A Beginner’s Guide to Crossfit
October 28, 2019
Written By Lindsey Johnson, Marketing Employee
Starting a new exercise can seem intimidating. Not only does switching up your fitness routine keep it exciting—it is also often rewarding. CrossFit is one of those intimidating, exciting, and rewarding exercises.
So, what is CrossFit?
CrossFit training consists of varied and high-intensity functional movements. According to the CrossFit site the program is “designed for universal scalability, making it the perfect application for any committed individual regardless of experience.” CrossFit is a training philosophy that coaches people of all shapes and sizes to improve their physical well-being and cardiovascular fitness in a hardcore, yet accepting environment.
Official Definition of CrossFit
Found on their website, “CrossFit is a lifestyle characterized by safe, effective exercise and sound nutrition. CrossFit can be used to accomplish any goal, from improved health to weight loss to better performance. The program works for everyone—people who are just starting out and people who have trained for years.”
What to Expect
You’ll work hard
You won’t be doing the most advanced moves in your first few classes, but hard work is what gets the best results. So, don’t expect it to be too easy. It’s like the first week at a new job—everything is tiring because everything is new, and you don’t even know where to start. You’ll be tired and sore, and those are important reminders that you put your body through something new and will need some time to recover.
CrossFit gyms are called boxes
The training spaces are not your typical amenity-filled gyms. There are no fancy bathrooms or showers, TVs, or treadmills— there’s just a lot of equipment. Think large tires, handing ropes, weights, pull up bars, gymnastic rings, etc.
Wear comfy clothes
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important you can move in what you’re wearing. Also, a flatter sneaker or training shoe is best, and your feet will thank you for it later.
Anyone can do it
It may not be for everyone, but anyone can do it. If you’re not sure if it’s for you, there are CrossFit classes just about every day at LaHaye that are built for all levels. You can look for a time that best suits your schedule and sign up here. You can also learn more from David Antonio, our CrossFit instructor, here. Good luck!