Do I need any equipment or experience before joining a CrossFit-style class?

Search for CrossFit on social media and you'll see people flipping tyres and doing handstand push-ups. It's no wonder so many people assume they need to be fit, experienced and kitted out before they're allowed through the door. For a CrossFit-style class for beginners, you need none of that. No equipment, no experience and no particular fitness level.

If you want to understand what CrossFit is first, our beginner's honest guide to CrossFit covers the basics. This article deals with the practical side: what to bring, what happens and how we make sure you can keep up.

Key takeaways

• You don't need experience, equipment or a particular fitness level to start.
• Every exercise can be scaled, so you work at a level that suits you.
• We supply the kit. Bring comfortable clothes, stable trainers, water, a towel and a padlock.
• Tell the coach it's your first time and mention any injuries.
• POWER classes are included in a HIIT membership.

Do you need experience for a CrossFit-style class for beginners?

No. Our CrossFit-style POWER classes need no prior CrossFit experience, and our coaches tailor each session to your fitness level. The first rule we coach by is simple: technique comes first, intensity comes second. On your first visit, the coach will focus on how you move, not how much you lift or how fast you go.

Everything can be scaled. If an exercise is too hard, you'll do a version that gives the same training effect at a level that suits you. You're working alongside experienced members, but you're not competing with them.

How each zone is scaled for beginners

Our POWER classes are split into training zones. This is what each one involves and how it's adapted if you're new.

What equipment do you need?

None. We supply all the functional training kit, including barbells, kettlebells, rowers, bikes, sleds, battle ropes and boxes. All you need to bring is:

• Comfortable training clothes you can squat and lunge in.
• Trainers with a fairly flat, stable sole. Very soft running shoes make lifting feel wobbly.
• A water bottle.
• A towel.
• A padlock, if you'd like to use the lockers.

You don't need lifting gloves, a belt or special shoes. If you get into it, you can decide later whether any of those are worth buying.

What happens in your first POWER class

Your coach will run a warm-up with the whole group, then explain the zones and the movements in each. You'll rotate through the zones with other members, spending a set amount of time at each station. In the lifting zone, the coach will check your set-up before you add any weight. In the AMRAP zone, you'll work through the circuit at your own pace. There's a short cool-down at the end, and many people leave tired but surprised by how much they managed.

How to make your first class easier

Arrive a little early and tell the coach it's your first time. Mention any injuries, niggles or health conditions so they can adjust exercises before you start. Eat something light beforehand, and don't try to win the workout. Your only job in the first session is to learn the movements.

If walking into a new gym makes you nervous, you're not alone. Read our tips on overcoming gym anxiety and making the most of your gym class.

A gentle way to build up

Some people like to take a few HIIT classes first. HIIT Strength is a good stepping stone because it uses barbells and racks in a coached setting. Others go straight to POWER, and that's fine too. Either way, our HIIT Kickstart is a good start. POWER classes are included in HIIT membership. Check the timetable for times.

Read more about the local scene in CrossFit in West Hampstead, or get in touch if you'd like to talk it through before booking.