Question: When should I take the Level 2 Certificate Course?
Answer: Sooner than you think.
If you’re reading this, you’ve likely already earned your Level 1 Certificate. If not, now’s the perfect time to get it. But if you’ve been wondering when to take your Level 2, here are three key reasons to consider doing it sooner rather than later:
CrossFit Level 2 Certificate Course at CrossFit Roots
#1 – The Level 2 Builds on Your Level 1 Knowledge
Your Level 1 Certificate is valid for five years, but don’t wait that long to become a better coach. Coaches who take their Level 2 within six months to a year of completing their Level 1 and have a little coaching experience tend to see the most growth. Here’s why:
- The Level 1 material is still fresh, making it easier to apply.
- You’re less likely to have developed habits that can be hard to break later on.
- The Level 2 is a masterclass in teaching, seeing, and correcting. Without question, when we ask people what they enjoyed the most from the Level 2, they talk about how much more confident they feel with developing a teaching plan, as well as seeing and correcting athletes across a broad range of movements and abilities. This education is like a little gift they get to give members each time they take the floor.
#2 – It’s Less Intimidating Than You Think
Red Shirts Jenni Orr, Kevin Ogar, and Becky Harsh
As a Seminar Staff member who’s taught over 400 L1 and L2 Courses, I’ve seen the difference in vibe between these courses. At the L1, people are excited, relaxed, and ready to learn about everything CrossFit. At the L2, nerves at the check-in table are palpable — coaches had trouble sleeping the night before, they worry they won’t remember the points of performance, and they worry about messing up in front of their peers and seasoned CrossFit trainers. But within the first 30 minutes, you’ll realize the course is about helping YOU grow as a coach in a friendly and supportive environment, and then nerves disappear.
Know this when considering taking your Level 2: You will not just be thrown out onto the floor and told to coach. Trainers guide you through the coaching process, one step at a time. Yes, everyone stumbles a bit, and that’s expected. It’s where the real learning happens, not just for you, but for everyone in your group. This weekend isn’t just about your growth — it’s a chance to learn from others, too.
#3 – The Instruction is Unmatched
CrossFit Seminar Staff trainers are the best of the best, with years of coaching experience and rigorous training under their belts. They live and breathe CrossFit and are experts at developing coaches. If you want to elevate your coaching game, the Level 2 Certificate Course offers unparalleled instruction.
As a bonus, you’ll get to throw down in unforgettable workouts with your peers during the course. So, not only will you get in a few workouts, but you also have the chance to observe, participate in, and analyze one of CrossFit’s Seminar Staff trainer’s lesson plans in action.
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About the Author
Eric O’Connor is a Content Developer and Seminar Staff Flowmaster for CrossFit’s Education Department and the co-creator of the former CrossFit Competitor’s Course. He has led over 400 seminars and has more than a decade of experience coaching at a CrossFit affiliate. He is a Certified CrossFit Coach (CF-L4), a former Division 1 collegiate wrestler, and a former CrossFit Games athlete.
Ask a Coach: When Should I Take the Level 2 CrossFit Certificate Course?