What is CrossFit? A Beginner’s Guide

New to CrossFit? This no-fluff beginner’s guide breaks down what it is, who it’s for, and why it works. Learn how CrossFit builds real strength, confidence, and results—fast. Start your journey with CrossFit Martell today.
By
Team Martell
March 18, 2025
What is CrossFit? A Beginner’s Guide

Team Martell

   •    

March 18, 2025

So, you’ve heard about CrossFit. Maybe your friend won’t stop talking about it. Maybe you saw someone flipping a massive tire and thought, Why the hell would someone do that? Or maybe you’re just tired of wasting time at a gym that isn’t getting you results. Whatever brought you here, let’s get straight to it: CrossFit is the most effective, no-BS way to get strong, lean, and capable.


CrossFit, in Simple Terms

CrossFit is functional fitness at high intensity. That means you train using movements that actually matter in real life—squatting, jumping, running, lifting, pulling. You won’t find machines doing the work for you. Instead, you’ll be moving your body the way it was meant to move, getting fitter, faster, and stronger in the process.

We combine weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio into constantly varied workouts (aka WODs—Workout of the Day). One day you’re deadlifting, the next you’re doing pull-ups and sprints. You never know what’s coming, but one thing’s guaranteed: it’s gonna challenge you.


Who is CrossFit For?

Short answer: Everyone.

Long answer: If you think you need to “get in shape” before starting CrossFit, stop right there. CrossFit is scalable, meaning the same workout can be adjusted for beginners and advanced athletes alike. Whether you’re 18 or 60, we tailor the workout to your level. The only requirement? Show up and put in the work.


Why CrossFit Works (And Why Other Workouts Don’t)

Let’s be real—most gym routines suck. You hop on a treadmill, stare at the clock, and pray for the misery to end. Or you lift some weights with no real plan and wonder why you aren’t making progress. CrossFit fixes that.

Here’s why it works:

- Full-body training – No muscle is left behind. Strength, endurance, flexibility, agility—you train it all.

- High intensity = Maximum results – Get more done in 45 minutes than most people do in a week.

- Constant progression – Track your lifts, times, and reps. You’ll literally see yourself getting stronger.

- No solo workouts – You train with a team, push each other, and actually have fun.

- Functional strength – Build the kind of power and endurance that makes daily life easier.


What a CrossFit Class Looks Like

Each session is about 60 minutes and includes:

1. Warm-up – Get your body ready to move.

2. Strength/Skill work – Master a lift or movement (squats, cleans, pull-ups, etc.).

3. The WOD (Workout of the Day) – The main event. Could be anything. Always challenging.

4. Cool-down & mobility – Recover so you can do it all again tomorrow.


Common Myths About CrossFit

“I’ll get injured.” If you go hard with bad form, sure. That’s why we have coaches watching your every move. You’ll learn how to lift properly before loading up the bar.

“It’s only for elite athletes.” Nope. We train beginners, parents, students, professionals, and grandparents. Everyone starts somewhere.

“I need to be fit before I start.” CrossFit makes you fit. You don’t walk into a dojo knowing karate, right? Same deal here.


Ready to Start? Here’s What to Do Next

If you’re tired of wasting time on workouts that don’t deliver, CrossFit is your answer. It’s tough, it’s raw, and it works.

Step 1: Book your first class at CrossFit Martell.

Step 2: Show up. No excuses.

Step 3: Work hard, get results, and never look back.

Are you in? Let’s go. CrossFit isn’t just a workout. It’s a mindset.

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