CrossFit defines its community based fitness program on a regimen of various functional movements performed at high intensity. CrossFit Workouts of the Day (WOD) use various cardiovascular exercises, power lifting, Olympic lifting, and elements of gymnastics. The overall goals are to improve agility, accuracy, balance, cardiovascular and respiratory endurance, coordination, flexibility, stamina, strength, speed and power. These various functional movements help form a well-balanced athlete for preparation in any fitness or athletic task. A variety of joints and muscle groups are used to simulate the movements you need throughout life’s tasks. CrossFitters train in group settings, helping to create a community of goal-oriented and motivated individuals. It is often said that in CrossFit the loudest cheer is for the person finishing last.
The most common question asked about CrossFit is, “Is CrossFit Safe?”
Every sport has an inherent risk of injury. Professional and Olympic athletes get injured on a daily basis. Does that mean we should sit on the couch and do nothing? Absolutely not! The benefits of fitness far outweigh the risk of injury. That being said, education is the best preventative tool one can use to avoid injury. Know your body, know your limitations, get help from knowledgeable coaches, and practice safe body mechanics!
- Before choosing a CrossFit gym, research the education and experience of the coaches. Take a trial class to meet the staff and ask any questions you may have prior to committing to a membership, and try a couple of local CrossFit gyms to see how they compare.
- Make sure the gym you choose has a beginners class for you to learn the basics
- Know your limitations! Be up front about the history of your injuries, and listen to your body! A good coach can scale or substitute any movement so you won’t miss out.
- Leave your ego at the door. Do not try to be “macho” by adding weight before you have mastered the mechanics. An injury will set you back further. Do not prioritize personal records over proper form.
- Remember: if something hurts, there is a reason why. No pain no gain does not apply to injury.
- Rest days are necessary for everyone! Microtrauma occurs in muscles during strength training. Rest is needed for the muscle to rebuild and strength to improve
CrossFit offers a community, that challenges and builds physical and mental strength, resulting in great accomplishments. As healthcare professionals who actively train and coach in the sport of CrossFit, we recognize the benefits of CrossFit and have confidence that it can be done safely. Just as we would recommend researching the credentials of any healthcare professional or hospital you choose to see, it is up to you to research CrossFit fitness facilities, gyms and coaches. Always make sure you are medically approved for physical activity before starting a new fitness regimen.
