"CrossFit is a loaded full-body workout that requires the involvement of all major joints," says Dr. Thanu Jey, CSCS, FCE, D.C, clinic director at Yorkville Sports Medicine Clinic. "If you have lingering injuries, it is a good idea to have them looked at prior to starting CrossFit, as the intensity of this training can expose those compromised areas."
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Don't Be Afraid to Modify Your CrossFit Workouts
"Many CrossFit workouts can be modified to be done safely, so it's a matter of understanding how to perform them this way," explains Dr. Jey. So listen to your body (and your trainers and your doctors), especially when engaging in a new workout regimen.
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There Are Steep Learning Curves In The Beginning
"For a while, it might feel like you're getting a lot to think about and focus on improving your movement," says Deidre Bloomquist, certified CrossFit Trainer (Level 3), NASM CPT. According to Blomquist, that feeling is completely normal — because there's a lot to know, and some workouts are more complicated than others.
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There Are No Dumb Questions
"There are definitely going to a lot of new words and terms that you may have never heard of before," says Bloomquist. It's always wise to remember there are no dumb questions — especially since your coach is more than happy to help you.
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You WILL Be Sore
"When you get started, you might notice you are really sore," Bloomquist warns. Not to worry, though: This is completely normal, especially as your muscles get used to the movements and the intensity.
However, she notes that it's important not to become discouraged if you feel beat up during your first month: As she explains, the more you move and work through the soreness, the faster it will go away.
