The short answer is a YES! Being overweight or obese does not mean you are incapable and one of the trademarks of CrossFit training is that everything we do is universally scalable and modifiable to your current level of fitness and mobility when you step into a class. But let’s dive even deeper than that on why CrossFit is not only doable for the overweight and obese population, but why it’s a safe and effective way for you to change your health.
I get it. Starting ANY fitness program when you’re overweight is scary. I was 60 pounds overweight when I walked into a gym for the first time too. There are more than likely all sorts of thoughts and feeling going on in your brain from “are people going to judge me” to “I don’t think I can do this” and more. I know those were absolutely thoughts I had when I started my journey too.
Is CrossFit Safe If You’re Overweight?
ABSOLUTELY! Movement is medicine and there are 1000s of research studies that prove weightlifting, strength training and cardiovascular endurance training are safe and effective for all populations, regardless of age and current conditioning status.
The key to any workout program is the coaching and guidance you’re receiving. When you’re new to exercise, are coming back from a previous injury, are over the age of 50 and or are significantly overweight, working with an experienced coach who has training and experience working with people just like you, you can feel instantly more comfortable and confident starting because you know we’ve got you covered.
Our workouts each day can be modified to meet your needs as an individual while simultaneously providing you with the support and accountability you need to get a great workout and put your health first.
Using CrossFit To Change Your Health…. And Your Life
A few months before I walked into the gym for the first time after my daughter was born I stepped on the scale and it read 208 pounds. It had been longer than I could remember since I knew exactly how much I weighed and probably even longer since I’d properly looked at myself in the mirror. For me, I turned to food because it was comfort and love that I didn’t think I was getting from anywhere else. But that day when I actually SAW myself again, I could see just how unhappy, unhealthy I’d become and it was the trigger I needed to start putting myself first…. For my physical health, mental health and for my family.
Fast forward 20 years and I’ve maintained that weight loss through consistency (NOT perfection) of exercise, quality nutrition, learning self love and putting the mental demons I struggled with as a young girl away for good.
This is precisely how CrossFit is different than just joining a regular gym. You can find at least one story like mine in every gym across the world. Everyday people, just like you, who weren’t healthy, didn’t grow up as athletes, struggled with their mental health and more, who were brave enough to walk into a CrossFit gym and found the community that helped them change their lives.
You can find more stories like mine at https://www.crossfit.com/crossfit-and-obesity
At BGB CrossFit, we operate as a whole health and wellness facility, meaning that when you walk through our doors you aren’t just getting a gym membership; you’re getting a health optimization membership. We combine fitness, nutrition, mobility and massage with ongoing support and accountability that is unparalleled by any other gym in the area and we’ve helped 100s of people lose weight, end chronic pain and optimize their health over the last decade.
And I’m so blessed to get to help others on their journey since having my own. And I wish I’d known a lot of these things before I walked into my first gym too. I would have felt a lot more at ease and confident than I did.
Things I Wish I’d Known When Overweight And Starting At The Gym:
- Communicate your goals and limitations!
Come in and chat with us! Be open and honest with the staff about your weight, health history and current health challenges and any physical limitations you may have. When we have this information, we can tailor your experience and the workouts to your specific needs. - Start slowly and focus on technique!
Don’t try to do too much too soon. This is where EVERYONE sets themselves up for failure when they start a fitness or health journey. Focus on being a sponge in classes and learning the proper form and technique for each exercise and gradually increasing your weights and intensity as your coaches think you can. - Be patient and consistent with youself!
You’ve heard the saying “Rome wasn’t built in a day” right!? Well, it’s true! It takes time to build strength and endurance and to lose weight the healthy way. I didn’t gain 80 pounds overnight, and it took over a year to lose it! Be patient with yourself, don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately, and keep going.
I truly believe that if someone had told me those things when I was new, scared, out of shape and insecure, it would have helped me show up differently for myself… maybe even sooner! So, I truly hope this has helped you. And if you’re ready to learn more about our whole health approach to fitness…
Start with a No Sweat Intro:
If you’re ready to learn more, take advantage of our “easy button” by booking a free consultation with a member of our staff. During this initial chat, we’ll dive into your goals, current fitness level, and any concerns you may have. Our staff will guide you through the membership options that will help you best and explain exactly how we will support you on your journey. Book your No Sweat Intro HERE.
If you’re still a bit nervous or on the fence, that’s ok! I was too when I started my journey. Just ask for me when you schedule your No Sweat Intro so you’ll meet with someone who’s been exactly where you are and can relate.
Coach Dana
