If you haven't heard of CrossFit it is the world's hottest training system. CROSSFIT mixes Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, calisthenics, gymnastics, sprints, plyometrics, and exercises like rope climbing, tire flipping and sled pushing. The workouts are short, intense, and constantly changing.
CrossFit Affiliates are popping up at the rate of Starbucks now. Do a Google search for CrossFit in your city and I'll guarantee at least 3 pop up- more if you live in a major city.
The set up is simple- each 'box' as they call their gyms, is mostly open space, with a rubber floor, high ceiling, and equipment—barbells and plates, kettlebells, medicine balls, jump ropes, rowing machines and gymnastic rings. They do not look anything like a traditional gym. No mirrors, no machines to isolate muscles, no stationary bikes, no display cases full of expensive powders and bars.
The highlight of each class is the workout of the day, or WOD. (A lot of these have been given women's names—anybody up for a Cindy? How about a Fran?)
I do not CrossFit. Never have, never will. I don't own a Box nor do I aspire to. My training business will never become an affiliate. With all that being said, I do not hate CrossFit. They preach functional fitness as do I. They believe workouts should be short and intense so do I. They have found away to get women not only lifting weights but heavy weight.
They have created a following unmatched by any other training system. I respect what they have built. With any global phenomenon there will be detractors and skeptics- CrossFit has their fair share.
My belief is that EXERCISE WORKS. CrossFit, bootcamps, bodybuilding, spinning, yoga, P90X, sports, it all works.
In this month's Men's Health magazine they have a great story on CrossFit called 'INSIDE THE CULT OF CROSSFIT' It's a long one so I will highlight some of the points I think are important but if you have ever thought of trying CrossFit you should read the whole thing.
