You’re thinking about taking the leap and starting functional fitness, and you’re terrified. We’ve all been there! However, we can assure you the best approach is to jump right in. The water is nice (and extremely friendly). Here are eight pieces of wisdom to get you going on the right foot.

8 Things to Know About Functional Fitness

1. It’s Going to be Hard

We won’t sugarcoat it: this type of training is difficult, both mentally and physically. However, the strength you will gain in both areas is unparalleled. The best part is the rewards are not something you will see only in the gym but in life in general, especially when it comes to mental toughness.

2. You Can Always Scale Movements

Even if you have a background in weightlifting or gymnastics, there is still a learning curve. And if you’ve never picked up a barbell in your life, awesome! While it may be intimidating to see seasoned athletes swinging around what seems like an impossible amount of weight with ease, know they trained a long time to get there.

Every movement is scaleable and especially as an athlete new to the sport, scaling is not only welcomed but encouraged. You’ll get a killer workout no matter what.

3. Form Matters Most

Whether you are scaling or Rxing (using the prescribed weight), having proper form is the number one goal. This might mean you’re stuck with an empty bar for what seems like too long, but we promise it’s for a good reason. It’s better to keep it light than risk developing bad habits that will hinder you when you start chasing heavy one rep maxes or risk being sidelined due to an injury.

Even with light weight, you are still getting a solid workout, as opposed to not being able to work out at all because you’re injured.

4. Trust Your Coach

Let’s be honest: you’re paying your coach for a reason, and it’s probably because they know more than you when it comes to fitness. Their job is to keep you safe and develop you into the best athlete you can be. So, if they tell you to take weight off the bar, or even to put more weight on, listen to them. They’re wise.

5. Find a Box That Matches Your Vibe

Sure, all gyms (or boxes) may be operating under the same company with the same ideals, but each one is owned privately. Each box has their own flavor that may or may not vibe with you. It’s important the values and philosophies of the gym align with yours because you will likely be spending a lot of time there.

Not only that, but the beautiful thing about this sport is the community. You and your gym mates will probably become pretty close. So, choose wisely.

6. Listen to Your Body

While everything on this list is important, this one is crucial. You will probably experience a lot of change when you first begin the sport, starting with your physical self. It’s normal to be sore during the first few weeks and beyond, depending on your fitness level.

While pushing through challenges is something you will learn during your functional fitness journey, when you’re first starting out, it’s best to pace yourself and rest as needed. Even as your journey continues, there will be times your body is telling you to take a day off, even if you’re not sore.

Listen to it. Like always executing proper form and listening to your coach, this is another element essential to preventing injury.

7. Nourish Your Body

If you’re training as hard as a functional fitness regimen calls for, chances are your fitness goals include something along the lines of leaning out or gaining muscle mass. These things are definitely available to you, but you must adopt a diet that supports that.

Now, this doesn’t mean you have to give up everything overnight. Gradually, though, swap out the bad for the good and take your nutrition as seriously as you take your training. And remember, you can enjoy everything in moderation.

This takes time and everybody responds differently, so be patient and find what works best for you personally.

8. Have Fun!

Part of what makes this sport fun is we’re all in it together. You may feel like you can’t possibly do another burpee, but you can, and there will always be someone there (loudly) encouraging you to push through it.