What is Pain Cave? The best word to describe the “Pain Cave” at CrossFit South Lamar is challenging. This class uses three major components to create a fat burning & muscle-building workout which are body weight, hand weights, and cardio. By combining these three major areas with various exercises and circuit training, how could you not leave covered in sweat
Meet the Owner: Dave Appel. He was voted one of Austin Fit Magazine’s 2014, “Best of Issue” Fitness Ambassador in Austin, TX. He’s been training and coaching for over 20 years, and that expertise shows when you take one of his classes. He believes that CrossFit has challenged him both physically and mentally, crossing boundaries between function and science. Oh he was also my trainer for the Pain Cave and absolutely destroyed me. In the best way possible (I think I was sore for like 3 days).
Ambiance. Honestly, I walked in and had no idea what I was getting myself into. There were 3 different classes going on at once and people were sweating and grunting everywhere. I feel like there’s a negative persona of CrossFit out there that people hold on to. The fact of the matter is, if the gym fits your vibes, then you’ve found your place.
I’ve been to a few studios where I’ve felt out-of-place, but CrossFit South Lamar was quite the opposite. Although I was a “noob” and had no idea what was happening, the trainers welcomed me and were excited that I was trying something new with them. Each exercise was explained and it was all about challenging yourself and encouragement from your fellow sweaty friends.
Do they have showers? No. But they make up for it with free parking along the street and in their parking lot. We all know how horrible the parking situation is here in Austin… They also have a water fountain to fill ‘er up.
What do I bring? Water bottle and yourself. It’s really that simple. No frills or fuss and they have any and all equipment needed for their workouts.
What other classes do they offer?
Crossfit: “Our specialty is not specializing.” Their program is designed to be used by any individual (regardless of experience) looking to see results and make an overall difference in their lives. Comprised of constant varied movements like pushing, pulling, squatting, lifting, etc. that are performed at high intensities.
Strength: All about that weight, baby.
Mobility: Gives athletes a break from the grind and provides a class that leads to faster recovery, improved mental strength, and overall just a better performing body. You can expect to improve flexibility, balance, body awareness, agility, alignment, and of course prevent injury.
Endurance: A 90 minute workout built to improve your overall health and exertion rate. Meaning the better your endurance, the better your ability to completely exert your body but remain active and fight fatigue for a longer period of time.
Personal Training: This is a great way to help any individual reach fitness goals while getting that extra attention to detail and accountability. Each program is designed based on the individuals own needs and goals.
Why South Lamar Crossfit?
I said it once and I’m going to say it again, AMBIANCE! Walking into a totally new scene, I didn’t feel like I was being judge, and the workout was just so amazing. I would recommend their gym to any and everyone. Finally, the people are cool, they give great workouts, and you get to feel like a badass for a day (at least that’s how I felt).
Visit their site: http://www.crossfitsouthlamar.com
Location: 2119 Goodrich Ave, Austin, TX 78704