Gym News

Small Group Traditional Strength Training: Get Stronger With More Coaching and Less Intensity

CrossFit Iron Horse post placeholder
Screenshot 2026 09 15 145239

When we introduced Small Group Traditional Strength Training at CFIH last year, we knew there was a need for something a little different.

We had met with plenty of people who wanted to prioritize their health and strength but weren’t necessarily looking for the intensity of CrossFit. Others wanted more coaching and interaction than they typically get with personal training.

We wanted to create a program that offered the best of both worlds: the structure and community of group training with more individual coaching and customization.

That’s where Small Group Training Traditional Strength Training, or SGT, came in.

And since launching the program, it’s been a huge hit!

Members who started with us during the beta round are still doing SGT today, almost a year later. They’ve enjoyed the slower pace, the strength-focused programming, and the extra coaching that comes with being part of a small group.

Because of that, we’re looking to open up additional evening class times for 6 more current CFIH members.

Here’s what you should know about the program.

What Is Small Group Training?

Small Group Training is a traditional strength-focused program designed to help you build strength, improve movement, and make consistent progress without the intensity or complexity of group CrossFit.

You’ll train twice per week in a small group of no more than 6 people. Everyone follows the same overall training program, but your coach can provide more individual attention, adjustments, and customization throughout the session.

The workouts are slower-paced and controlled, with an emphasis on quality movement and progressive strength training.

You won’t see movements like snatches, clean & jerks, muscle-ups, or handstand push-ups in SGT.

Instead, the focus is on getting stronger, moving well, and building a foundation that supports your long-term health.

The Benefits of Small Group Training

A Focus on Traditional Strength Training

SGT is built around progressive strength training.

You’ll work on movements that help improve your strength, stability, mobility, and confidence in the gym. The goal isn’t to burn yourself out every session. It’s to build strength over time through consistent, quality work.

A Slower Pace

Not everyone is looking for a high-intensity workout every time they train.

SGT gives you more time to focus on your movement, your technique, and how your body feels throughout the workout. It’s a great option for anyone who prefers a slower-paced approach or wants to take some of the intensity out of their training.

More Coaching and Customization

Even though you’re training in a group, you’ll receive more coaching touch points throughout each session.

Your coach can help you adjust movements, modify exercises, and make the workout fit your current abilities and goals. You’re following a structured program, but you’re not expected to force your body into a one-size-fits-all workout.

A Small Group Environment

With a maximum of 6 people per session, SGT offers a more personal training environment while still giving you the energy and support of training alongside others.

You’ll know the people you train with, have a coach who knows you, and still get to be part of the CFIH community.

A Great Fit for Different Starting Points

SGT may be a great option if you:

  • Want to focus on building strength
  • Prefer a slower-paced and lower-impact workout
  • Feel intimidated by traditional CrossFit classes
  • Are dealing with joint pain or mobility limitations
  • Want more coaching and customization
  • Are looking for a different training option as your body and goals change
  • Want to continue training while reducing the intensity of your workouts
  • Simply want to try something new

You don’t have to be in shape before starting. You don’t have to know how to lift. And you don’t have to choose between getting stronger and enjoying the process.

We’ll meet you where you are and help you build from there.

What to Expect

Small Group Training includes:

  • 2 sessions per week
  • 60-minute workouts
  • A maximum of 6 people per group
  • Traditional strength-focused programming
  • Slower-paced, controlled movement
  • More coaching and individual customization
  • The option to continue with CrossFit, personal training, or another CFIH program as well

The goal is simple:

Get stronger. Move better. Build results that last.

Is SGT Right for You?

SGT may be the right fit if you want the structure of a coached workout without having to figure out what to do on your own.

You show up, and your coach takes care of the plan.

You’ll know what you’re working on, have guidance throughout the session, and be able to focus on doing the work without worrying about creating your own program or keeping up with a high-intensity class.

It’s strength training with structure, coaching, and a supportive group environment.

Interested in Trying Small Group Training?

We’re currently looking to add evening SGT class times for 6 more current CFIH members.

If you think SGT might be a good fit for you, or if you’re simply curious and want to learn more, reach out to the CFIH team or book a Free No Sweat Intro!

We’ll help answer your questions, talk through your goals, and let you know if there’s an upcoming evening time that works for you.

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Just let us know you’re interested, and we’ll take it from there.