Getting started with a new fitness program can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Especially if you’re interested in a program like CrossFit. You’ve probably seen videos of people flipping tires, climbing ropes, or lifting heavy weights and thought, “I can’t do that,” but at CFIH, workouts can be adjusted during every workout regardless of your level of experience.
If you’re thinking about starting CrossFit but you’re feeling nervous or questioning if you’re ready for it, here are three tips to help ease those pesky feelings you may be experiencing.
1. Start with a Beginner’s Mindset—And Be Proud of It
Everyone starts somewhere. The best athletes in the world and the most experienced members at any gym were once beginners too. CrossFit is all about progress, not perfection. The key is showing up with a willingness to learn, ask questions, and go at your own pace. Coaches are there to guide you through every movement, explain unfamiliar terms so you’re not feeling lost or left out (like AMRAP or EMOM), and make sure your workouts are tailored to your current fitness level.
Pro tip: Let your coach know if you’re feeling unsure or a little nervous. While we offer start-up programs that are designed to ease you in safely and comfortably, it’s okay to ask questions once you graduate.
2. Focus on Form Over Intensity
It’s tempting to try to keep up with more experienced members, but we encourage you to take it slow. CrossFit is infinitely scalable—meaning every workout can be modified to meet you where you’re at. Whether that’s using lighter weights, adjusting the number of reps, or substituting movements entirely, what matters most is moving well and moving safely.
Remember: Our coaches will help you get better at the mechanics of each movement before adding intensity. This is for your safety Good mechanics lead to better performance over time and reduce the risk of injury. Master the basics, and the rest will fall into place with time and practice.
3. Find Your People and Celebrate Small Wins
CrossFit isn’t just a workout—it’s a community. Some of the most supportive, encouraging people you’ll ever meet are inside the gym. Introduce yourself (the community will probably beat you to it though), stick around after your workouts, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or encouragement. Every small win—a new movement learned, a completed workout, or just showing up consistently—is worth celebrating.
Keep in mind: The people cheering the loudest in a CrossFit gym are often the ones who remember exactly how it felt to start at square one. We were all beginners, and the community is nothing but supportive because of this!
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling nervous about starting CrossFit, know that’s super common—but don’t let that hold you back! With the right mindset, a focus on quality from, and leaning on the CFIH community will lift you up! And you’ll find that what once felt intimidating has become something that boosts your confidence and helps you feel empowered!
All you have to do is take the first step, which is arguably the hardest one. Book your free No Sweat Intro with one of our coaches and we’ll set up a time to meet and see which start-up programs are best for you: https://kilo.gymleadmachine.com/widget/booking/hFtBF3qPRpwRKbLDS3TN