Updated October 14, 2023
CrossFit training is known for its focus on preparing individuals for the “unknown and unknowable”. This unique approach not only simulates real-life situations but also keeps participants highly engaged and motivated. While the daily workouts (WODs) vary, there are five consistent elements you can expect when joining any CrossFit gym:
1. Inclusive – People of all shapes and sizes
Don’t let stereotypes mislead you – CrossFit is for people of all shapes and sizes. While you may associate CrossFit with elite athletes, your local gym, also known as a “box,” is made up of regular individuals of all ages who strive to improve their physical fitness. This diverse community will inspire you to dig deeper and push yourself to become stronger, faster, and better. Every CrossFit box provides beginner or “on-ramp” training, ensuring that newcomers can learn the movements and techniques at their own pace.
2. The Whiteboard (Competition and Collaboration)
Upon entering any CrossFit gym, you’ll notice a large board displaying the warm-up, the Workout of the Day (WOD), and the times or scores achieved by each class. While it may seem intimidating at first, this system fosters both competition and collaboration. Seeing how others performed in a particular workout can motivate you to push past your limits. Remember, the primary competition is against yourself and understanding your body’s capabilities. Focus on maintaining proper form and remember that the ultimate goal of exercise is to improve your health and strength.
3. Bodyweight Movements
Functional movements are a core component of every CrossFit workout. Regardless of the specific WOD, you can expect bodyweight movements such as push-ups, pull-ups, air squats, and burpees. These exercises, often underestimated, effectively build functional strength, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of injury by enabling you to push and pull your own bodyweight in various directions.
4. Barbells and Olympic Lifts
At a CrossFit box, you won’t find people doing bicep curls in front of a mirror. The foundation of CrossFit revolves around major lifts that are essential for any strength athlete: squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and overhead presses. In addition to these lifts, CrossFit incorporates two Olympic lifts – the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk. By performing these exercises, you engage every muscle group in your body, developing strength, power, and endurance.
5. Intense Workouts
Prepare to work hard during CrossFit workouts. By the end of a WOD, your muscles will burn, and your t-shirt will be drenched in sweat. CrossFit’s formula of functional movements performed with high intensity pushes your body and mind to their limits. Embrace the discomfort and use it as motivation for progress. Remember to take care of your body before and after training by eating well and staying hydrated with plenty of water.
Bonus: Community
Your CrossFit journey will depend on your hard work and dedication, but the motivation and support from fellow CrossFitters will also play a crucial role. Joining a CrossFit gym means becoming part of a team of like-minded individuals striving to improve themselves, and they genuinely want to see you succeed too. Having a community behind you is an excellent way to stay committed and focused on your fitness goals. By consistently pushing beyond your perceived limits, you will increase your body’s performance capacity and expand what you thought was possible. These improvements will quickly translate into all aspects of your daily life.
