Skip to main content
Blog Header Image

Lewis Sutton

   •    

April 30, 2025

5 Misconceptions About CrossFit (And Why They're Wrong)

5 Misconceptions About CrossFit (And Why They're Wrong)

CrossFit has grown massively over the past decade — and with that growth has come a lot of confusion, half-truths, and myths. Whether you're curious about starting or sitting on the fence, chances are you've heard at least one of these common misconceptions.

At Market Town CrossFit, we believe in clearing the air and helping you make informed choices about your fitness. So let’s break down five of the most common misconceptions about CrossFit — and why they simply aren’t true.

1. “You Have to Be Fit to Start CrossFit”

This is by far the most common myth we hear —and also the most discouraging for people who are just getting started.

Truth: You do not need to be fit to start CrossFit. You come to CrossFit to get fit, not because you already are. Every movement, every workout, every skill we teach can be scaled or adapted to suit your current ability. Whetheryou've never stepped into a gym before or you're returning from a long break, our coaches will meet you where you’re at.

At Market Town CrossFit, we’ve welcomed complete beginners, older adults, postnatal mums, and people rehabbing from injuries. The beauty of CrossFit lies in its adaptability — the workout may be the same, but how each person tackles it is tailored just for them.

2. “CrossFit is Dangerous”

Another big misconception. The idea that CrossFit causes injuries often comes from viral videos of people lifting poorly or pushing too hard. But context matters.

Truth: Any form of physical activity carries risk — but properly coached, CrossFit is nomore dangerous than any other fitness programme. In fact, it’s often safer because of the emphasis placed on good movement, technique, and progression.

Our coaches at MTCF are trained to help you build strength and confidence through consistent, quality movement. We scale workouts, monitor form, and always prioritise long-term progress overshort-term ego lifts.

In reality, the most common injury in mostpeople's week is from sitting too long, not moving too much.

3. “CrossFit is Only for Young, Super-Fit People”

Ever seen the CrossFit Games on TV? It’s easy to assume the sport is only for elite-level athletes with six-packs and callouses. But CrossFit as a training method is very different from CrossFit as a sport.

Truth: CrossFitis for everyone — and we mean everyone. At MTCF, we have members in their teens, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and even 70s. Some are lifting heavy weights; others are simply working on mobility and foundational strength. Everyone has their own reason for showing up, and everyone is supported.

You don’t need to look or train like an athlete to belong here. You just need a willingness to show up and try your best.

4. “The Workouts Are Too Intense”

We get it — the idea of high-intensity workouts can be intimidating, especially if you’re not used to structured fitness. But the intensity of a workout is always relative to your level.

Truth: WhileCrossFit is known for pushing limits, intensity is scaled to the individual. What feels intense for one person might be a warm-up for another — and that’s okay.

Our goal is not to crush you. Our goal is to challenge you safely so you leave feeling stronger, more energised, and morecapable. Whether you’re walking through your first workout or hitting a new personal best, we adjust the pace to suit you.

At MTCF, we prioritise quality over quantity and effort over ego — always.

5. “It’s Too Expensive Compared to a Normal Gym”

Yes, a CrossFit membership costs more than your average commercial gym — but that comparison doesn’t tell the whole story.

Truth: With CrossFit, you’re not just paying to “access equipment.” You’re getting coach-led training, programmed workouts, community support, and individual guidance — every single time you walk in the door.

Think of it as small-group personal training —without the huge one-to-one cost. You're not alone, wandering around figuring out what to do. You’re part of a coached, structured experience that’s designed to help you grow.

And unlike most gym memberships that gounused, our members come consistently, get results, and actually enjoy training.

Why These Myths Persist

Most of these misconceptions come from twoplaces: misunderstanding and social media.

People either see the extreme side of CrossFit (elite athletes on Instagram) or hear someone’s bad experience at apoorly run box. But not all CrossFit gyms are the same — and your experience depends hugely on the coaching, the programming, and the culture.

At Market Town CrossFit, we focus on:

  • Welcoming everyone who walks through the door
  • Scaling workouts to every level
  • Coaching movement properly before adding intensity
  • Creating a fun, safe, and community-driven space

We pride ourselves on making CrossFit accessible, supportive, and rewarding — not scary or overwhelming.

Ready to Find Out for Yourself?

If you've been curious about CrossFit but heldback by these misconceptions, we hope this blog has helped set the record straight.

The best way to understand what we’re about isto come and try it for yourself. Whether you’re new to fitness or just new toCrossFit, you’ll find a place here.

👉 Click [here] to book a free trial class

We’d love to welcome you to the MTCF community!