Most people think CrossFit is all about lifting big, moving fast & getting “as many reps as possible” but it may have been the sport and competition of CrossFit training that led people to believe this.
CrossFit training in its traditional form is: training constantly varied FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT at high intensity. It’s also constantly varied: from weightlifting, bodyweight gymnastics to your classic cardio: run, bike, row, swim, and playing new sports and trying new activities
Functional movement: movements similar to what you do in real life. Picking up objects, putting them down, getting up from a sitting or lying position, pushing, pulling, climbing, squatting, carrying, lunging. So you can do it without holding your breath in pain or hoping that you won’t get hurt.
High intensity: can be for a time duration, speed, weight load, or skill level. Intensity is relative to each individual. Not everyone is an athlete, so not everyone should be performing at such intensities. At the same time, you need not be complacent or stagnant in your abilities, so one can increase intensity as proficiency with movement patterns improve.
Too many times us coaches have seen people disregard CrossFit training because “it’s too hard” or “I’ll get hurt” without understanding these concepts.
If you’re considering a CrossFit gym or training program, BE INFORMED about your coaches and their instructional delivery, programming, as well as your current fitness level/limitations, and know that those can also change over time as you undergo the training program at your local “box.”
CrossFit training can be anyone, but it’s not always for everyone.
If you don’t want to move well for life, maintain a lean and healthy body composition, all while challenging yourself to new skills, sports and the 10 elements of fitness: then it’s probably not for you.
For us at CrossFit Des Plaines: we want the best for individuals who are looking to live their best life. From their workouts in the gym, to feeling good in their skin, we provide the structure, exercise program, knowledgeable guidance in fitness and nutrition to lead you to being your best you day in and day out.
