Come for the Workout.

Stay for the People.

The workout might get you through the door, but the community is what keeps you coming back.

From your first class to your hundredth, you’ll have people in your corner. We celebrate PRs, encourage each other through tough workouts, and have plenty of fun along the way.

This isn’t just a gym in Des Moines. It’s a community you can be part of.

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 Crossfit Merle Hay
  
 109 Google reviews 
 
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 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Krista 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Great group of coaches and members. Couldn't ask for a better group of folks to embrace the suck with! Amazing new gym space with nice amenities. Owners are kind, fair and always willing to listen to feedback. I would give them more stars if I could!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Joy V 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I absolutely love this gym. Both the space and the people are awesome. I've been taking personal training sessions with Tyler to help me prepare for the Tactical Games and he has been amazing to work with. The research alone that he did into the competition to help me properly prepare for it blew my mind. Cannot recommend this place enough!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Vaishnavi S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
About a year ago, my husband Deep and I joined CrossFit Merle Hay—and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made.
We had just relocated to a new city and state, knowing only a handful of people. With my job being fully remote, my days lacked social interaction, and I found myself craving a reason to step outside, break the routine, and reconnect- with people and with my own well-being. Around that time, we kept hearing amazing things about CrossFit from close friends who spoke about it not just as a workout, but as a community. That, combined with our goal to prioritize our health and stay active after work, pushed us to give it a try.
I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first. I had never really been to a gym before, so the idea of starting CrossFit felt intimidating. I wasn’t sure how I’d keep up or where to even begin. But from day one, the coaches made all the difference. They were incredibly supportive, attentive to my form, and always ready with modifications that met me where I was. They helped me build confidence step by step, turning something that once felt overwhelming into something I genuinely look forward to.
What really stands out about CFMH is the balance—they push you to grow and challenge yourself, but they also truly care. It’s not just about workouts; it’s about progress, encouragement, and showing up for each other.
Over time, we didn’t just get stronger physically—we found a community. We’ve made great friends, built meaningful connections, and created a routine that brings energy and positivity into our lives.
If you’re on the fence, like I once was, just start. CrossFit Merle Hay isn’t just a gym—it’s a place that helps you become a stronger, more confident version of yourself, surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you succeed.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ben K 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Great people and great coaches! I've been with CFMH since 2023 and it's been great.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Ben F 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I’ve been a member at CFMH for about 2 months now and have loved my experience. Every single coach is kind, caring, and best of all they’ll help you understand how to adapt the workout to your skill level if it might be a little bit beyond what you can do. I feel so much healthier and have more energy throughout my day than I did just 2 months ago. Looking forward to many more workouts to come with CFMH!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Nissi S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Me a encantado la experiencia, la verdad ya llevo como 4 meses entrenando junto a ellos y me hacen sentir parte de la familia, a pesar de que no hablo inglés ellos igual tratan de explicarme lo mejor que puedan y eso me gusta lo recomiendo una y mil veces, son súper amables y amigables es mi lugar favorito 🫶🏻 gracias por todo
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Anne A 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
"Crossed" trying out a real life CrossFit class off my 2025 bucket list! Joined a friend for my very first class at CrossFit Merle Hay this week. I was a little intimidated walking in, but the first thing I noticed was that every single person that walked in the door was welcomed by name by several of the coaches in the gym. Really warm and inviting culture within the gym. Second thing was the coaches were super helpful in helping first timers like me scale appropriately until I got the form right and were supportive as I got the hang of it. Lastly, what a family friendly environment. A few of the class members had kiddos tagging along. Respect to them for sticking to their goals but also respect to CrossFit Merle Hay for having a cool and safe space for them to hang out. Will definitely be back in 2026!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Jackson B 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
There is great energy in the gym! They play fantastic hype music and they do a great job of creating camaraderie in the class.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Lindsay P 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
CrossFit Merle Hay is awesome! I recently dropped in for a class, and the entire experience was great from start to finish. The workout was definitely challenging, but the instructor did an amazing job helping me scale everything to my level so I felt supported the whole time. I left feeling accomplished, energized, and genuinely stronger than when I walked in. If you’re looking for a welcoming, motivating place to train—whether you're visiting or local—this is the spot!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Vanessa D 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
From the beginning, the communication has been stellar! My first class was a great stepping stone to getting back into a gym space. Coach Vince walked me through every move and explained the whole process. I look forward to joining this community and continuing my fitness journey.