Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need to be in shape before starting CrossFit?
Nope! One of the best things about CrossFit is that every workout can be adjusted to your current fitness level. Whether you're brand new to exercise or have years of training experience, we'll meet you where you are and help you progress safely toward your goals.
I've never worked out before. Can I still join?
Absolutely! CrossFit is for everyone, regardless of fitness experience. Our coaches will guide you every step of the way, and our community is known for being welcoming and supportive.
How do I get started?
Set up a time to chat with Jessie (owner/head coach). We will meet up either in person, or via zoom and discuss your current health and fitness status/background, and any injuries you may be dealing with. From there we will talk about the best membership option for you and get you started, by either coming straight into classes or starting with our On-Ramp program.
Do you offer a free trial?
Yes! You can come to 1 free class. This will let you meet a coach, try out a workout (scaled to ensure safety and fun), and meet members of our incredible community.
What should I expect during my first class?
You will probably be a little nervous, everyone is at least a little nervous the first time trying something new, but that nervousness will quickly dissipate. As you come into Wilderness CrossFit, you will be met with greetings and high fives/handshakes from the coach/coaches and members. You will be taken through a workout brief (explaining what the workout of the day is), a warmup specifically geared toward that workout, the WOD (Workout Of The Day), and a cooldown. There will be time after the cooldown to chat with the coach or other members. Most of all, expect to have fun and get a great workout in!
How often should I attend each week?
We generally recommend 3-4 classes per week for most people. Some members attend 5-6 days per week, while others see great results with fewer classes. Consistency is more important than perfection.
How long are your classes?
Our classes are 1 hour. This includes a workout brief, warmup, WOD (Workout Of The Day), and a cooldown.
Do I need to know CrossFit movements before joining?
No. We have an On-Ramp program for new CrossFit members that will break down and teach many of the primary movements and workout styles. In addition, our coaches will teach you everything you need to know for each class.
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What is CrossFit?
CrossFit is a coach-led fitness program designed to help everyday people get stronger, move better, improve their health, and build confidence. Every workout can be adapted to your current fitness level, making it accessible whether you’re stepping into a gym for the first time or have been training for years. It is a workout program for everyday health, and is also a great way to improve strength and conditioning for whatever your primary sport/activity is outside of the gym.
How is CrossFit different from a regular gym?
There are a few key differences between CrossFit and a regular gym. First, we are a community. That means we build and maintain relationships with both the coaches and other members, leading to higher motivation, accountability, and fun. This is one of the greatest things about CrossFit. Second, we program the workouts and coach you every single day, so your only responsibility is show up and put in the work. Third, we actually care about you and your health/fitness goals. If you don’t show up for a couple days, we will reach out and check on you. We celebrate your “wins”, because we want to see you reaching those goals.
Are the workouts the same for everyone?
While the WOD (Workout Of The Day) is the same for everyone, there is an almost infinite way to scale each workout to meet the needs of each member while maintaining the desired stimulus for the day.
What should I bring to class?
Comfortable workout clothes, athletic shoes, and a water bottle.
Will CrossFit help me lose weight?
In short, yes, CrossFit can help you lose weight. However, weight loss is heavily impacted by your lifestyle outside of the gym, like what you eat everyday, how much sleep you are getting, and your daily stress level.
Can CrossFit help me build muscle?
Absolutely. CrossFit combines strength training, functional movements, and progressive overload, all of which can help you build muscle, increase strength, and improve overall athleticism.
What does "scaling" mean?
“Scaling” means adjusting a workout to ensure you achieve the desired stimulus. A simple example is this. . . The workout calls for sets of 12 deadlifts at 225/205. The goal is to do these in unbroken sets or at maximum, 2 sets of 6 with minimal rest. If this weight is too heavy for you to achieve that desired intensity stimulus, we can lower the weight to something that allow you to complete that movement in the 1 or 2 sets. We can apply this to any movement or workout.
What is a WOD?
WOD means “Workout Of The Day”.
Am I too old for CrossFit?
Not at all. We have members ranging from young adults to retirees. Workouts are scaled to the individual.
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Is CrossFit safe?
Yes. When properly coached, CrossFit is a safe and effective training program. Every workout can be modified to match your current fitness level, experience, and any physical limitations. At Wilderness CrossFit, movement quality and proper technique always take priority over speed or intensity. Below are injury statistics for some popular fitness categories.
CrossFit - 3.2 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Hulsmann 2021
Powerlifting - 1.0-4.4 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Aasa 2016
Olympic Weightlifting - 2.4-3.3 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Aasa 2016
Running - 2.5-12.1 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Mechelen 1992
Triathlon - 15.7-24.3 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Guevara 2024
Zumba - 3.9-5.7 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Domene 2016
Yoga - 1.18 injuries per 1000 training hours - Source: Bekhradi 2018
What if I have an old injury?
We will discuss any previous or current injuries you are dealing with prior to you coming to classes. Once we identify any injuries, We will work with you to modify movements as needed so you can continue training safely and effectively.
Can workouts be modified for my fitness level?
Yes, we do this by “Scaling” workout/movements for each individual as needed.
Do you offer personal training?
Yes! We offer single session personal training or you can purchase a 5 or 10 pack of personal training sessions. These are great if you are training for a specific event or race. We can also do a personal training only option if you are interested.
Are your coaches certified?
Yes all of our coaches have various certifications. At a minimum, each coach holds a CrossFit Level 1 Certification, however, each coach also pursues other certifications, not only within the CrossFit universe, but within each of their respective interests. As a gym, we value continued education and pay for 1 certification of their choice per year for each of our coaches. This allows our coaches to develop in a realm that they are passionate about as well as give our members the best coaching possible.
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What memberships do you offer?
We offer 3 categories of memberships.
Unlimited CrossFit: We offer a 1 Year commitment, 6-Month commitment, and Month-To-Month options.
Semi-Private: We offer 5, 10, or 15 Semi-Private classes per month.
Personal Training: We offer single session personal training, or you can purchase a 5 or 10 pack at a discounted price.
How Much Does Membership Cost?
Membership options vary based on your goals. Schedule a consultation to find the best option for you.
Can I put my membership on hold?
Memberships may be placed on hold for up to one month per calendar year.
Do you offer any discounts?
We currently offer a discounted membership option for high school and college students. Contact us for details.
What happens if I need to cancel my membership?
We require a 30 day notice for membership cancellation. Just send an email or talk to Jessie in person.
Are there any signup fees?
No
Can I upgrade or downgrade my membership later?
Yes, you can switch your membership up at any time.
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What class times do you offer?
We offer classes throughout the day. Here is a link to our schedule.
Do I need to reserve my spot in class?
Yes. In order to provide the best coaching possible, we limit class size.
Can I attend open gym?
Yes. We would prefer that members participate in a class on the days they come to the gym, but if you are looking to get in a little extra work or if you cannot make one of the normal class times, then open gym is available.
Do you offer weekend classes?
Yes. We have two CrossFit classes and one On-Ramp class on Saturdays.
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Why Wilderness CrossFit?
Wilderness CrossFit is more than a place to work out. We combine professional coaching, thoughtful programming, accountability, and a supportive community to help everyday people become stronger, healthier, and more confident. Whether your goal is weight loss, improved fitness, competition, or simply living a more active life, we're here to help you get there. We also recognize that many people in the Missoula area participate in running, cycling, backcountry hunting, and various other outdoor sports/activities. We want to help you perform your best no matter what outdoor or recreational activity you pursue.
Where are you located?
On West Broadway. Across from the Smoke Jumper Center.
Do you have showers?
We do not currently have showers. Adding showers is one of our top facility improvement projects and is planned for the future.
What equipment do you use?
Most of our equipment is Rogue Fitness.
Are drop-ins welcome?
Yes! Visiting CrossFit athletes are welcome to drop in. Contact us ahead of time and we'll get you set up.