Fiction in Fitness: “I need to get in better shape before I try CrossFit.”

 As a CrossFit coach, I hear this all the time. There is a misconception that participation in CrossFit requires a prerequisite level of fitness. The majority of the population believes that they are not physically prepared to drop into the local CrossFit affiliate and perform constantly varied, functional movements at high intensities. These individuals believe that CrossFit, the training methodology, is the same as what they have seen on YouTube and ESPN…the CrossFit Games. They believe that every CrossFit gym is filled with half-naked, incredibly fit, super hero-looking men and women who would be insulted by the presence of us mere mortals. Fortunately, perception is not always reality.

There are no prerequisites for CrossFit. The program is universally scalable. Regardless if you are sedentary, overweight or obese, a stay-at-home mom, nine-to-five desk jockey, grandparent, or elite-level athlete, CrossFit will help you to lead a more active, balanced life. Most CrossFit gyms have few, if any elite-level athletes. The majority of affiliates are comprised of ordinary men and women simply looking to get better every day. Their goals are not centered on CrossFit metrics like one-rep maxes, benchmark workouts, and nutrition. Rather, these individuals are concerned with life metrics: more energy to play with their kids, a better golf swing, the ability to carry all the groceries in one trip, or the confidence to wear that new bikini. CrossFit is the medium through which all of these goals can be achieved. All you have to do is start.

“Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” – Carl Bar