Tuesday, September 17, 2013

so, what is CrossFit?

Good question. I get asked that a lot from those who hear I am a CrossFitter but have never actually seen someone do it. I've never been able to completely explain it right, there is so much involved in what we do. The exercises are so varied and we never do the same routine twice. I typically say, "it's elements of weightlifting, gymnastics, and functional movements." But here is a more detailed definition:

CrossFit advocates a mix of aerobic exercise, gymnastics (body weight exercises), and Olympic weightlifting. CrossFit describes its strength and conditioning program as "constantly varied, high intensity, functional movement," with the stated goal of improving fitness, which it defines as "work capacity across broad time and modal domains." Workouts are typically short -30 minutes or less- and intense, demanding all-out physical exertion. They combine movements such as sprinting, rowing, jumping rope, climbing rope, flipping tires, weightlifting, carrying heavy objects, and many bodyweight exercises; equipment used includes barbells, dumbbells, gymnastics rings, pull-up bars, kettlebells, medicine balls, and boxes for box jumps. These elements are mixed in numerous combinations to form prescribe "Workouts of the Day" or "WOD". Hour-long classes at affiliated gyms, or "boxes", typically include a warm-up, a skill development segment, the high-intensity WOD, and a period of individual or group stretching. Performance on each WOD is often scored and/or ranked to encourage competition and to track individual progress. Some affiliates offer additional classes, such as Olympic weightlifting, which are not centered around a WOD. The aim of CrossFit is to physically prepare people for whatever life might throw at them. -Wikipedia

Now that you have a better understanding of all that is involved, you think we're crazy don't you? I don't blame you. But remember, don't judge until you try it. Up for the challenge?

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