As one of the most progressive and popular fitness regimens in decades, CrossFit has its fair share of critics.
Ironically, many of these critics have never actually tried it.
Regardless of your fitness background, entering a CrossFit gym—or "box"—offers distraction from the outside world and something new that can make positive changes in your life. It's tough to narrow down the reasons why you should give this growing fitness trend a try, but there are many foundational benefits that are nearly indisputable.
1. It's a challenge
In the adult world, we have lots of choices to make. Many of us stray away from stepping out of our comfort zone, leaving our lives and bodies in a stagnant state.
CrossFit can provide a challenge both mentally and physically. It can be said that if you're not progressing, you're regressing (in many capacities), and embracing a challenge often leads to progress.
2. You will see results
If you commit to regular attendance, you will see results. Your strength will improve. Your endurance will improve. Your overall health will improve, as will your bodily aesthetics.
The high intensity can also give you motivation to fuel your body with nutritious foods, which can generate even greater results.
3. It creates empowerment
There's just something about gripping a loaded barbell and sweating your butt off that makes you feel like a total boss.
Your perceived potential will be crushed when you complete workouts you didn't deem possible, and you'll discover a new meaning to the word intensity in all facets of life. CrossFit contributes to the mindset that you're the owner of your destiny, so grab it, and own it—your destiny and the barbell.
4. It's a culture and community
Forget the workouts. The people in the box with you are the real power of CrossFit.
Individuals experiencing real challenges and providing endless support for one another quickly become a family, not just a class. Additionally, most gyms participate in group activities like The Open or local competitions, and many encourage members to give back to the local community outside their own walls.
5. Workout with a purpose
CrossFit is fun, but it wasn't designed just for fun. Functional fitness aims to improve quality of living by making everyday movements part of programming.
Sitting on the toilet and standing back up is a squat. Putting something in a high cupboard is an overhead press. Picking up a child is a deadlift.
By not specializing in any one area and working on all of them instead, CrossFit provides one of the best overall fitness experiences for creating a better quality of life.
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