Bayport Home to New CrossFit Fitness Center

There is more than one misconception about Crossfit training that Mike and Nicole Santaromita hope to eradicate in opening their new Bayport CrossFit center: it’s not just for men, it’s not just for men who happen to be Marines and it’s not a regimented and intimidating fitness approach.

In fact, CrossFit is a flexible equal-opportunity exercise philosophy that both men and women can benefit from, said the owners during a grand opening at their center on Montauk Highway in Bayport last weekend.

Simply defined, CrossFit is a core strength and conditioning program that optimizes physical competence in 10 areas, from respiratory to endurance to stamina, speed, coordination, balance and agility.

Tucked behind the small strip of stores that house the VIP Billiards and La Rage hair studio, Bayport CrossFit celebrates the sport of fitness, says Nicole.

“Everyone has a coach and it’s a team-like atmosphere in class. Yes there is some competition but that’s more on the goal to do your best,” she told Patch during the grand opening last Sunday.

CrossFit combines cardio, gymnastics and weight training, but you won’t find any big equipment or workout machines. Instead you’ll find ropes to climb, and a workout that involves using all of a body’s muscles. Think push-ups, sit-ups and hitting the rings for pull-ups.

“It’s about using your body. We start with a warm-up exercises and go from there depending on what a person needs to work on and what their abilities are,” said Nicole.

CrossFit has garnered a few misconceptions since it came into vogue as it was initially viewed as the workout approach for the tough guys, like Navy Seals and Marines, and not for the average person looking to lose weight or maintain weight.

“It’s good for all ages and all athletic types. The beauty is it can be scaled down and that’s where the coach comes in, to find out what works best for you,” she explained.

Bayport CrossFit, which offers weekday classes from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., and then from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., offers classes on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Members can join on a month-to-month basis and the center’s special introductory rate is $99 for unlimited classes.

The center will also be offering chiropractic and massage services.