I love the gym and I love the people. Coach Beth is the best. The entire experience has been nothing less than perfect. My wife and I joined Essential CrossFit, after joining others and hating it. We look forward to getting there at least 3 times a week and keep the movement happening!!!!! Thank you sooooo much!!!

Ann is a fantastic coach! She helped me with modifications to certain movements and made the morning fun. Thanks Ann!

I love Coach Ann! She is incredibly knowledgeable and will kick your butt, but she also fun and goofy which adds to the overall experience 😅 Would recommend Essential CrossFit to anyone! In fact I wish I had friends that needed a gym! Everyone is incredibly welcoming, encouraging, and ready to help!

Coach Eric always brings a lot of energy along with experience and knowledge. Appreciate you sir …thanks for making classes fun!

Encouraging and multiple options

Such a fun coach! I’ve tried a lot of group classes and have been disappointed by how clique-y most can be, never get that in Eric’s classes. He pushes everyone respectfully and is very mindful of your personal limitations (like my L2&L3 injuries and scoliosis). I find a ton of value in attending classes with Eric and appreciate him going above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome.

Today was my first class and Ann did a great job. Most everyone had started the day before, but Ann made sure I felt welcomed along with the rest of the class.

I really enjoyed how welcoming Ann and everyone was. The class was a great introduction to CrossFit. I really appreciated how comfortable she made me feel, as CrossFit can be really intimidating during your first visit. Ann also made sure to explain each exercise with enough detail so everyone could understand what was expected of them, and offered alternatives for those who might need them. The ... More

I really enjoyed how welcoming Ann and everyone was. The class was a great introduction to CrossFit. I really appreciated how comfortable she made me feel, as CrossFit can be really intimidating during your first visit. Ann also made sure to explain each exercise with enough detail so everyone could understand what was expected of them, and offered alternatives for those who might need them. The space was also great. Lots of room, well maintained equipment, air conditioned, and clean. Thank you so much for a great workout! Less

Eric was super energetic, friendly and encouraging. He walked us through all the movements and scaling options and warm ups, and pushed us through the workout. He stayed late on a Friday to allow us to finish our accessory work, which was really appreciated.

Great environment for a drop-in workout and Games scores! Super friendly and supportive!

Eric was helpful and enthusiastic throughout the class, providing good pointers for all aspects of the workout! He is always thorough in explaining movements.

Overall it’s an awesome experience working with Eric. From explaining the workouts to also demonstrating them if I don’t under stand them right off rip some times more then once and not loosing patience. He takes the time to view your workout and gives input on how to correct even if it’s a minor adjustment he sees it and it does pay off. If anyone gets the opportunity to work with Eric they shou... More

Overall it’s an awesome experience working with Eric. From explaining the workouts to also demonstrating them if I don’t under stand them right off rip some times more then once and not loosing patience. He takes the time to view your workout and gives input on how to correct even if it’s a minor adjustment he sees it and it does pay off. If anyone gets the opportunity to work with Eric they should take it! Less

Coach Eric always does an awesome job! He makes class fun, and is very knowledgeable about helping members of various levels scale the workouts so we all get the most out of our time there.

Great group of people to work out with.

dropped into Essential twice when i was in town visiting my parents -- incredibly welcoming gym; never felt like an outsider -- the owner Ann was awesome and pushed me through some tough workouts -- the facility is great with top equipment -- the saturday partner workout was a blast -- highly recommend checking out the gym (been doing crossfit for 8 years in multiple cities) -- will return when i... More

dropped into Essential twice when i was in town visiting my parents -- incredibly welcoming gym; never felt like an outsider -- the owner Ann was awesome and pushed me through some tough workouts -- the facility is great with top equipment -- the saturday partner workout was a blast -- highly recommend checking out the gym (been doing crossfit for 8 years in multiple cities) -- will return when in town Less

Essential CrossFit has been and continues to be a great and challenging experience. Staff and members are friendly and professional. I always leave their gym a better version of myself.

Good space with quality equipment. Great trainers and the owner is so responsive

This is my first time joining a CrossFit gym. I have been impressed by the personal attention by Ann and all the coaches. I had a back injury and they have all worked together to provide modifications when necessary and support me in my journey incorporating fitness back into my life. All the equipment is new and in great condition. Such a positive environment. The members all provide great suppo... More

This is my first time joining a CrossFit gym. I have been impressed by the personal attention by Ann and all the coaches. I had a back injury and they have all worked together to provide modifications when necessary and support me in my journey incorporating fitness back into my life. All the equipment is new and in great condition. Such a positive environment. The members all provide great support and encouragement. So excited to have found this gym and to become part of this CrossFit family. Highly recommend this gym. Less

I have found a new home to workout. Truly have loved my first two weeks at Essential! It is an amazing community, great people and amazing coaches! Looking for a great place to CrossFit, interested in trying CrossFit, Essential is the place!

Went to volunteer for an event. Nice open space. Friendly staff!

I’ve never been in a gym where I feel more comfortable and part of a family. CrossFit can be intimidating, but every trainer and member has encouraged and helped me every step of the way. I modify almost every workout and I’m not shamed or made to feel less than- rather the opposite! My wins are celebrated and my challenges are seen as opportunities for growth. Can’t recommend CrossFit Essentials... More

I’ve never been in a gym where I feel more comfortable and part of a family. CrossFit can be intimidating, but every trainer and member has encouraged and helped me every step of the way. I modify almost every workout and I’m not shamed or made to feel less than- rather the opposite! My wins are celebrated and my challenges are seen as opportunities for growth. Can’t recommend CrossFit Essentials enough! Come check it out! Less

Looking forward to more collaborations on awesome events and training opportunities for our community!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Awesome owner/trainer, Ann has built a really inviting, “Fitness for everyone” atmosphere! Also her passion for getting kids active and fit, has lead to The best Spartan Kids Camp around! Stop by and try them out!🤩👍🏼

Great community of coaches and members. Workouts are always a great time and coach takes plenty of time to help you learn and feel confident in what you’re doing!

Excellent gym! Nice equipment and great location!

I love the family oriented mission and purpose of CrossFit Essential. They have multiple class times available for my schedule and a super fun team style workout on Saturdays.

For years I wanted to try CrossFit, but multiple barriers always got in my way. When I found Essential, I was nervous to begin, but all the coaches here and ESPECIALLY Ann were VERY encouraging from the beginning and took the TIME to help me move better and learn the exercises. I have never felt stronger in my entire life than I do now, and the community that I've met here is encouraging, fun, ge... More

For years I wanted to try CrossFit, but multiple barriers always got in my way. When I found Essential, I was nervous to begin, but all the coaches here and ESPECIALLY Ann were VERY encouraging from the beginning and took the TIME to help me move better and learn the exercises. I have never felt stronger in my entire life than I do now, and the community that I've met here is encouraging, fun, genuine, and down-to-earth. I love being part of this community! Less

Awesome owners, clean place, fun atmosphere!! A+++

New to the area and decided to join since it was close to my place. Best decision! I was very nervous since I had not been to a box in quite a while but the coaches and members are extremely welcoming. They care about each individuals goals and create a plan to help you get there. Another plus, they keep the box very clean! Start today!! My only regret was not starting sooner!

The whole family LOVES Essential CrossFit!

This is a wonderful place to workout!!! The staff are all super friendly and helpful! It’s a family supporting environment, where they want you and help you to achieve your goals. I highly recommend this gym!!!!!♥️💪

Ann and her crew at Essential CrossFit are amazing! There are programs for you and your kiddos! Check her out today. You will not regret it!!

My kids both attended the CrossFit classes. They both enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next session.

Best CrossFit gym I have ever been to, HANDS DOWN! Staff is very invested and genuinely interested in seeing each member reach their full potential. Essential CrossFit has quickly become a second family!

Can’t say enough good things about essential CrossFit. They have taken my fitness journey to a new level. I am amazed at the progress I have made in 8 months. Thanks to Ann and the rest of her team. Essential is awesome!

Essential Crossfit has great services for the whole family! Clean gym, very friendly coaches and convenient location!

Trainers here are top notch and care deeply to make sure we work out safely to our capabilities.

Wonderful gym with trainers that help customize to your fitness goals. The owner Ann is amazing and cares about her members in helping them with their health goals. My daughter also attends the kids class. We both recommend this gym.

Essential CrossFit is wonderful. It’s family friendly and completely welcoming. Our entire family enjoys the gym!

Ann is awesome and her passion for CrossFit shines through in the programming! Give her box a try highly recommended!

Great family atmosphere and everyone is very nice. Coaching and workouts are great!

Flexible schedules, geared toward customers and their individual needs, consistently positive attitudes and the atmosphere is always friendly! A good mix of competitiveness too. Especially for those of us who don’t work out on the regular but are trying to make that a new routine. I’m really out of shape but never feel like I’m holding anyone back or that I’m a waste of time or energy. Good, clea... More

Flexible schedules, geared toward customers and their individual needs, consistently positive attitudes and the atmosphere is always friendly! A good mix of competitiveness too. Especially for those of us who don’t work out on the regular but are trying to make that a new routine. I’m really out of shape but never feel like I’m holding anyone back or that I’m a waste of time or energy. Good, clean fun! Less

Signed my son up for a teen after school camp & he really enjoyed it. They taught him the basics, proper form. Would recommend for any preteen.

A small but mighty CrossFit and they make you feel very welcome. Ann is awesome and will make you sweat! Highly recommended!

Essential CrossFit is a great community to pursue your best life. Get fit, have fun and learn from the very engaged owner, Ann, as she helps you reach your goals.

Amazing CrossFit facility with staff who focus on delivering results to their clients every day. If you're ready to see progress, this is the place for you.

I am not sure where to start! Individualized modifications as needed, welcoming, high energy, professional knowledgeable staff, and family owned. It doesn’t get much better than that! All levels welcomed and encouraged to attend classes. Non-judgmental atmosphere to set and reach your own fitness goals!

Terrific box gym with a welcoming, supportive environment. Ann knows her stuff and will go out of her way to help members succeed in CrossFit and in life.

If you are looking for a community that has your back and wants to see you succeed then Essential CrossFit is the place! Owner, Ann, invests in you so you live your best life.

Great coach and gym!!

My wife and I have been members for several months now. What originally attracted us were the positive reviews and proximity from our home in Porters Neck. Essential CrossFit is tucked away from main roads and other commercial businesses...more trees less noise. Parking is great too, which has been an issue at other gyms. The owner was quick to greet us with a smile and provide a tour. We were ve... More

My wife and I have been members for several months now. What originally attracted us were the positive reviews and proximity from our home in Porters Neck. Essential CrossFit is tucked away from main roads and other commercial businesses...more trees less noise. Parking is great too, which has been an issue at other gyms. The owner was quick to greet us with a smile and provide a tour. We were very impressed by the cleanliness of the gym and how tidy everything was overall. The direction we've received has been wonderful regarding proper form, never pushing us to lift more weight, with lots of positive motivation and energy. The largest difference I have seen so far is in my strength, my back and legs specifically. These improvements have also helped with my running regiment. Being in our early 50's, we simply want to keep moving, stay strong and not worry about injuring ourselves. Essential CrossFit has checked off all of these boxes and more! Less

This box is SO AWESOME!!! Ann is beyond accommodating, she's also a fantastic coach. The location is SUPER-CLEAN, FAMILY FRIENDLY and is like a SUPPORTIVE ENCOURAGING family with REAL people working to be more fit and healthy! If you're a long-time x-fitter or especially a newer one, this location will get you going in the direction YOU want and support your efforts (small or large/ RX or modi... More

This box is SO AWESOME!!! Ann is beyond accommodating, she's also a fantastic coach. The location is SUPER-CLEAN, FAMILY FRIENDLY and is like a SUPPORTIVE ENCOURAGING family with REAL people working to be more fit and healthy! If you're a long-time x-fitter or especially a newer one, this location will get you going in the direction YOU want and support your efforts (small or large/ RX or modified!). What is this gym NOT?? It's NOT filled with snotty staff, competition-seekers or conceited over-achievers looking for glory and recognition of how big their biceps look while they walk on chicken legs (eh-hem....reignited....). Less

This is the only family-friendly Crossfit I have ever experienced. Thank you for being awesome.

This is my 2nd Crossfit Gym, I trained with owner a few years ago and now she opened her own CrossFit. The gym is well kept and everything was in its place. My instructor was more than knowledgeable. I highly recommend Essential CrossFit.

Essential CrossFit is awesome! I was a first-timer, so they were super helpful explaining the moves and motivating to push through. Great workouts. Definitely recommend Essential CrossFit for anybody considering getting into it!

Friendly positive atmosphere!

They offer Ninja Warrior kid-friendly obstacle course training, yoga, and many family-friendly gym activity options

Awesome box - coach was very welcoming and giving tips the whole work out. They ran me ragged loved it.

Excellent community with top notch coaches. Highly recommend

Great Crossfit gym for anyone from the beginner to the experienced athlete. Everyone at the gym is very welcoming, knowledgeable, and willing to help you push yourself to your potential. Super glad I found this gym, made me feel like I was right at home on day 1. I can't see myself at any other gym!

Essential CrossFit deserves 10 stars! I came in with 0 experience in the CrossFit world. Ann & Jared, and the other members go above and beyond to ensure I’m comfortable and safe when trying new movements. From the beginning, Essential’s harbors that “family” community that I can’t recommend enough! Plus, i never knew 5:45AM could be so fun, but it really is!! Also, if you’re a newbie, try out th... More

Essential CrossFit deserves 10 stars! I came in with 0 experience in the CrossFit world. Ann & Jared, and the other members go above and beyond to ensure I’m comfortable and safe when trying new movements. From the beginning, Essential’s harbors that “family” community that I can’t recommend enough! Plus, i never knew 5:45AM could be so fun, but it really is!! Also, if you’re a newbie, try out the Foundational Course they offer! One-on-one lessons for all CrossFit moves. Less

A great place for the whole family to get and/or stay fit!

Aaaaamazing people !!! Great coaching !! The best smiles. Always going to be a solid workout !! Definitely come check out essential CrossFit !!!!

Essential CrossFit is the absolute best family fitness experience in Wilmington! I’m always thankful to be a part of coach Eric’s classes. His positivity and clear instruction help get us going, and his thorough demonstration of movements ensure I’m moving safely and efficiently. It’s always a lot of fun!

Excellent staff that knows what they are doing and they will ALWAYS make you feel welcome! I wouldn’t recommend any other gym in this area! Amazing community and I recommend 100% giving it a try. They also have great kids care/activities. 😊

Excellent family atmosphere! Great for Croosfit training. Fun kid camps!