Ask a Coach: I've Always Dreamed of Joining CrossFit’s Seminar Staff. Do You Have Any Advice for Me?

In December 2023, I achieved a long-held dream: joining CrossFit’s Seminar Staff. This goal became my priority after taking my first Level 2 Certificate Course in June 2021. Once I set my sights on the goal, I knew I would need to do more to prepare than just more hours on the floor. I needed expert feedback from the best in the field — the Red Shirts. Fortuitously, Lisa Ray, a long-time CrossFit coach, lived in my town. I nervously walked into her gym after my L2 and asked if she would give me feedback on my coaching. Without hesitation, she said yes and since then, she’s invested countless hours into helping me develop as a coach. 

But I didn’t stop there. 

Over two years, I sought out four other Red Shirts — some near, some far — who welcomed me into their gyms, allowed me to coach their athletes, and gave me invaluable feedback. Each unique perspective from these coaches helped me sharpen the skills necessary to grow as a coach more quickly than I ever imagined. 

My path from new coach to trainer on the Seminar Staff taught me feedback from people who genuinely want to see you succeed is priceless. If you don’t have access to Red Shirts, ask fellow coaches at your gym to assess you against CrossFit’s six coaching criteria: teaching, seeing, correcting, group management, presence and attitude, and demonstration. Do it often, act on the feedback immediately, and watch your coaching evolve. 

I also recommend retaking the Level 1 Certificate Course and focusing closely on the breakout groups, where Red Shirts teach the nine foundational movements. Then replicate that experience by gathering athletes at your local box to practice coaching the squats, presses, and deadlifts. 

Finally, take advantage of CrossFit’s new Mentor Program. Pick from an incredible cast of coaches and affiliate owners and make a concrete plan to achieve your coaching goals. These steps will prepare you for a Seminar Staff internship — and beyond.

Have a question for a coach? Please submit that here.

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About the Author

Melanie Washburn (CF-L3) owns garage affiliate CrossFit Precipice in Flagstaff, Arizona, and is a trainer on CrossFit’s Seminar Staff. With numerous certifications, including Burgener Strength Weightlifting Level 2, Precision Nutrition Level 1, Adaptive and Inclusive Trainer, Aerobic Capacity, CrossFit Masters, and CrossFit Kids, Melanie is dedicated to guiding her clients toward becoming stronger both mentally and physically. Her mission is to inspire others to harness the courage, power, and discipline that CrossFit brought into her life, helping them achieve their best selves.