What's It Like Starting CrossFit at 40? My Health Journey 1 year into CrossFit as a Middle Age Woman

Almost a year ago exactly my husband and I started attending CrossFit classes. He was a month shy of turning 41, I was a month away from 42. We were living a pretty sedentary lifestyle and were not super fit, so starting CrossFit was a BIG step for us!
I wanted to share my journey now one year in--what has it been like starting CrossFit as a 40-year-old woman?
I hope sharing my experience helps someone else today!
Melanie :)
00:00: Intro & Personal Background
02:30: What Is CrossFit? In Layman's Terms
04:38: What to Expect When you Start
07:55: Tips for a Newbie to CrossFit
13:28: What Have I Gained After Attending for a Year?
19:42: A Few Final Takeaways if You're Thinking About Starting

[@keithstillman2143]

Just stumbled upon this video…But being a CrossFit coach and owner for 10 years this video was awesome. Your perspective is great to hear and someone like yourself sharing your experience elevates everything we do! I can almost guarantee you that what you’ve said in this video is what all us coaches want to hear. Your gym has done a great job. Keep it up. You look great and your perspective is great!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thanks Keith! I really do wish more people would see that CrossFit can be for anybody, not just the super fit or super athletic, but all us "regular folks" too, lol. I'm still going 3-4 times a week with my husband and we both continue to get stronger!

[@keithstillman2143]

@@LostFoundDecor For sure! I think most CrossFit coaches wish for the same! :) Tell your husband that he's absolutely crushing it as well. You both should be proud of all the hard work you've put in! Cheers!

[@DesDes-d4p]

I also have started in my 43 cross fit and i totally love it!it changed my life.i lost ten pounds and its something i really enjoy.i m glad there are other people loving it in my age❤❤❤

[@LostFoundDecor]

Amazing!

[@anniedavidson807]

Thank youuuu!!!! I'm still super intimidated to begin the journey but this was incredibly helpful.

[@LostFoundDecor]

I'm so glad! You got this :)

[@fidgettoys2094]

Thanks for this video! I am 38 and have always wanted to try CrossFit but haven’t been brave enough to take the plunge. After this video I messaged my local CrossFit gym to set something up 💪🏼

[@LostFoundDecor]

Amazing. You’re gonna do great. Keep in mind, you’ll probably be self conscious / uncomfortable for a few weeks, but that’s normal and you’ll get past it :)

[@leocmen]

Great video

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thanks!

[@Just4forme1]

Ive been doing crossfit for 5mths (im 53 ) i still dont like doing WODS where you work with a partner cause i feel like im holding them back....could be in my head..dod u ever feel that way? I ve been skipping these workouts

[@LostFoundDecor]

I’m with you! We only have partner WOD’s on Saturdays and I usually don’t go those days, mostly bc I have other stuff on those days. I think though if you can find someone at about your same skill level it can be great, or someone who is happy to work at your pace 😊

[@LostFoundDecor]

Hey! Yeah, the partner workouts can be harder to navigate. They only do those on Saturdays at my gym, and my husband and I usually take that day off anyway. But…they’re also a great way to get to know a few people too. :)

[@feliciacoffey6832]

Oh my gosh I relate to you! I'm 63, done CF for 7 years, but still am uncomfortable with partner WODs for same reason. But remember, partner WODs are not only about exercising, they're also about cooperating and coordinating movements with another person. It's just as much a psychological task as a physical one, and it's your partner's job to adjust to you. Trust them to be able and willing to do that.

[@sarashebear281]

I started crossfit 3 months ago at 55 years old. I am having a bit of knee pain after sessions but I am getting over it with backwards walking and cycling. It's great to work out how your body works and I am really enjoying the challenge of crossfit.

[@LostFoundDecor]

That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing. And it really is cool to see what your body can actually do

[@sharongrant2965]

Thank you for your video and your information. My husband and I just started at 67. Absolutely hooked.

[@LostFoundDecor]

That's fantastic!

[@FeliciaAngelaRoque]

I'm in my mid-30's and 3 months postpartum and this is exactly the video I was looking for. Thank you! I feel a little less intimidated to try Crossfit!

[@LostFoundDecor]

You're so welcoome! I've been there over 2 years now and am SO much stronger. You can do it!

[@jeanpauljeanpaul2530]

Starting CrossFit tomorrow. Been training in my garage gym since pandemic ...hardest part will be driving to a gym, and working out with people around me.

[@LostFoundDecor]

You’re gonna do great!

[@ileanamartinez1230]

Thank you for this video! I’m feeling about to quit as it is so difficult plus I feel a little bit embarrassed for anything that I can’t do. Your video is encouraging me to keep going!

[@LostFoundDecor]

you can do it!

[@sarashebear281]

Just do the best you can. Get the coach to modify it for your ability.

[@jackiealv6547]

Oh my goodness ! Watching this while on my 3rd day (of 5) of CrossFit foundation’s introduction . I’m 44 and today’s “workout “ was 12 min . EMOM: deadlifts, kettle swings and jump rope . Sounds easy but as a beginner, it’s challenging. I’m a little scared because I have arthritis but I’m still giving it a try because being weak and sick , is even scarier . Thanks for making this video

[@LostFoundDecor]

You got this!

[@zacjohnson9296]

Thanks for the video. I’m in the same situation as you and I feel healthier and fitter now after a year of CrossFit than I did throughout my 30s!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@TwoSistersWritingPublishing]

Thanks for making this video! I love that you were looking for this video when you started, and made it for others.

[@LostFoundDecor]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tracymcreations]

I've never been interested in crossfit but I really enjoy weight lifting. I'm 60 years old

[@LostFoundDecor]

I’m sure it’s not for everyone! Doing weight bearing exercise though is so important as we age (or so my doctor says 😉). Glad you’re taking those steps to keep your body healthy!

[@solidstream13]

Great video. I started at 47 and now 51. You made so many good points. One great point is as we get older it’s important to be able to recover from falls etc. lifting heavy and doing explosive movements helps to maintain fast twitch muscle fibers to help prevent those incidents from occurring. I would love an update after your 2nd year.

[@LostFoundDecor]

So true! Making sure we keep those fast twitch muscles in shape is super important

[@FunnyCTgirl]

One thing I would like for you to have touched on...would it be a good idea women to use some, um....protection? For unexpected weak bladder issues? lol

[@LostFoundDecor]

It could! I don't have that issue, but we do a lot of jumping. If that's a concern for you, then it probably would be a good idea on the days when jumping movements are in your program.

[@heidiallen8742]

Thank you for this!! The best video I’ve seen!! I started CrossFit at 49 just 3 months ago. I love it! Ties together all the exercises and lifting I’ve done over the years into a whole body workout for overall health. Great video and very helpful the way you’ve broken it down as well. Will definitely share

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thank you! So glad it was helpful :)

[@dominiquestevens7942]

Awesome video! I started CF 3 years ago at 60! In the beginning it felt like TORTURE, but I loved it. And I've become so much stronger and healthier -

[@LostFoundDecor]

Wow, 60! That's amazing. And yes, torture is a good word, lol. Funny though how it shifts into becoming the thing that I look forward to every day!

[@carinadeshotels3921]

Thanks for a great video. I want to try it but have been very intimidated. How many days of the week should a beginner commit to for those first few months?

[@LostFoundDecor]

I would suggest just what feels good for you. We do 3 days on, one day off. And I usually skip the weekends. When I first started, my coach really scaled the workouts so I wouldn't over do it, so going multiple times a week wasn't an issue. Just listen to your body :)

[@valery898]

Thank you for this! I had the same thoughts as you. So great to hear from a regular person doing this rather than someone already super fit!

[@LostFoundDecor]

You are so welcome!

[@ctaylor529]

Thank you for this video! My husband and I just started CrossFit 2 weeks ago and today after the WOD I really wanted to hear the perspective from another woman starting in her 40s. I’m 46 and he’s 48 and the workouts are very challenging but we just moved to this new area and as we start to have kids start to leave the nest we are looking at this as something we can finally consistently do together and meet new people while getting stronger so we can run around with the great grands in our 90s!

[@LostFoundDecor]

yay! Glad it helped! Just stick with it, take it slow, and you'll love it.

[@musclesmountainsandmascara]

I enjoyed most of the video. But please don't spread the myth that muscle weighs more than fat. Pound for pound they weigh the same. Muscle is more dense than fat.. so it takes up less space. So you could weigh the same, but look leaner because the muscle is taking up less space. Thanks! ❤

[@LostFoundDecor]

Sorry… it’s just been said to me a million times :) Not meaning to spread a myth. I understand what you are saying, I also think though you could look at it in terms of actual volume and it would be true. Like fill a box with feathers and it weighs less than filling a box with water… but a pound of feathers is obviously the same weight as a pound of water. Both are true, just likely two ways of looking at it

[@johnking4221]

Pound for pound they weigh the same. Most would agree.

[@Diane-ir2ys]

Great information, Melanie! And congrats on your journey. It's been so fun to do this crazy crossfit journey with y'all! Can't wait to share this with my sisters so they have an idea just what I'm up to.

[@AprilJoy]

This is so great to hear! Resistance training is so important, especially for women in our 30s, 40s and beyond. Resistance training can be pretty intimidating for a lot of women and I think your perspective will really help others see how that it’s not as scary as it seems! 💪Thank you for sharing 😊

[@LostFoundDecor]

thanks!

[@delightfuldaisy1]

You go, girl!!! I'm glad this has been a positive experience for you, Melanie. I've always wondered what Crossfit entailed. Thanks for sharing!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Hope it was helpful!

[@garthdimond1001]

65 year old male here I have been into cross fit for almost the same amount of time as you. there is nothing that you have said that is not true for me. I am so much stronger than when I started, and when you get to your mid 60's your strength and agility tails off easily. I have to scale most WODs and when I first started this worried me, the thought was that I was somehow cheating, when I said so to my coach, she so somewhat brutally pointed out that she scales the WOD for me so that I am challenged without being left in a position that I cannot achieve it works so well for me.

[@GM-cd2dr]

You spoke about the aesthetic of the CrossFit gym - just wanted to share my experience - my gym is quite the opposite of what you described. Our owner is big on cleanliness and it is immaculately kept! Clean swept and mopped floors daily, equipment beautifully lined up, repaired, and new bought frequently to replace old, we have garage doors for the summer with netting we can run through to keep bugs out, we have heat and air conditioning - we deff do still sweat a TON but it’s air conditioned. We have an area of turf as well. It’s brightly lit and airy, lots of windows. I think for anyone curious to try CrossFit, do just that, try it. Walk in and see what that particular box/gym looks like 😊 There is some variation out there

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thanks for sharing!

[@RiaanOliver]

Amazing, I just started CrossFit about one moth ago and loving it. I’m 48 and for sure the first 3 weeks, muscle pain is full on but also strangely satisfying.

[@Carlito333x2]

Untrained Norwegian man at 43 here. Fourth week now doing Flofitbox in Mumbai. Still bottom of the board, but love the energy and mental energy the classes bring. Sore as fuck, but getting good support from the coaches and members. Good vibes. Nothing like conventional training Feels like a team thing. Not embarrassed to not get all the moves. Best workout of my life.

[@vannaniab2674]

I’m 38 and started a month ago. It is truly a challenge but after each session I feel rejuvenated. I know that eventually I will be able to complete my WOD just like the yougins in the class.

[@homemakingwisdom]

Thanks for this video. I'm 43 and 40ls overweight and have my first foundation's class this week but I have had 4 surgeries on one of my knees and have no physical strength at all. Seriously if I can come out of this being able to open a cereal bag and not have to use a knife that's a big improvement. I know that sounds silly but it's my reality. Even when I did lift weights when I was younger I never gain hardly any muscle in my arms. I'm looking to lose weight and get healthier. I need to straighten my knees without injury. I'm also looking for community. But I'm over weight and I know I will not be able to do any of it. I'm starting with a clean slate. I know I'll be the old ball overweight 40 year old. But I want to do this for me and my family. Not for the super fit skinny gal at the gym.

[@LostFoundDecor]

You do it for you! All of your reasons are great, and I wish you all the best. It will be tough for sure, but I hope you can find some success and taking tiny baby steps are 100% ok.

[@simullane7836]

You started and this puts you infont of 80% of people, a bigger win that you may give your self credit for. Next stage is just keep turing up. Where this adeventure will take you is all about you.

[@feliciacoffey6832]

You have the right attitude. You gotta start somewhere, and you're doing this for YOU. You're not competing with anyone. In my Box, we admire the hell out of people like you just for being there.

[@theworldin90s63]

Thankyou for sharing xxxx been thinking of starting for a while …. Really appreciate the advice xxx

[@LostFoundDecor]

You're so welome!

[@AnnaKincaid]

Thank you! I have been wanting to start crossfit for years, and now I am really getting nodivated to do it. It is a bit overwhelming, but I know I need to just jump in and do it.

[@IcelForged]

Great video. Well done. I would show it to anyone starting out.

[@IcelForged]

Also, my mom does CrossFit at 60+

[@LostFoundDecor]

I appreciate that!

[@amoredivita]

That’s awesome! I love CrossFit, it’s amazing!

[@KeeraRuah]

Thank you for sharing. I'm 34 and I'm scared to go to my first CrossFit class. Thinking that I will be the weakest one and won't be able to keep up.

[@LostFoundDecor]

You got this! Something it took me too long to realize is that the only one paying that much attention to me, was me :) They’ll be fired up you are there, and even if you’re slow, weaker…everyone started there at some point.

[@zeldapowers8094]

I’m 39 and doing it. It’s challenging but totally doable and I’ve gotten stronger

[@LostFoundDecor]

Fantastic! It is sooo hard, but it's so good to feel strong right?

[@terrie8849]

I have been working out with a trainer for 3 years. She does CrossFit and incorporated some of the workouts into my routine. I am 66 now. I have just switched my workouts to full CrossFit. The classes are intense. I am intimidated but there are modifications for any fitness level so I do a lot of those. The group is supportive and encouraging. I have arthritis and a janky knee but I am showing up. I have got my husband to go with me too.

[@LostFoundDecor]

That's fantastic! Intimidating is the right word, but good for you for showing up! Everyone is there working at their own pace, and I can say 2 years into it now I'm stronger than ever :) Keep at it!

[@amyhamiltonfitness297]

Question about your cervical disc replacement! My husband has had 2 neck discs replaced. Do you have any discomfort when placing the bar behind your head on the meaty part of the upper back?

[@LostFoundDecor]

I have not :) The only thing that I still work around is when we push the barbell over our head. My shoulder mobility is slightly limited, so sometimes I use dumbbells instead of the bar, etc.

[@BraveNewUs]

I know this is an old video, but i know exactly where your coming from that your being true to the viewers this i appreciate very much not many are honest. Only 1 thing i would say is ibuprofen for woman is terrible yet all doctors prescribe it to us ❤

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thanks for watching! I'm still at it, a year later :) Going 3-4 times a week most weeks

[@tabithascott6348]

Thank you for this video. I’m familiar with CrossFit, but it was nice to hear about the experience from another normal female. You definitely made it feel doable! ❤

[@LostFoundDecor]

Glad it was helpful! You can do it😃

[@hutchie15]

Thank you for the video, can relate to everything you are saying! I am 51 and i just started Crossfit 5 weeks ago. I joined with with a friend who is 49. We both have pre existing injuries, but we stick it out with our body parts taped up and knee brace, etc. We are addicted, it is fun and goes by quickly. It is tough, competitive, and a fun group of people. The coaches are great, and will give you modifications for the things you are not able to do yet. If you have ever wanted to do it, just do it. You will never regret it.

[@LostFoundDecor]

Congrats! That's awesome you found a friend to do it with!

[@domologys]

How often did you take a crossfit class per week when you first started? Thank you!

[@LostFoundDecor]

We went 3-4 days a week to make ourselves get used to going, and working through the soreness that comes with working like that. And our coach made sure that we were modifying everything (lighter weights, or dumbbells instead of barbells, less reps) so that we didn’t over do it.

[@kimberlonhorton762]

Wow! So good for you! So cool to see what you are doing besides antique booths. This was good for me…I don’t think I’m gonna run out and join CrossFit just yet…we had one here in our little town, but it closed. I’m 61. In a real bad winter funk. I had an antique booth in a place that did wine tasting an hour and a half outside of Chicago. I pulled my stuff out just after Christmas. So that’s part of my funk…what do I do with my garage full of stuff? It was kinda fun…I’m newly retired and that gave me a job. But I feel like I failed. My husband keeps telling me…no, it failed me (meaning the location). I actually had a decent December, sales wise. (Ha…150.00…for me was good). I have listened to, and did so much of what you say. My booth looked good. (I paint furniture too…had antiques…a little fun floral…not junk I promise). The owner even said so. I just felt like I was putting way more in than I got out?? It was upstairs too…and I don’t think that helped. So I don’t know…find another place and try again?? Meanwhile…I’ve committed to working out again too…so thanks for the inspiration. I have to to feel better emotionally and physically. You are just a doll…so sweet, and so real…love that you went “off topic”😁❤️❤️❤️

[@LostFoundDecor]

I would agree with your husband Kimberlon! It’s not failure, it’s a chance to learn what didn’t work. My first ever booth space “failed” as well because the location was just wrong. I hope you can find something to put your efforts into that you enjoy and that is more rewarding for you. And try not to be so hard on yourself! It’s tough starting a business and for most of us it’s an up and down journey 😊😊

[@trash2vintagetreasures]

❤this is awesome great information good to know . I do testify that your right after injury it’s wise to stay healthy with exercise you enjoy amen ! I’m into other stuff cuz of my lm broke leg lol but so awesome this video !

[@LostFoundDecor]

So sorry to hear about your leg! I hope you’re able to get back in action soon :)

[@cal1042]

thank you for this video - though I'm here for the booth info, this was encouraging!!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Great! I’m glad it was!

[@bonnieduran994]

Excellent video!!! I am a 68 y/o/f , and have been rowing for several years, but wanted to get stronger to help my rowing times. I started out doing CF just weekly beginning last year, but increased to 3/week June 3, 2024. What a difference that has made. I love your video, and truly believe that it would have given me a lot of inspiration as I started this journey. I share a lot of your perspective as a newbie in CF, especially about being a REAL person, and not a gym rat when I started. My Coach is TOTALLY AWESOME and SUPER SUPPORTIVE, so I hope others take your advise and find a gym and coach that you feel totally comfortable with and give it some time. I wish you and your husband all the best! Will have to check out your other videos as well.

[@sharonmedran6999]

Thank you! My sister and I just took our 1st of 4 private classes. She's 68, and I'm 72. We hope we can catch on.

[@LynseyNeilsen]

Thanks for sharing, i have my first class tomorrow. This is good reassurance

[@LostFoundDecor]

That’s great!

[@MilkByCow]

I started CrossFit late as well (at 32) and continue to this day as of this writing (40 in two months). And this video … holy flashback to when I first started. The dread of not being able to keep up never really leaves no matter how good you get. And it never gets easier because you’re always stepping up as you get stronger, faster, and more flexible. Also found I’ve been able to apply some lifting techniques to real life, especially when having to move large heavy objects safely. CrossFit has a lot of real life applicable skills. It’s a pity they only use the top tier competitors to market it, giving the false impression that it’s only for the athletically elite.

[@LostFoundDecor]

Good for you for sticking with it! And I agree, I wish you would see a lot more "normal" people on social media and CrossFit accounts. I am with you it helping in my everyday life--I have to move furniture and unpack heavy boxes, I can do that so much easier now. Glad I found it and that you did as well!

[@charlene9156]

Thank you thank you thank you, I am 31 and just started crossfit going from zero fitness. Plus last year i started working from home and my movement has went way down. Everything you have described is so accurate to what ive been experiencing. From the jarring noise being chaotic feeling to the crazy muscle pain from doing the easiest versions of the exercises. 😅 I'm not going to lie I've been on the fence about continuing, and i have just flung myself in on my own, but you have made me feel like i should give a good try for a few months before deciding if its for me. There's a coach at my gym thats also very nice and encouraging.

[@trash2vintagetreasures]

Wow that’s huge accomplishment love it you look great

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thank you so much!!

[@jessica5391]

Thanks for this! I'm a few years younger (33) but have rheumatoid arthritis so I've been nervous to give crossfit a go. I feel much better about trying it now!

[@Myluxuryaddiction]

Thank you for this video!!

[@LostFoundDecor]

You're welcome Kelsey :)

[@Mindovermatter3318]

Wxackly what i needed!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Yay!

[@fauxnaifmusic5708]

46yr old male. Had done lots of cardio stuff and certainly spent time in the gym 20/30’s but middle age and kids got me. On 3rd month of CF and yes to all! Also as a formerly reasonably strong person I was humbled and also it demonstrated where and how I was weak/immobile! Helped my bad back too!!!!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Same is true for my husband :) He's 42. If you're in a good CF gym where they make sure you keep good form, it's a huge help in getting stronger and more mobile!

[@fauxnaifmusic5708]

@@LostFoundDecor I went to one box that I didn’t feel safe at. Next one was night and day different!

[@joeharte2555]

This was great

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thank you for watching!

[@dianerobinson9248]

Wow! You go girl! 👏👏👏👏👏

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thank you! 😃

[@missartiste08]

Thanks for sharing!

[@LostFoundDecor]

Thanks for watching!

[@ludwigvonmises1]

Thank you for this! How often do you recommend going? Is three days a week adequate? I'm almost 50yrs...

[@LostFoundDecor]

I go usually 3-4 times a week. At first, you may ease into it more, and for sure listen to what your coach recommends!

[@GeoffreyCooke]

Fantastic video. Thank you for doing this. I’m a late 40s guy who did CF for a little while several years ago. I’ve been reluctant to get back in for many reasons but your video has inspired me to jump back in. I’m not too old, I’m not too out of shape, I CAN do this. Thank you

[@LostFoundDecor]

You totally can! Out of shape people welcome, lol. Just start where you are at. I bet you will get back into it in no time!

[@rayfisher1579]

How many times a week do you go?

[@LostFoundDecor]

Depends on my schedule Ray, it usually about 3-4 days a week!

[@rayfisher1579]

Ok cool, a lot of good info. Thank you

[@luckythecat7663]

I'm 40 and one of my friends wants me to try crossfit... But I'm scared 😅😅 your video will help me a lot !

[@LostFoundDecor]

Yay! Give it a try! So glad it was helpful :)

[@luckythecat7663]

@@LostFoundDecor first training today !!! 💪💪💪 I'm alive !!!!

[@larissad5070]

Thank you for the video!

[@LostFoundDecor]

My pleasure!

[@FreeRangeCottage]

You are a brave woman! 😆I have friends in their sixties that are in Crossfit. They love it! Thanks for sharing your experience with everyone.

[@LostFoundDecor]

I’m telling you… I never would have tried it if Brad didn’t want to. But I’m glad I did! Not sure it will be the “thing” for me forever, but I’m grateful for what I’ve learned so far