By Jessica Milliken, personal trainer

Exceed, located at 97 Reade Street, maintains the scent of freshly folded towels, polished rowing machines, and tight bosus- its an ideal candidate for your new favorite functional and private training studio. This is owner Catharine Goodwin’s second spot since her successful Upper East Side venue launched in 2012.

Exceed compares their featured bodyweight class “The Workout” to Crossfit- similarly high intensity, yet a lower impact level. Their vision is to create a ‘Physical Culture” where inner athletes are brought out, but safety concerns are not.

They are spacious by Manhattan standards, with high ceilings in each of the three large rooms. The mirrored walls are lined with kettle bells, TRX, Bosus, and pull up bars. There are massage tables, sleds, and an oversized truck tire ready for flipping. The basement includes a locker room for independent trainers, set with Wifi. The shower and locker rooms seal the deal, with a presentation fit for a photo shoot.

The per session rates for independent trainers are competitive and reasonable. No formal contract is required to attend “The Workout” classes, they are available for drops ins and have a flat rate for unlimited monthly sweats.

Exceed’s convenience factor is a win for any traveling trainer; Off Broadway, below Canal Street, in that sweet spot of lower Manhattan above the Financial District where east and westside trains overlap- less than two minutes to 123, 456, R,AC,JZ. trains.

There’s a lot to like about Exceed; It decently accommodates independent trainers, their clients, and the community. I recently attended its open house and received a friendly follow up from the club manager, Stephanie, who recounted details of our brief conversation. Classy. Time Out has already named it the “Best Gym in NYC for Functional Fitness.” It’s a gorgeous space with the personalized touch, so check it out.