CrossFit vs. bStrong: What's the Difference — and Which Is Right for You?
If you're searching for a CrossFit gym in Redmond or Bellevue, you're not alone. Over the years, “CrossFit” has become the go-to term for people looking for high-intensity, strength-focused group workouts.
At bStrong, we’re not a CrossFit affiliate — but we get why so many people are drawn to it. It has brought more attention to the benefits of strength training and highlighted the advantages of a supportive fitness community.
Many of our members first searched for CrossFit in their area and found us instead. What they discovered was something familiar — but ultimately a better fit for what they were really looking for: expert coaching, real results, and a sustainable approach to strength training.
What We Share with CrossFit
We offer many of the things people love about CrossFit:
Group-based strength and conditioning workouts
Functional movements like squats, sleds, carries, and presses
A motivating, high-energy environment
Hands-on coaching and accountability
But there are some important differences — ones that matter a lot if you’re thinking about your long-term results, health, and consistency.
How bStrong Is Different — In All the Right Ways
| Feature | CrossFit | bStrong |
|---|---|---|
| Coaching Consistency | ⚠️ Varies by location and coach | ✅ Career coaches trained in-house |
| Class Size | 15–20+ members | Small groups (average 4 people) |
| Training Environment | Competitive, leaderboard-driven | Supportive, no leaderboard |
| Workout Structure | Varied WODs, no long-term plan | Structured programming, weekly progressions |
| Progression System | ⚠️ Progress may depend on gym/program | ✅ Built-in, sustainable strength progression |
| Workout Monitoring | Coach-led, but group-focused | ✅ Closely monitored with personal feedback |
| Beginner Friendly | ⚠️ May feel fast-paced or advanced for some | ✅ Beginner-first mindset with full guidance |
| Best for... | People who enjoy intensity and competition | People who want structure, support, and steady progress |
Who Thrives at bStrong?
People new to strength training who want structure and support
Former CrossFitters who want more guidance and less burnout
Busy professionals and working parents who need effective, efficient workouts
Anyone looking for strength and confidence — not just a fitness trend
Whether you’re commuting from Redmond tech campuses or managing a packed schedule in Bellevue, bStrong makes it easy to train hard, train smart, and stay consistent.
The Bottom Line
If you're exploring CrossFit options in Redmond or Bellevue and want something that blends intensity with expert coaching, bStrong might be exactly what you’re looking for.
You don’t have to be competitive. You don’t have to be hardcore. You just have to show up — and we’ll take it from there.
Try us out for 2 weeks and experience the difference for yourself.
Whether you're near CrossFit gyms in Redmond or exploring new fitness options in Bellevue, we’d love to meet you.