by David Calderon

Nestled in 98118, a zip code known for its diversity, sits a small unassuming modular building, a structure that’s home to RHF CrossFit. RHF CrossFit is part of Rainier Health and Fitness (RHF), a non-profit gym that aims to provide affordable access to a high quality fitness center. RHF accomplishes this mission by working with members in a case-by-case basis to ensure sign up fees are affordable and offer volunteer opportunities in exchange for membership.

CrossFit is known for attracting—and primarily being accessible—to higher earning, predominantly white, fitness enthusiasts. In contrast, RHF CrossFit members represent the 98118 community. Attend any of the 20+ classes that they offer each week and you’ll see people from all over the globe represented within the gym. In keeping with Rainier Health & Fitness’s goal of providing affordable access, membership at RHF CrossFit includes full access to Rainier Health & Fitness and all its amenities (free childcare and access to group classes such as yoga, ZUMBA fitness, cycling, etc.). At a rate of $90 per month and unlimited access to attend classes 5 days a week, RHF CrossFit is one of the most affordable deals for CrossFit anywhere that doesn’t compromise on quality and offers extra perks to the community.

8 Week Paleo Challenge

Speaking of perks, in conjunction with an upcoming Paleo Challenge, RHF CrossFit is inviting both their members and community the opportunity to take part in an affordable 8 week Paleo Challenge that kicks off September 15, 2014. During the 8 weeks, participants will:

• Take body measurements, weigh in and perform 3 standardized workouts (scaled for appropriate skill levels)
• Conduct performance workouts
• Track participants’ diets—offering new recipes and opportunities to share experiences with others in the challenge

As one of the Paleo Challenge’s co-founders Danny Putnam noted, participants experience this life-transforming 8 weeks alongside a group of teammates, which alone provides extra motivation—we’re stronger when working on goals together! Registration for the challenge is just $50 and includes a challenge t-shirt plus opportunities to win loads of prizes (go to http://www.lurongliving.com/challenge/register to register and select “RHF CrossFit as your gym).

In conjunction with the challenge, Rainier Health & Fitness is offering a once-in-a-lifetime special to anyone who is new to RHF CrossFit and signs up for the challenge: 8 weeks of RHF CrossFit for $100. That’s $30/month for the gym membership plus $20/month for CrossFit. Contact David (dcalderon@rainierhealth.com) if you have additional questions.

David Calderon is a graduated of San Jose State University with a Bachelors of Science in Nutritional Science with a concentration in Dietetics. He’s also the CrossFit trainer at Rainier Health & Fitness.