By Michael Seewald, Owner of CrossFit Sunnyside

When you walk into a gym, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—rows of machines, crowded classes, or a one-size-fits-all approach that leaves you wondering, “Is this really for me?” At CrossFit Sunnyside, we’re different. Our mission is to make fitness accessible, effective, and personal for everyone, no matter your experience level. What sets us apart is our commitment to individualized coaching, and we achieve this through a unique system called the Level Method. Here’s why CrossFit Sunnyside is the perfect place to start—or elevate—your fitness journey, especially if you’re a beginner.

The CrossFit Sunnyside Difference: Individualized Coaching

At CrossFit Sunnyside, we believe that no two fitness journeys are the same. Whether you’re a beginner stepping into a gym for the first time or an experienced athlete looking to level up, our coaches are here to meet you where you are. Unlike traditional gyms where you’re often left to figure things out on your own, our small-group classes feel like personal training sessions. Every member gets tailored guidance, modifications, and encouragement to ensure they’re progressing safely and effectively.

The secret to delivering this individualized attention lies in the Level Method—a system designed to assess, track, and personalize your fitness journey. It’s the backbone of our programming and the reason we can confidently say that CrossFit Sunnyside is for everyone.

What Is the Level Method?

The Level Method is a structured, science-backed system that measures your fitness across 15 key categories, including strength, endurance, mobility, and gymnastics skills. Think of it like a fitness roadmap that shows you exactly where you are and how to get to where you want to be. Here’s how it works:

1. 1. Initial Assessment: When you join CrossFit Sunnyside, you’ll complete a series of baseline tests to evaluate your current fitness level. These tests cover movements like squats, push-ups, rowing, and more, each scaled to your ability. The result is a clear picture of your strengths and areas for improvement.

1. 1. Color-Coded Levels: Based on your assessment, you’re assigned a level for each category, represented by a color (White, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Purple, Brown, Black, and beyond). These levels are like belts in martial arts—they provide clear milestones to work toward. For example, a beginner might be at White for squats but Yellow for cardiovascular endurance, giving them a personalized starting point.

1. 1. Customized Workouts: Every workout at CrossFit Sunnyside is designed with the Level Method in mind. Our coaches use your levels to tailor exercises, weights, and intensities to your specific needs. This means you’re always challenged at the right level—not too easy, not too hard. For instance, if you’re a White-level squatter, you might focus on bodyweight squats with perfect form, while a Blue-level member might add weight.

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   1. Progress Tracking: As you train consistently, you’ll retest periodically to track your progress and move up the levels. This creates a motivating cycle of improvement, where every small win—like moving from Yellow to Orange in pull-ups—feels like a big victory.

Why the Level Method Is Perfect for Beginners

If you’re new to fitness, the gym can feel intimidating. You might worry about keeping up in a class, getting injured, or not knowing where to start. The Level Method eliminates those fears and makes CrossFit Sunnyside the ideal place to begin. Here’s why:

• • No Guesswork: The Level Method takes the confusion out of fitness. Instead of wondering, “What should I do today?” you’ll have a clear plan based on your assessment. It’s like having a personal coach who knows exactly what you need to succeed.

• • Scalability for All Abilities: Every movement and workout is scaled to your level, so you’re never asked to do something beyond your current ability. Beginners can train alongside experienced athletes in the same class, each working at their own pace. This creates a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.

• • Focus on Form and Safety: For beginners, learning proper technique is critical to avoiding injury and building confidence. The Level Method emphasizes mastering foundational movements before progressing to more advanced skills. Our coaches provide hands-on guidance to ensure you’re moving correctly from day one.

• • Motivation Through Milestones: Starting a fitness journey can feel daunting, but the Level Method breaks it into achievable steps. Seeing yourself progress from White to Yellow, or hitting a new personal record, keeps you motivated and excited to keep going.

• • Community Support: At CrossFit Sunnyside, our community is our strength. The Level Method fosters camaraderie because everyone is working toward their own goals together. You’ll celebrate your wins—and cheer for others—surrounded by a group that feels like family.

 

Why Choose CrossFit Sunnyside?

At CrossFit Sunnyside, we’re not just another gym. We’re a community dedicated to helping you become the strongest, healthiest version of yourself. The Level Method is more than a system—it’s a philosophy that ensures every member gets the attention, guidance, and results they deserve. For beginners, it’s the perfect way to start your fitness journey with confidence, knowing you’re supported every step of the way.

Ready to experience the CrossFit Sunnyside difference? Come try a class, meet our coaches, and see how the Level Method can transform your approach to fitness. Visit our website or contact us to schedule your first session. Let’s start your journey together!

Michael Seewald
Owner, CrossFit Sunnyside