Open Gym at Instinct Fitness: How It Works and Rules

At Instinct Fitness, our core strength lies in our Group Coaching classes. The energy, the accountability, and the direct oversight of a certified coach are unmatched. However, we also understand that your busy life, training goals, and personal schedule don’t always fit neatly into a class block.

That’s where Open Gym comes in.

Open Gym is a vital part of our training ecosystem, giving our members the flexibility and space to pursue individualised work, skill practice, or simply complete a WOD at a time that suits them. It’s the perfect supplement to your regular class attendance.

What Is Open Gym and How Does It Work?

Open Gym at Instinct Fitness is a designated block of time where the gym floor and equipment are available for unsupervised, independent training.

It is not a substitute for a structured class, but rather an opportunity for completing accessories and self-directed skill work.

1. The Schedule

We offer specific blocks throughout the week for Open Gym access. These times are carefully chosen to ensure they don’t interfere with our regularly scheduled group classes, which always take priority for space and equipment.

• Time Blocks: Open Gym is typically offered during weekdays between classes and at specific times during the weekends.

2. Access and Booking

While Open Gym is unsupervised, we still require members to reserve their spot to manage capacity and ensure a quality experience for everyone.

• Membership Required: Open Gym access is included in our unlimited memberships. Check your specific membership plan for details.
• Booking is Mandatory: You must reserve your spot in the Open Gym time slot via our scheduling app, just like you would for a class. This allows us to track attendance and prevent overcrowding in the facility.
• Check-In: When you arrive, please ensure you check in at the front desk or use the electronic check-in system so we know you’re utilising the space.

What Can You Do During Open Gym?

The freedom of Open Gym is one of its greatest benefits, allowing you to focus on specific, individualised training goals:

• Make Up a WOD: Missed the Workout of the Day (WOD) in your scheduled class? You are welcome to complete the programmed WOD during Open Gym.
• Skill Practice: Dedicate time to mastering technical movements like muscle-ups, handstand walks, double-unders, or Olympic lifting technique. This is crucial for advancing your CrossFit skills!
• Strength Work: Focus on auxiliary lifts, supplementary accessory work, or testing a new 1-Rep Max (1RM) on a specific lift.
• Personalised Programming: If you follow individualised training from an outside coach or a specialised Instinct Fitness program, Open Gym is the ideal time to execute it.

Rules of the Road: Open Gym Etiquette

To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all members utilising the space, we have a few strict guidelines for Open Gym:

1. Prioritise Group Classes: If a group class is in session, the space immediately designated for that class is off-limits. If necessary, you may be asked to consolidate your equipment or move to a different area. Always check with the coach before taking equipment from the main gym floor. Our Group Classes always takes precedence.
2. Safety First: Remember, there is no coach actively supervising you. You are responsible for your own safety and the safe execution of your movements. Never attempt a movement that is significantly outside your current skill level without direct, pre-scheduled coaching.
3. Clean Up: Put all equipment back exactly where it belongs. Re-rack weights, put away benches, and wipe down any areas you used. Leave the gym cleaner than you found it.
4. Share the Space: If the gym is busy, be courteous. Don’t hog the equipment. Be mindful of others and work in rotation.

Open Gym at Instinct Fitness is a powerful tool for the dedicated athlete. It’s an investment in your autonomy and your specific performance needs, ensuring that your commitment to fitness never stalls, regardless of your schedule.