Describing CrossFit can be a difficult thing. Many people describe CrossFit as a combination of Olympic weight lifting, gymnastics and cardio. Others claim it is doing a whole lot of stuff hard and fast. Both are correct and yet sadly lacking. CrossFit is an empirically tested (backed by research) system of exercise that has been proven to get people fit, fast. It includes elements of Olympic weight lifting, gymnastics, plyometrics, running, jumping and loads of other stuff. It is “constantly varied functional movement performed at high intensity”. That means that it is always different, that the movements are natural or normal actions, and that they are done hard and fast.
Why does CrossFit work? Is it because of the neuro endocrinological changes that it produces; is it because it develops strength and speed; or is it because it creates a community that keeps people coming back for more? Like a lot of things in life it is different for everyone. Some people want to look fantastic, some want to feel great and some just want to hang out with other people who like doing the same stuff as them. Either way, if you keep showing up you will keep getting better.
Is CrossFit fun? Ask someone after their first time and they will probably tell you that it is not! Ask them a couple of weeks later and they will tell you that it is the most fun you can have standing up. Some of the elements that make CrossFit so fun are competition and community. You can compete with yourself, with a friend or with other crossfitters who you meet along the way. This friendly competition helps create a vibrant community that is focused on helping everyone meet their goals.
Ever walked into a gym and avoided looking at the big guy in the corner who grunts away by himself, or walked past another gym member without saying hello? That sort of thing doesn’t happen in a CrossFit gym. At CrossFit Paradise (and at most other CrossFit gyms) you will be expected to smile at and say hello to whoever walks in the door. You will also be expected to start cheering for all your friends as soon as you finish your WOD (workout of the day). CrossFit is an individual team sport that fosters healthy competition in a supportive friendly and safe team environment.
Still not sure what CrossFit is about? Come on in and see what it is to you!
