CrossFit Overview
The term CrossFit is used by many as an all encompassing term for a growing type of fitness regime that has been gaining traction for the past few years but CrossFit is actually a fitness company that licenses its name to affiliated gyms and certifies trainers that instruct classes and individuals in CrossFit workouts. In 2000 CrossFit, Inc. was founded by Greg Glassman as a fitness program that uses non-traditional implements like kettle bells and sand bags in its program. Where many workout routines have you focus on muscle building or fat loss, the CrossFit regiment combines plyometrics, speed training, and strength training often through these non-traditional means in order to promote overall fitness.
The CrossFit regiment consists of 3-5 days of extremely intense workouts which usually consists of explosive exercises performed one after another with very little rest between each exercise. There are hundreds of different exercises done in the CrossFit regiment. Air Squats, Front Squats, Shoulder Press, Push Press, and Deadlift are just a few of the most basic moves but the sheer variety of move is what can make CrossFit so appealing. Each day CrossFit posts a workout of the day or the WOD which can be performed individually or at a CrossFit affiliate gym. Each WOD is different and can be extremely intense. For many of those involved in CrossFit it has become a passion and a way of life. The CrossFit online community is fueled by an active, supportive and close knit community. This helps keep members participating and motivated.
Even with all of these great things, there are still some down sides to CrossFit. Although there are many different workouts and they can be put together at random, this can also be a negative thing if you repeatedly work the same muscles groups or body parts as they can become strained from overuse. While the flexibility is a plus to many participants, there are others that claim CrossFit participants are prone to injury as many of the moves are high intensity, and there is not any set schedule for workouts that ensures the needed rest. Although it is great to push yourself to the maximum, constantly competing with others can lead to injury as you push yourself too hard.
As with any workout program, there are positives and negatives but one of the most important things to remember about CrossFit is that it is not for beginners. Before starting CrossFit you should already be in good physical condition as many of the exercises are not meant for those with pre-existing health conditions. While CrossFit, Inc. would suggest that anyone at any level can benefit from CrrossFit training, many of the programs are not intended for people that are inexperienced exercisers or have been inactive for a long period of time.
CrossFit suggests an eating plan of 30% fat, 30% protein, and 40% carbohydrates but there is much more to it. Carbohydrates should low-glycemic with little starch and no sugar – put down the bread, rice, and soda. Focus on vegetables, lean meats, nuts, and seeds. In fact, the CrossFit recommendations for eating are very complimentary to the “Caveman” or “Paleo” diets which say we should follow the assumed eating habits of our ancient hunter-gatherer ancestors. These people from the Stone Age survived on wild-caught protein sources, like animals and fish, along with naturally gathered fruits, vegetables and tree nuts. When you think about what to eat for your CrossFit diet, just ask yourself what would a caveman eat. It should be noted that ADA does not recommend these dietary guidelines for those who are active people.
Want to do CrossFit? Check with a doctor. Get a trainer and start very slowly.