Running a CrossFit Class

At most affiliates, group classes outnumber private or semi-private sessions. This is a short primer on how to effectively plan and run a group class. While the concepts presented here are relevant to private training, the logistical demands of running a group class are significantly increased such that additional pressure is placed on planning.

More information on designing and running effective classes is provided in the Level 2 Certificate Course. Programming well-designed workouts and providing scaling options are only part of running an effective class. At the very least, a warm-up, workout, and cool-down plan should be drafted before the class to outline the duration of each section and its specific elements. Additional considerations for each section are outlined below.

Does the warm-up… • Increase the body’s core temperature? • Prepare the athletes to handle the intensity of the workout? • Allow the coach to correct movement mechanics needed in the workout? • Allow the coach to assess capacity for scaling modifications? • Offer skill development and refinement (potentially including elements not in the workout, time permitting)?

Does the workout… • Include a description of range-of-motion standards? • Include scaling options that are appropriate for all athletes in the class? • Allow athletes to reach their relative level of high intensity? • Challenge the athlete’s current level of fitness? • Include corrections of movement mechanics under high intensity?

Does the cool-down… • Allow the heart and respiratory rate to slow and the athlete to regain mental acuity? • Allow the athlete to record workout performance to track progress? • Prepare the gym for the following class? • Take advantage of remaining time for recovery practices, additional skill refinement, and/or education?

The following three sample Lesson Plans and Workout of the Day (WOD) Scales serve as examples for how to plan a class session.

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