CrossFit has a reputation of being a highly intense Training Program, and for good reason. This program was created for military and law enforcement officers, and its aim is to train regular people like elite athletes. Given this reputation, beginners can be quite intimidated by this workout program. However, these Workouts are very flexible and they can be adapted for all fitness levels. As long as you follow some simple rules, you will learn how to make the most of each workout, and how to push your limits daily.

1.   Set your goals and make a long-term plan

The core value of this training program is to train like an underdog, to aim high and to be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices in order to achieve your goals. So, consider what you expect to get from these workouts, establish some clear goals and make a long-term plan for achieving them. Moreover, be realistic and understand that in order to achieve your goals, you will have to make some sacrifices from time to time. Do you want to work out on Saturday? Then maybe you should skip that Friday night party. Your date wants to share a desert with you? Try to be romantic in some other way, and skip the desert if you don’t want your workouts to be in vain. It is all about setting that warrior mindset, and not allowing anything to deviate you from your path to success.

2.   Nutrition is the key

No matter what your fitness goals are, you need to adapt your diet accordingly if you want to achieve those goals. You can’t lose weight if you don’t eat less calories than you consume, and you certainly can’t build muscle mass if you don’t provide your body with the right nutrients. Finding the right diet depends on your individual goals, but also on how hard you push yourself. As general guidelines, ditch all liquids except water and try to drink at least 0.8 gallons per day. To have energy throughout the day, try to eat every 3 hours, and try to eat a good amount of protein, be it animal or vegan protein. Needless to say, you should ditch sugar as well as complex carbohydrates. If you feel that no matter what you do, your diet doesn’t satisfy your needs, consider talking to a nutritionist to plan a diet that matches your needs and your lifestyle. You can also consult with CrossFit trainers, as most of them have solid nutrition knowledge.

3.   Find the right gym for your needs

CrossFit gyms can be found all over the world, but it is important to find a gym where you feel comfortable and supported. Even if the core values are the same, all CrossFit boxes are different, and you should try to find one with competent trainers, and a supportive community. Do some online research to see how many boxes there are in your area and give them all a try to see which one is better. If you live in a big city, you can choose between dozens of gyms. For instance, in New York, you can find several gyms Near Grand Central Stations, and over two dozen of them spread throughout the city.

4.   Always focus on the foundation

When you have been working out for a while, you will want to diversify your workouts. However, you should try to remember that the basic exercises are the most efficient. Instead of trying out new exercises, work on improving your basics. If you work hard enough on them, in time you will be able to make them more challenging by adding speed, strength and power to them.

5.   Be patient

As a beginner, you may be intimidated by other gym members who have been working out for years. If this motivates you to push yourself harder, that is great. However, try not to be too hard on yourself. Be patient and understand that the best results will take a long time to show. Moreover, when you push yourself hard, make sure you aren’t compromising your safety. Take breaks if you feel dizzy or if you are in pain, and consult with the trainers to make sure that you are doing the exercises right.