Mercer Island CrossFit, which was operating out of a gym at the Stroum Jewish Community Center, has a new location: the old Veloce Velo shop at 2750 77th Ave S.E.

The business had been looking for a new space for its 65 clients where they could “lift weights and make noise,” said head trainer Corey McGee. He said he also looks forward to incorporating runs around the Town Center and through Mercerdale Park as part of workouts.

CrossFit, a combination of weightlifting, cardio and gymnastics, can seem intimidating, McGee said, but Mercer Island’s gym focuses on “fitness for everyone.”

“People think you have to be in shape to do CrossFit,” he said. “The best way to get in shape for CrossFit is to try it.”

Mercer Island CrossFit offers an “essentials” class for beginners, as well as classes geared toward children and high school athletes.

McGee has owned the business since 2010. He and his wife, Allison, moved to Mercer Island to be closer to their clients and part of the community.

There are other fitness businesses in the Mercer Island Town Center: Yoga Bliss, MI Athletic Club and The Dailey Method, to name a few. But McGee said he’s not worried about competition.

“The Island is a really active community. The businesses cater to that, and we’re proud to be a part of it,” he said. “We all have something different to add, and we complement each other.”

Mercer Island CrossFit hosts a community event every month, like a Workout of the Day (WOD) and Wine/Whiskey, a mud run or a football game viewing.

The gym will open on Oct. 26 and host a grand re-opening from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7.

“This will be a great time for anyone who is interested to come meet the coaches, see the new gym, even try a CrossFit workout if they want to,” McGee said.