And the internet doesn’t help. Type ‘Crossfit’ into Google and you’re bound to be met by countless videos and images of the likes of Rich Froning, Sam Briggs and Sara Sigmundsdottir undertaking the most brutal of WODs. But let us assure you, these elite Crossfit athletes are not a realistic representation of the average Crossfit member.
But that’s not easing your uncertainty, is it? Crossfit boxes are intimidating, we know. There’s no two ways around it and no BOXROX article is going to change that. But knowledge is power, right? So knowing a few things may well just help you pluck up the courage to give it a try. And who better to help you out than Reebok and Crossfit Bath athlete and coach Bex Hall.
ADVICE FROM REGIONALS ATHLETE AND CROSSFIT COACH BEX HALL
Bex’s Crossfit journey began back in 2009, when the sport was pretty unheard of in the UK. The box she attended had no pull-up rig or any of the fancy equipment you see nowadays, but she still felt a sense of anxiety initially. ‘I was thinking about trying crossfit near me and was always nervous turning up to a class,’ she says. ‘Not knowing what pain was in store for us that night! But I loved doing new things and learning how to lift weights.’
Despite progressing slowly at first, Bex did not let anxiety stand in her way.
‘I couldn’t do a full press up or a pull up when I started,’ she says. ‘But I started going more and more and before I knew it, I absolutely loved taking part and being part of such a fantastic community of people.’
Things have changed a lot for Bex since she first stepped foot in the Crossfit Bath Box seven years ago.
Who knew I would miss it so much!! Yesterday I surprised myself and equalled my PB at the end of my session. Sometimes good things happen when you least expect it ✨ 20 minute AMRAP: 30 clean and jerk @ 50kg 90 bar facing burpees 30 muscle ups Rest as needed Then on the minute snatch adding 2.5kg’s each minute #opensarecoming #crossfit #snatch #girlswholift #training #progress #teamreebokuk #teamnolimits #teamsgf #buffbox #eatforperformance #foodisfuel #mustgetstronger #teamcfbath @reebokuk @teamnolimitsuk @sgfspeedropesDespite her initial uncertainty, she’s gone on to:
- Become a Crossfit coach
- Compete regularly for Crossfit Bath, including twice at Regionals in Copenhagen
- Last year, was made part of Team Reebok UK.
‘It’s an honour to be part of such an amazing group of people and represent such a company. CrossFit is all about the community and being an ambassador has meant I get to do so many great things and meet so many lovely people, I feel very lucky.’
‘Bex’s journey goes to prove that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to great and exciting new opportunities.’
While your local Box may seem like an intimidating place, the reward and satisfaction that can come from being a Crossfit member is totally worth those initial nerve-wracking moments. Still not convinced? Here’s some advice from Bex that might just help you bite the bullet:
1. YOU’LL BE WELCOMED WITH OPEN ARMS
Crossfit coaches and members alike are all too aware of how intimidating a place a box can be for newbies, which is why they will all go to of their way to make you feel welcome and at ease. ‘Everyone at a Crossfit box has been the new member straight off the intro,’ says Bex. ‘Always keep that in mind. Everyone is there to encourage and help you. It’s not all about fastest times and heaviest weights lifted.’
2. SO YOU’RE THINKING…’HOW CAN I TRY CROSSFIT NEAR ME?’ – START WITH A FREE INTRODUCTORY CLASS
Lots of boxes hold free, no obligation introductory classes for those wanting to get an idea of what Crossfit is all about. Like every sport, Crossfit is not for everyone, and this is a great way to find out if it suits you. Be warned though, if it does, you’ll be hooked immediately. ‘Give it a try, set yourself realistic goals and start off gently,’ Bex advises. ‘Remember every workout is scaleable to suit individual needs.’
3. NO-ONE JUDGES YOU
You don’t have to be ripped to join a Crossfit box – they won’t turn you away at the door if you don’t have abs, we promise. ‘A lot of people think you need to “get fit to do Crossfit”. Or that it is too “hardcore” for them. This is definitely not the case!’ says Bex. ‘The great thing about Crossfit, wherever you do it, is that there are people of all shapes and sizes and fitness levels.’
4. CROSSFIT GIVES YOU BAGS OF CONFIDENCE
‘Once you have managed to get yourself through the door, it won’t be long until you start to notice changes and your confidence levels will soar.’
‘There is nothing quite so satisfying as completing a workout with a group of other like minded people, all helping each other and pushing each other,’ Bex says. ‘You will do things you never dreamt of doing. Women especially are terrible for hating on themselves, and I am guilty of this too. But Crossfit gives you a kind of confidence that I don’t think you can get from other gyms. Feeling stronger and fitter is the best feeling. And being surrounded by women with the same motivations and mindset is inspiring.’
5. LADIES – YOU WON’T END UP ‘LOOKING LIKE A MAN’
Ladies, ignore the ignorant folk who warn you about ‘turning into a man’ if you lift weights. It’s a common (misplaced) concern, but it shouldn’t be. ‘Lifting weights does not make you bulky or manly’ Bex comments. ‘We don’t have the testosterone to put on a lot of muscle mass. With Crossfit and good nutrition you will gain a lean physique and a great booty.’
6. TRY A LADIES ONLY CLASS
While we’re on the subject of ladies, having spoken to a lot of women about Crossfit, it’s clear that for them, in particular, a Crossfit box is incredibly intimidating place to walk into. Again, the community is very aware of this, which is why a lot of boxes offer women’s only classes.
‘Don’t let the grunting, sweaty, muscly men put you off joining a class,’ says Bex.
‘But if you feel self conscious to begin with, a lot of boxes do ladies-only classes, which is a great way to start and build up confidence.’
7. CROSSFIT IS A KEY TO AN ALL-ROUND HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE
Unlike your average high-street gym, most Crossfit Box owners go above and beyond to help their members attain a healthy and happy lifestyle, a vital part of which is nutrition. ‘It’s not all about exercise to help you get fitter and stronger and in better shape,’ Bex comments. ‘Nutrition is also key. Most Crossfit gyms incorporate some kind of nutrition advice and challenges to help you improve your diet.’
Featured Image © Sels Photography
Bex Instagram video and image © Bex Hall
Muscle Ups © Sels Photography
Handstand Walk © Sels Photography
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