CrossFit. The hottest new trend in the exercise world. I'm sure a lot of you have heard of it or know someone who does it, and maybe at one point you have asked yourself....is it for me??
In this post I will be outlining CrossFit and hopefully by the end you will have a better understanding and be able to make an educated decision to try it out or skip this exercise trend.
CrossFit busted onto the scene about 14 years ago but in recent years has become much more popular in the exercise and fitness community. Created by Greg Glassman, his intention was to simply help develop an 'increased work capacity across broad time and modal domains.' CrossFit is engineered to help you develop multiple skills and strengths at varying levels of intensity and time--it won't make you the strongest person on the planet but you will become stronger, faster and able to do more. In a typical CrossFit class, you will participate in the workout of the day or WOD as it is referred to in the CrossFit community, which will include a metabolic conditioning session. In this met-con session you will try and get as may rounds or reps as you can in a given amount of time. The movements, reps and other details will always vary so you will never know what to expect.
Unlike your stereotypical gym filled with machines, dumbbell racks and miscellaneous equipment--your typical CrossFit 'box' will include a smaller array of barbells, plates, lifting platforms, ropes, rings, medicine balls, kettlebells and pull-up bars. At your local box you will get more personal training and freedom to lift how you want without worrying about dropping your heavy deadlift or getting yelled at for grunting.
Since CrossFit isn't your typical gym, it may not be right for you depending on your fitness goals. If you would like to be more fit strong, athletic and more mobile then CrossFit can definitely help you with that. However, the idea behind CrossFit is to become a more rounded person, athletically, rather than specializing in something--like toning your arms or strengthening your core. So if your exercise goals are to specialize or focus on one specific area, CrossFit may not be the right choice for you.
For some people the hardest part will be actually getting into the box for your first workout and actually performing. Luckily, the WOD are infinitely scalable--so if you can't do the workout prescribed, you will be asked to do what you can. No one will ever force you to do something you are unprepared or don't want to do--a trainer will walk you through the movement before you are asked to perform them. CrossFit is great for challenging you to do more than you think you can do and for determining your weaknesses.
Another thing to consider is that CrossFit boxes are more expensive than your typical commercial gym. Although they sign up fewer people, CF boxes seem to have a better attendance because people really enjoy their experience and want to go back. During your first few weeks, you will definitely be challenged and pushed to your limits. You'll do things you never heard of and new variations of challenging lifts as well as exert more energy than you're used to. Again, CrossFit isn't for everyone--if there is something you don't like; a trainer, a specific box or a workout--don't go back, it's that simple.
To sum up everything, CrossFit is a great option for someone who is looking to join a community of people who want to become an overall more fit and well-rounded person physically. Although, it is more expensive, you will get so much out of it. If you are looking to challenge yourself and really push yourself to your limits, then consider including CrossFit into your exercise regimen.
I hope I have cleared up some questions and concerns about CrossFit and given you clarity if you were on the fence about trying it out. It doesn't matter how you do it, but be active and get yourself moving everyday!!
ENJOY!!
