Why I Started CrossFit Rx
We’ll…. I didn’t start it, lol. When I became a co-owner of CrossFit Rx in 2020, it wasn’t a solo venture. My business partner, Michael King, remains an active and integral part of our success, and together we have worked to build on the incredible legacy of this gym during challenging times like the pandemic. This gym already had a rich history and an incredible legacy that we were eager to preserve and grow.
The History of CrossFit Rx
CrossFit Rx was established in 2007 by Laura (whose last name escapes me) and her husband. They later sold the gym to Michael King and Kelly Levens around 2011 when they moved to Ohio to create Outlaw. Michael and Kelly took what was already a strong foundation and transformed CrossFit Rx into a competitive and vibrant community. Under their leadership, the gym reached the CrossFit Games in 2013 and 2014, attracting big names like Emily Bridgers. Emily, who later opened Terminus with her husband Ben, initially wanted to create a competitive program within Rx. However, Michael and Kelly encouraged her to pursue her dream of opening her own gym. Their supportive approach ensured that even as paths diverged, friendships remained intact, and competition stayed friendly.
My Introduction to CrossFit
I joined the CrossFit community through BTB (Build Train Become) in Buckhead, owned by Jeff and Melissa Hayes. Fun fact: BTB was the second CrossFit gym in Atlanta, following CrossFit Atlanta, with Rx and others coming soon after. What drew me in was the incredible sense of community. Unlike traditional gyms where I’d spend time waiting for machines or getting distracted by my phone, CrossFit provided a structured and engaging experience. I didn’t have to think about what workout to do—it was all there for me.
Coach Mike Shoenig introduced me to the fundamentals during a Dynamics class in 2011. That foundational training set the stage for an incredible journey. Six months later, after achieving my first muscle-up, I decided to take my Level 1 certification at East Decatur. There, I encountered some of the OGs of CrossFit: Shana Alverson, Chuck Carswell, Christmas Abbott, Leah Polaski and many others. These experiences solidified my passion for CrossFit and its culture.
Building Our Vision
When Michael and I continued the journey with CrossFit Rx, we brought a shared vision shaped by years of being part of various CrossFit communities. One thing I noticed early on was how gyms often felt like high school—with cliques and groups forming naturally. While camaraderie is wonderful, we wanted to ensure that our gym fostered inclusivity. It was important to us that everyone felt welcome, no matter their background or social group. Our goal was to create a space where people could escape the chaos of the world, focus on their fitness, and build meaningful connections. As Michael once said, we want our members to have the best hour of their day. This message aligns with the mission of others in the CrossFit community, and we’re proud to share and embody it.
Our Unique Approach
Several core values guide CrossFit Rx today:
Flexibility and Transparency: We don’t lock members into contracts. Our memberships are flexible, allowing people to adjust plans, cancel, or put their accounts on hold as needed. This ensures we’re the right fit for each other.
Hiring Philosophy: While athletic skill is impressive, it’s not our priority when hiring coaches. We look for individuals who are passionate, empathetic, and dedicated to helping our members achieve their goals. A great vibe and genuine care for others matter more than a 300-pound snatch.
Accountability: Owning the gym has held us accountable for our own fitness and health. It’s a daily reminder to walk the talk and prioritize well-being.
Reflecting on the Journey
The past five years have been an incredible journey. While our numbers are still recovering from pre-COVID levels, we’re proud that CrossFit Rx remains financially healthy. More importantly, we’re grateful for the amazing community we’ve built. This gym is more than a business—it’s a home for people to grow stronger, both physically and mentally.
As we move forward, our commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and thriving environment remains steadfast. We’re excited for what the future holds and grateful for everyone who has been part of this journey.
