In last week’s blog post, I mentioned the methodology of CrossFit is what brings us to and keeps us doing CrossFit. Today, I want to talk about the methodology itself. In the realm of fitness, where trends come and go, CrossFit stands out. It’s not merely a workout routine; it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a philosophy rolled into one package. Let’s delve into the essence of CrossFit, briefly exploring its methodology and principles and why they matter.
What is CrossFit?
According to CrossFit’s website, “CrossFit is a fitness program that produces measurable outcomes through lifestyle changes, centered on training and nutrition. Workouts consist of constantly varied, high-intensity, functional movements, and are most fun and effective among friends at a local CrossFit gym.” Founded by Greg Glassman and Lauren Jenai in the early 2000s, CrossFit quickly gained traction in the fitness world. There are five parts of the methodology that I will briefly describe today. In the coming weeks, I will explore each of these in more depth.
The Methodology
Constant Variation: CrossFit workouts are constantly varied, ensuring that participants never fall into a monotonous rut. This approach not only keeps things exciting but also prevents plateaus by continually challenging the body in new ways. Personally, I love this! It keeps my workouts interesting. I never get bored doing the same thing day in and day out like I did in previous methods.
Functional Movements: Unlike traditional gym workouts that isolate muscles, CrossFit focuses on functional movements—actions that mimic real-life activities. Squatting, lifting, pushing, and pulling are staples, as they translate directly to everyday tasks, enhancing overall practical fitness. These are movements that are essential to maintaining balance and coordination and to being able to maintain an independent lifestyle as we age
High Intensity: Intensity is an important aspect of the CrossFit methodology. Many workouts are short but intense, pushing athletes to their limits and maximizing results in minimal time. This approach triggers metabolic conditioning, burning calories during the workout and long after it’s finished through the phenomenon known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). Who wouldn’t want to spend less time working out while burning calories long after you are finished?
Scalability: One of CrossFit’s greatest strengths is its scalability. Workouts can be tailored to suit individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes. Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or a complete novice, CrossFit adapts to meet you where you are on your fitness journey. I have been doing CrossFit for many years, yet I still frequently scale movements. This is totally acceptable, since I am STILL seeing progress now.
Community Spirit: While it is possible to do CrossFit in your own home, one of the aspects that attracts so many is the communal experience. Boxes (CrossFit gyms) foster a supportive environment where members encourage and motivate each other. This camaraderie creates a sense of belonging and accountability, helping individuals stay consistent and, potentially, do more than they thought they could. I still vividly remember another member mentioning that he knew I could increase weight on my dumbbell snatches. I tested it out, and it worked! I would not have done that without the little nudge from him.
Like any fitness regimen, CrossFit isn’t immune to criticism. Detractors raise concerns about the risk of injury due to the demanding nature of the workouts. Some also question the emphasis on intensity over proper form, arguing that it may compromise safety. Additionally, the competitive atmosphere of CrossFit competitions has drawn scrutiny, with some questioning the emphasis on pushing boundaries at any cost. However, at most boxes, including CrossFit Dwell, there is a focus on form over intensity at every level. We want our athletes to be able to exercise for their entire lives, so we encourage smart scaling while we also keep an eye on form.
Despite the controversies, CrossFit has left a permanent mark on the fitness industry. Its influence extends far beyond the walls of its affiliated gyms, as it has permeated into mainstream culture and reshaped perceptions of what it means to be fit. Whether you’re a CrossFit devotee or a curious bystander, there’s no denying the power of its methodology to transform bodies and lives.
In conclusion, CrossFit isn’t just about building muscle or shedding pounds; it’s about cultivating a mindset of resilience, perseverance, and determination. It’s about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and becoming the best version of yourself, both inside and outside the gym. So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of physical and mental transformation, perhaps it’s time to give CrossFit a try. After all, as the saying goes, “The only workout you’ll regret is the one you didn’t do.”
We are here to help you get started. If you have never stepped foot into a CrossFit Box or if you have previous experience, we invite you to CrossFit Dwell. It is our mission to provide our members with a fun, safe, and motivating environment to achieve better health and wellness in a well rounded manner. We are committed to fitness that meets our member’s goals. We offer professional coaching in a compassionate and encouraging community where every person who walks in our doors knows they belong.
See you at the gym!