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Dustin Dunton

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August 21, 2025

How to Get Started with CrossFit: A Beginner's Guide

If you’ve ever seen a CrossFit class in action, it might look intense, people lifting weights, jumping on boxes, climbing ropes, and pushing themselves to the limit. While that may seem intimidating at first, the beauty of CrossFit is that it’s scalable and accessible for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or experience. Whether you're looking to build strength, improve endurance, or just try something new, CrossFit can be a powerful, community-driven way to reach your goals.

Here’s how to get started with CrossFit, the smart and sustainable way:

1. Understand What CrossFit Is

At its core, CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program that combines:

  • Weightlifting
  • Cardio
  • Gymnastics
  • High-intensity functional training

The workouts, called WODs (Workout of the Day), vary daily and are designed to improve overall fitness across multiple domains—strength, endurance, flexibility, agility, and more.

2. Find a Reputable CrossFit Gym (Box)

Not all CrossFit gyms are created equal. Here at Burg CrossFit, we:

  • Offer a foundations or on-ramp course for beginners
  • Have certified, attentive coaches
  • Promote a supportive and inclusive community
  • Are clean, organized, and safety-focused

Your first class is on us. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the coaches’ experience or how they modify workouts for beginners.

3. Take the Foundations Course

This is where you’ll learn the fundamentals:

  • Proper form for key lifts (deadlift, squat, press)
  • Basic gymnastics (pull-ups, push-ups, getting upside-down)
  • Introduction to Olympic lifts (clean & jerk, snatch)
  • CrossFit terminology and class flow

This foundation will help you feel confident and safe when you start jumping into regular classes.

4. Start Slow and Scale Everything

At Burg CrossFit, everything is scalable. Can’t do a pull-up? Use resistance bands. Struggling with barbell work? Use a PVC pipe or dumbbells. Our coaches will help you modify movements based on your ability and goals.

Tip: Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on progress, not perfection.

5. Focus on Form Over Speed or Weight

Yes, CrossFit is often high-intensity, but form always comes first. Moving correctly reduces injury risk and sets you up for long-term success. Trust the process. Strength and speed will come with time.

6. Prioritize Recovery and Nutrition

CrossFit workouts can be demanding, especially in the beginning. Prioritize:

  • Sleep
  • Hydration
  • Balanced nutrition (protein, carbs, healthy fats)
  • Rest days

Consider working out 2–3 times per week initially, and gradually increase frequency as your body adapts.

7. Embrace the Community

One of the most unique and motivating aspects of CrossFit is the community. You’ll work out alongside people of all ages and backgrounds who cheer each other on. That camaraderie keeps people coming back and helps build consistency.

Don’t be surprised if you make a few new friends!

Starting CrossFit might seem intimidating, but once you take that first step, you’ll find it’s an incredibly empowering journey. It’s not about being the strongest or the fastest—it’s about becoming a better version of yourself. Our supportive coaches, varied workouts, and vibrant community make it a fitness program unlike any other.

You don’t have to be fit to start CrossFit. You just have to start.

Ready to give it a try? Visit us here at Burg, ask about our beginner options, and take your first class. You’ve got this!

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