What to Expect During Your First CrossFit Class
Going into a CrossFit facility for the first time can be scary. There are a lot of big muscles, big weights, ropes, muscle ups, and a ton of other things that you probably aren’t used to. No need to feel intimated though. Kat Swindell from Primitive Athletics has a few tips to help guide you through a successful first CrossFit class.
Before the First CrossFit Class Begins
Upon entering the facility, make sure to introduce yourself to the head coach or owner. Get to know them and ask any questions you may have about the class. You will have to sign a waiver and/or complete any other paperwork requirements before you start your first WOD, so give yourself plenty of time before the class begins.
Once you’re in, go around and introduce yourself to other members. Often times, new members are scared and end up standing in a corner in the back of the room and don’t want to talk to anyone else. Don’t be one of those people! The other more experienced members are more than willing to step forward and help if needed. Plus, you can hear about why they first started CrossFit and get their first-hand experience, which can make the whole situation a lot less daunting. Connecting with other members at your first CrossFit class is a great opportunity to become a part of the community.
3 Tips for Your First WOD
#1: Be Open Minded
Once your first CrossFit class gets underway, the best thing you can do is be open minded. Don’t automatically stick to past information or techniques you received from former coaches, trainers, etc. The new facility may see an imbalance or improper movement and will want to elaborate on that or help you fix it. Be willing to just learn.
#2: Ask Lots of Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask questions just because everyone else in the class knows what they are doing. Once your first CrossFit class begins, everyone else is going to start grabbing what they need and preparing for the WOD. If you aren’t sure what you are supposed to be doing or if you don’t know where something is, just ask! CrossFit is a community that works together and is more than happy to help each other out.
#3: Remember That This is a Starting Point
Keep in mind that you may not be the fastest or the strongest at your first CrossFit class. You may not even be able to do one pullup to save your life, but you will get there. This first class is a starting block. It’s the foundation where your life is going to make a change. Remember that you are only going to progress from here!
Now that you have the first CrossFit class down, make sure to learn the words that you will be hearing around the box by checking out the “CrossFit Dictionary”.