4 Benefits of CrossFit

What is CrossFit?
CrossFit has gathered some buzz from physiotherapy centres and exercise professionals alike. Launched in 1995 by an American gymnast, CrossFit is an all-around type of workout that includes cardio, strength and flexibility training all at once.

Crossfit
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CrossFit has become popular because it proposes a variety of exercises that don’t require expensive equipment: medicine balls, kettlebells and jumping ropes are all you need for a great CrossFit workout. CrossFit also relies much on bodyweight exercises, making it one of the most accessible type of workout.

Still not convinced to try CrossFit? Here are some benefits you can derive from the intense workouts.

1. It increases ten physical skills
Ten? That’s a lot! CrossFit trainers believe that a healthy individual should be strong in these ten skills:
  • Cardiovascular endurance
  • Stamina
  • Strength
  • Flexibility
  • Power
  • Speed
  • Agility
  • Balance
  • Coordination
  • Accuracy
A good CrossFit workout will work at least four or five of these skills at a time. The goal of a CrossFit workout is to do all the exercises of the day as quickly as you can.

2. It’s customizable
Can’t jump 20 inches? Make it 10. Can’t lift a 40-pound box? Get a smaller one. With CrossFit, everyone works at their current level and there’s nothing wrong with doing less reps or lifting lighter. As long as you give it your all, you will get all the benefits.
You can use CrossFit to fit your lifestyle. People do it in gyms (which can be expensive), in their garages or in parking lots. People do it at home alone or in groups. Since there’s no need for expensive machines, it’s easy to start a workout group or to do it in your basement.


3. It gives you life skills
More than increasing your level of fitness, CrossFit also gives you the endurance and strength to go through challenges in everyday life.

After a few weeks of CrossFit, you’ll be able to lift bigger grocery bags or play physical games with your kids. In case of an accident, you’ll be better able to withstand the pain and challenges of rehabilitation. You’ll feel strong enough to break through a door or lift a heavy beam off someone.

CrossFit teaches you proper lifting techniques, how to move large weights over short distances and other skills that might be handy. Several fire departments, law enforcement agencies, military and para-military organizations have already adopted CrossFit as their official training program.

4. It’s a community
CrossFit is one of the first fitness communities to have developed mainly over the Internet. The official CrossFit website publishes a daily workout (or WOD) for all CrossFit enthusiasts. There are forums and blogs and people can get support and tips from CrossFit trainers and aficionados alike.
Of course, you should always consult a physiotherapist or a medical professional before engaging in a new fitness program, especially if you’ve suffered from injuries in the past. Always work to your level and stop if you feel any undue pain. Fitness isn’t a competition: it’s a way of life.

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