How many days a week should I exercise?
One of the most common questions we get from our newer members is how many days a week should I exercise? The answer is not straight-forward, as it can vary for each individual based on: the type/intensity of exercise, their current fitness level, nutritional regimen, and ability to rest and recover from performed exercise. Also, […]
The Confusion on Caffeine: Benefits & Side Effects
One of America’s most widely used drugs? Caffeine. Yes, there is a drug in that cup of joe of yours. Drug, noun: “a medicine or other substance which has a physiological effect when ingested or otherwise introduced into the body.” So let’s clear up some confusion; just because caffeine is a drug/substance, there are both […]
Staying on Track Through the Holidays
With Halloween approaching next week, the domino-effect mindset of holiday season challenges us to stay on track with our fitness and nutrition as we dive into the darker, colder months of the year. For many people who already follow a regularly fit lifestyle–exercise regularly several times a week, eat minimally-processed, whole foods, hydrate and sleep […]
It’s OPEN SEASON #CrossFit
“CrossFit is SO MUCH FUN!…” says hardly anyone ever… until the CrossFit Open begins! It’s that time of year where we as a community come together as a whole community, and even in teams within our community (read on) to have a few good ol’ fashion throwdowns and a room full of team spirit. You […]
Should I fast? Benefits and Setbacks of Fasting
Fasting, particularly, intermittent fasting has become a very common fad for those who are looking for the next method or regimen to try for their health and fitness goals. The idea of it seems simple enough: restricting the time window in which one consumes calories so that they may potentially restrict the amount of total […]
Beyond the Calories and Macros: Bioactive Foods
In the modern American diet, we are often very fixated on numbers and quantities: calories, protein, carbohydrates, fats. Low-carb, high-protein, high-fat, low-fat. Gluten free, dairy free, zero calorie, zero sugar. Or better yet: “everything in moderation” which is often the phrase that puts a band-aid solution on some of our regularly poor to mediocre food […]
The Athlete Lifecycle at CrossFit Des Plaines
Everyone comes from their own background and experience, when it comes to their fitness. Once you’re here with us, we try to take your fitness to new, challenging and exciting levels. While at first, you might be new, at CrossFit Des Plaines, you soon become an athlete. Here’s a peek into the journey as an […]
When can my child start CrossFit?
Many parents might wonder “When can my child start CrossFit?” CrossFit training is designed to be able to incorporate functional fitness and improve health for kids as young as Pre-K. Throughout the developmental stages of a child’s life, classes for different age groups will look differently! At the Pre-K level, classes will most likely be […]
I’m Just Not Getting It!
It might be the third or fourth time you’re just not quite getting that skill you’re working on for the past few weeks, and you’re starting to get a little discouraged. Why does it seem like I should have this [skill, lift, time] by now? Don’t worry, you’re not alone; a lot of CrossFit is […]
Should I Start with the Fundamentals?
If you’re new to CrossFit, starting with a Foundations program can be highly beneficial before beginning your regular CrossFit classes or personal training sessions. At CrossFit Des Plaines, our Foundations program includes 3, 1-on-1 sessions with a certified CrossFit coach in order to address the fundamental movement patterns of CrossFit–squatting, deadlift variations and pressing–as well […]
