Weight Training for Beginners
Ellie McKenzie • April 14, 2025
Beginner’s Guide to Weight Training: Build Confidence, Strength, and Community

Weight training can feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be. Walking into a gym filled with confident, muscular people might make you feel like you don’t belong. You might worry you’ll look out of place or do something wrong. Trust me — I’ve been there.
The truth is, every single one of those people started exactly where you are right now. Including me.
When I began strength training, I was navigating one of the most difficult chapters of my life. I felt uncertain about every decision I made. At that time, I hired a personal trainer to teach me the basics. As a young mom with a growing family, I couldn’t train often, but I made it a priority when I could — and on other days, I worked out alone.
As my children grew, I stumbled across CrossFit. It pushed me beyond what I ever thought imaginable — physically, mentally, and emotionally. What truly transformed my fitness journey was the CrossFit community. Before CrossFit, I trained solo and often felt like I didn’t belong. The energy at CrossFit was entirely different — people welcomed me, encouraged me, and inspired me. It wasn’t just about working out; it was about belonging.
Later, after a major life change, I moved back to Dallas. A unique opportunity to open my own CrossFit gym practically landed in my lap. It was the perfect fit, but more than anything, I wanted to empower other women to find the strength, confidence, and resilience that I discovered through fitness.
What to Expect When You Start CrossFit at CrossFit Odyssey
We believe in making fitness approachable and personal for everyone. Here’s what your CrossFit Odyssey experience will look like:
- FREE Fitness Assessment - Every new member starts here. We’ll explain what CrossFit is, how our classes work, and introduce our unique fitness philosophy. We’ll talk about your fitness history, previous workout experiences, any injuries or limitations, and most importantly — your personal fitness goals.
- Learn The Basics: The Tens - You’ll start with ten foundational movements that are the building blocks for everything we do. These exercises are designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and avoid injury.
- Complete Your First Metcon - Next, you’ll experience a short, fast-paced workout known as a “Metcon” (Metabolic Conditioning). This helps establish a fitness baseline and gives you a taste of what CrossFit feels like.
- Choose Your Path: Personal Training or Classes - After your assessment, we’ll recommend the best next step for you.
- New to CrossFit or free weight training? We typically suggest five private sessions to build your skills and confidence.
- Experienced with lifting or fitness classes? You might be ready to jump straight into group classes.
Our priority is making sure you feel comfortable, supported, and ready to succeed.
Take Control of Your Health — Starting Today
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to start — this is it. CrossFit Odyssey isn’t just a gym. It’s a supportive, uplifting community where you’ll gain strength, confidence, and lifelong friends.
Ready to begin your fitness journey?
Reply to this message or visit crossfitodyssey.com
to fill out our contact form. Let’s take the first step together on YOUR Journey to Extraordinary.