CrossFit is defined as constantly varied, functional movements performed at high intensity. When paired with a healthy diet (for more tips, check out our Nutrition page), members of CrossFit gyms have seen incredible results— because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want to be fitter, stronger, and maybe even brag about it at family gatherings? But here’s the thing: CrossFit isn’t just some vague fitness routine like other forms of exercise. No, no, CrossFit has a clear, no-nonsense definition.
Some people go to the gym and lift weights, focusing on building muscle. Others might be all about cardio—running, walking (outside or on a treadmill), swimming, or even calisthenics (bodyweight exercises)—spending hours doing their thing. And then there are those folks who claim to be doing “HIIT” (High Intensity Interval Training), which basically means they work hard for 30 seconds and then collapse for 30 seconds. CrossFit, on the other hand, combines all of these methods—strength training, cardio, and interval training—into one kick-butt program. Let’s break it down so we’re all on the same page (without needing a dictionary, of course).
Constantly Varied
In CrossFit, the exercises are always changing. One day, you could be lifting weights; the next, you’re doing sprints and push-ups. Some people mistakenly think this is just random, but good CrossFit programming is actually varied on purpose. This variation ensures that you’re exposed to all kinds of exercise, so your body never gets too comfortable. Think about it: if I only ever lift weights, I’m going to be that person who’s great at pressing heavy things but not so good at running a mile. On the flip side, if I only run, I’m going to be that person who has the stamina to run a marathon but can’t pick up a dumbbell. CrossFit’s magic is in its balance!
Functional Movements
Functional movements are exercises that directly improve your quality of life, and yes, that includes being able to get up off the couch without feeling like a creaky old door. These movements help with all sorts of things—like hiking, playing sports, recovering from an injury, or keeping up with your grandkids (or great grandkids, if you’re really rocking that longevity). You can also credit functional movements for making your everyday life easier—like standing up from a chair without needing a crane or being able to pick something up off the floor without grunting like you’re lifting a car. These movements require more muscle than machines do and also improve balance, coordination, and brain health. (That’s right—fitness is good for the brain too! Not just the abs.)
High Intensity
Ah, this is where CrossFit sometimes gets a bad rap. Let’s clear it up: high intensity doesn’t mean going full beast mode every day. Intensity is relative—it depends on your fitness level, how stressed you are, and whether you’ve had your coffee that morning (let’s be real, it matters). A good CrossFit program balances hard work and recovery, mixing short bursts of intensity with moderate or longer workouts. The shorter the workout, the higher the intensity. Think about the difference between sprinting up a steep hill versus leisurely jogging around the block. Both are hard, but I can guarantee you that sprinting feels way more intense.
A great CrossFit program covers all the bases—heavy lifting, long slow cardio, and everything in between. And since the workouts change all the time, you’ll never get bored of doing the same routine over and over again (goodbye, treadmill monotony). You’ll get stronger, faster, and better at life—because let’s face it, life doesn’t always give us a “rest” day, does it?
The Power of Community
And here’s the cherry on top: CrossFit is more than just a workout—it’s a community. The group class atmosphere pushes you to work harder than if you were slogging through a solo workout in your basement. (Let’s be honest, no one is really having fun in their basement gym, right?) You get to suffer, sweat, and laugh with others who are all in the same sweaty boat. Whether you’re doing box jumps or burpees, the camaraderie in a CrossFit class will make those workouts feel like a team effort. Plus, there’s always someone cheering you on when you think you’re about to collapse.
All these factors are why you should seriously consider giving CrossFit a try. Not only will you get fitter, but you’ll also get to share the journey with some pretty awesome people. To find out more about CrossFit and how it can help you achieve your goals, arrange a Free Consultation now.
Michael Herman
CrossFit Summa, owner www.crossfitsumma.com.
