Leading the Way: Intern Program for Aspiring Coaches and Community Leaders
At CrossFit Oakland, we believe in building more than strong athletes—we build strong leaders. Our Intern Program exists to mentor the next generation of coaches through a hands-on, community-centered learning experience. By investing in curious minds and committed hearts, we empower individuals to grow into skilled, values-driven coaches who will give back to their communities through movement, mentorship, and service. This program is our commitment to youth development, local leadership, and a healthier, more connected Oakland.
Perks & Compensation
Interns receive a complimentary CrossFit Oakland membership for the duration of the Shadowing and Co-Coaching phases. Active participation in classes is encouraged—not just for fitness, but to deepen your understanding of movement, coaching, and community.
Benefits Include
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$25/hour compensation for all Shadowing and Co-Coaching hours
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Mentorship from experienced, professional CrossFit coaches
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Real-world coaching experience in a supportive gym environment
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Access to a structured, high-quality training pathway
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Resume-building experience for future coaching opportunities
Your Coaching Journey: Internship Phases
Each stage is designed to build confidence, competence, and connection.
Track Your Progress
Interns will use our centralized tracking system (Google Sheets or Airtable) to log hours, mentors, and progress notes. You’ll invoice monthly for all paid hours.
01
Phase 1: Coffee Chat – Meet the Team
(Unpaid)
Objective:
Establish rapport, clarify expectations, and confirm alignment with CrossFit Oakland’s values.
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Your internship journey begins with a casual sit-down with the Head Coach or Owner. This is your chance to connect, share your background, and see if the program is the right fit for both sides.
Duration:
30 - 60 minutes
What We’ll Cover:
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Your background, goals, and interest in coaching
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An overview of the internship structure and timeline
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Open Q&A
Outcome:
A mutual decision on whether to move forward to Phase 2.
02
Phase 2: Shadowing – Learn by Watching
(Paid – $25/hour)
Objective:
Step into the coaching environment and observe how experienced coaches lead, communicate, and manage the flow of a CrossFit class. This phase is all about learning by watching—while staying present, curious, and engaged.
Your Responsibilities:
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Observe classes coached by at least two different coaches
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Take notes on class flow, cueing, communication, and safety
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Ask thoughtful questions outside of class time
Our Expectations:
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Be actively engaged without disrupting the class
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Shadow a variety of class types (e.g., beginner, advanced, large group)
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Maintain professional conduct and consistent attendance
Completion Criteria:
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Minimum of 20 logged hours
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Final debrief with a supervisor to assess readiness for Phase 3
03
Phase 4: Co-Coaching – Learn by Doing
(Paid – $25/hour)
Objective:
This is where you step onto the floor and begin coaching alongside our team. Under the guidance of a mentor coach, you’ll take on increasing responsibility, lead portions of class, and receive real-time feedback to help you grow.
Your Responsibilities:
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Assist with warm-ups, instruction, movement demos, and class transitions
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Gradually progress toward leading full class components
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Apply feedback from your mentor coach and staff in real time
Our Expectations:
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Show up consistently and communicate clearly
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Take initiative and demonstrate a coachable attitude
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Commit to growth through active participation and reflection
Completion Criteria:
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Minimum of 30 logged co-coaching hours
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Final evaluation and sign-off from mentor coach or owner
