Crazy for CrossFit

Written by Shoshana Pritzker Tuesday, 11 May 2010 21:21

By Lana Russo


CrossFit— perhaps you’ve heard rumblings about it at your gym…maybe you’ve read about it on the Internet. The zeal of this intense workout? If you’re short on time and heavy on intensity, then CrossFit could be your workout made in heaven. Be warned that this regimen is not for the faint of heart. CrossFit incorporates Olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, running, jumping, climbing, kettlebell training and any other type of challenging and functional exercise and was created by Greg Glassman, a former gymnast, in the 1970s. The key is high intensity and very little rest between movements. Those looking for a cushy workout done at their own pace, or those who enjoy working with trainers who allow them to stop and chat for about 10 minutes between sets needn’t bother with CrossFit.

Glassman launched CrossFit.com in 2001 and began publishing a monthly journal and holding seminars at his California gym. From that point, CrossFit’s disciples grew; think underground cult or secret society. Now, people from around the world have come to learn Mr. Glassman's techniques. CrossFit has more than 50 affiliates in 21 states and five countries.

At CrossFitNYC (New York City), classes are held at The Black Box twice a day. You can even take a free beginner class; don’t show up like “Rocky” thinking you’re going to showboat…because it’s not going to happen— especially if it’s your first time. The basic formula for a typical CrossFit workout is a warm-up, followed by 3 to 5 sets of 3 of 5 repetitions of a multi-joint exercise like squats, pull-ups, push-ups, dead lifts or bench presses. Next, a 10-minute circuit of gymnastic-type moves performed as quickly as possible. Next up, 2 to 10 minutes of high-intensity sprint training. Incorporated into the mix is jump training, obstacle courses and lifting and swinging various heavy objects like kettlebells (weighted balls with handles). You can check out hardcore clips of CrossFit on youtube.com. The whole thing takes about 20 minutes. If you’re looking for a workout that gets you in there and out of there fast, this could be it. You can also do the “workout of the day” (they refer to it as WOD) online. Using this basic structure, you are encouraged to build your own workout…members can post their tricks and feats of human strength for others to try.

According to CrossFit pundits, “Thousands of athletes worldwide have followed our workouts posted daily on this site and distinguished themselves in combat, the streets, the ring, stadiums, gyms and homes.” Although many laud the workout as nothing short of a miraculous, quick, instant jave-type workout…proceed with caution. Like anything else in life, if you dive right in cold, you’re gonna get hurt…or be rushed to the hospital!

At Crossfit.com, you can learn more about seminars, trainer certifications and training. CrossFit will regularly provide consultation services to athletic teams, coaches and police and military agencies throughout the free world. The goal of CrossFit? To develop not only a strong body, but a strong mind as well. Disclaimer: Not for the faint of heart!



Tips For Performing CrossFit



• Stay hydrated! Drink sufficient amounts of water before and during your workout.

• Stretch and warm up thoroughly before the workout.

• To find a CrossFit affiliate, check out the CrossFit website at www.crossfit.com.

• To see videos of exercises, check out the exercise videos posted on the CrossFit website.

• Spice up your workouts— variety will garner your results.



This article first appeared in Canvas Magazine/www.canvasli.com, January 2008.