. Keep it up coach! 👊🏻

First time back here in a few years, she was super nice and made me feel comfortable!

Very good job. Detail orientated. Good observation. Pretty straightforward. Good attitude.

Tj was fantastic and did a great job explaing the workout and running class.

Always keeps us moving

Eric is the best! Always so helpful and keeps you motivated throughout the workouts.

Coach Colleen is motivating, knowledgeable, and supportive, making every workout both challenging and fun. She pay close attention to form and technique, ensuring everyone trains safely and effectively. I’ve seen real progress since joining, and their energy is part of the reason why I keep coming back every week.

It’s not necessarily a programmed class but pat

Great coaching. Took time to understand any isses I had and made a plan that I could execute. Look forward to the next class!

Coach Chris is hands down one of the best trainers I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with! He brings a rare blend of deep physiological knowledge and genuine compassion to every session. You can tell he truly cares about your progress and well-being. I highly recommend him to anyone serious about their health and fitness.

Mare is absolutely amazing! She’s your biggest cheerleader and can brighten anyone’s mood! Her knowledge is unmatched! Love taking her classes 🤍

Shaina was wonderful! She is always very encouraging and helpful if you need to make a modification to the workout.

I took my first CrossFit class with Chris which was the first real workout that I’ve done in three years. Chris helped me along the way, made me feel so comfortable and welcomed in the class. I definitely look forward to taking more classes with him!

This was my first session today at this gym, and I had a great time! The community is awesome, and Coach Chris was very encouraging. I appreciated that he helped tweak technique and made sure to check in with everyone throughout the workout.

Right amount of feedback and meeting me where I'm at. Positive gym environment. Great vibe.

She was great and very knowledgeable about the stretches and warm ups which all correlated and carried over to the WOD.

Jay was very friendly and knowledgeable. Anyone that had difficulty with completing a task, he had alternates available for them. He was able to answers questions in a professional manner. It was a pleasure to have him as a coach and I look forward to seeing him in future fit edge classes.

Matt Cali always coaches one heck of a fitedge class. Super fun and beneficial. The whole 696 community is nothing but amazing.

The class was structured very well and the coach’s instructions were very clear and helpful

I had an incredible experience at the Saturday CrossFit class led by Coach Lisa! The class, which normally draws 25-40 energetic participants, was a perfect blend of intense workouts and a fun, supportive atmosphere. Lisa’s leadership is truly admirable—she keeps everyone on track, ensures proper form, and makes sure that each person is both challenged and safe. This past weekend, Coach Lisa co-coached with Shaina, and together they absolutely killed it. Their teamwork created an environment where everyone felt motivated, welcomed, and ready to push their limits. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to CrossFit, Lisa’s ability to command a crowd while keeping the energy high and smiles on everyone’s faces makes her class a must-attend. Highly recommend her sessions for anyone looking for a great workout and a fantastic community spirit!

Rachael is amazing. It is hard to imagine being so good at something so young. I only reference her age because the ability to "command a room" with 20-25 type A personalities who are easily two/three times her senior is usually only reserved for those who have "done it longer." This is not the case with Rachael. Although I have only been an active member of FC for three months, my professional experience tells me she is an effective coach/teacher because she has put a tremendous amount of time and energy to learn her craft and is passionate about what she is doing and exudes a quiet confidence that are beyond her years. Her ability to communicate to various skill levels in a manner they will understand and execute is off the charts. I only wish we could clone her to work with students who have difficulty with math!! :)

Attending a class that Chris teaches is always 5/5. He’s knowledgeable and explains things perfectly.

Lisa is amazing, I loved training with her today, I was very nervous and insecure because it was my first day, she welcomed me very well and had a lot of patience, the training was amazing, I would recommend 1000 more times

Great class…..lots of energy!

Marianne gave me some great pointers during class. I could immediately feel the difference when I corrected my form.

Coach Lisa, best coach ever!

Monday Mornings with Rachael are the best way to start the week. If we ever miss a Monday we always feel like our week didn't start off on the right foot. Her positive energy and motivation always has you leaving in a good mood and ready for the week. Her warm ups and knowledge of the work outs and modifications are top notch! #fitegdgesandwich

Calm, clear, concise coaching and wicked supportive

Coach Lisa is so kind and helpful. I'm new to classes and she helped me with all the activities especially those involving coordination.

As always Coach Lisa was awesome and the programming was great she gave great cues and scaling options.

Coach Presto is the best!! Good energy, good music, always a fun time and a great workout!

Coach Tonya was great!!

Coach Coleen makes going to the gym a little easier. She makes class fun.

Great as always! Love when he coaches

Mondays with Coach Rachel is the best way to start the week! She is unbelievably motivating and positive. She has great alternatives if you are having trouble and is just an all around wonderful human.

Excellent class, I really appreciate it when we can spend time on strength and not feel rushed like it’s a metcon, today was perfect 😁

Good, long workout.

Coach Lisa is awesome, i had a great time in class tonight.

Class was amazing. Very upbeat and energized. Coach Colleen definitely knows how to run a large class efficiently.

Marianne was great! She immediately welcomed me in and walked me through what today’s class was going to look like and made sure to check on me throughout.

Great job! Great instruction and form correction and a tough class!

Chris did great at managing the large class size well.

Great class. Good feedback and coaching, will definitely be back.

I think Emily is a great coach!

Chris did an excellent job and is very informative. He encourages individuals to reach their full potential. Great job Chris! it was a pleasure to work with you again;)

Always a good class with Coach Chris!

Kiwi is a great coach definitely enjoy working with him

Class was great today, I felt very welcomed, thank you so much 😊

Class with Mike is always great. He is detailed in his instructions and always takes time during class to make on the spot corrections if I am performing a movement incorrectly which is much appreciated.

Chris did a great job today providing modifications for my first Crossfit class. I left motivated to continue progress at my next session!

Chris did an awesome job. Thanks coach

Fast paced and fun. Just what I like about CrossFit. The gym is lovely and cleaner than most boxes I’ve been to! I can’t wait to try other classes!

So great! Very informative and great explanations of the moves.

As always, the instruction is amazing and makes me feel comfortable with every move I make at the gym. The instructor is very knowledgeable and attentive to everyone. I had no idea he could do that—he’s truly remarkable. Thank you for everything you do for us; I really appreciate it.

Racheal is the such a positive, encouraging coach and it is always a fun class with her! Her knowledge helps to tailor each workout to exactly what I need!

Rachael was so great! My first CrossFit class had me a little nervous and Racheal definitely made me feel welcome right away. She was kind, helpful, and motivating!

Class full of great energy and great music! Love classes every Friday with coach Chris.

Amazing as always

This was my first time doing a complex movement (snatch). Chris simplified it for me in a way that I could properly perform the movement in 10 mins. Chris’ knowledge and experience is exactly what u was needed for my first time doing CrossFit. I’m excited to continue training with Chris and the great member of CrossFit 696.

Mare led the class with energy and enthusiasm and made this an awesome experience for my very first time taking the 8am class! Even though I didn’t know anyone, she made sure to include me and ensured I had everything I needed to get started. I felt welcome by the 8am community and even though I was modifying all the movements due to an injury, I still got a great workout and left with a huge smile on my face knowing I could tackle the rest of my day and anything that life might throw at me because I made my health a priority and showed up despite not being at my best. I’ve been a member for 9 years and I’m still meeting new people every day. The community at 696 is unmatched in the greater north central Massachusetts area and it shows in how this gym invests in its coaches, facility, and members. Whether it’s fitness, nutrition, competitions, personal training, or general wellness and mindset coaching, these guys have got the area covered. Thanks, Mare, for an awesome class and thank you 696 for offering everything your community could ever need!

Always love Matt's classes!

I felt challenged in today’s class, as usual :) I lack coordination so it takes me many tries sometimes to catch on to (new to me) moves. Jason is always patient w/me and helpful. Great coach!

Chris is an amazing coach. He checks on everyone and gives feedback to everyone, no matter their ability level.

Coach Rachel is always attentive and makes the class fun!

Matt is so motivating, and FUNNY! A laugh always helps when you’re trying to catch your breath. Helps keep me smiling through the struggle!

Always makes class fun

Coach Lisa was amazing as always. Her warm ups are thorough and thoughtfully planned out to warm up our muscles for the work we will be completing today. She is always positive and yet always pushes us to be our best for this given day.

Colleen is a great coach, no BS, and pays attention to your form

Great!

Coach

Coach Rachel does a fabulous job with coaching. Rachel pays attention to newer persons in the box and gives them many options so they can not only feel comfortable, they also get a great workout 🏋️‍♀️!! Rachel also keeps an eye on every one in the class to make sure we’re getting it done right ✔️

Tyler was attentive and thorough. Great coach.

Matt was on top of his game even when the regulars messed with him a bit about turning 40. He is a rock star. Happy birthday as well

Coach Skylar. Gave clear instructions on all the different techniques and workouts. Gave me pointers on how to keep a good form. Was patient with me. Class was fun and challenging. Thank you.

Good workout! Got my first double under with some coaching by Chris!

Amazing class and energy as always!

Matt is motivational and makes the work out fun. He pushes me to my full potential. No better feeling then leaving there sweaty 😅