Even if you’re new to fitness and working out in the gym, there are slim chances that you haven’t heard of Crossfit. Among the varied types of workouts available at our disposal today, CrossFit is probably the one that has grown in popularity exponentially and taken the world by storm. So what exactly is CrossFit, and what makes a CrossFit gym successful?
Read this blog further to understand what CrossFit is, what makes their gyms unique and the formula they follow that enables them to get such excellent fitness results across different age groups and fitness levels.
What is Crossfit?
At its most basic, CrossFit is a unique workout regimen that relies on varied functional movement exercises, practised at high intensities, and performed in groups. CrossFit is a trademarked term, and this type of workout routine was started by Greg Glassman and Lauren Jenai in 2000 in Santa Cruz, California. Today, there are more than 15,000 CrossFit-affiliated gyms across the world. These warehouse-like gyms are called Boxes, and they’re mostly equipped with free weights, barbells and dumbbells and a lot of open space instead of gym machines.
CrossFit is a results-based exercise sequence that promises terrific fitness results in a short time. Hence it is preferred by many today because of time constraints. The way CrossFit achieves this is via high-energy, high-intensity group exercises that involve varied and constantly evolving functional movements that are steeped in a sense of fitness culture and community.
The CrossFit model is also scalable, which means you do not have to be a professional bodybuilder to enlist in a CrossFit gym. CrossFit can be modified to suit people of different age groups, different fitness levels, and according to different fitness goals and requirements. All it asks for is commitment, passion, integrity and the will to succeed. Read our CrossFit Beginners Guide to know more about CrossFit workouts.
The CrossFit Formula For Success
According to this post on the CrossFit website by the General Manager of CrossFit Education Nicole Carrol, CrossFit works because of a few essential elements. The formula for a successful CrossFit gym consists of four terms: Methodology, Ethos, Coach and Community. And when these four terms work together, we get a well-functioning CrossFit gym. Here’s how the formula is represented:
Methodology + Ethos (Coach + Community) = CrossFit
The post further explains what each of the four terms signifies. Let’s break it down.
Methodology
The methodology of CrossFit is one of the most crucial parts of the fitness discipline. It is what makes CrossFit what it is. It sets it apart from other workout routines. CrossFit claims that they make people not just fitter, but do it faster and safer than other fitness programs. The methodology is constant: continual variation of functional movements with high intensity.
Ethos
The ethos in the formula signifies the integrity, courage and commitment that the CrossFit platform promotes. It is an integral part of their experience, and it directly leads to better results.
Coach
The coach at a Crossfit gym is like the conductor of the orchestra. They direct the workout so that it is effective and enjoyable. CrossFit gyms can only be opened when the coach achieves the minimum CF-L1 or Level 1 Certification Course.
Community
The last part of the formula is a vital cog in how CrossFit operates. It brings fitness enthusiasts together in a never-seen-before community that’s rooted in fitness culture. One CrossFit session is all it takes to understand how it fosters a community of fitness practitioners and promotes being healthy and fit.
CrossFit can be properly classified as a phenomenon that is recognized by its commitment to results, its high intensity and energy, and its passionate sense of community and togetherness.
If you want to be a part of the unique CrossFit community, then get the FITPASS app and find the best CrossFit gyms near you. If you’re also looking for a customised workout schedule so that you can incorporate CrossFit into your routine, then sign up for a FITCOACH membership. With FITCOACH, you get an AI-led fitness assistant that can prepare highly personalised fitness workouts designed for your fitness goals and preferences.
FAQ
What is the success rate of CrossFit gyms?
The average success rate of a CrossFit Affiliate gym is around 98%
What is the ideal size for a CrossFit gym?
The ideal size for a CrossFit gym depends on many factors like the expected number of members, type of equipment and type of workouts that you have planned. Experienced CrossFit affiliates have mentioned that a space of at least 200 square feet per member is the ideal size for a CrossFit gym.
How do I know if my CrossFit gym is good?
First, verify whether your CrossFit gym coach has the minimum certification required to become an affiliate. This is called the CF-L1 certificate. If you want to know the coaching standards and overall experience, your best bet is to ask existing members and get references as to the equality of workouts.
