Yesterday I decided to try a new CrossFit gym. I’ve done CrossFit twice, and both times I wanted to vomit. I was nervous, and, as fate would have it, somehow accidentally wound up in a private class with a bunch of jacked, German CrossFit pros.
Not knowing I was in the wrong place, I asked the instructor if he could quickly explain the movements in English. There are lots of Germans in Mallorca; I thought maybe it was just a German-owned business. He looked at me curiously and said, “You want to join?” I responded, “Yes… is that okay?” He shrugged his shoulders, said “Sure.”
The CrossFit Experience
Five minutes later, I’m warming up (terrified, because I was told I would need to operate a jump rope), and a woman comes up to me and says in Spanish, “You can’t be here; this is a private CrossFit retreat, and they’ve rented the space. Even if he will let you, for us, it is better if you don’t.” After some back and forth to help me figure out what the hell was going on, I signed up for a class the following day instead, left, and went to the gym next door.
Was I embarrassed? Yes. Was I second-guessing my decision to try CrossFit? Also yes.
Today, I went back to the CrossFit gym, still intimidated, but this time with Marty by my side. Just having him there made me feel more comfortable (best husband ever). The instructor was funny and encouraging, and I ended up having a fantastic – albeit extremely challenging – time. (See the attached photo of me trying not to barf.) As I type this, I am cuddled up on the couch in my pajamas, completely exhausted from just 30 minutes of exercise. I think I’ll go back.
So What Did I Learn?
While this might not seem like much of a story, this experience was a beautiful reminder of how hard, scary, and
challenging it can be to start a new fitness routine. And if I felt intimidated… how would someone with little to no experience in the gym feel in my place? Telling people to “just exercise,” is bad advice. It dismisses the fact that it takes real courage to change your lifestyle and to get out of your comfort zone! The fear of judgement, of embarrassment, of doing things wrong – all of these are challenges that we’re forced to face when we try something new.
Here’s the Good Advice
So, for all the newbies out there, a few tips:
1) Grab a friend. Everything is easier with someone by your side.
2) If you’re taking a class and don’t vibe with the instructor, find someone else. Your instructor should encourage you, educate you, and challenge you.
3) Fear and discomfort are normal. Don’t let these things stop you from caring for your body and having fun.
4) Set achievable goals. One to two days per week is a wonderful starting point!
5) You got this. You are brave as hell. I admire you, and we’re all cheering for you.
Are you ready to start a new fitness routine? Try the Sunday Sweat Club and join me once per week for (sweaty) virtual yoga. Practice live or enjoy the replay, it’s up to you.
