CrossFit: The workout taking over gyms

CrossFit is a variety of functional movements constantly performed at a high level of intensity. CrossFit is a training philosophy that coaches’ people of all shapes and sizes to improve their physical well-being and cardiovascular fitness in a hardcore yet accepting and encouraging environment. All CrossFit workouts are based on functional movements reflecting the best aspects of gymnastics, weightlifting and cardio. The core movements of everyday life. Intensity is key for results. Intensity is measurable as work divided by time or power. The more work you do in less time, or the higher the power output, the more intense the effort. CrossFit employs a constant varied approach to training, functional movements and intensity which can lead to dramatics gains in health and fitness. What is CrossFit made up of? Gymnastics Using nothing but your own body weight to perform movements such as pull ups, muscle ups, air squats, handstands, push ups, burpees and box jumps. Weightlifting CrossFit uses Olympic Weightlifting. This includes lifts such as dead lifts, snatch, power clean and clean and jerk. These lifts are used as nothing else in fitness produces such a high output of power. Cardiovascular Exercise CrossFit does not contain lengthy cardio exercises but does use rowing, running and air bikes for interval training to increase levels of cardio fitness.

 CrossFit Jargon Walking into a CrossFit Box for the first time can be daunting for someone looking to get into CrossFit but as well as exercise there is a whole language which you may need to learn. Most terms in CrossFit are acronyms although to start with they may seem like nonsense. So, we’ve decided to put together a list of the most used terms and what they mean. Looking after your hands CrossFit fanatics will be able to proudly display blistered, calloused and torn palms and even if you think you can push through the pain, it does not mean you should. We have compromised a guide on how to look after your hands as you get into CrossFit.