10 Things You Didn’t Know About CrossFit

(and why everyone you know is talking about it)

 

1. CrossFit is universally scalable, and therefore for every fitness level! It’s perfect for everyone; from fitness newbies, to the elderly. Although everyone is doing the same workout, exercises can be scaled to make them harder, or easier using different weights and alternative movements.

2. CrossFit classes are always fully instructed group workouts. The gym’s trainers carefully design programming for all the members. All you need to do is show up for a class, and you will be led through the workout from start to finish. (Many gyms also offer open gym times when you can come in by yourself and work on skills learned in class)

3. CrossFit preaches the notion of constantly varied workouts. From day-to-day, week-to-week, –your workouts are always changing everyday, ensuring the best results for your body by not giving it the opportunity to adapt to routine. You’ll hardly ever do the same workout twice, and most importantly learn to walk into the gym with a body trained to expect the unexpected.

4. Gyms in over 100 countries come together every spring during the CrossFit Open. Everyone competes, performing the same workouts in their individual gyms to see how they stand against their own goals, and against competitors from around the world.

5. CrossFit was originally influenced by military style training, and has very close ties to the military, even today. Military affiliates are situated all around the world, and majority of gyms offer membership discounts for all those who serve, and first responders. Workouts are often named after fallen soldiers as a form of respect.

6. Currently given the title of “The Fittest Women in the World,” CrossFit Games winner Camille Leblanc-Bazinet is a Canadian who lives, and trains in Montreal, not too far from us.

7. CrossFit is known for community. Often jokingly called a cult, CrossFit presents an amazing atmosphere where going to the gym is fun, and a great way to meet new people. You’ll find yourself hanging out at the gym long after your workout is done just to cheer people on.

8. CrossFit is actually very safe when taught properly, and under the supervision of coaches.

9. CrossFit teaches you how to move properly. Whether completing a complex Olympic lift or simply doing squats, CrossFit teaches you proper movement patterns and form that will carry over to your everyday life.
10. CrossFit isn’t easy. It takes both patience, and dedication in order to master movement. However, if you are willing to put in the time, the coaches will always be there to guide you along the way, and you will be reaching milestones in no time.

CrossFit is known for community. If you want to check out CrossFit to see if it’s for you, stop by CrossFit Queen Street for a free trial class. It’s only a seven-minute walk from Queen’s Campus and both owned and coached by certified, and knowledgeable Queen’s students. Hope to see you there!

 

Yours Creatively,

Allison McCann, Online Contributor and CF-L1 Trainer

Photographs: CrossFit Queen Street