CrossFit is a high-intensity strength and conditioning program and like any workout program, the more you put in, the better the results. But CrossFit is a different beast altogether. If you’re on the fence about whether to sign up for a CrossFit class, check out what this high-intensity and fast-paced program have to offer and why it has become one of the most popular programs since its introduction in the early 2000s.
Small Investment Time
Don’t have 60 minutes a day to get your sweat on? No Problem. CrossFit workouts are meant to push your strength and cardio levels to their limits. In a span of 15-20 minutes, you will be tasked with completing as many rounds of a specific circuit that you can. Because of the intensity and time constraints, you will have burned more calories than at a regular workout.
Calorie Torcher
CrossFit burns calories in such a short time period. Even though typical workouts last an average of 15-20 minutes, your metabolic rate (the rate your body burns calories) remains elevated long after you’ve finished the WOD. This means that you’ll keep burning fat even when you’re resting.
Improved Cardiovascular Fitness
Interval training works muscles incredibly hard for a short period time. Because of this, muscles require more oxygen. The fast-paced nature of CrossFit forces your heart and lungs to supply oxygen more efficiently. This helps maximize your body’s VO2 Max (oxygen intake level) and improves your overall endurance.
Muscle Gain – Weight Loss
CrossFit workouts are designed to leave you gasping for air. This leads to the release of lactic acid and a boost to your metabolic rate (BMR). Depending on the intensity of your workout, your body can be in calorie burning mode for up to 14 hours after your WOD. Your training will tone every muscle group. As you burn fat, your body will become more toned.
Variation
The foundational movements (Squats, Lifts, and Presses), have three progressions, each more difficult than the one before. The WODs focus on strength, cardio, flexibility, and most importantly “functional fitness”. Because you will not be doing the same workout every day, your body will not be given the chance to become bored.
Support System
The camaraderie in CrossFit is a massive part of what makes the experience so unique. From the moment you walk in, you are completely engrossed in the box’s (CrossFit Gym) community. The like-minded people in the box will make you feel like you’re part of a sports team, rather than just someone going to the gym.
*BONUS* Real World Functionality
You squat, press, sprint, and lift every day, but how often do you see someone bicep curl in your day to day life? CrossFit movements translate into real world functionality. That’s why many CrossFit athletes find activities like lifting boxes, carrying groceries, and sprinting short distances (like running after a bus) easier after a couple of months.
