Starting something new can feel intimidating, especially when it involves learning movements you’ve never done before. At CrossFit Viroqua, we understand how overwhelming it can be to step into a gym for the first time. That’s why we’ve designed our OnRamp program—to provide every newcomer to our facility with a supportive, safe, and judgment-free environment to begin their fitness journey.
But what is OnRamp, and why is it such a cornerstone of how we help people? Let’s break it down.
What is OnRamp?
Our OnRamp program is a series of one-on-one sessions designed to teach the foundational movements of CrossFit. Everyone starts with a PVC pipe (a lightweight training tool) to learn proper form and technique before introducing weights or intensity. We focus on mastering movements like squats, deadlifts, presses, and other functional exercises that you’ll use throughout your time at CrossFit Viroqua.
OnRamp is more than just an introduction to fitness; it’s your launchpad for success. By taking the time to build a strong foundation, we help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to tackle our group classes safely and effectively.
How OnRamp Helps You
- Safety First
Fitness is about improving your health, not risking injury. OnRamp ensures you learn how to move your body correctly, focusing on technique and body awareness. Whether it’s a squat, a push-up, or a deadlift, we’ll teach you the safest way to perform these movements before increasing intensity with heavier weights, faster reps, or more complex combinations.
By prioritizing proper mechanics from the start, you set yourself up for long-term success. You’ll not only avoid unnecessary injuries but also build strength, mobility, and confidence in your movements.
- Judgment-Free Learning
We know how scary it can be to walk into a gym and feel like you’re “behind” or don’t know what you’re doing. At CrossFit Viroqua, we’ve created an atmosphere where you can learn at your own pace. OnRamp is a space where no one expects you to have all the answers or be perfect.
Instead, you’ll find patient coaches who are excited to teach you everything from the ground up. No question is too small, no movement too basic. By the time you graduate from OnRamp, you’ll know the foundational skills needed to participate in classes with confidence.
- One-on-One Attention
OnRamp gives you direct access to a coach who is fully invested in your success. During these sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, clarify doubts, and get feedback tailored specifically to you. This one-on-one attention helps us build a relationship with you, understand your fitness goals, and personalize your experience.
We want you to know that you’re not just another face in the crowd at CrossFit Viroqua. OnRamp is the beginning of a partnership between you and our team, focused on helping you reach your full potential.
- Building Confidence to Do Hard Things
One of the biggest benefits of OnRamp is how it helps you feel empowered. Learning new skills can be challenging, but we’re here to guide you every step of the way. When you start to master the movements and gain strength, you’ll realize that you’re capable of more than you ever thought possible.
This confidence extends beyond the gym. Doing hard things at CrossFit Viroqua often translates into tackling hard things in life. OnRamp gives you the courage to step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and grow into the strongest version of yourself—both physically and mentally.
- Joining the Community
CrossFit Viroqua isn’t just a gym; it’s a community of people who care about one another. OnRamp helps you become a part of that community. By learning the basics in a one-on-one setting, you’re better prepared to participate in group classes, cheer on your fellow athletes, and experience the camaraderie that makes CrossFit so special.
When everyone starts at the same place—with a PVC pipe and the fundamentals—it creates a culture of mutual respect and understanding. No one judges where you are in your fitness journey because we’ve all been there.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, OnRamp isn’t just about teaching movements; it’s about setting you up for success. It’s about giving you the tools and confidence to work out safely, push your limits, and grow as a person. It’s about helping you feel comfortable in a space where you can challenge yourself and have fun doing it.
If you’ve been on the fence about trying CrossFit, know this: you have nothing to worry about. OnRamp is specifically designed to make your first steps as smooth as possible. You’ll be supported, encouraged, and equipped with everything you need to succeed.
Hear it From Someone Who’s Been There
If you made a list of all the ill-conceived notions about CrossFit; I, at one time or another, would have subscribed to all of them. Before I signed up for CrossFit, I assumed that CrossFit was a, ultra-competitive, military boot camp style class for "muscle heads" and "alpha" type personalities where how much you could lift was the only thing that was important, with form and teamwork taking a back seat. I thought one needed to already be in amazing shape just to show up to the classes, let alone complete them. Having completed the CrossFit Viroqua OnRamp course and participated in the regular CrossFit Viroqua classes, I can say without reservation that CrossFit is an amazing program that approaches fitness in a total body mentality and provides an amazing opportunity to reach great personal heights in ones personal fitness.
After my first OnRamp session, I realized all my preconceived ideas about CrossFit were completely false. Most importantly the OnRamp session prepares you by focusing on form and function. The OnRamp session does an amazing job of teaching you form and technique so that when you enter the regular classes you can safely complete that day’s workout. The OnRamp sessions not only teaches the necessary form to participate in the regular classes, but it also teaches you the form and technique for normal everyday activities of daily life such as squatting, lifting, walking, running, etc. I also discovered quickly during the OnRamp course that CrossFit fosters a team approach where participants encourage each other to do their best. For every ounce, of what may seem like competitiveness, CrossFit Viroqua has a hundred pounds worth of teamwork. That aspect was probably one of the most pleasantly surprising elements of CrossFit.
CrossFit Viroqua has put me on the path to being in the best personal shape of my life. CrossFit Viroqua is a place for all levels of athleticism, young or seasoned, male or female, experienced or new comer, CrossFit Viroqua will provide you with the opportunity to reach your personal fitness goals.
-Fean Wagner, LAT, BA, MS-
Are you ready to take that first step?
Give CrossFit Viroqua a shot and see for yourself how our OnRamp course can help you achieve your goals. You don’t have to be in shape to start, and you don’t have to have it all figured out. All you need is a willingness to try.
We’ll meet you where you are and guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait—your journey to a stronger, healthier, and more confident you starts here.
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