CrossFit 356

CrossFit 356 is a dedicated CrossFit gym in Birkirkara, one of the largest towns in central Malta and a convenient point for reaching Valletta, Sliema and the old capital. It has been operating since 2012 and was the first CrossFit gym on the island. Along with other training options it appears in our directory of gyms in Malta.

The gym and its coaching

The training floor measures around 800 square metres and is fully equipped, with the gym investing regularly in new kit. The approach is built on functional fitness: constantly varied, high-intensity movements such as squatting, lifting and jumping that mirror everyday activity, combining weightlifting, cardio and bodyweight work to build strength and stamina.

Coaches are qualified, and the gym also acts as a teaching centre. Local trainers come to improve their own coaching, and the gym hosts international courses including CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 along with specialist seminars. The atmosphere is described as friendly and supportive, and the classes suit seasoned athletes and complete beginners alike.

Classes for adults, kids and teens

Daily CrossFit classes are the core of the timetable, open to every level. Beginners can start with the 356 Kickstarter, an eight-session introduction that prepares you for regular classes with no experience required. An Engine class focuses on cardio and endurance and is included in any membership. Gymnastics sessions cover kipping movements, strict pull-ups and handstands at a slow, technique-led pace, and weightlifting sessions teach the Olympic snatch and clean and jerk. For both skill classes at least three months of experience is recommended.

Children are well catered for: kids aged four to nine and teens aged ten to sixteen have their own classes that build agility, cardio fitness and teamwork. Experienced athletes can use open gym, which is not coach-led, and advanced CrossFitters can follow the B3 competitor programme, written by Kyle Micallef. Personal training is available one-to-one or in a small group of up to four, in single sessions or packs of ten.

Because the gym is close to the centre of the island, it is easy to combine with sightseeing. Our Valletta guide and Mdina guide cover the two nearest historic cities, and the things to do in Malta page has ideas for rest days.

Memberships and booking

Printed membership prices are €80 a month for the limited monthly plan and €250 for a three-month unlimited plan. You can also buy a single drop-in class, which is the usual way for visitors to try a session. After you purchase a membership you receive an email to set up an account, then book through the Wodify app on iOS or Android. Class and open gym bookings open 48 hours ahead and stay open until the class starts.

UK visitors planning a few weeks on the island can check our Malta weather guide and our guide to where to stay in Malta when deciding which area to base themselves in. People relocating will find the Malta relocation guide and the digital nomad guide useful when settling in near a regular gym.

Who it suits and how to start

The gym works for a wide mix of people. Parents can book their children into age-based classes while they train, regular residents can build a long-term routine around the unlimited plan, and holidaymakers can drop in for a single session between days out. The community side matters here: members are encouraged to see the gym as a family of like-minded people rather than a place to train alone with headphones on.

If your trip is built around the coast, our guides to the best beaches in Malta and the Three Cities show how easily a morning class can fit around a day of sightseeing. Rest days also work well with a visit to Golden Bay on the north-west coast, and the hotels in Sliema put you a short drive from the gym.

To ask about a first session, kids classes or personal training, use the VisitMalta.co.uk enquiry form on this page and we will pass your message to CrossFit 356.