Introduction to CrossFit

An Internet based gym provides a revolutionary fitness regiment. CrossFit combines the elements of circuit training and constant change amidst the security of personal trainers. CrossFit also feeds on the competitive nature of humans by pitting gym goers against one another for the best time/score. These tactics provide a workout program unlike any other.

CrossFit gyms, also known as affiliates, use the Internet to post workouts, share articles and videos, and provide a platform for members to express their feelings. Each affiliate has its own blog or Web site that is updated daily. CrossFit also has a main site, crossfit.com, which many of the affiliates and members refer to for workouts and general information.

CrossFit affiliates use the Internet to post their workouts, but they have actual gyms that members attend. Each affiliate is run by certified trainers who assist members every step of the way. They teach proper form for lifting weights and other workout activities. Additionally, they provide encouragement and drive. When completing a workout seems impossible, they act as cheerleaders and push members to finish. One of the CrossFit precepts reflects this attitude of pushing on until the breaking point, “If I can run, I run. If I have to walk, I walk. When I am forced to crawl, I crawl” (CrossFit LA).

Crossfit workouts are specifically designed to keep athletes from hitting a plateau. “Once the body practices the same activity repeatedly, it grows more proficient at performing those moves. So that means it requires less energy and therefore also burns less calories,” said Lynn Bode, personal trainer and founder of the Web site Workouts For You.

Each CrossFit workout of the day or “WOD” is a grueling workout particularly designed to keep the body from reaching a plateau. The WODs are the same for every member, but the workload and intensity are scaled for a person’s individual needs and abilities. The WODs are offered at various times throughout the day and members come to compete with other CrossFitters and try to beat their previous scores.

CrossFit is a unique gym in that it accepts everyone and still caters to each person’s particular needs. According to the main CrossFit Web site, the workout program is “by design, broad, general, and inclusive” ("What is Crossfit?"). Members of CrossFit come in all ages, shapes and sizes. Because of this, the trainers help the athletes scale the workouts to meet their needs. “We cater to the needs of each member of our gym so that they are able to do the movements and get an effective workout,” said James Sjostrom, owner of Utah affiliate, CrossFit NRG.

CrossFit claims that any and everyone will have success doing the CrossFit workouts. According to an article entitled “Foundations,” “CrossFit has tested its methods on the sedentary, overweight, pathological, and elderly and found that these special populations met the same success as our stable of athletes” (CrossFit Inc).

CrossFitting is a great way to get in shape for those that need an extra push to get them going. Many people lack the drive to push their bodies to the limit where physical change occurs. Gym-goers tend to work the same muscles and use the same amount of weight every time they workout, which is what makes the body plateau. “The way to keep the body from reaching a plateau is to change up your workout everyday” said Sjostrom. Understanding this principle is key to maintaining a good fitness routine.

For a listing of CrossFit affiliates near you click here.