Hammer CrossFit | Phoenix, AZ CrossFit Photographer

Three years ago I was introduced by a friend to the world of CrossFit. I was absolutely astonished by the level of determination, fitness, and team spirit that these athletes possessed.

I made the decision to visit my friend’s gym, Hammer CrossFit, and I’m so glad I did.

When I first walked into the gym, it was nothing like I expected. When you visit a traditional gym, you’re going to run into crammed parking lots, an endless sea of cardio machines, and people promising miraculous results they can’t deliver. Not to knock on traditional gyms, but I’d been there before. This was different.

Walking into Hammer CrossFit, you see bars, barbells, kettlebells, boxes, and rowing machines. You start to realize that the main machine you are going to be using is your body, and that you’re going to train it to do some pretty amazing things, like deadlift 200 lbs. I never thought I would be able to do anything like that, but CrossFit constantly challenges you to do things you might otherwise think were impossible. In fact, not only do they challenge you to do it, they flat out expect that you will and they’ll help you do it. It doesn’t matter if you can’t do a pushup or run a mile, they help you improve from where you are and constantly provide motivation and encouragement. CrossFit is for everyone. After each WOD (Work Out of the Day – they’re all different!) you may feel tired and sweaty, but you also feel confident that you just achieved something you didn’t think you could ever do. You feel pretty stinking amazing!! It’s a great feeling. 🙂

Did I also mention the feeling of comradery that exists in this gym and throughout CrossFit generally? I don’t know about you, but at other gyms, people working out don’t go out of their way to learn my name, introduce themselves, and shout encouragement to me during my workout. The people at Hammer are like family and are always there to power through a workout with you.

So, let me introduce you to the awesomeness that is Hammer CrossFit. The gym is located in Peoria, AZ and was started by husband and wife Kirez and Natasha Reynolds along with their dog Mischka (Mischka is so adorable and definitely a staple at the gym).

These two have been CrossFit coaches since 2008. They are passionate about their work with CrossFit and are constantly improving the way people view their health. They are also genuinely good people. All of the trainers at Hammer CrossFit are competent, experienced, friendly, and you’ll often find them doing the workouts right along with you. In addition to the regular schedule of classes, Hammer has a Ladies Only CrossFit Class, CrossFit Kids Class, Yoga, and Krav Maga Class. You can visit Hammer CrossFit’s site here: Hammer CrossFit

I had the opportunity to photograph at the gym and I love capturing the motion and interaction happening. There is always something different going on and it’s awesome to observe as well as participate. Take a look at some images from Hammer CrossFit on the blog: