"It's metabolic conditioning, cardiovascular, strength. It's everything," said Crossfit trainer T.J. Daya, who began the exercises after he ended his high school ice hockey career.

The classes, which run about an hour long each, begin with group stretches and an overview of the focus area or exercise that will be done during the class. The group then divides and each individual begins their workout for the day, or as the regulars would call it, their "WOD."

"We'll set up a workout program of maybe three rounds of squats, sprints, pushups, pull-ups," Lawrence said.

Crossfit was originally designed for soldiers, peace officers and firefighters for total body fitness. The style has recently become more popular however, and people of all ages and physical strength are training with Crossfit.

"It's hardcore. It's as hard as it's going to get for a workout," Daya said.

Current members name a myriad of reasons for how and why they joined the program.

"I got into it about 2.5 years ago and I was following the main WODs on the main Web site," said Michael Chesner, who goes to the gym twice a day. "I found out about the affiliate in Tucson. I decided to come out here with my buddy and check it out."

The gym, which is in a large room of a warehouse, is filled with weights and equipment.

"There's a lot of energy in the gym and since we're all doing the same workout, we all have the same goal: to get the same workout accomplished," Lawrence said.

Everyone helps to push each other and the place is full of screams and encouraging words.

"I love it. Everyone here is a big family and we all support each other," Chesner said. "Everyone's here to get better, get fit and reach personal goals as long as long-term goals with health and fitness.

Crossfit Northwest Tucson is still accepting members and plans to compete in upcoming national competitions.

Adobe Flash Player not installed or older than 9.0.115!