Let’s face it, unless you’re already active in high intensity interval training, CrossFit can be intimidating. Maybe you haven’t gone on a run in a while, or maybe it’s been some time before you’ve worked on your core strength. If you’re like me, maybe it’s been a while since you’ve worked out at all. The first months of CrossFit are tough and it can be difficult to motivate yourself to take that first step towards the gym.

I’ve been in that boat and in some ways I still am. But, I decided to try out CrossFit, starting with four Fundamentals classes, and I want to share with you three things I learned as to why CrossFit is totally worth it.

1. You Will Gain New Perspective on Your Health

Thanks to my genetics, I’ve had back problem that have plagued me my entire life. What’s worse than my back, though, is that I’ve never really done much about it. I do a bit of yoga and stretching, but otherwise I cross my fingers and hope it doesn’t get worse. Thanks to CrossFit, and to Abdul who put a lot of time into bringing my attention to the issue, I’ve learned to take better care of my back.

Part of CrossFit training involves lifting weights, and getting posture and movement right in these exercises is vital for getting the most out of them. It’s not just about muscles; CrossFit involves a very broad range of physical attributes, and this will give you a comprehensive understanding of how your body works and why you need to a holistic approach to working out. At Outlier you won’t just get stronger, you’ll get healthier in every sense of the word. Not just because of the workouts you’ll be doing at the gym, but because you will consciously start to think more about taking care of your body throughout the day.

2. Outlier Has Your Back

At a standard gym, like 24 Hour Fitness, there are rows upon rows of machines and weights, and, unless you already know what these machines are for and how to use them, it’s hard to formulate a workout plan that really works for you. If you wing it, your workout will be imperfect and you don’t get the same kind of results you would if you knew exactly what you’re doing. What ends up happening is that you get fed up and you stop going — one year later your wallet feels a little lighter, but you don’t have much to show for it.

At Outlier, you’re never on your own. With a trainer by your side, ready to guide through the exercises, you’ll never feel stranded or lost. You don’t know how to squat well, or you’ve never done a power clean before? No worries, one of the Outlier trainers will be there, by your side, guiding you through the motions until you have it right. Need more training? No problem! Come in on Saturday mornings for Erwin’s barbell classes, where he’ll help you perfect your movements. What CrossFit offers you is a personal trainer, without having to pay the price you would at a run-of-the-mill gym.

3. Feel the Burn…and the Fulfillment

There’s no way around it, when you’re in a CrossFit class you’re in the suck. You’re going to sweat, you’re going to feel the burn, and it’s going to hurt the next day. But, if there’s one memory that stands above others during my time doing Fundamentals it’s the guy biking next to me, after the Workout of the Day, looking at me and saying, “You feel that burn? Isn’t it awesome?” And it really is, because there’s nothing that motivates you more than feeling the progress.

Are You an Outlier?

Be extraordinary, be bold, and try the Fundamentals courses at Outlier CrossFit. Aren’t ready to take the step yet? Peruse the website, check out the Workouts of the Day, and take a look at the programs, each tailored to your level. Then come visit the Outlier gym on 6332 Riverdale Street, we’ll be glad to show you around.