Why Picking a Gym Can Feel So Overwhelming
There are so many good options out there! We’ve got big chains, small group pop-ups in parks, boutique training facilities, CrossFit boxes, and everything in between. No wonder it’s hard to know where to start!
Each option has its own appeal, so you dive down the rabbit hole that the internet can be, and take a deeper look. The downfall of online content is that, in highlighting what they do, gyms can make it seem like you have to be already fit just to walk in their door. They’re selling “results” and posting reels with big PRs and tremendous accomplishments of their members, but few talk about how it actually feels to be new, and how their members actually get started down a new path to fitness.
It is completely normal to feel pressure to pick the “perfect” gym on your first attempt, but do not hesitate to explore all your options to see what fits you best!
You’re Allowed to Try a Gym Before You Commit
Most gyms will offer a free class or a trial period…if they don’t, that’s a red flag. You wouldn’t buy a car before you took a test drive, so why would you commit to a gym membership before trying it? You should also not feel pressured to sign up immediately. A good gym won’t rush your decision, but allow you time to feel out the overall vibe – the coaching and the community are just as important as the programming! Use the trial period to try different class times to experience different crowds and coaching styles. See how different class times work with your day to day life. You’re choosing your partner in a big lifestyle change, it’s okay to be thoughtful and take your time!
Every Gym Has a Vibe—Pay Attention to It
Use that trial period to experience the culture of the gym to see if it aligns with what you need. Are members supportive and inclusive or ultra-competitive and ego-driven? Members tend to be welcoming and engaging with potential members, but also pay attention to how people talk to each other! Once you settle in as a member of a new gym family, will they continue to be encouraging and friendly? Many days the community aspect can be more important that the calories you burn, so trust your gut,and go with a gym that makes you feel like you belong from day one.
You Don’t Need to Be Fit to Join a Gym—You Just Need to Be Ready
Everyone starts their fitness journey at a different point, and no matter their background, skills or abilities, everyone is welcome at our gym. Being ready to start isn’t about having the perfect outfit or knowing all the movements, it’s having the mindset that you will show up and do the work you need to do to reach your goals. We aren’t going to push you to “catch up” with anyone else, but we will push you to make progress once you start. Seeing this progress, whether it’s gaining strength, building endurance, or losing weight, is what brings people back for more. You walk in the door intimidated the first class, and leave feeling empowered and ready for more.
A Good Gym Should Meet You Where You Are (Not Where You “Should” Be)
The beauty of CrossFit is that it is adaptable and scalable to meet you where you are. A good gym with knowledgeable coaches will allow you to do any workout safely and successfully, and know that your progress is personal. We do love and celebrate PRs and members success stories, but we know that some days just getting to the gym is your win. We are there to support and encourage you to keep showing up, because consistency will bring you the results you’re striving for.
What I Hope You’ll Feel the First Time You Walk Into Our Gym
Walking into our gym should feel like walking into your friend’s house. You’ll get a smile, a high five or fist bump, and the sense that everyone is glad you are there. We will encourage and hold you accountable without pressure, and you’ll get the support and guidance you need to to leave with a sense of accomplishment. The hesitation you might have felt about starting something new is gone. You see what’s possible, and the path forward is clear and full of people you’ll have fun with along the way!
Even If You Pick a Different Gym, I Hope You Find the Right Fit for You!
We want people to find success in their journey to fitness, and whether it’s with us or somewhere else, we are rooting for you! You will thrive where you feel at home, where you enjoy the people around you and the workouts you are doing.
If any of this resonated with you—if you’re looking for a gym that feels like a good fit, not just a place to sweat—we’d love to chat, and answer any questions, even as you explore other gyms, because at the end of the day, we just want you to get started, wherever that may be!
