How To Start CrossFit Even When You’re Terrified

Everyone has a different story about how and why they got into CrossFit. Some people wanted a community of like-minded people. Some people wanted to get fit so they could play with their grandkids. Some people, like myself, saw it randomly on TV one day. Being completely honest, I saw tons of shredded men and women and just had to be wherever they were. But… I was terrified. I didn’t know how to do any of what they were doing. I wasn’t super strong. I wasn’t even a little bit flexible. I was ridiculously intimidated. It took 2 YEARS from the day I saw it on TV to the day I walked in the door *only* because of a New Year’s Resolution to do the things that scare me, and now I’ve been doing it for over 5 years. If you’re terrified like I was, here are a few steps that will help you figure out how to start.

Step 1: Have A Desire To Get Fit And To Improve

You don’t need to already be fit to start CrossFit – fitness is a process. A coach will teach you how to perform all the movements, and all the workouts will be adjusted to accommodate you and your current fitness level. No one’s going to throw you into the deep end and hope you swim. You’ll start at the 3ft and depending on if you need it, you may get water wings – well, not really, but you get the metaphor. [Note: If anyone tries to make you swim at the deep end and you’re brand new, that’s a big red flag and you should probably leave.] The hardest part about starting CrossFit is the first decision to actually walk in the door. Trust me!

Step 2: Search “CrossFit Gyms Near Me” Online

There are over 10,000 CrossFit gyms worldwide, so there’s a chance that at least 1 is near you. CrossFit gyms tend to have an introductory class/series of classes to onboard you and let you test out if CrossFit is right for you. Some places give those classes for free or at a cost that will later go toward your membership – if you choose to join. But if you’re feeling extra worried, there are many CrossFit home workouts and many bodyweight CrossFit workouts. This is also a good option if there isn’t a gym near you. Crossfit.com has an “at home” section with workouts, movements, and meals. The workouts utilize things found at home such as chairs, milk/laundry detergent jugs, a couch, etc. This way you can ease yourself in if you’re just not ready to walk through the door yet.

Step 3: Remember That Everybody Was A Beginner

Another tough aspect of starting CrossFit is being next to people that do everything way better than you. It can be intimidating. It can even deter you from attempting simply because you don’t want to be the one that doesn’t know anything. Remember that everyone in that room got there long before you got there and, therefore, everyone in that room is more experienced. Technically, they’re supposed to be better! A major key to learn early on is to focus on yourself and your growth. Your only concern at the beginning should be your own improvements. You shouldn’t compare yourself to anyone. Don’t let being inexperienced stop you from walking through the door. Let it be the reason that you do.

*BONUS*

5 Things I’ve Learned About CrossFit –

- You don’t need to buy all the equipment and accoutrements right when you start but eventually you’ll want all the fun stuff like knee sleeves, a special crossfit jump rope, Olympic lifting shoes, etc! You’ll say you don’t want all these things at first, but then you will. Once bitten by the CrossFit bug, It just happens!

- You may feel like people will judge you for not being good at something. What’s crazy is they’ll probably want you to succeed more than you do! Weird, I know, but it’s the truth. Everybody in there is on your side, and they're rooting for you.

- Crossfitters are not all CrossFit Games athletes. They’re not all super shredded and only eating broccoli and chicken breast. Crossfitters are moms, dads, grandparents, nurses, students, 9-5er’s, etc. They enjoy eating tacos, throwing a good barbecue, and even having a beer. They’re everyday people.

- You’ll find new sources of inspiration that you didn’t expect. Whether it’s a pregnant mom who’s 2 days away from her due date or friends that won’t let you quit when you’re really want to give up, there’s always something or someone pushing you to be better.

- You’ll walk away feeling drained yet energized, fatigued yet rejuvenated, mad at everything yet somehow happy that you did it.

In summary, all you need is a desire to get better, a nearby gym (or living room for home workouts), and to remember that everyone was once a beginner just like you. So what are you waiting for?!

Be sure to check out our SHOP for products that will help you once you begin your journey. Browse our blog posts like 5 Reasons to Try and Our Top 3 FAQs to learn more about us, and if nothing else, join our email list and join the OMECHA community.