If you spend any time around fitness or exercise junkies, you’ve probably heard of CrossFit. It’s been one of the most popular fitness crazes of the last 15 years or so. But, what about CrossFit for beginners? It’s not that easy to get started why is why we’ve put together this guide for starting out in CrossFit.
From the outside looking in, CrossFit seems to be an incredibly polarizing topic. People seem to even love it or hate it, and you’re having a hard time making an opinion about it because you’re not even sure what it is! And CrossFit for beginners? Is that even a thing?
Well, to put it simply, CrossFit is a community-driven, varied workout. When you’re involved in CrossFit, you’re assigned a different workout each day (called the WOD) and told to complete it to the best of your ability.
People who love it do so because of the camaraderie and challenges it can pose. People who hate it do so because of the lack of specifics. But if you’re interested in at least giving it a try, this CrossFit for beginners guide might help.
CrossFit is for Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide
Repeat it. Now repeat it again. Now read what an expert has to say on it:
“The CrossFit program is designed for universal scalability making it the perfect application for any committed individual regardless of experience. We’ve used our same routines for elderly individuals with heart disease and cage fighters one month out from televised bouts. We scale load and intensity; we don’t change programs.”
CrossFit is something anyone can try, and often you’ll see beginners working out alongside pros. This is because it doesn’t matter how many reps you do, or exactly how you do them. What matters is that you’re completing your workout to the best of your ability.
CrossFit for beginners? Yes! It is possible and even encouraged.
CrossFit reviews for beginners
What is CrossFit?
You’ve probably heard of this style of workout before, buy you may not exactly know what CrossFit is. Let’s find out what it involves:
According to CrossFit.com, the definition is:
“CrossFit is the principal strength and conditioning program for many police academies and tactical operations teams, military special operations units, champion martial artists, and hundreds of other elite and professional athletes worldwide.
Our program delivers a fitness that is, by design, broad, general, and inclusive. Our specialty is not specializing. Combat, survival, many sports, and life reward this kind of fitness and, on average, punish the specialist.
CrossFit contends that a person is as fit as they are proficient in each of ten general physical skills: cardiovascular/respiratory endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, agility, balance, coordination, and accuracy.”
Practically speaking, what does this all mean? It’s basically a varied, challenging training program that increases strength and conditioning through a variety of exercises done in a high-intensity manner. The goal is to build a body that can do just about anything.
What is CrossFit Training Like?
It’s kind of a mix of everything. Of course, you’ll have a warm-up and cool-down. But, in the middle? You may do any combination of the following things, and even more that your trainer may think of!
- Rope climbs
- Weightlifting
- Box jumps
- Handstands
- Sprinting
- Floor rope work
- Kettlebells
- Sit-ups, push-ups, and other body weight work
- Cardio
- Flexibility work
- Gymnastic type exercises
- Pull-ups
- Etc.
The sky is really the limit in terms of what you may do.
Isn’t a kipping pull up cheating?
This is a form of pull up that causes you to swing your body and utilize momentum as well as a hip drive in order to get your body to the bar. This is not a form of cheating due to the fact that it is not meant to be the same as (or a replacement for) a deadhang pull up.
What is a WOD?
Some gyms also include a power-intensive movement preceding the WOD. Each WOD is often graded or scored to enhance competition and to ascertain progress of individuals. Some facilities offer additional classes, such as weightlifting, that are not included in a WOD.
Why are girl’s names used for workout names?
The benchmark workouts of CrossFit are named after girls or fallen heroes/military personnel. According to CrossFit, this is due to “anything that leaves you flat on your back and incapacitated only to lure you back for more deserves to be named.”
What is RX?
So are you into CrossFit training lately? Then you might have already come across the term “RX.” Have no clue what it means? Well, don’t worry, because here is a quick explanation for the term that will help you reduce your doubts.
The word RX literally means “as prescribed”–the hardest day-to-day challenge of giving your best to do what you set out to do, or getting “damn close” (DC).
The coaches at CrossFit affiliates do suggest a standard and ask that you practice all the movements. So when you come up at the end of a WOD to submit your score to your coach, how do you come to know whether you have been able to furnish your RX or not? In order to achieve this workout “RX,” all the movements must meet the criteria that are set as the standard, the recommended weight, and the sum of reps prescribed.
Can’t Meet the Workout’s RX?
However, don’t be disheartened if you can’t accomplish the workouts RX. It’s simply a target to aim for. Pushing yourself beyond your limits can lead to serious injury, so please don’t do this!
One of the benefits of the CrossFit program is that there will never be a point while training when you will feel like you have accomplished it. There is some area that you need to improve on, always, and those call for your extra attention.
As CrossFitters, the intention is to become well-built individuals who are healthy too. You’ve got to be eager to put in the effort, time, and hard work to be good at something. So just don’t give up, and keep improving yourself so that you are at least close to your targets.
RX: An Example
Suppose you are practicing with wall balls. The bottom must go under the top of the knee and the ball should reach the 10 ft target. If the weight of the ball or the height of the target is altered, the workout is not completed “as prescribed.”
Clapping push-ups achieve the standard only when you maintain a particular position throughout the whole movement and the chest touches the floor at the bottom of the push-up. If this is not done properly, then it is not done “as prescribed” and has not met the RX.
What’s the Difference Between Bodybuilding and CrossFit?
That’s an excellent question and we’re happy that you asked. Both of these popular sports produce some top athletes, but the goals of them are radically different.
The goal of bodybuilding is to produce strong, and perfect looking bodies. The goal of CrossFit is functional movement and requires not only strength, but speed, agility and endurance as well.
You can find out more here:
Don’t Give up on your First Try
Maybe you’ve tried CrossFit before. And maybe you read the above description and thought, “Wow, that wasn’t my experience at all!”
Well, because this is such a community-based exercise, each CrossFit “box” is very different. It’s important that you find one that works for you.
The coach, community, or approach to CrossFit can make or break your experience. So try out a few different boxes and find the one that works best for you.
Starting out in CrossFit
Why Do CrossFit?
Why should you consider this workout over all the other possibilities? There are a few reasons why we love it so much:
- It focuses on functional fitness, that is getting your body in great shape to do just about anything
- CrossFit, when done regularly can get you in the best shape of your life
- The excellent community you can find in most CrossFit gyms
- The fun you can have competing in competitions like the CrossFit games
- It’s a serious calorie burn if you want to lose weight
- You can become mentally tougher and learn that body is capable of just about anything
What’s your reason for doing CrossFit? Leave a comment below and let us know. We’d love to hear about your “why.”
CrossFit 101: The Basics
Here are the basic things you need to know before starting CrossFit:
Leave Judgment at the Door
Remember what we said earlier, about pros and beginners working out right next to each other? Did that intimidate you at all?
It shouldn’t.
CrossFit boxes are hailed as some of the most positive, inclusive places. Several notes that when you don’t come in for your workout, your CrossFit friends will call and ask you where you were. This sort of camaraderie fosters a special kind of atmosphere.
No one is going to judge you if you don’t complete the same number of reps that they do. In fact, they’ll probably be cheering you on.
Of course, this is a two-way street. People aren’t going to judge you, so you have an obligation not to judge others who aren’t as fit as you. To get the most out of CrossFit, you should embrace the community mindset fully.
Work at your Own Pace-CrossFit for Beginners is Possible!
Now that you know you’re able to, you should feel comfortable working at your own pace.
If your coach is pushing you to do more than you can handle, that’s probably a sign that you should find a box that’s more suited to your needs. You should never, at any point in CrossFit, feel like you’re being pressured into doing things that you’re uncomfortable with.
Your workout will eventually improve. If you keep at it for long enough, you’ll build up muscle and skill. You’ll be able to look back on where you started with pride, knowing how far you’ve come.
But there’s no need to rush it. Take things at your own pace and you’ll have a better, safer time. Check out these basic CrossFit workouts to get started.
Even kids can do CrossFit! If this is something you’re interested in, check with the local boxes in your area to see if they offer it.
But Don’t Rule Anything Out
That all said, you’ll never improve if you don’t at least try branching out.
Never think that a goal is unreachable just because you’ve never tried it. While things like rope climbs or handstand push ups might seem like impossible dreams, you’ll never know if you don’t try!
This isn’t to say that you should do anything that makes you feel sick or uncomfortable. It’s just to say that you should try new things, and not be afraid just because it’s something you’ve never done before.
Even if you don’t even come close to completing the number of reps that everyone else does, at least you tried!
And your friends at CrossFit will be proud of you for just getting in one.
How to Get Better at CrossFit?
Okay, so you’ve started doing some workouts and you want to get better! How does this happen? There are a few things you do:
- Increase the frequency of your workouts (the official recommendation is 5 days/week)
- Increase the intensity of your workouts (go harder!)
- Don’t forget about rest days though
- Pay attention to your diet
- Pump your trainers for tips and tricks
- Pay close attention to form
- Train for a CrossFit competition
- Choose a certain WOD and time yourself. Try it again a couple of weeks later and push yourself to beat the time.
- Maintain a baseline level of fitness between workouts with something like a climbing machine.
Stay Safe with the Right CrossFit Gear and Shoes for Beginners
Just like with any exercise, there’s a right and a wrong way to go about things. CrossFit for beginners can be a very safe activity. But, it can also be harmful, especially without the correct equipment.
If you’ve read this far in our beginner guide, you’re probably interested in CrossFit and what it has to offer. And if it is, you’re going to want to be prepared. Boxes will provide the equipment needed, most of the time, but the clothes that you wear are your own.
That’s why you should get the right clothes and shoes to succeed. We here at Best CrossFit Shoe are specifically dedicated to the CrossFit workout and will help you put your best foot forward.
With the best shoes available, you’re sure to be able to start your CrossFit journey with confidence or take things to the next level without worrying about whether or not you’re ready. These are the best shoes for CrossFit beginners that you’ll certainly want to consider:
What Should I Wear to CrossFit?
If you want to go pro-style, then you might consider things like workout gloves, knee-high socks, knee sleeves, compression shirt, and a workout headband. Of course, you can store it all in your fancy workout backpack or bag.
However, for a beginner to CrossFit, regular old workout clothes are fine. Start with a comfortable pair or shorts and a shirt that are breathable, and preferably not 100% cotton. If you’re a women, it’s fine to just wear a sports bra, or bra and tank top. Then, use your normal workout shoes, cross-trainers are best because they can handle the variety of exercises well.
Here are some top picks for what to wear to Crossfit:
Are there any CrossFit Box Rules that I should Know About?
There are certainly some CrossFit rules and gym etiquette to be aware of if you want to be polite and not make your fellow CrossFitters or coach angry at you. While it can seem a wee bit overwhelming when you’re just getting started, have a look at this helpful article for all the tips you need to know:
Don’t Overwork Yourself with Crossfit for Beginners
You might have heard of some CrossFitters who worked out so hard, they landed themselves in the emergency room.
“I see pushing my body to the point where the muscles destroy themselves as a huge benefit of CrossFit,” one such person claimed.
Make no mistake, though — this is not the mindset you should be going into things with.
If you have a competitive nature, it’s easy to push yourself to the breaking point trying to prove a point, or trying to keep up with everyone else. But CrossFit isn’t about keeping up. It’s about trying new things, and exercising safely.
So don’t force yourself to be the person puking in the trashcan after every workout. Don’t work out so hard that you land yourself in the emergency room.
Just focus on being the best version of yourself that you can be, and you will have succeeded.
How Long are CrossFit Workouts?
If you’re just getting into CrossFit, there are probably some basic questions that you might want to have answered. First of all, how long is a CrossFit class and what exactly are you getting yourself into?
Due to the high intensity of the workout, it will generally take about an hour. Any more than that is best left to the pros!
CrossFit workouts vary considerably, but in general, you can expect a dynamic warm-up at the beginning and a cool-down at the end. In between, you may work on skills, strength training, or cardio.
When you’re in the middle of it, it may seem like the Workout of the Day can’t be modified. It can. If you don’t feel comfortable doing something (deadlifts, box jumps, rope climbs, etc.) then ask your trainer how it can be modified to your fitness and comfort level.
Any good trainer will be able to help you with this. If they can’t? Find another trainer. This is a common reason newbies to CrossFit get injured!
How Many Days a Week Should I Do CrossFit?
A common question that beginners to CrossFit have is how often they should work out. When you’re a beginner, it’s best to ease into things. You could aim for three days a week for the first couple of months. Ensure that you have one rest day between workouts.
However, after a couple of months, you may be ready to begin the recommended 5 days a week workouts that the CrossFit workout template recommends. Basically, you work out for 3 days in a row and then take 1 day off. Then you work out for 2 more days and rest 1 day. This can help get you some incredible results, but you need to be in good shape before undertaking something like this.
The most important thing in all of this is to listen to your body. If it’s sore and tired, take an extra day off. If you have the beginnings of an injury (knee, elbow, shoulder pain, etc.), then rest for a bit before starting up again. This can prevent more serious problems down the road.
Why are CrossFit group classes so expensive?
CrossFit gyms are not like a typical commercial gym where members can use the equipment for any amount of time on their own and leave. In regards to CrossFit, there are coaches teaching the classes and working to encourage and assist you throughout. This is why the classes are more expensive than a standard gym.
This is probably the most common of the CrossFit frequently asked questions.
Are only CrossFit classes available at CrossFit gyms?
At the vast majority of CrossFit gyms, only group classes are available. There are a very small offering that will offer “open gym” hours, but keep in mind that very few carry the same convenient hours as a traditional gym.
How do I find a good trainer?
If you’re just getting started out with Cross Fit, you’ll need a good trainer to show you the ropes and help you prevent injuries. The most important thing they can do is show you (and model) proper technique because you can actually hurt yourself doing some of exercises during a WOD.
Beyond that, they should help you to stay motivated, give some tips for things like diet or gear. Of course, they should be friendly and approachable, and plan a wide variety of activities.
Can CrossFit be done at home?
The workouts involved can be completed at home, but it is not highly recommended for people to do so. Crossfit is meant to be a community activity and supervision is needed for a variety of its elements. Working out at home will save money, but it is not without cost. Equipment need to be purchased and the risk of injury increases. But, if doing CrossFit at home is your only option, then it is better than nothing!
How to prepare for CrossFit (guide for starting out)
CrossFit is a demanding workout program that is designed to help you build endurance, stamina, and muscle strength. Instead of concentrating on one specific sport, CrossFit uses a combination of different exercises in the daily workouts. This exercise program is demanding physically and mentally, and many newcomers are often not prepared for all that the workouts entail.
To help you survive your first few CrossFit sessions, we have put together this guide that will help you prepare for your gruelling workouts.
How to Prepare Yourself for CrossFit
Mentally and physically, there are a few things you can do to get ready to start living the CrossFit lifestyle. Of course, you’ll also need to get the right gear too in order to help prevent injuries.
There are a few different areas to consider:
- The right gear for beginners
- Mental preparations
- Physical preparations
- Knowing the lingo
- Do your research about CrossFit boxes
#1: Get your Workout Gear Together
One of the most important things to remember is to wear comfortable and suitable clothing for your workouts. There are plenty of stylish and fashionable workout clothes for CrossFit, but you do want to choose outfits that you can comfortably move in.
While you do not want shirts and pants that are loose and in danger of getting caught on bars and in the way when you are jumping rope, you also don’t want your clothes to be too tight or constrict your movements.
You also want to find a pair of athletic shoes that are supportive and flexible. Some athletes prefer heavier footwear to give you stability while lifting heavy weights, while others prefer lighter weight shoes that prevent leg fatigue. This is usually a matter a personal preference, and only you can pick the shoes that work best for you.
Compare the Best CrossFit Shoes
Here are some of our top picks for the best shoes for CrossFit beginners:
Other items to consider for beginning CrossFitters includes:
- Athletic socks
- Wrist, elbow, or knee braces if necessary
- Jump rope (check out the best CrossFit Speed Ropes here)
- Water bottle
#2: Mentally Prepare Yourself
CrossFit is just as demanding mentally as it is physically, which is why it is important to prepare yourself before each workout, to understand and accept the fact that these exercises are designed to be difficult, along with pushing you to your limit.
One of the reasons that it is important to accept the fact that you might not succeed at your workout goals the first time is that you are not supposed too. If the daily WODs were easy to finish the first time you tried each one, there wouldn’t be any point to the program. Accepting the fact that you might fail is the first step in working to improve your fitness level.
Another tip many beginning and experienced CrossFitters find helpful is to consider working out with a trainer or friend. Having someone to push you when you feel like quitting can make the difference between an amazing and average finishing time. Some of the more intense workouts also involve weight training, and it is always helpful to have someone nearby if a problem occurs.
#3: Physical Preparation
If you’re very out of shape, it may be really tough to jump right into CrossFit. It’s generally considered an advanced level workout and most coaches don’t really make that much accommodation for different fitness levels.
Before signing up at a box, that’s certainly a question to ask. Some places even have specific beginner level classes which may be your best option.
Another option to consider is improving your general fitness level before starting CrossFit. You may consider things like:
- Jumping rope
- Jogging, walking, hiking, cycling, rowing, assault air bike, or other forms of cardio
- Strength training
- Yoga, pilates, boot camp classes, etc.
- Active sports like basketball or tennis
#4: Learn the Lingo to Prepare Yourself for CrossFit
There are a lot of terms and specialized CrossFit lingo. Most people at the gym will help you out with this during your first few workouts.
But, it can make it easier to brush up on some of this stuff before you go. Then, you’ll be able to understand the big picture a little bit better and get the most out of your workouts.
#5: Succeeding at CrossFit
The best aspect of CrossFit is that anyone can succeed at it, and only you are responsible for how far you will take your level fitness. If you are just starting out with the CrossFit program, simply remembering that the only person you are trying to outperform is yourself is an important step in improving your fitness level.
It is okay to need a little mental encouragement during your workouts, especially since each one is designed to push you to your limits. Simply keep pushing yourself and be proud of your daily progress and you will succeed at CrossFit and accomplish your fitness goals.
#6: Do your Research about Gyms and Trainers
As with anything, there are certainly better options that others for gyms and trainers. Some are great, others not so much. At worst, you may even get injured due to poorly maintained equipment or lack of coaching.
Check on forums or Facebook groups in your area to see which gyms people recommend. Ask your fitness loving friends or coworkers for their recommendations.
Phone or visit the box and see what the vibe is. Are they welcoming and happy to see a newbie? Or not so much.
Finally, see if you can do a trial class. If you have a good experience, stick with it. If not so much, then shop around to find something that works better for you.
How to Start CrossFit: The Checklist
If you want to know how to start doing this style of workout, here is a quick start guide of things y0u’ll need to do to prepare yourself for CrossFit:
- Ensure you have a basic level of fitness and are reasonably active
- Make sure you have the right gear (good shoes, shorts, and a workout shirt)
- Learn a bit about CrossFit, including the most common lingo
- Try out the free session at a number of CrossFit boxes in your area
- Choose the box where you feel the most comfortable and where they have certified trainers
- Do a CrossFit WOD 2-3x a week. Have at least one day of rest between workouts (consider walking, swimming, biking, hiking, etc. on the off day but no lifting weights)
- Pay close attention to form in order to prevent the most common CrossFit injuries
- Get to know your trainers and don’t be shy about asking for their help with diet and other fitness related things
- Increase your training gradually after a couple of months if your body is responding well, but still ensure adequate rest in order to prevent injuries and for the best results
CrossFit Frequently Asked Questions: Is Paleo a necessity?
It is not necessary for participants to consume Paleo in order to engage in CrossFit. Paleo is indeed the recommended diet for the fitness program, but it is far from a requirement. You will need to keep in mind that a proper CrossFit regiment will contain a number of paleo challenges, but you do not have to engage in them. Your diet really is up to you! And of course you need to do whatever works best for your own body.
Another diet that you’ll hear talked about is the zone diet. It doesn’t prescribe certain foods to eat, but only talks about eating within certain categories of food. You can learn more about it here:
What’s the Deal with the Zone Diet?
Or, you may even consider going vegan! Find out more here:
CrossFit and Vegan: Is it Possible?
Are there any CrossFit Dangers?
As with any intense kind of workout, there are certainly dangers to CrossFit. This is especially true if you are not in already good shape and then push yourself to the very max. So, be sure to start slowly and adequately prepare yourself for CrossFit.
However, the risks of CrossFit can be alleviated by following these recommendations
- Be sure that your WOD is being led by a certified CrossFit coach. Ask about this when choosing a gym.
- Your coach should be, well, coaching you in the correct form! Let them know you’re new and need their help. They should certainly offer this and not just focus on the more advanced people in your class. If they don’t help you with form, find a new trainer.
- Stay well hydrated before, during and after a workout.
- Pay attention to what you eat and ensure that you’re eating a wide variety of nourishing foods.
- Wear breathable, loose clothing so you can stay cool during your workout.
- Start with high-quality crosstrainers or specialized CrossFit shoes.
- Take rest days. When you’re starting out, take one or two days off between CrossFit workouts. You can decrease this as your body gets used to it.
- Pay attention to pain. There’s a difference between fatigued and tired muscles and injured ones. Anyone who works out is probably aware of this. If it hurts, stop and don’t worry about walking out part way through a workout.
- If someone is part of the WOD, but it seems too difficult for you, just sit it out. Go get a drink of water and rest for a minute. Or, ask your coach if there’s an easier modification you could do because you don’t feel comfortable with it.
It’s also prudent to have a reasonable level of fitness before starting out. For example, you can run for a few minutes without stopping, hike up a mountain without too much difficulty, or play tennis for an hour or two without feeling exhausted after.
How to Start Doing CrossFit
Can Kids do CrossFit?
If you have kids who are interested in doing CrossFit, you may want to know whether or not this is possible. Most trainers recommend waiting until kid are at least 7 or 8 and can follow basic directions. This will help to prevent injuries because they can learn the correct technique.
For those interested, check around with the boxes in your area to see what’s on offer for weekly classes, or things like summer camps. There is a CrossFit specialty course for this, so ensure that the trainer is qualified. You can find out more about this here:
Why Do People Hate CrossFit?
You may see lots of people who say things like, “CrossFit sucks!” Why do they say this and is really such a bad, dangerous way to work out? Let’s find out!
#1: Inherent Jealousy
The top CrossFit athletes basically look like Greek Gods! They pay attention to their diet, work out intensely at least five days a week and are basically bulging with muscle.
Haters are gonna hate and some of the hate going on for CrossFit may just be partly jealousy from the perfect physical specimens that it seems to produce.
#2: It’s Too Intense (Uncle Rhabdo)
Greg Glassman, the founder of Crossfit is sometimes called Uncle Rhabdo. Basically, this is condition where the muscles break down so much that they leak protein into the bloodstream. At best, you’ll just require fluids and rest. At worst, it can cause heart or kidney failure and death.
This is definitely a reason to be wary of this kind of workout, but the reality is, the average person looking to get fit shouldn’t be working out to this extreme. It’s very hard on your body and won’t produce the results you want.
That said, to get results, you certainly do need to push your body to the max. If you don’t, you’ll never seen any fitness gains.
#3: Cross Fit can Cause Injuries
Some people experience injuries from doing CrossFit. It’s true. The same could be said for just about any sport however. Heard or tennis elbow, or runner’s knee?
Although it’s recommended to work out 5 days a week for the best results, do what’s best for your body, even if that means 2-3x a week.
Maybe you need to skip a certain exercise during a WOD because it hurts your knee. Ask your trainer for an alternative. This style of workout works best if you assume a large degree of personal responsibility and realize that you ultimately have to make the best choices for your body.
#4: CrossFit is Elitist
There is a kind of impression among many in the fitness world that CrossFit is exclusive. This is certainly not the case as anyone can pay the fee and join a CrossFit box. It is, however, more expensive than regular gyms. However, so are tennis lessons, a round of golf, or a premium pair of running shoes!
In addition, in most bigger cities, there are at least a few different CrossFit gym options. Do some comparison shopping and find one within your price range.
And the last time we checked, the entry fee for the CrossFit Games was $20. Doesn’t really sound elitist to us and this certainly isn’t a reason to think that CrossFit sucks!
#5: CrossFitters are too Intense
Have you met someone who’s serious about CrossFit? Chances are, it’s changed their life, including how they spend their time, drinking habits, diet, etc.
Now, have you met someone really into bodybuilding, running, hiking or just about any other sport? The same could likely be said for them too!
#6: Workouts are Done for You
When you show up at the gym, the workout of the day will be posted for you to do. Some people don’t like this and for them, CrossFit may not work!
Of course, you do have personal responsibility and you can feel free to adapt any workout to suit your needs. If CrossFit sucks for you, mix things up so that it doesn’t!
#7: CrossFit Requires a Restrictive Diet
Many people follow the Paleo, or Zone Diet when doing CrossFit. Sure, it’s not easy to follow any certain diet plan and this is a reason why some people hate Crossfit?
Do you have to do Paleo? Most certainly not! You know what works best for your body so just do that.
CrossFit for Beginners
What are the Benefits of CrossFit?
There are certainly a number of reasons why you might want to consider this style of high-intensity workout over some of the other options out there. Here are a few of the most popular reasons:
#1: Improve your Physical Strength
CrossFit has a well-deserved reputation for making people stronger, and often by a lot. It’s a training regimen that’s heavy on the weights and will push you to your absolute max. Done regularly, it’d be hard not to improve your strength. This is especially true when you’re just starting out as you may see some significant gains.
#2: Improve Aerobic Fitness
During CrossFit workouts, you’ll move from activity to activity relatively quickly without a lot of breaks in between. A total body workout, from start to finish usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. But, it’s seriously intense!
And it’s this constant activity that can lead to gains in your aerobic capacity.
#3: Improve Agility and Balance
CrossFit’s focus is on functional fitness. By this, we mean movements that replicate real life. For example, squats, overhead presses and kettlebell swings. These things will make you more agile and will improve your balance.
Another added benefit is that they can help to reduce injuries as you’re more well-equipped to do things like picking up a heavy load of groceries, doing home renovations or playing with your kids.
#4: Burns Calories and Helps to Maintain an Optimal Weight
This style of workout burns a lot of calories in a relatively short amount of time when compared to other more leisurely workouts or sports. Plus, it helps to build muscle which burns more calories than fat, even when resting or sleeping.
#5: Break Through Physical Plateaus
If you’ve ever lifted weights at the gym, or tried to lose weight, chances are that you’ve hit a plateau at some point. Despite more training, or an increased focus on what you’re eating, you’ve unable to achieve better results.
CrossFit, due to the varied workouts every single day can help you break through these barriers and keep achieving your personal bests. Your muscles are constantly forced to adapt as you use them in many different ways.
#6: Focus on Nutrition
If you want to lose weight, or get in the best physical shape of your life, diet is a big part of that. Cross Fit is helpful in this regard in that there’s a huge focus on diet, along with an overall healthy lifestyle. This may be the push that you need to help you get the results that you want.
#7: Community Aspect of It
The last benefit of CrossFit is that there’s a strong focus on community. If you attend a box regularly, you’ll likely run into the same people and they’ll soon become a great support network for you. This is what can keep you going when you run into some struggles and these people are also an excellent source of advice.
Will I lose weight with Crossfit?
If you properly (and safely) push yourself while working out as well as alter your diet, you will certainly lose weight. With the incorporation of a healthy diet, CrossFit can produce weight loss results in a matter of 30 days. You will lose body fat and your strength will increase as well.
CrossFit Lingo You Should Know
Another term you might hear getting thrown around a local box is PR, which stands for Personal Record. It’s certainly something worth celebrating so let your fellow CrossFitters or your coach know when you’ve achieved this!
CrossFit is one of the most popular trends out there.
In fact, if you’re just starting your CrossFit journey, you may struggle to understand some of those CrossFit terms!
Here, we’re decoding 12 of the most popular ones out there, so you never feel lost during a routine!
What are the Most Common CrossFit Terms?
If you want to know what you’re going to hear in the gym on a regular basis, here are some of the most common CrossFit terms.
1. WOD
This is one of the most popular CrossFit terms, and is short for “Workout Of The Day.” The best part about CrossFit? You never know what to expect when you walk into your studio!
A varied workout is the entire basis of CrossFit. This way, you don’t over-develop one muscle, while leaving others in the dust. Plus, variety keeps you flexible, switches up your metabolism, and helps to get stronger faster.
2. AMRP
This is another one of those initial-based CrossFit terms, meaning “As many rounds as possible.”
Crossfit is all about pushing your body to the limit. Sometimes, it’s not based on the number of reps you need to complete, but on how much time you’re spending on a single move!
Aim to add at least one more round every time you do the move again!
3. Bodyweight
This is one of the most commonly-used CrossFit terms! You don’t always need to use fancy equipment to get a killer workout! Instead, you just use the weight of your body to lift, strengthen, and tone.
Pilates uses a lot of bodyweight workouts, too – you’ll likely see some of these moves in CrossFit, too! Think leg lifts, pushups, and bridge poses where you lift your torso off the ground.
Bodyweight workouts have been named a major fitness trend for this year!
4. DOMS
This stands for “delayed onset muscle soreness,” and is one of those CrossFit terms that makes people grown with recognition!
You won’t always get sore right after a CrossFit workout. Sometimes, you’ll feel it a few hours or even days after an especially brutal workout. To prevent serious DOMS, stretch as much as you can and wear the right shoes to workout!
5. Firebreather
This is a CrossFit term of endearment! It will likely be a title that’s bestowed on the people that show up to every class, always do the most reps, and power through workouts like they’re nothing.
Firebreathers are also great at encouraging and inspiring others to keep pounding!
6. Open Gym
This is a favorite time for most CrossFitters. An open gym means that, for this portion of the workout, you can do whatever you want!
Most people use it to try to focus on the moves they’re the worst at, and to build a better technique.
Always take this time to slow down and evaluate the effectiveness of your movements.
7. Snatch
You’ll absolutely hear this term tossed around a lot in any CrossFit gym. it originated in the Olympics, so you know it’s going to be a killer move!
Basically, this is when you take your weight straight from the floor to over your head, without stopping in between.
It’s basically a clean, floor-to-overhead move in a single take – no resting at your shoulders!
You’ll likely complete a snatch from a squatting position so that there’s not too much stress put on your neck and shoulders.
Don’t be discouraged if you really struggle with the snatch. It’s one of the toughest CrossFit moves out there. Try starting with a lighter weight to perfect the movement of the snatch, then gradually add more weight over time.
In CrossFit, the correct technique is a lot more important than how much you can push and pull.
8. Sets
This is the number of reps you need to complete in order to finish a “round” or cycle of a movement. For example, 20 crunches might be one “set.” You may need to complete 3 sets of crunches before you can finish a move.
So, 60 crunches total, 20 per set!
We know, you didn’t come to CrossFit class to do math. Not to worry – your trainer will help you to keep track, usually counting out loud to help push you along!
9. No Rep
This is basically a term that’s used to call you out for cheating! A No Rep means you didn’t do the move correctly, so it won’t count.
Always make sure you’re giving maximum effort so you don’t let your team down, and to stay safe!
10. Macros
Crossfit terms aren’t all about working out. These are “macronutrients,” AKA the three main types of nutrients you need to consume to be able to get through your tough workouts.
They are carbs, proteins, and healthy fats! Think whole grains, chicken, and avocado!
11. KTE
This stands for “knees to elbows.” Usually, you’ll hear this when you’re on the bar, and are instructed to do a sit-up that makes sure your elbows hit your knees when you crunch.
It’s definitely a way to get insane ab strength fast – but man, does it burn!
12. HIIT
This is on every list of popular CrossFit terms! It stands for “high-intensity interval training,” and it’s a great way to keep your body guessing!
Basically, you go as hard as you possibly can for a set amount of time, then move at a normal pace (think transitioning from an all-out sprint to a jog.)
Is CrossFit Ideal for Runners?
Is CrossFit the ideal strength training program for runners? In our opinion, it most certainly is, but you’ll have to keep on reading to find out the reasons why runners should start doing CrossFit!
Studies have shown that adding explosive strength training (sound familiar?) for 9 weeks can improve endurance athlete’s 5k times, without changing their VO2 max.
According to Travis M. Erickson, MS CSCS from the University of Wisconsin’s Sport Science Department, heavy resistance training is the best way to increase your stride length. This in turn, will increase your running economy.
“Intelligent use of the weight room, just like intelligent implementation of a running program, can have a dramatic influence on the success of the competitor. This success can be defined as faster running times, but can also be extended to include reduced injury risk, and an overall heightened enjoyment of the sport, a goal that many athletes surely have.”
Why is CrossFit an ideal strength training program for runners?
When it’s time to start training for distance running events or marathons, many runners will stop strength training and add extra miles of running each week.
Unfortunately, while you may increase your endurance this way, you’re more likely to end up injured, since all that pavement pounding puts a huge amount of strain on your body.
This is why so many runners end up with shin splints, runners knee, and stress fractures.
You’ll Get Stronger
Distance running actually breaks down your muscles, which can mean you lose strength- something that can slow you down.
However, by incorporating a strength training program for runners, you’ll be able to maintain your strength while increasing endurance.
You’ll be Kept Engaged
One of the reasons why so many people love CrossFit? It’s never boring. You’ll be working out in a CrossFit “Box” with a bunch of other people who are also giving it their all.
You’ll usually start with an “As Many Rounds As Possible” workout. This could consist of 30 sit-ups, 20 air squats, and 15 push-ups which you’d repeat between 3-5 times, as fast as you can go.
Unlike running, which involves long hours of putting one foot in front of the other, you won’t be repeating the same movement over and over when you’re doing a CrossFit workout.
Since you never know which workout you’ll be doing next, CrossFit adds an element of unpredictability to what can seem like the same old schedule after years of running.
You’ll Learn to Run When Tired
Along with the “As Many Rounds As Possible” workouts, you’ll usually have a “Workout of the Day“. This will often combine lifts with sprints, and should also be completed as fast as your body will allow you to do it.
These WODs will train your body to run even when it’s tired- which is what happens when you’re nearing the finish line. Don’t be surprised if you cut minutes off your personal best after adding CrossFit to your training.
You’ll Get a Whole Body Workout
Another reason why CrossFit is such a good strength training program for runners? Because you’re constantly changing it up, your muscles are continually challenged. You’ll also be hitting smaller muscles that you can’t challenge by running.
Many people are naturally stronger in different parts of their body, which can make you more at risk for injury. You may have great core strength, but a weak lower back, or amazing quads, but puny glutes.
CrossFit works your whole body. You’ll work on strength movements like deadlifts and squats, building muscle and toning your whole body.
CrossFit Endurance is Designed for Runners
Brian MacKenzie created CrossFit Endurance, overcoming assumptions that the sport just for bodybuilding or has a high risk of injuries. While CrossFit is an excellent addition to any runner’s workout plan, CrossFit Endurance goes even further.
The plan prepares you for your race by combining strength workouts, running workouts, and CrossFit metabolic conditioning workouts.
This allows you to get either the same or better results as if you were continually running while decreasing the chance that you’ll get injured.
FAQs
There are a number of common questions that people just starting out in this sport have. Here are the answers to some of the most popular ones.
How often should beginners do CrossFit workouts?
For beginners, it is recommended to start with 2-3 sessions per week and gradually increase frequency as fitness levels improve.
What are some common CrossFit exercises for beginners?
Some common CrossFit exercises for beginners include air squats, push-ups, sit-ups, lunges, and kettlebell swings.
Do beginners need any special equipment for CrossFit?
CrossFit workouts often use equipment like barbells, kettlebells, and pull-up bars. However, modifications can be made using minimal equipment or even bodyweight exercises for beginners.
Is it necessary to have prior fitness experience before starting CrossFit?
No, prior fitness experience is not necessary to start CrossFit. The program is designed to cater to individuals of varying fitness backgrounds.
Are there CrossFit classes specifically for beginners?
Some CrossFit gyms offer introductory classes or programs tailored for beginners to learn proper techniques and gradually build strength and stamina.
How long does a typical CrossFit workout last?
CrossFit workouts, known as WODs (Workout of the Day), typically last between 10 to 30 minutes, although some may be shorter or longer depending on the workout.
Have your Say about CrossFit for Beginners
Do you have any tips or tricks for someone just getting started with CrossFit? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think.
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Last update on 2023-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
