By: Coach Nick Niedzwiecki
One of the most common things I hear from people who are curious about getting healthy is, “I need to get in shape before I come to CrossFit.” If that’s been your thought too, let me be the first to tell you—you don’t need to be fit to start. You just need to start.
The belief that you must already be in shape before walking into a gym is one of the biggest barriers to improving your health. It’s rooted in fear—fear of being judged, fear of failure, fear of not being able to keep up. But here’s the truth: the hardest part is just showing up. And once you do, everything changes.
At CrossFit Athens, we work with people of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels. Some members join after years of inactivity. Others are recovering from injury or dealing with health conditions. Nobody shows up “already fit.” They show up ready to change, and that’s what really matters.
We don’t expect you to know how to do a squat or a push-up or use a barbell. That’s our job. Our coaches guide every class, every workout, every step. We teach you how to move safely, scale movements to your current abilities, and build strength over time. You’ll be amazed at what your body can do when you have support, direction, and accountability.
You also won’t be doing it alone. CrossFit Athens isn’t just a gym—it’s a community. Every person here remembers what it felt like to be new. You’ll be cheered on, encouraged, and never judged. You’ll find a place where showing up as you are is enough, and that’s where the real transformation begins.
Progress doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from consistency. It comes from walking into the gym on the days you feel tired. It comes from doing the work even when it’s hard. Over time, your body changes. Your confidence grows. And your mindset shifts from “I can’t” to “Watch me.”
So if you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” or the “right level of fitness,” stop waiting. There’s no better time than now, and there’s no better place to start than CrossFit Athens. We offer a free trial class for anyone who wants to see what it’s all about—no pressure, no commitment. Just show up and take the first step.
Your future self will thank you.
To schedule your free trial class or learn more about how we can help, email info@crossfitathens.com or call 256-363-6884. We’re here to help you start—no matter where you’re starting from.
By: Nick Niedzwiecki – Owner, CrossFit Athens
May 16, 2025
