Stay Open. Stay Curious.
- Keith E. Knapp

- Sep 12
- 3 min read

Sometimes, we get a glimpse of a version of ourselves that feels just slightly out of reach. Stronger. Healthier. More confident. And in that moment—whether we realize it or not—we have a choice.
We can turn away and decide, “That’s not me.”Or, we can stay curious and ask, “What if it could be?”
This week, dozens of new faces walked through our doors, many for the very first time. They stepped into unfamiliar movements, new terminology, and a community that’s already running. That’s not easy. But it’s the first step toward something powerful.
If that was you—thank you for coming, but—don’t turn away too quickly.If you felt something here—possibility, energy, connection—don’t assume it was a one-time thing. This isn’t a test you pass or fail. It’s a process of discovery.
We’ve seen lives changed because someone was willing to come back one more time.Stay curious. Keep showing up. See what happens when you give a possible future the chance to become real.
Bring-a-Friend Week Was a Hit—Let’s Keep the Energy Up
More than 30 guests signed up for Bring-a-Friend Week—and the energy was electric. Whether it was someone’s first time lifting a barbell or rolling their eyes about a coach calling burpees a gift (yes, that happened), the vibe in the gym was everything we believe fitness should be: inclusive, challenging, and fun.
Now, here’s the challenge: let’s not let that momentum fade.If your friend loved class, invite them to join officially this week. Remind them: they can do this. And we’ll help every step of the way.
Build. Refine. Endure.
This week we launched a 9-week Strength Cycle—and it’s not just about getting stronger (though that’s definitely part of it). This cycle is about building a complete foundation: better movement, greater muscle endurance, and smarter performance under fatigue.
Whether you're a seasoned member or a brand-new friend coming off Bring-a-Friend Week, this is the perfect time to start showing up consistently.
Here’s what you can expect week to week:
Two-Week Waves of Focus
Each block of the cycle rotates between:
Volume + Control WeeksHigh-rep sets of squats, bench press, and deadlifts designed to build muscle endurance, reinforce movement patterns, and increase your capacity under fatigue. Think: 8–12 reps per set. You’ll feel the burn—and you’ll build lasting strength.
Power + Intensity WeeksLower-rep lifts like cleans, front squats, and push presses that dial up speed, coordination, and explosive strength. These workouts challenge your nervous system and improve how forcefully (and safely) you move a barbell.
By alternating these two styles, we’re developing both strength capacity and dynamic athleticism.
What We’re Building Toward
This entire cycle is leading to two key benchmarks:
10-Rep Tests: How well can you move under fatigue, maintain form, and push through mental limits?
5-Rep Maxes: A true test of strength, consistency, and control under load.
Expect these tests in early November—so the work you put in now will directly shape what you're capable of then.
How to Approach It
Pick a focus: Is this the cycle where you dial in movement quality? Or where you build consistency in your attendance? Maybe it’s time to tackle your fear of heavier loads or test your engine with high-volume sets. Choose a lane—and track it.
Recovery matters: Don’t sleep on sleep. This volume is designed to challenge you—but only if you’re also recovering smart. Prioritize rest, fueling, and mobility.
Scaling is strength: Every lift, rep range, and focus point in this cycle has a version for you. Don’t be afraid to scale to move well and progress consistently.

New Merch Drop — Now Live!
The new Community Fitness Lab merch is now live on our site. We’ve got clean designs, fresh colors, and gear that reps our mission proudly. Grab yours NOW!




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