“I Just Need to Get in Shape First…”

If you’ve ever thought this—or said it out loud—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common objections we hear that people use to disqualify themselves from starting CrossFit.

But let’s take a step back for a second.

If you were sick, would you wait until you felt better before going to see the doctor? If your car broke down, would you wait until it was running properly again before taking it to the mechanic?

The obvious answer to these questions is no! Of course not! If you have a problem that you can’t immediately fix yourself, you go to an expert—the person whose job it is to help you fix the problem.

So why would getting in shape be any different?

You Don’t Get Fit For CrossFit

You do CrossFit to get fit!

This is the biggest misconception we see. People assume CrossFit is only for already-fit people, so they plan to run, lift, or “work out on their own for a few months” before ever stepping into a gym.

The problem? That plan usually keeps people stuck.

Trying to get in shape for a fitness program by doing something else is like taking a science class to improve your math skills. There might be some overlap, but it’s not the most effective or direct path to your goal. “Doing” CrossFit shouldn’t be your end goal, it should be the starting point towards a healthier, fitter and more capable life!

CrossFit Is Scalable—That’s the Whole Point

We totally understand that walking into a CrossFit gym for the first time can feel intimidating. The shoes you are standing in is where 99% of us were too before starting! Barbells, pull-up rigs, people moving fast—it can look like a lot.

What most people don’t see is what’s actually happening.

Every workout is designed to be scaled. That means weights, movements, reps, and intensity are all adjusted to match you. Coaches are trained to meet you exactly where you are—whether that’s your first workout ever or your first workout in years.

Think of it like hiring a tutor. You wouldn’t expect them to start teaching advanced algebra on day one. They break things down, teach proper technique, and help you progress at the right pace. That’s exactly how a class at Magnify works.

“But I’m Really Out of Shape…”

That’s actually a great reason to start now.

Any CrossFit gym that is doing it’s job well (us included) offer structured beginner options— onboarding, scaling options at the beginning of every class and structured skill building time during each class. Not ready to jump into class with everyone else? How about a handful of personal training sessions first to get you up to speed and get you more comfortable with what to expect before jumping into class?

Even in regular group classes, new members are coached closely and given appropriate progressions.

You are never expected to “keep up.” You’re expected to show up.

The Community Is Rooting for You

Every experienced CrossFit athlete remembers their first workout. The nerves. The uncertainty. Are people going to judge me?

That shared experience is why the community is so welcoming. We’ve all been there! No one expects perfection. Everyone respects effort. And everyone remembers what it was like to start from zero.

The Best Time to Start Is Now

If you don’t remember anything else from this article, remember this:

You don’t need to lose weight first.
You don’t need to build strength first.
You don’t need to “get in shape first.”

That’s what CrossFit is for.

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to start, consider this your sign. The hardest part isn’t the workout—it’s walking through the door. And once you do, you won’t be doing it alone.

‍

If you’re ready to start with us at CrossFit Magnify, here are two options!

Book a free trial class

Book a 1 on 1 goal setting consult

‍