CrossFit
You may have heard the term thrown around in conversation by some young “fitness freaks” at your gym as they camp out on the bench press station that you're trying to work in on while they swill their pre-workout shake. Or, maybe you've seen videos on social media of CrossFit gym fails (check out the box jump ones for a cringing laugh), and thought to yourself, “that's just stupid!” Or, maybe your niece or son or co-worker has joined a “box”, and they just won't shut-up about it already!
Or, maybe you've never heard of it before. Well, I'd like to shed some light on the subject from the perspective of a 42 year old, mother of two teens, with an imperfect body, and an imperfect diet, dealing with weaknesses and pains that come with aging (on an imperfect diet)--basically someone who is likely similar to you--who has been coaching CrossFit for over five years.
CV-FM-HI
This is not a code to get into the “cult”, as some have fondly referred to it. This is the definition given to CrossFit from CrossFit Headquarters:
CrossFit is constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity.
Source
CV = Constantly Varied--means that, for the most part, no two workout days are exactly alike. It's this variety that keeps your body guessing and adapting to the varied stimulus. It also keeps your mind guessing so you don't get bored with the typical “exercise routine”.
FM = Functional Movement--this has a couple of meanings. First, functional movements are multi-joint, multi-plane movements. So, instead of an isolation movement like a bicep curl (which has it's purpose, I love me some bicep curls), functional movements require movement at multiple joints and/or planes, such as a squat (movement at ankle, knee, hip). Movement at multiple joints increases the amount of neuro-musclular recruitment, thereby maximizing your adaptation. Functional movements also relate to movements that apply to everyday life (if you plan to use a toilet into old age or get off the floor if you fall, you better maintain the ability to squat). Source
HI = High Intensity--and THIS is where the magic happens. Intensity = Power = Work Capacity/Time. The more Work you complete in less Time, the greater your Power and Intensity. The greater your Intensity, the greater your fitness adaptation. High Intensity = Results. Source
The Box
At our gym (a.k.a. “box). We use a less technical explanation: we combine gymnastics (bodyweight movements such as push-ups, pull-ups, air squats, etc), weightlifting (dumbbells, kettlebells, barbells, etc.) and cardio and roll it into a workout that changes every day.
All-Inclusive
EVERYTHING can be scaled and or modified for EVERY fitness level at any age with any, so-called, limitation. There is no-one that cannot do CrossFit, if they so choose. I've witnessed and/or coached adaptive athletes, elderly athletes, kid athletes, athletes with mental impairments; literally, anyone who has a desire to do Crossfit can do CrossFit.
The Benefits
And, the benefits are enormous! CrossFit has been shown to improve all markers of health and fitness as well as improvements in the 10 General Physical Qualities: strength, power, speed, agility, coordination, balance, accuracy, cardio-respiratory endurance, muscular stamina and flexibility. Source. But, from experience, I've watched athletes improve every area of their lives including their relationships, careers, finances, etc. Positive changes in one area cascade into every other area.
Measure The Risks
Any sport or fitness regiment can be dangerous, so always begin by getting clearance from your doctor. Moving your body in space always carries some amount of risk. But, NOT investing in your health and fitness is far riskier when you look at the prevalence of sickness and disease associated with declining fitness.
Just Move
I'm not preaching the “gospel of CrossFit”. I love ALL forms of fitness; if it motivates you to get moving and have fun--do it! My mission is to dispel some of the mystery surrounding CrossFit. What it is. Who does it. It's not crazy when done with proper coaching (I can't stress this enough--find experienced, educated coaches). Listen to your body and communicate with your coaches.
Community
I saved the best for last, because most people won't see this as a benefit until they actually walk through the door of a CrossFit box. However, the Steemit Community may actually “get it” before others would, because you're currently reaping the benefits of it right now--Community!
People come to CrossFit to get “in shape”, but they stay with CrossFit because of the Community. You'll have to trust me on this one, and just go check it out. Find a local box, research it and the coaches, try a month to see if you like the workouts and the vibe of the gym. Then, come back and tell me your experience!
Thanks,
Coach JJ
Hi Friends! Thanks For Reading!
Hi! My name is Coach JJ and I've been coaching and inspiring athletes to better health and fitness for over five years! I'm a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer at CrossFit Edwardsville in Edwardsville, IL, USA. But, my vision is to bring together the Fitness Community on Steemit in order to have a greater impact on improving the health and fitness of our fellow Steemians.
I'm also a mother of two teens and a self-defined “spicy, sassy Christ-follower” who posts about my personal journey, but loves all those on any journey. Feel free to check out my intro post, get inspired on your fitness journey, or ponder on my faith-based posts. If any of this connects with you, follow me and say Hello!
Happy Steeming,
Coach JJ
