CROSSFIT – What’s the Hype All About? By Lisa Ritchie

We all want a quick, effective workout. CrossFit is a high -intensity workout combining gymnastics, body control, a variety of weightlifting and cardio that can burn up to 500 calories in 20 minutes.

It’s not exactly for beginners though, and it can have you running, squatting, powerlifting, doing martial arts, and jumping rope in any given workout. CrossFit's ideal for athletes who want a competitive edge.

First developed in a garage gym, it made its’ way to the internet, challenging participants across the country to compete by posting their results. Its’ trademark workout of the day, or WOD, became the key to fast results, keeping your body guessing with muscle confusion, a new take on boot camp type classes.

CrossFit workouts are based on the principle of high intensity interval training or HITT. The workouts can get pretty creative, flipping tractor tires, using ropes, chains, and pulleys, but always under the direction of a certified CrossFit trainer.

Mixing up the types of moves not only improves your total fitness, but also fights boredom and adds to the fun! Classes at affiliated gyms called “boxes” typically include a warmup, a skill development segment, a high-intensity workout, and a cool down.

CrossFit can be adapted to your fitness level. The trick is to train safely and know your limitations.