You don’t have to be fit to start CrossFit – Joey Scafidi, owner of CrossFit Committed, explains why!
What is CrossFit, and what sets it apart from other fitness programs?
CrossFit is training for everyday life. It incorporates movements you perform daily—squatting, jumping, running, lifting—into a structured workout. It combines strength and conditioning training, ensuring a well-rounded fitness approach. The workouts change every day, keeping things fresh and engaging. Though it’s intense and challenging, it pushes you beyond what you thought was possible—and most importantly, it’s fun! With a dedicated coach and a supportive group setting, CrossFit provides motivation, accountability, and ensures you train safely. The key pillars are high intensity and functional movements.
What inspired you to start CrossFit Committed, and how has your journey evolved?
I moved from Florida to Prague in 2005, planning to stay for just a year teaching English. However, I fell in love with the city and never left. While fitness was always a passion, I hadn’t planned to open a gym until I discovered CrossFit and realized Prague had no CrossFit community.
I started practicing in a regular gym, connected with a Czech athlete who had trained in the U.S., and soon found joy in coaching. After earning my certification, I launched CrossFit Committed in 2011 with small outdoor sessions. Demand grew quickly, leading to gym expansions in Prague 1, then Prague 7, and now Prague 3, where we’ve been since 2022. This May marks 14 years since we began.
What are the key benefits of CrossFit for someone new to fitness?
1. Effectiveness – CrossFit prepares you for real-life activities. Running to catch a bus, carrying groceries, or lifting heavy objects all become easier.
2. Community – The group setting is incredibly motivating. Many people find that CrossFit becomes their third most important place, after home and work.
3. Smart programming – Our expert-designed programs take the guesswork out of training. Every day is different, ensuring variety and progress.
How do you ensure that members of all fitness levels feel welcome and challenged?
We use the Level Method, a system that tailors workouts for beginners through advanced athletes. Additionally, we offer specialised programs, including a 12-week transformation program with private training and nutrition guidance. New members start with private sessions to learn movements, build confidence, and determine their level. After that you enter the group classes. There’s a common misconception that you need to be fit to start CrossFit, but it’s actually the opposite—CrossFit is how you get in shape.
What makes the community at CrossFit Committed so special?
Pushing yourself in tough workouts alongside others creates a unique bond. Social status doesn’t matter here—everyone is equal in the gym. We also host social events outside the gym to strengthen connections. Our community is incredibly diverse, representing 49 different nationalities, and while all classes are conducted in English, we welcome people from all backgrounds.
Can you share a success story that highlights the impact of CrossFit training?
One of our most inspiring stories is about a husband and wife who joined together. The husband started at 143 kg, struggling to keep up with his kids. His goal was to get under 120 kg, and within three months, he had dropped to 114 kg. Now, he trains five days a week alongside his wife. His mindset and lifestyle have completely transformed.
What makes the facilities at CrossFit Committed unique?
Unlike conventional gyms filled with machines, we focus on functional movement. Your body is the machine. Our open space allows for dynamic, full-body workouts without clutter.
The CrossFit Games are happening. Can you explain what they are and why they matter?
The CrossFit Games are a global fitness competition to determine the fittest person on Earth. Every year, we participate in the CrossFit Open, a worldwide qualifier. This year, 75 of our members signed up. The competition spans three weeks, with workouts released every Friday. Members submit scores and compare them within the gym, their country, and globally. The finals will be held in August in New York.
What would you say to someone hesitant to try CrossFit? How can they get started at CrossFit Committed?
We are beginner-friendly. You don’t have to be in shape to start—that’s what we’re here for! We offer a free trial class, so just come in and give it a shot. Our goal is simple: to help people lead healthier, happier lives. Whether it’s keeping up with your kids, feeling stronger, or just having fun while working out, CrossFit is for everyone.