Nervous to Start? You're Not Alone. Here's How One Small Step Changed Everything.
Do you ever look at a gym and think, "I should go," but then your brain says, "Not today"? Maybe you worry you're not fit enough yet. Maybe you're afraid of getting hurt. Or maybe life is just… a lot. Work. Kids. Travel. Repeat.
If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. And there's a gentle way in.
Recently at CrossFit Leiden, a member finished our Kickstart program and said: "I just finished the Kickstart program and had a great experience. The coaches are supportive, motivating, and they truly care. I learned a lot and enjoyed every session. Highly recommend." Simple words, but they tell a big story—one that might be yours too.
What makes starting so hard
For many expat parents and professionals, the biggest challenge isn't a heavy barbell. It's the fear of starting. Maybe you haven't trained in years. Maybe your back feels tight from sitting. Maybe you tried other gyms and didn't stick with it. The idea of walking into a new place where everyone "knows what they're doing" can feel scary.
That's exactly why our Kickstart exists.
A gentle first step (with people who actually see you)
Our Kickstart is a short, structured introduction to training at CrossFit Leiden. It's designed for busy people who want to move better, feel stronger, and build confidence—without feeling lost or rushed.
In this case, the member who shared their experience had all the usual worries: "What if I'm the slowest? What if I get injured? Do I even have time for this?" On day one, the goal wasn't to prove anything. It was simply to learn how to move safely, get to know the coaches, and leave with more energy than when they arrived.
The coaches set the tone right away—warm, clear, and personal. They checked form. They offered options. They explained why a movement matters in real life—like picking up your child or sitting at your desk without pain. Every session felt like a small win.
Small wins add up
Halfway through, the member noticed subtle changes. Less stiffness after long workdays. More energy in the morning. A clearer head. That's what happens when you build consistency gently: your body and mind start to trust you again.
By the end, they weren't just "done" with Kickstart—they were proud. Proud to have shown up. Proud to have learned. Proud to say, "I can do this."
What this means for you
If you've been waiting to feel fit before you start—here's the truth: you don't need to be fit to begin. You begin to get fit. Our coaches meet you where you are. We scale everything. And we keep it human—no one-size-fits-all, no shouting, no pressure.
Here are a few micro-habits we suggest to make your start easier:
- Book two classes a week. Put them in your calendar like a meeting with your future self.
- Pack your gym bag the night before. Remove one morning decision.
- Drink a glass of water before your first coffee.
- Do a 5-minute stretch after you put the kids to bed. Back, hips, shoulders—nothing fancy.
These small actions build trust and momentum. And when you train with a group of people who are also starting—or restarting—it's much easier to keep going. You realize you're not behind. You're right on time.
You belong here
Our member's words still make us smile: "The coaches are supportive, motivating, and they truly care." That is exactly the point. We want you to feel safe, seen, and excited to show up. We want you to leave with more energy for the rest of your life, not less.
If you're nervous, that's okay. Nervous just means you care. And you can bring that feeling with you—we'll take it from there.
Ready for a gentle first step?
Join us for a free intro class to get a feel for our community. Come meet the coaches, try some simple movements, and see how good it feels to start—without pressure, without ego, and with people who've got your back.
We can't wait to welcome you at CrossFit Leiden.