How to begin crossfit?

So, you’ve decided to give CrossFit a try? Congratulations! You’re about to embark on a journey that will leave you feeling stronger, healthier and with arms so big, you’ll need two airplane seats just to travel. But where do you start? Don’t worry; we’re here to guide you through the process. Here’s everything you need to know about starting your CrossFit journey.

What is CrossFit?

Before we delve into how to start CrossFit, let’s first understand what it actually is. In simple terms, CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program that combines weightlifting, gymnastics-based movements such as pull-ups and push-ups along with high-intensity cardiovascular exercises like running or rowing.

Origins of the sport

Crossfit was founded in 2000 by Greg Glassman who was initially an advocate for ‘functional fitness’. The first formal gym opened in Santa Cruz California in 2001

Box – not Gym!

Don’t be fooled when people refer it as ‘gymming’, because the official term is box or affiliate (no affiliation with any sports sponsorship 😉).

Things To Consider Before Starting

While enthusiasm is good when it comes to starting something new, there are certainly some things that should be considered before diving straight into any physical activity- especially one like crossfit.

Things such as:

  • Physical Condition
  • Health Issues
  • Flexibility
  • Existing injuries
  • Mental health

Physical condition

One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked when thinking of joining a crossfit class – this requires extreme endurance levels. So please ensure proper breathing techniques whilst excercising.

Health issues

If anyone has underlying health concerns or simply hasn’t ever done anything remotely close-like interval training /HIIT/Boot camp-type activities then they must consult their physician first-before they can step up into the crossfit-box.

Flexibility

‘Flexibility’-not just relating to physical state-but also mental 😄 as Crossfit is extremely intense, people should be prepared to remain flexible and adapt accordingly to their fitness journey

Existing Injuries

If anyone has an existing injury it would be wise for them to take some time out before they start with Crossfit. This is important because doing too much too soon can lead to further injuries which can ultimately became a roadblock towards shaping muscle groups – so zeroing on prior fitness history becomes crucial

Mental health

Mental health plays an equally important role; most like-minded folks join up-for-the energy that flows around in those tough sessions! If you want a good ‘get away’ from every-day life, sweat loads, but don’t fancy talking yourself into anything at times when ill prepared mentally – this might not be for you.

What To Expect At A Typical CrossFit Class?

Once all of the consideration factors have been reviewed and taken care of it’s time now amp ourselves up with what exactly lies ahead! So, let’s look at what usually happens during these classes:

  • Warmups
  • Strength Training
  • Metabolic Conditioning (Metcon)
  • Cool down stretching

Warmups

Each class typically begins with either dynamic warm-up exercises or static stretching techniques followed by mobility drills designed to prepare your body for the stress that will follow during strength training.

Strength Training

The strength-training portion focuses mostly on working certain muscle or movement patterns through sets (usually 3/4/5) of high-repetition moves under correct guidance and amazing coaching using proper form and technique

Metabolic Conditioning (MetCon)

You’ll then move onto cardiovascular work – this could involve running,sprinting ,rowing ,jump rope & any other High Intensity Interval Trainings etc . The nature of each individual workout changes regularly meaning there’s always the opportunity for variety and muscle confusion (in a good way).

Cool Down Stretching

Finally, before class ends, you’ll take part in some stretch techniques which typically target the areas that have been worked on during that day’s workout. This is to help avoid any tightness or soreness from setting in.

Gear up

Crossfit comes with it’s own gear – so categorizing them will not only help you understand what all you must own-but also makes sure your full-on equipped 🙂

Clothing

Gone are those days of ‘fashion over function’; time for embracing sports-focused functional wear. A t-shirt along with shorts /leggings should do just fine –just ensure comfortable wear sizes!

Footwear

Trust us;this is one thing we wouldn’t want anyone going wrong at- solid pair of trainers (-not tennis shoes/running shoes/general purpose sport runners!) designed specifically conitngent thorugh a suitable running company brands like Nanos ,Reebok & Nobull are perfect exclusive CrossFit footwear The ultimate goal for crossfit footware design is allow complete grip and maximum comfort support throughout various movements possible encountered.

Wrist Wraps,mats etc.

Wrist wraps provide extra support during specific weightlifting exercises where wrist engagement come into picture.

Mats can be helpful-especially when lying down on ground whilst performing various toning-up exercises/mat workouts.

Finding A Box

Now let’s find out about selecting an apt ‘box’:

  • Research Online
  • Referral
  • Drop-in option

Research online

Given this digital age knowledge is power! One could start by searching at closest boxes available near oneself/nearby and comparing rates/architectural feel ideally provides an idea regarding location/atmosphere/sense-of-community.

Referral

Pay attention when someone refers or speaks about their gym affiliation whilst staying atop nearest crossfit community groups/pages –just adds icing to the cake!

Drop-in option

Try taking up a high energy expert-led class in and around local areas-it would help getting connected,rightly knowing about proper box team members etc.

Pre-Class Tips

So,we are all geared up with right knowledge of certain exercises,the perfect CrossFit footwear and now it’s time for some last minute tips:

  • Hydration is key
  • Nutrition matters too
  • Warmup always helpful

Hydration

Staying hydrated noticably helps whilst going through maximum intensity workouts -water particularly being our body’s natural coolant system,is essential during your work-outs. Do remember bags of electrolyte supplements can be very useful as well.

Nutrition Matters Too!

Eating regimen plays another crucial factor in how effectively gym workout sessions go on . Before class eat individuals needs its dose of carbs & protiens needed for sustained energy use throughout.

Finally… Warm-up

A good warm up before the session never hurts –incorporate easy movements-dynamic stretching; breathing exercises majorly- they properly prepare you top-to-toe! It also ensures that one doesnt’ come across hurting any muscles or joints-so all set then ✅

Mindset Is Key!

For someone new to this super-vigilant physical sport there are loads of challenges he/she might undergo but the most important point is–patience.This journey embarks him/her towards living healthy, exploring their potential,self-discipline,constantly wanting self-improvement/ trying out something new everyday.

Welcome aboard!

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