Do you have to be in shape to start CrossFit ? NO !!! Do you have to get in better shape to start CrossFit ? NO !!! There is no other exercise regimen that will prepare you for CrossFit. People believe that they have to “get into shape” before they do CrossFit. CrossFit is a fitness program, designed to take you from your own starting point to a much higher level of fitness. You don’t have to be fit – it’s our job to get you there.
When you first begin CrossFitting, be very mindful that CrossFit is a high intensity workout, something you’ve most likely not done before. So, take it easy. You’ll be at the beginner level for at least a month – I don’t care how athletic you are. After a month or so, if you’re progressing at a good pace and you’d like to push yourself a bit more, you can move up to intermediate. After a month or so, and you feel up to the challenge, you can do the advanced versions.
What about scaling ? When you first begin CrossFit, you’ll most likely be unable to lift the prescribed weights. So, in addition to scaling the rounds, time, reps, sets, etc, we scale the weight to ensure you can do the exercises safely. As you advance in the program, you can increase the reps, sets, time, distance, and weights. We try to lift heavy as much as possible so that you’ll get stronger, faster. When you get stronger, you’ll improve your workouts.
How often should you show up for class ? As a beginner, 3x a week is fine – MWF but really any 3 days will work, as long as they’re not 3 consecutive days and then off for 4. As you get into better shape, you can start coming 4 times a week. Once you get to the advanced stage, you can (and should) be coming at least 3 days a week, preferably 4-5. a week.
Should I take rest time ? Absolutely yes. First, listen to your body. If you are feeling tired, sore (for a few days) or just mentally need a break, take the week off. Or at least do 1/2 the listed workout – just tell me so I know. If you have been showing up 3-5 days a week, I’d say take a week off every 3 or 4 months. You’ll come back stronger and refreshed.
BE COMMITTED !!!
This is not the Y, Bally’s, Lifetime – You are here at CrossFit because you want to get FIT !!! There is no “I think I’ll hit the gym today”. This is “I want to do a kick ass workout today and can’t wait to get to the gym”. It’s really about attitude and drive. Some have it, some do not.
