CrossFit bets on hybrid training: Level 1 to follow the successful Level 2 model

New training format aims to make certification more accessible for coaches

CrossFit appears to be taking another step in modernizing its education offering. After the hybrid Level 2 certification gained significant popularity in recent months, the organization is now actively exploring a similar setup for the Level 1 course. According to Dave Castro, a hybrid version is currently in development and could become available for 2027 courses as early as late 2026.

For trainers, affiliate owners and ambitious athletes, this could mean an important change in how they obtain their CrossFit certifications.

Why the hybrid Level 2 has been so successful

The hybrid Level 2 combines online learning with an in-person practical day. Participants complete the theoretical content, normally covered during a full course weekend, online in advance. They then travel to a location for just one day to complete the practical components and evaluations.

Castro has called the approach a major success. Nearly half of all Level 2 offerings now consist of hybrid courses.

That success appears to stem primarily from the convenience it offers participants. Where a traditional Level 2 weekend often requires extra travel time, hotel stays and two full days of commitment, a hybrid course can in many cases be completed within a single day.

For coaches who balance a busy job with teaching at an affiliate, that is an attractive alternative.

Less travel time, more flexibility

The core idea behind the hybrid model is simplicity. Castro describes the example of a participant who drives to a course location early in the morning, completes the practical day and is back home that same evening.

This not only lowers costs for participants, but also makes it easier to fit a certification around work, family and training.

Such a development also aligns with broader trends in the fitness industry. Both commercial fitness education programs and coaching courses are increasingly using blended learning, combining online theory with in-person practical instruction.

A hybrid Level 1 next?

The next step now appears to be a hybrid version of the CrossFit Level 1 certificate, which is traditionally the first official training course within the CrossFit ecosystem.

Castro acknowledges that some community members may be critical of changes to the certification process, but points out that CrossFit already offers a fully online Level 1 option. From that perspective, he sees a hybrid Level 1 as a middle ground between fully digital education and the classic two-day seminar.

The expectation is that the theoretical content will again be made available online, while participants will need to attend in person for movement work, coaching skills and practical components.

What does this mean for the CrossFit community?

For many aspiring coaches, a hybrid Level 1 could lower the barrier to obtaining a certification. Less travel time, lower costs and greater flexibility make the pathway accessible to a wider group of athletes.

At the same time, the practical component is retained, something that within CrossFit has traditionally been seen as an essential part of coach development. Providing movement feedback, coaching groups and receiving direct guidance are things that are difficult to fully replace online.

The coming months will show how the community responds to the plans. If the Level 1 sees the same success as the hybrid Level 2, this could well become the new standard for CrossFit education worldwide.

Conclusion

With the strong growth of the hybrid Level 2, CrossFit appears convinced of the benefits of blended learning. The announced hybrid Level 1 is a logical next step. For future coaches, it primarily means more flexibility while preserving the hands-on experience. It is a combination that seems to align increasingly well with the way modern fitness professionals want to develop themselves.