There is a lot that can be said about CrossFit. Is it the new fitness craze? Possibly. Is it a challenging, no-bullshit approach to workouts? Yes. Will it make you stronger and more fit if you commit to CrossFit? Definitely. But is all that weight lifting and pushing around of massive tires women-friendly? Is CrossFit for women? Absolutely. CrossFit is for everyone and here are the reasons why.
What Is CrossFit?
Technically speaking CrossFit is a branded fitness regimen created by Greg Glassman. Some people would say that CrossFit is a fitness program, but those who do it will tell you that CrossFit is a lifestyle. The workouts are made up of functional movements that are either scored or timed. It’s all about safe exercises and doing your best. But CrossFit is not just about exercise, it’s also about sound nutrition and community. And once you enter this community you’ll understand that anyone can do CrossFit, no matter their age or level of fitness.
CrossFit For Beginners
If you’ve ever seen people doing CrossFit you might get the impression that it’s for athletes or at least very strong people. It looks quite intense. It might even look like it’s not something a beginner or someone who’s not very fit would be able to do.
How To Start CrossFit ?
All you need to start doing CrossFit is to find a local CrossFit gym and a good pair of training shoes. There’s no need to buy any equipment since everything is provided at the gym. Just wear comfortable workout clothes and have an open mind. You will meet people, you will make friends, you will get stronger and you will sweat a lot.
CrossFit Exercises
CrossFit exercises at the gym are different every day and they’re always adapted to the fitness level of the person who’s doing them. CrossFit borrows moves from a few different sports like gymnastics, rowing, weightlifting, powerlifting and others. All the exercises are functional, meaning they are movements that you would be likely to use in real-life situations. They’re also designed to hit most muscle groups, so it’s a full-body experience.
CrossFit Equipment
You don’t actually need to buy any equipment to start doing CrossFit. You just go to a CrossFit gym, also known as a box, and everything you need will already be there. Usually, there’s weights, kettlebells, pullup bars, tires, medicine balls and other things that you will use for a CrossFit workout.
CrossFit Workouts At Home
If you go to the official CrossFit website you’ll see that there’s a section called “at home CrossFit”. There you will be able to find recipes and workout videos that you can do at home. The best thing about it is that you don’t need to buy anything to start. You can just follow the movements and if you need anything for an exercise there’s always something you can use that you already have at home – like water bottles for weight or a chair instead of a bench.
How Many Calories Does CrossFit Burn?
CrossFit sessions usually only last about 20 minutes and since they’re high intensity generally you will burn between 200 and 300 calories in that time. It all depends on your height, weight, and general body composition. It might not sound like much but considering its just 20 minutes – it’s actually a lot.
Why Do People Hate CrossFit?
Most people who hate on CrossFit have never tried CrossFit in their life. The most common complaints are that it’s too difficult and challenging, which is not entirely true. Yes, you will be challenged, that’s how you improve, but nobody will tell you to lift 300 pounds if you’re a beginner. All exercises are tailored to your fitness level. Another reason people hate on CrossFit is that they think it’s a cult because there is an element of community in it, but that type of hate stems from insecurity. And finally, some people hate it because they think it’s elitist but really anyone can join, literally anyone.