Let’s be honest – starting any new fitness program can feel intimidating, and CrossFit often comes with its own set of questions and concerns. As coaches at Northern Touch CrossFit in Scarborough, we’ve heard them all, and today we’re addressing the most common worries our members had before starting.
“Is CrossFit Safe?”
This is probably our most frequently asked question, and it’s a great one. The short answer is yes – when done properly, CrossFit is very safe. Here’s how we ensure your safety at Northern Touch:
- Every class is led by a certified coach who watches your form
- We start everyone with proper movement fundamentals via our beginner bootcamp or CrossFit on ramp program
- All workouts can be modified to match your ability level
- We emphasize technique over weight or speed
- Our programming includes proper warm-ups and cool-downs
- We maintain appropriate coach-to-member ratios
“I Haven’t Worked Out in Years!”
If we had a dollar for every time we heard this, we could buy a lot of kettlebells! Here’s the truth: many of our most dedicated members started from exactly where you are. Take Jack, one of our members who hadn’t exercised since high school:
“I was worried about being the most out-of-shape person in class. But from day one, the coaches helped me modify every workout to my level. Six months later, I’m doing things I never thought possible!”
“What If I Can’t Do Certain Movements?”
Here’s our secret: there’s always a plan B (and C, and D). Can’t do a pull-up? We have bands and alternative exercises. Push-ups on your toes not happening yet? We’ll start you with elevated or knee push-ups. Every single movement in CrossFit can be modified. For example:
- Pull-ups → Ring rows or band-assisted pull-ups
- Regular push-ups → Elevated or knee push-ups
- Box jumps → Step-ups or lower box heights
- Olympic lifts → Learning with PVC pipes first
“How Long Until I See Results?”
While everyone’s journey is different, here’s what most of our members experience:
- First month: Improved energy and movement patterns
- 2-3 months: Noticeable strength gains and better endurance
- 3-6 months: Visible physical changes and significant performance improvements
Remember, “results” aren’t just about how you look – our members often report better sleep, more energy for their kids, improved posture, and fewer aches and pains.
“How Do You Balance Intensity with Safety for Beginners?”
This is where our coaching expertise really shines. At Northern Touch, we follow a simple philosophy:
- Master the Movement: Learn proper form with no or light weight
- Build Consistency: Practice the movement patterns regularly
- Add Intensity: Only increase speed or weight when form is solid
- Listen to Your Body: Some days are for pushing, others for scaling back
“What If I’m the Slowest in the Class?”
Here’s something that might surprise you: nobody cares! No, really. One of the beautiful things about our CrossFit community is that everyone is focused on their own journey. Often, the last person finishing gets the loudest cheers and the most support.
A dad of two who joined us last year, said this: “I was worried about being the slowest, but I quickly realized that everyone was so focused on their own workout that nobody was judging mine. The support I get, especially when I’m struggling, is incredible.”
“How Will I Know What I’m Doing?”
You don’t have to – that’s what we’re here for! Every class includes:
- Detailed movement demonstrations
- Step-by-step instructions
- Personal form checks
- Scaling options explained up front
- Coaches who answer all your questions
Moving Forward: Your First Steps
Still feeling uncertain? That’s completely normal. Here’s what we do to prioritize your safety and comfort.
Before even stepping onto the gym floor, all of our new members start with a free intro session. This is where we sit down for 15-20mins and get to know your fitness past, if you have any injuries and set up a plan for you to achieve any goals you may have.
During this time you will also see the gym, maybe watch a class in action and have time to ask all your questions.
Once the intro session is complete. We will then get you registered and you will start with one of our beginner options. This is what we call our CrossFit on ramp/bootcamp program.
This approach is where you will start to come in to workout with us, but you will be doing a scaled version with less intensity, or movements that are appropriate for you as laid out by our coaches.
Our Promise to You
At Northern Touch CrossFit, we are confident in supporting beginners and avid athletes as our whole team are certified coaches and have years, if not decades of fitness and health experience. When you join our gym you can ensure all of the following will be there available to you:
- A welcoming, supportive environment
- Professional coaching focused on safety
- Workouts that match your current abilities
- A community that celebrates every victory, big or small
- Guidance every step of the way
Ready to see what CrossFit is really about? Drop by our Scarborough location or book your free intro session here. Let’s address any other concerns you might have and get you started on your fitness journey.
Remember: Every single person at Northern Touch CrossFit had a first day. Every one of us started somewhere. Why not let today be your day?
