“Very nervous. Been in gyms and did not enjoy it.”
That’s from one of our Google reviews, and it’s close to what most people tell us before their first class at CrossFit Mendip. They’re worried they’re not fit enough, that they’ll hold everyone up, or that they’ll get hurt.
You don’t need to get fit before you start. That’s what the classes are for. So here’s what actually happens in your first class, from booking to going home.
Booking your first class
Classes are booked through WOD Board, up to 7 days ahead. If you’re not sure which class to pick, a CrossFit class is a good place to start. We run them every weekday from 6am, with daytime classes at 9:30am or 12:30pm and evening classes from 5:30pm. The timetable has every class.
If you’d rather try a few before deciding, 3 classes for £30 (normally £45) is the easiest way in. If a friend of yours is already a member, ask them for a VIP Pass and your first class is free.
Before the class starts
Tell the coach it’s your first class, and tell them about any injuries. I was a paramedic before Amy and I took over the gym, so the dodgy knee or the bad back won’t get a blank look. We can always find a way for you to train, even if you have an injury.
The hour itself
A CrossFit class is an hour, coached from start to finish, in three parts.
A warm-up to get you moving.
A strength or skill part. This is where you learn. Every movement is taught, and every one has a simpler version. You start with the one that suits you today and build from there, with a coach watching.
The workout. Everyone does the same workout, each at their own level. The coach will give you the version that suits you. Rest when you need to. Finishing is the goal, not finishing first.
“I’ll be the least fit person there”
This is the big one. Before they started, one of our members was worried about “feeling I have to keep up with people fitter than me”.
You don’t have to keep up. Complete beginners train in the same class as people who’ve been coming for years, doing the same workout at a different level. Nobody’s watching your numbers but you.
Most of our members are 30 to 65, lots of them are parents, and plenty started from scratch. There are no mirrors, over half our members are women, and prams are welcome.
Amy and I have both been there. I went from 130kg to 80kg, and Amy went from a size 20 to a size 10. We know what it’s like to walk in not feeling fit.
If you’d like more help
If you want a bit more support before your first class, we can arrange a 1:1 session with one of the coaches. If you want help with food as well as training, the 6 Week Challenge is our most supported way in: coached classes, nutrition support, 3D body scans and a weekly check-in with us.
Got a question first?
Message us on WhatsApp on 01749 326221 and ask us anything, including whether you’re “fit enough”. Either way, I’m sure we can get you stronger and fitter.
Daryl
