Choose Your First Murder of Crows Training Session

Looking for an approachable place to start barbell strength training or try Brooklyn’s most established weightlifting programs? Murder of Crows makes it simple—choose your starting point based on format, not by lifting heavy on day one.

With two adjacent Dean Street locations, Murder of Crows Brooklyn splits a fully equipped open gym from its coached strength and group training programs. Here’s how a new lifter or curious beginner can match their goals with the right first session, plus what to know before booking a visit.

Understanding the Two Murder of Crows Locations

Murder of Crows operates out of neighboring spaces: 964 Dean Street is the primary facility for open gym access and individual fitness, while 1010 Dean Street houses coached barbell sports and functional fitness. Each location hosts different services—fitness-focused gym amenities at 964, and purpose-built platforms, team training, and group classes at 1010.

If you want independent training, start by exploring the 964 Dean Street gym. Those seeking structured programs, such as Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, or functional conditioning, will head to 1010 Dean. For free group trial classes, the 1010 address is the sole destination, as confirmed on the official Murder of Crows website.

Choosing Your Starting Format: Gym, Tour, or Coached Class?

Open Gym Access: Opt for a gym session if you prefer to exercise independently, use cardio machines, or work through self-directed strength workouts. The 964 Dean Street location maintains traditional fitness amenities, including benches, racks, and platforms—ideal for beginners wanting space to learn movement basics or gain comfort with gym routines.

Facility Tour: Unsure which space suits you? The official site directs appointments to 964 Dean Street. Ask what an appointment includes, which building to use and whether it is the right setting to discuss equipment, program fit and accessibility before committing.

Free Trial Group Session: For a no-cost introduction, 1010 Dean offers occasional group trial classes in functional fitness. These trial classes are tailored for first-timers, with accessible scaling and an emphasis on fundamentals. Try a session to sample coaching styles, meet other beginners, and discover if group formats keep you motivated.

Coached Weightlifting and Powerlifting: If you’re interested in barbell technique, Murder of Crows fields specialized teams for Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting at 1010 Dean. Beginners do not need prior experience or high baseline strength; programs are designed for all levels, focusing on movement quality and safety. Confirm prerequisites and available intro classes before enrolling—details change as new cycles open.

Setting Realistic Goals and Expectations

Murder of Crows does not require any visitor to lift heavy or embrace competition from the outset. Start with clear, achievable goals: learning safe barbell movements, building a consistent exercise habit, or exploring fitness with expert guidance. Ask yourself:

• Do you want independent access to machines and weights, or hands-on coaching?
• Are you curious about functional fitness, team training, or classic Olympic lifts?
• Do you prefer small, supportive groups or solo sessions?

Programs at Murder of Crows support many outcomes beyond strength: improved mobility, conditioning, and confidence are emphasized for all abilities. Coaches adapt progressions to individual needs, and you may adjust session types as you learn what keeps you engaged.

What to Know About Coaching, Movement Scaling, and Safety

At 1010 Dean, certified coaches lead all group and barbell classes. Beginners are assessed and guided through proper form, and all programs offer movement scaling—reducing weights, modifying skills, and substituting low-impact variations as needed. If you have prior injuries or chronic concerns, communicate clearly with coaches, who can propose safe modifications but do not offer medical advice.

Footwear with a flat, stable sole is generally recommended for lifting classes, though specialty shoes are not required for a first visit. Bring water, comfortable clothes, and if visiting an open gym session, consider simple recovery items like a foam roller or resistance band. Consistent post-class mobility and hydration support safe progress, but if pain or injury concerns arise, consult a medical professional before continuing.

Memberships, Pricing, and Neighborhood Notes

Murder of Crows lists membership and program details online, separated by format. Open gym access at 964 Dean comes with different rates and pass options compared to coached group or barbell programs at 1010 Dean. Rates, class schedules and sign-up windows can change, so verify current availability and costs directly through the official site or an appointment.

The gym is centrally located near transit options and local amenities in Prospect Heights/Crown Heights. While the facilities are designed for functional access, call ahead if you have questions about accessibility features, gender-neutral changing areas, or visitor flow. Since gym hours sometimes shift, especially during holidays or special events, confirm all details before arriving.

Before you go

Murder of Crows stands out by offering a transparent path for Brooklyn beginners, splitting open gym and expert-coached programs across two dedicated addresses. Whether your goal is solo fitness or barbell sport, your first session should fit your curiosity and comfort—not your starting numbers. Book a tour, try a free group class, or simply check out the gym in person, and make sure to ask about the latest coaching formats, prices, and policies before choosing your start.