Black Tusk Athletics

Fantastic experience: Absolutely love this gym! Going into my third year of membership with Black Tusk, and am so grateful for how simple they make staying consistent in the gym. The coaches are friendly, encouraging and knowledgeable, and the owners are dedicated to all their members and the community.

Fantastic experience: While my review may be bias since I previously coached at Black Tusk, I have recently returned to the gym as a postpartum athlete. The support, encouragement, high level coaching and appropriate challenge I have received since coming back reminds me of why I fell in love with this community in the first place. Anne and Jay have done an amazing job of creating a welcoming community that makes fitness fun.

Fantastic experience: An excellent gym with the best community

Fantastic experience: I’ve been going here for just over a year and I can say this gym was a complete game changer for my fitness routine. The workout is always pre-set which removes decision fatigue from your day and makes showing up to the gym that much easier. Getting through a challenging workout with a likeminded group of individuals will encourage you to keep going! Coaches present scales and options for every skill level. The owners are truly outstanding people who will make you feel welcome from the very start.

Fantastic experience: I can't say enough good things about Black Tusk. When I first joined, I was looking for a gym with strong sense of community and I definitely found that here. Everyone told me that BTA was great because of its great owners, Anne and Jay, and I now know that to be true. What really stands out is the energy of the gym and the standards that they set for their coaches and their clients. Everyone you meet is welcoming, kind, and genuinely invested in your progress. The programming is great and the workouts are fun, challenging, and inclusive. I’ve pushed myself beyond limits I didn’t even know I had, and I credit the growth I've experienced (both physically and mentally) all to Black Tusk.

Fantastic experience: Black Tusk is awesome. Their programming encourages consistency, progression, and functional training. Truly has changed my life!

Fantastic experience: Have been training here for over a year. I’m building new muscles, and I really appreciate the sense of community and fun.

Fantastic experience: From the moment I walked through the door, I was welcomed into a community that is not only supportive but genuinely cares about each other’s progress. The atmosphere is positive, motivating, and inclusive, which makes every workout feel like an opportunity to grow stronger—both physically and mentally. Since joining, I've noticed significant improvements in my strength, confidence, and overall sense of well-being. The workouts are challenging but tailored to meet each person where they are, and I always leave feeling accomplished and energized. More than just fitness, Black Tusk has made me enjoy life more, thanks to the incredible staff and the owners who set the tone for everything. The staff are the best type of people—genuine, kind, and truly invested in the success of everyone who walks in. Their passion for what they do shines through in every class, and it’s clear that they’re dedicated to fostering a positive and empowering environment. I can’t recommend Black Tusk enough. If you’re looking for a place that helps you get stronger, more confident, and surrounded by a truly supportive community, this is it! This review also has nothing to do with a a certain bingo sheet

Fantastic experience: I’ve been coming to this gym for quite a while. Even before they moved. I’m happy the owners reopened. I would say the few thing that keeps me coming back are: -the owners themselves. They’re great! Down-to-earth, and very personable -the coaches! They’re all fun to have in class and sometimes to do partner workouts with -the fact that everything is modelled before doing the actual movements -the fact that I can just show up and there’s a pre planned workout ready for you -the atmosphere and like-minded people. They really make you feel comfortable and wanting to come back. I highly suggest doing a drop in or an intro class to see if it’s the right place for you.

Fantastic experience: I have been going to this gym since before Covid and I should have written a review for them long ago! Hands down the best gym in town. The community is amazing; everyone is so supportive and encouraging, and the coaches always teach proper body mechanics to avoid injury. Whatever goal you have, whether it be building strength, increasing mobility or learning how to safely use weights in your workouts, this is the place to go. This gym also helped me build my strength back after I had my son- from 3 months postpartum to now 11 months postpartum I see a big difference in my strength, mental health and energy levels. Highly recommend Black Tusk to all!!

Fantastic experience: The owners are great people. Great workouts as well!

Fantastic experience: Did a drop in from out of town and had a great class. The coach and owners were great. Fun team workout with Anne and just a good vibe overall. Clean and organized. I hopefully will be going back tomorrow. Recommend 100%

Fantastic experience: Came to improve fitness and ended up becoming a part of an absolutely fantastic community. Highly recommend - safe and effective programming, supportive and encouraging coaches, fun and friendly members.

Fantastic experience: Black Tusk is where it is at!!! I have enjoyed a variety of different gyms and athletics over the years, but truly none compare to BTA. The programming and coaching are amazing. But my favorite part is the community. I have never been in a fitness facility that has felt so overwhelmingly inclusive. So happy I decided to give BTA a try!

Fantastic experience: I would recommend Black Tusk for a variety of skill levels. The owners Anne and Jay have fostered a very inclusive environment where everyone is welcome and encouraged. Group classes can be modified to be as challenging or as beginner friendly as the athlete wants so I think everyone can gain something from the instruction and programming at Black Tusk, no matter your past experience or current fitness goals.

Fantastic experience: Black Tusk has created the most warm, welcoming and encouraging community of people who will motivate you to never miss a session!!

Fantastic experience: Love this gym. The atmosphere and community are so supportive. The workouts are hard with modifications so any level of fitness can finish them. The coaches really do a great job explaining some of the technical aspects of the workouts which has opened up lots of new exercises for me (deadlifts, back squats etc).

Fantastic experience: Get fit, have fun, make friends!

Fantastic experience: This place and the people are as amazing as everyone says they are! Coaches are amazing and make sure to know each of you by name and your experience to help push you or modify if needed. It’s such a fun community and the workouts are hard but always fun! Black tusk is one of the best things that’s ever happened to me!

Fantastic experience: This was the third cross fit place I tried and thankfully the last. Jay and Anne know what they are talking about and they will get you in shape like no one else. The place is always clean and organized and I have made so many friends since I started. I'm so glad one of my buddies recommended this place. Hands down the best

Fantastic experience: Owners are incredible, all coaches are fantastic 100% recommended this to anyone whether they are super competitive or just looking to stay fit with a fantastic, inclusive community!

Fantastic experience: If you are looking for the best CrossFit in the city look no further!! They have an amazing atmosphere and coaching staff.

Fantastic experience: If you want to try crossfit, go here. They have small classes and personal training to actually coach and train you. Wonderful owners who are passionate about fitness and people. More parking would be good, but otherwise I highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: BT isn’t just a gym- it’s a family that Jay and Anne have cultivated to encourage growth. Super great coaching; you’ll get the one-on-one attention while being in a positive group environment. Love this fam!!

Fantastic experience: Excellent trainers with acute attention to detail, outstanding programming, and a vibrant gym community are just a few of the things that you’ll experience at Black Tusk.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic gym with an encouraging and supportive environment and an amazing community that welcomes people of all fitness levels.

Fantastic experience: I love black tusk, they offer a friendly and inclusive community along with excellent programming

Fantastic experience: No exaggeration, these people will make you want to go to the gym even if you think you hate going to the gym. I've been doing personal training with Anne for about 6 months. She is kind, funny, inspiring, and is definitely the person to see if you are interested in fixing post partum issues.

Fantastic experience: Great gym! I started about 2 years ago at 33 y.o. with no previous sport experience, almost no weightlifting experience, not really sure what to do except wanting to get in shape. Anne, Jay, and Jenna were my first coaches and they got me started with the fundamental sessions, then I joined group classes a few weeks later. I could barely do the workouts at first but everybody was friendly and welcoming (later coaches like Sarah, Danni, Kali, and Steven have also been excellent). I really like their focus on doing movements with correct form and safety (very different from negative stereotypes of Crossfit online). The personal training is also excellent, would definitely do it more if I had the time, but so far group classes 2-4 times/week has worked for me.

Fantastic experience: At CrossFit Black Tusk, the overall philosophy of the gym is balance. Anne and Jay have a refreshing attitude towards health/fitness but also living life to its fullest and have applied this to creating a great community at the gym. They have surrounded themselves with a team of approachable coaches from various backgrounds who each bring a unique teaching style to the gym. Members are challenged in every workout but also encouraged to enjoy life in moderation. There is a strong focus on the quality (proper movement pattern) over quantity of movement, which demonstrates an investment in each member's long term development in a healthy manner. The workouts are designed to be challenging and can be modified for both beginners and experienced athletes. The general mindset of the gym members is that egos are left at the door. While there is friendly and positive competition that serves to push everyone to achieve more, individual successes are celebrated and recognized. The gym itself is bright with clean lines, an effective layout, and an efficient use of space. Overall, this is a great gym and community for individuals from all fitness backgrounds.

Fantastic experience: Jay and Anne have created a gym community that is safe and fun for all stages of life. I joined the gym when they opened and started with group classes. I then added personal training to help correct some imbalances that had been causing hip and back pain years prior to starting crossfit. When I got pregnant, I continued to do personal training twice a month as well as safely modified group classes. Anne and Jay never pushed me past a point that was safe, but helped me keep my body strong and flexible. I had a pain free pregnancy, largely thanks to continuing strength training to my ability throughout my pregnancy (childbirth still hurt - they aren't wizards). I'm now working with Anne on postpartum recovery and can't wait to be strong enough to get back to group classes!

Fantastic experience: Such a great, local crossfit gym. Jason and Anne are quality coaches and really care about their customers and catering to individual needs. I'd recommend Black Tusk to anyone.

Fantastic experience: Not only does this place help us feel like we are on top of our game, Anne and Jay are two of the most caring community builders I've ever met.

Fantastic experience: Anne and Jay are wonderful trainers and coaches, along with their incredibly knowledgeable and encouraging team of support coaches. They work to create an inclusive and fun atmosphere while challenging every athlete to achieve new levels of fitness, whatever that may be for each individual. Black Tusk has pushed me to be a stronger, healthier, and more confident athlete in and out of the gym. They’ve helped me to focus on my weaknesses and mobility challenges to make me stronger and more fit overall. As a beginner, CrossFit seemed a bit daunting, but trying out CrossFit at Black Tusk, with the guidance of Anne and Jay, was one of the best decisions I have made for myself. The amazing community they foster is just an added bonus to the dynamic programming they develop.

Fantastic experience: What a great facility. Clean and inviting!

Fantastic experience: Not just a gym - they treat you like an athlete. This mentality allows you to perform like an athlete with like-minded coaches and fellow members. It's a growth environment, where you feel encouraged to push through your physical limits and increase your capacity daily.

Fantastic experience: Came for a drop in and had an awesome Workout, staff and members are super cool, box is clean and well stocked. Will definitely invite anyone to join this box.

Fantastic experience: Amazing place to workout. The owners/coaches are always encouraging you and they really care about you. Definitely would recommend.

Fantastic experience: Not only do they focus heavily on the fundamentals, the culture and energy you get when you attend a class is out of this world. I noticed my strength increase after just a few sessions and my form/technique has improved significantly. I encourage everyone to go through the program - as cross training or just to crush life! LOVE THESE GUYS!

Fantastic experience: I started coming here casually with my husband this past summer, with hopes of improving strength training and learning some new skills. This gym really is one of a kind. I've had lots of gym memberships in this city and have never known a place to be as friendly and engaging at this place. Jay and Anne are the owners and they are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive. I'm really glad that I stumbled upon this place and gave crossfit a try! I would encourage anyone, at any level of fitness, to come out and see what this place is all about! You will be treated like family :)

Fantastic experience: Wonderful gym, these guy's mean business.

Fantastic experience: As someone new to crossfit and very hesitant to join, I have to say that Black Tusk gave me that strong motivation to workout. Anne and Jason were very welcoming so I felt comfortable from the time I walked in. Ever since I moved to Edmonton I've been looking for a positive workout environment and Black Tusk is definitely the place to be. Whether you are a beginner or an old cross fitter I would recommend Black Tusk to you!

Fantastic experience: Knowledgeable coaches, challenging classes and all round good gym.

Fantastic experience: Awesome experience with you Anne! Your knowledge has helped me reach some personal goals with crossfit! I highly recommend Black tusk and will be returning !!! Thank you

Fantastic experience: My doctor advised me to make some changes in my lifestyle due to my blood pressure being rather high. Having been in and out of the gym for most of my life, I’m no stranger to being active, but the last few years have seen me sidetracked by work and starting a business. I knew I’d need some help getting things kicked off and talking to Jason convinced me he understood my needs well enough to get me to where I needed to be. With my main challenge being a hectic schedule, we worked out a great hybrid arrangement where I’d train with him once a week, then he’d program additional workouts for me to do on my own time. What made working with Jason so effective? It was the overall experience of him creating programming specific to my body and my goals, helping me develop proper technique, and keeping me accountable to doing the work. Even in between sessions, Jason would check in on me, and celebrate my achievements when I reported in from my solo workouts. The other important factor in working through Black Tusk was having Kali, their nutritional coach available to engage with to make sure my eating habits were lining up with the training. In three months, my blood pressure came back down to normal, I dropped two inches off my waist, and lost a net of 10 pounds even after putting on more muscle. The greatest thing about my time with Jason is that he helped me get back into the right mindset and routine of being active and healthy. No drastic programming to hit any numbers, just a great lifestyle adjustment that’s sustainable and keeps me motivated by the results I’ve seen. My body composition has visibly shifted in the direction I’ve always wanted it to and I’m excited to see where I’ll be next year. It’s literally life changing work and although I’m the one that had to get my sweat on, Jason provided the support and accountability I needed to really see results. If you’re needing someone to be on your team to help you achieve your specific fitness goals, I’d highly recommend seeing Jason. The only downside? It’s been expensive replacing the clothes in my wardrobe…

Fantastic experience: Anne and Jason are fantastic coaches! I feel comfortable pushing myself in workouts because they progress exercises appropriately and value safety first and foremost. They cater workouts to all fitness levels and make CrossFit accessible to all. I would highly recommend Black Tusk Athletics!

Fantastic experience: Crossfit as a lifestyle requires a great mentors, community, and safe application. Black Tusk emphasizes this day in and day out. A husband and wife duo who goes beyond expectations to ensure your journey is nurtured and challenged (in the best sense of course), and goals are met. Such a sweet addition to the active community scene in Edmonton.

Fantastic experience: Black Tusk is a fantastic boutique CrossFit gym. The owners Anne and Jason are awesome people and make everyone feel welcome and like friends the moment you walk in the door. Their programming is old-school style CrossFit workouts: simple and straightforward but kick your butt. They also mix in with well thought out strength and skill work. I highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for a more relaxed and fun atmosphere.

Fantastic experience: Great gym for beginners and experts. Anne and Jason are both super passionate about helping individuals grow and get stronger at their own pace. Great spot if you like personalized training!

Fantastic experience: Great place to get started if you want to try out Crossfit - Anne and Jason are amazing coaches and the culture they've created there is very welcoming. Good place to go if you are looking for a challenging personalized gym experience!

Fantastic experience: Anne and Jason are just two of the most exceptional people you'll ever meet. Not only are they authentic and interested in each client that enters their studio, but they are visibly passionate about fitness and ensuring every member that trains in their studio is getting the most out of the workout with proper form and safety. I originally came to the studio slightly apprehensive, and with the intentions of just seeing what the whole "hype' around CrossFit was. But I ended up falling in love with the high intensity workouts they instruct, and even more in love with the community atmosphere they have created. Once you enter this studio, it feels like you've entered home (just a super sweaty one!). I highly recommend anyone and everyone of all levels of fitness and experience to check out this studio- they've done a fantastic job creating a welcoming environment and safe space to challenge your limits and reach your full potential!

Fantastic experience: AMAZING gym!!! Great atmosphere, super knowledgeable coaches focusing on safety and understanding reason behind movements and WODs. You will gain loads of knowledge whether a seasoned crossfitter or new to the sport, skills are developed form the ground up! Love these guys! Come try it out - bonus it's down the street from Edmonton's famous bakery Dutchess!!!

Fantastic experience: Great coaches, great programming, fun atmosphere, and all the fitness!

Fantastic experience: You know that feeling you get when you've achieved something? That elusive thing that's been just out of reach, at the end of your fingertips, but you couldn't quite grasp it? Joining Black Tusk a few months ago has meant that finally, after crossfitting for a couple of years, that I finally have (some!) double-unders; I've learned how to kick myself up onto the wall in a hand-stand and I no longer row like a lunatic trying to run away with the rower. I'm not perfect at any of these things yet, but I'm getting closer to where I want to be! I believe that this is as a result of Anne and Jason's attention to each individual's weaknesses and capabilities. The boutique style classes are small, so they have the time and the focus to spot what's going wrong in each movement, and help you implement ways to fix it. Crossfitters, by design, want to push themselves hard and "get their sweat on!!!" (Anne's words, not mine!). Anne and Jason will definitely push you to do your best, get one more rep, go a little heavier than last time, perfect your technique, and move more efficiently, but they will always watch out for good form. Poor form = remove weight, modify the movement, scale down the wod. If you're a crossfitter/ wannabe crossfitter who likes smaller classes, individualised constructive criticism and programming, Black Tusk is definitely for you!

Fantastic experience: Black Tusk is an amazing gym for experiencing Crossfit for the first time or if your an avid athlete of the sport. Anne and Jason are one of the most passionate and inspiring athletes/coaches you will meet when coming to this gym. Their enthusiasm and drive make me feel that anything is possible, even someone who is not as athletic and as coordinated as I, that it is possible to do this workout regimen. The fundamental series class is a must and highly recommended if it is your first time. It was a confidence builder and has made me feel comfortable moving on to the regular classes. Love the gym and love the people. Who can ask for anything more?

Fantastic experience: Anne and Jason do a great job of introducing crossfit. The culture is always very welcoming, especially for those who havent tried the sport before. Safety is a huge priority for them and they are always making sure you are going through the movements correctly. Oh ya, and the workouts are killer.

Fantastic experience: I have experienced many different styles of gyms and coaches and by far, I have fallen completely in love with Black Tusk. It has become a home away from home for me..even though I only live around the corner! It is one of the most warm and inviting gyms I've ever been a part of.

Fantastic experience: Anne and Jason are excellent trainers, and gym owners. They were always attentive with new members, and gave helpful coaching tips to anyone struggling with a movement or weight (first hand experience!). As I progressed, Anne and Jason always had mantras to help me push further (Always run faster than you want too). This is my go-to gym for CrossFit in Edmonton.

Fantastic experience: I have tried most Crossfit Gyms in Edmonton and Black Tusk provides the best coaching and programming by far.

Fantastic experience: Black Tusk is a great CrossFit gym and Anne and Jason are amazing coaches! I started working out at the gym shortly after it opened and am so happy that I did. One of the things that I have found is so important with a CrossFit gym is the quality of coaches. Anne and Jason are so positive (even at the 6AM classes) and have given me some great tips. They are both almost clinical at picking apart my movements which has helped me improve tremendously. I have and will continue to recommended Black Tusk to anyone that is looking to get into CrossFit or has been doing it for a while.

Fantastic experience: As someone new to CrossFit, I was nervous about learning the movements and getting into this type of training but after the first fundamentals class I was hooked. The coaches/owners, Jason and Anne, are very supportive, knowledgeable and motivating. They do a great job of scaling exercises for beginners and pushing the veterans. There's a good mix of athletes at Black Tusk, from fresh fundamentals graduates to seasoned CrossFitters. I love the sense on comradery at this gym! The Saturday team WODs are my favourite! There's something very satisfying about the soreness that comes after the workouts. Anne and Jay do a really good job programming and the class schedule should be able to work for most people. I would definitely recommend Black Tusk if you are looking for a CrossFit gym!

Fantastic experience: The moment you walk into this Crossfit studio the feeling of intimidation dissipates. Ego is left at the door and you witness a community of athletes from every spectrum of the world encouraging one another through happy breathless pain. My sister and I tried the Crossfit lite class and with just that one class we were hooked. We then took the fundamental classes and are now starting the full Crossfit classes. Anne and Jason are exceptional trainers. Their detailed instruction on form and movements are easy to understand and follow, thus making Crossfit a safe and effective workout (leaving you with confidence after each class). I highly recommend coming in and trying this Crossfit Studio, it has the best atmosphere, friendly & helpful trainers, and a wonderful community of people.

Fantastic experience: Love the place. The coaches, Anne and Jason, really care about you and your fitness goals. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Amazing Crossfit Gym! The owners, Jason and Anne are engaged and driven. Jason has been very friendly, accommodating. His passion for technique and skill are refreshing to see in a crossfit gym! I would highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for a great workout in a friendly atmosphere!