Let me start off by saying, I am NOT your typical crossfit body type. I'm a larger guy, but I've known deep down that I have some athletic ability that just needs an outlet to be released. Thanks to VCF, I've found that outlet.
Previous to joining VCF, I had dropped about 75 pounds. I used to be 375 and could hardly get up a flight of steps without being winded. Now at 300, I was ready to challenge myself a bit more and try something other than the regular cardio and hand-weights I had been doing at the gym. A couple of friends got the Groupon for VCF and once they started they told me about the free 7-day trial. Free? Might as well give it a try.
Day 1 was intimidating... walking into a place with these people who are hardcore athletes, some of which I had literally seen on ESPN. But after I opened myself up to the idea that I belonged there just as much as anyone... it all changed. So much of crossfit is in your mind.
After day 3 and 4, my body was more sore and tired than it had been in a very long time (if not EVER). But I committed to the week, so I kept going.
I would like to add here, that with as sore as I was, I would have easily stopped going if it wasn't for a few certain coaches that work at VCF. In particular, Mark and Bryce were very helpful to me. They both teach beginner classes, and if you are thinking of trying VCF, I would recommend going to one of their classes first. They realized that I wasn't quite able to do everything to the full extent intended, but they made modifications to me that still allowed me to feel like I was doing the full workout, but personalized to my ability. One thing I like about Bryce is he refers to everyone as an "athlete" no matter what your skill level is. He'll say "for my more advanced athletes, you should do ______" or "for my developing athletes, you can modify to _________". Just this use of language really makes all the difference for a beginner like myself.
Something on day 7 totally flipped a switch in me. I realized that I really loved it, and I wanted to continue. We did this exercise called the strength axel, and it was so tough, but i was like "I HAVE to join so that I can eventually conquer this!". After evaluating the membership options, I decided to go with the all-inclusive package to go as many times as you want a week. Yes, its pricey.... but you have the option to make the most out of that money that you want. Its up to you and what you put into it.
Ive been going for about five weeks now, and I can safely say my body has never been as strong as it is today. I have noticable defined muscle in places I've never seen. And I'm doing things that I never thought my large body would be capable of doing.
I read a few reviews stating that they have run into people with bad attitudes here. Personally... I think that is on the reviewer. Crossfit is what you make of it. If you're nice and open yourself up to people, you'll find plenty of people who will be nice and supportive right back to you. I've connected with a few of the coaches more than others, so I'd say try out different classes until you find a person who's style you mesh with. There are definitely some serious crossfitters that are at VCF ALL THE TIME. Maybe some of them aren't as friendly, but they are there for a reason... they want to get their workout on. They are in their own zone and I'm not going to get upset if they aren't super acommodating to me. I pay for the facility and the coaches, and so far, the coaches have been very nice and supportive.
And get to know some of the other athletes in class. I've met some really nice people that I am excited to form friendships with.
Overall, I say: Give the 7-day trial a chance and go in with a positive attitude. I wouldn't expect everyone to connect with VCF like I have... but you may just be sipping on the crossfit kool-aid in no time! :-) read more