Crossfit Uncovered

 

            As most people know, Crossfit is a relatively new type of exercising that is beginning to revolutionize the workout world. But what most people don’t know are the actual long term effects of this new way of exercising.

 

            Crossfit is based on an exercise program that encompasses ten components of fitness designed to create the most elite of athletes: Here

 

1. Cardiovascular/respiratory endurance
2. Stamina
3. Strength
4. Flexibility
5. Power
6. Speed
7. Coordination
8. Agility
9. Balance
10. Accuracy

 

By combining these ten components, one could assume that they have created the ultimate athlete. This – contrary to common belief – is true. Although I am not a “Crossfitter” myself, I do have the utmost respect for the Crossfit community. These athletes do different workouts daily (Otherwise known as a WOD) where they target each individual component of fitness through a series of classes leading up to the now televised Crossfit Games. This sport combines the best of every form of exercise imaginable: from high intensity cardio training to long distance running, Power lifts to functional bodyweight movements, and of course all done against the clock to set a new personal record. When all of the exercises are done correctly, one can truly transform into the peak of their physical fitness.

 Shown Above is Rich Froning Jr. - The Worlds Fittest Man

Photo Credit: Mairead Walsh - Sweat Rx Magazine Here

      Where Crossfit gets a bad rap from is the amount of social media and its forever vice grip on the outlook of the oncoming youth. People are constantly posting videos of people doing stupid stuff while they just so happen to be inside of a Crossfit affiliated gym or “Box.” These are not the actual workouts being performed, nor will they ever be. Just like most people, they need to blow off steam, so instead of doing a prolonged and angry workout, they choose to have a good laugh and get caught up in sticky situations. Another Misconception is when people say “nobody knows the long term effects, and there are already people going through physical therapy because of it.” Although Crossfit athletes are going through any sort of therapy or corrective surgeries, it is either coincidence of a previous or reoccurring problem or the athlete’s inability to perform the exercises correctly. This would be why I would advise doing some research on your local Box. Proper Certification Here. When searching for an appropriate place to work out and spend money, look for the quality of the instructors – Are they Crossfit Level 1 Certified at the least. This means they have the necessary knowledge to use the proper methods of exercise in a Crossfit class and be able to provide the attendees of the class the education to train themselves and others in proper technique and movement. Meaning: don’t just find somebody who enjoys Crossfit enough to teach a class without the proper training or else you will find yourself in therapy or worse in the hospital.

Correct movement explained: Here

 Out of my own personal opinion, I would recommend Crossfit to a specific age group ranging from 17 – 55 years of age. But it is not a strict group; there are plenty of older and younger athletes (More about Crossfit Kids) that fit this lifestyle perfectly. It is a sport that everyone can participate in no matter what because it is all against you and what your body sets for limitations. Through Crossfit I truly believe everyone break those limitations.