If you’re new to CrossFit Chamblee, you’ll quickly notice that our daily workouts are written with L1, L2, and L3 options. At first glance, this can feel like you’re being asked to “pick a level” and stick with it.
That’s not how we want you to think about it.
At CFC, L1, L2, and L3 are scaling tools, not labels. They exist to help you find the right stimulus for your body, today.
What the Levels Mean
Here’s the simplest way to think about them:
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L1
The most accessible version of the workout. Loads are lighter, movements are more approachable, and the goal is to keep you moving well and safely. Perfect for beginners, and also for veterans looking to take it down a notch.
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L2
This is where most experienced athletes should spend the majority of their training time. It’s challenging enough to drive progress, effective for building “real world” fitness, and sustainable long term.
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L3
The most advanced option. Heavier loads, higher volume, and occasionally movements that require greater skill proficiency (for example, muscle-ups, handstand walking, and squat snatches).
All three levels follow the same workout structure. Same intent, same time domain, and same goal. The difference is how demanding the workout is on strength, skill, and volume.
Scaling Is the Goal, Not the Level
Here’s the most important thing to understand:
Choosing L1, L2, or L3 does not define you as an athlete.
What matters is whether you’re getting the intended stimulus of the workout. That’s how you make progress, stay healthy, and train for tomorrow instead of just surviving today.
Some days, the smartest choice is L1.
Some days, L2 is perfect.
Some days, parts of L3 make sense.
And that leads to the most important concept of all.
You’re Allowed to Mix and Match
At CrossFit Chamblee, we actively encourage every athlete to combine elements from different levels to build the perfect workout for them each day.
That might look like:
- Using L3 skill progressions but L2 loading
- Keeping L2 movements but L1 volume
- Scaling one movement aggressively while keeping another closer to the top end
This is smart training. This is long-term progress. This is how you leave your ego at the door and train in a way that supports your goals outside the gym too.
Why We Program This Way
The L1/L2/L3 system exists to:
- Expose you to a wider range of scaling options
- Help you understand that scaling is awesome and not “less than”
- Give you autonomy and ownership over your training
- Keep you progressing for years, not weeks
At CFC, CrossFit isn’t about winning the whiteboard. It’s about stacking good days, staying healthy, and training for real life.
How to Choose Your Scaling on Any Given Day
Before class, ask yourself:
- What is the intent of this workout? (Speed? Strength? Conditioning? Skill?)
- Which option allows me to move well the entire time while also giving me a solid challenge?
- What choice helps me come back tomorrow feeling good?
And remember: your coaches are here to help. If you’re not sure, just ask. A 30-second conversation before class can make your entire hour more effective.
Final Thought
The best athletes in the gym aren’t the ones who always choose L3.
They’re the ones who scale intelligently, train consistently, and respect the process.
That’s the culture we’re building here, and we’re glad you’re part of it.
