Starting CrossFit can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’ve been working out for years or you’re completely new to fitness, CrossFit introduces a unique mix of strength training and cardio workouts that challenge and inspire you in ways most programs don’t.
As a CrossFit coach, I’ve seen hundreds of people take their first steps into the gym, and most of them ask the same key questions. If you’re considering joining, or just starting out, here are five of the most common questions—and what you should know about each one.
1. Do I need to be in shape before starting CrossFit?
Short answer: No.
One of the biggest misconceptions about CrossFit is that you need to already be fit to even start. That’s simply not true. CrossFit is infinitely scalable, which means every workout can be adjusted to match your current fitness level. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a competitive athlete, you will get an amazing workout.
When you start, our coaches will tailor the movements, weights, and intensity to meet you where you are. Over time, as your strength and endurance improve, your workouts will evolve with you.
Remember: the goal is progress, not perfection. Everyone starts somewhere.
2. What if I don’t know how to lift weights or do the movements?
Short answer: That’s what the coaching is for.
Many CrossFit newcomers worry they’ll be expected to know how to do Olympic lifts, pull-ups, or complex movements on day one. You won’t. That’s why every reputable CrossFit gym offers foundations or onboarding classes. These sessions are designed to teach you proper form and technique for key movements like squats, deadlifts, presses, and more.
Even once you’re in regular classes, your coach will guide you through each workout, demonstrate movements, and offer modifications. The learning curve is real, but it’s also part of what makes CrossFit so engaging.
3. Will I get injured doing CrossFit?
Short answer: Not if you train smart and take guidance from our coaches.
Injury risk exists in any sport or physical activity. But CrossFit often gets a bad rap because of its intensity. The truth is, CrossFit emphasizes good mechanics, consistency, then intensity, in that order. A good coach will make sure you’re moving well consistently before pushing you to lift heavier or move faster.
Injuries usually happen when people ignore proper form, try to lift too much too soon, or let ego drive their decisions. Listen to your coach, scale appropriately, and focus on form over speed or weight. That’s the path to long-term success and injury-free training.
4. What should I expect in a typical CrossFit class?
Short answer: A guided warmup and a fun, challenging workout with a supportive community.
Classes at Leander CrossFit are an hour long and typically follow this structure:
- Warm-up: Dynamic movements to prep your body.
- Skill/Strength Work: Focus on technique or building strength (like back squats or practicing double-unders).
- WOD/Metcon(Workout of the Day/metabolic conditioning): The main workout, which can range from 5 to 25 minutes and includes a mix of movements like rowing, kettlebell swings, box jumps, or cleans. The combinations are endless.
- Cool-down/stretching: To help your body recover.
One of the best parts? The community. You’re not working out alone, you’re sweating, struggling, and celebrating with others who are on the same journey. It’s motivating, and it makes a huge difference in your consistency and enjoyment.
5. Will CrossFit help me lose weight/gain muscle/improve overall fitness?
Short answer: Yes, if you stay consistent and support it with good nutrition.
CrossFit is known for producing real, visible changes in strength, endurance, body composition, and overall health. It combines strength training, metabolic conditioning, and functional movements in a way that pushes your entire body to adapt.
That said, results don’t come overnight. The magic happens when you combine consistent training with smart nutrition and recovery. We offer amazing habit-based nutrition coaching and accountability. When you sign up for a wellness membership, you are going to see results even faster than if you just sign up for a fitness membership.
Final Thoughts
CrossFit might seem intimidating at first, but once you get started, you’ll quickly realize it’s not about competing with others; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself. It’s a program built for all levels, and it offers the support, structure, and challenge most people need to stay motivated and see results.
So if you’re on the fence about trying it, come in with an open mind, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to scale. Everyone was a beginner once. Let’s take the first step together and sign come try a free class!
Do you have a friend that is on the fence? Send them this post and have them join you at Leander CrossFit!
