What is CrossFit?
CrossFit is a program developed to offer a full-body workout that combines elements of cardio, weight lifting, gymnastics, core training and more to prepare the body for the unexpected.
According to the CrossFit website: “CrossFit is the principal strength and conditioning program for many police academies and tactical operations teams, military special operations units, champion martial artists, and hundreds of other elite and professional athletes worldwide.”
This high-intensity workout is extremely varied and all about getting the most bang for your workout buck. A CrossFitter will likely never do the same routine twice in one week and each workout will usually last between 45 minutes to an hour.
CrossFit gyms are usually large warehouses (often referred to as the “box”) which offer group classes where an individual may choose to workout anywhere between three to five times a week. CrossFit coaches either develop their own daily workout or follow the “WOD” or Workout of the Day from the CrossFit website.
For example, a typical CrossFit WOD may look like this:
Sample WOD:
20 Min AMRAP (As Many Rounds As Possible)
100m Run
2 Burpees
2 Deadlifts 185lb
2 Pull-ups
AMRAP means that you will do your best to complete as many rounds of this sequence as possible in the time allotted; in this case 20 minutes.
What do people love about it?
CrossFit classes are high-intesnity group classes focused on the philosophy of high-intensity interval training or HITT, the belief that more intense exercise in a shorter amount of time is more effective.
CrossFitters are also part of a unique culture and philosophy. Many CrossFitters follow a specific diet, namely the Paleo Diet, and are fitness fanatics or former athletes who thrive off of competition and a team atmosphere (but that doesn’t mean non athletes can’t reap the CrossFit benefits).
CrossFit addicts love the communal environment of this workout regimen and appreciate the verbal encouragement and support that they gain from their teammates and coaches while they exercise.
Sometimes criticized for just how intense the workout can be, CrossFit teaches its followers to accept discomfort, push your body to its limits and therefore bring yourself to a place of maximum impact. CrossFit operates off of the belief that you should train your body for the unknown and be physically prepared for almost anything.
While this philosophy may be intimidating to some, it is inspiring and motivational to its followers.
Tips for Trying CrossFit
If you’ve never tried CrossFit before and you think it may be the right workout for you, here are some helpful tips for staying safe:
- Go to a few different gyms, talk to the coaches and get an idea for what the workout entails. Most CrossFit gyms offer a free introductory class to beginners considering joining the program. This is a great way to meet your potential CrossFit coach.
- Be sure to make your coaches aware of any previous injuries before attempting any CrossFit exercises. If you have a serious pre-existing injury you may even want to speak with your doctor before purchasing a package for this high-intensity program.
- Before attempting CrossFit you should have a basic understanding of general fitness. “You wouldn’t add weight to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, so don’t add weight to a squat with poor form.” Be sure to take an “On Ramp” or “Elements” course to ensure you’ll complete WODs safely and effectively.
- Scale your workouts. This is something that is discussed a lot in the CrossFit culture. To “scale your workout” means that you, as a beginner, cannot lift as much weight as CrossFit Chris who has been doing this for years. This also applies to intensity and knowing when your body has reached its maximum capacity.
For all medical questions speak with your doctor and consult your CrossFit coach.
