Muscle Sport Magazine

What is Crossfit Training?

Wikipedia Commons/Labeled for Reuse

Crossfit training is a program which was developed in the early 2000’s by Greg Glassman. He suggested that it was possible for every person to maintain a good level of health and fitness through their entire lives. Glassman developed a program of exercises which can still be adapted to every person, no matter how young or old they are. The program makes use of functional movements which are used in everyday life.

The Crossfit program is designed to develop better muscle tone, as well as aid in the recovery from illness and surgery.

Glassman had a theory that it was not necessary for a person to change their exercise routine just because they were not as strong as another person. Obviously, a body builder could lift heavier weights than an older person, but there was no reason for the exercises to change. What did change were the time, load and intensity of the program. By reducing the weight and time, people could do the exercises at any point in their lives.

So, who is Crossfit suitable for?

Crossfit exercises are suitable for anyone who want to maintain fitness or start to become healthy. Because the program brings a new set of exercises each day there is less chance of becoming bored with the workout. Regardless of age, the program can be modified to suit your fitness needs.

Because the program asks for high intensity, it is better to start off slowly, particularly if you have not worked out in a fitness centre before. Make sure you have a qualified trainer show you how to use the equipment correctly and advise you on different weights.

Looking at the list below, it is easy to see how the program can be adjusted, either up or down for any person.

The program includes:

  • Flexibility and strength training
  • Cardiovascular training
  • Stamina building
  • Co-ordination
  • Accuracy
  • Balance and agility training

Are there any benefits?

Absolutely! Crossfit is designed to be a part of life for as long as you can physically carry out the exercises, which may be well into old age.

The benefits are numerous and include:

  • Body conditioning. Crossfit is designed to tone and condition the body which then means better posture, balance and flexibility.
  • Quicker weight loss. Simply because Crossfit is high-intensity, more weight loss will happen if the program is continued. In fact, studies show that after just 10 weeks of the routine there is a significant weight loss for most people.
  • Busting through plateaus. This is often a problem with people who work out in the gym. They reach a point where they do not seem to be achieving anything. With Crossfit, there is such a variety that plateaus are easily overcome.
  • More results in less time. Crossfit is designed to be fitted in with any daily routine, so any spare half hour will be productive. Many of the exercises can be done from your own home, negating the need to get to the gym.
  • Continued motivation and support. Because Crossfit is designed to be done in groups, there is a great amount of support and encouragement through the day. With a trainer, there is also encouragement and support through the program.

Where do I begin?

He best way to start a Crossfit routine is to join an affiliate program. There are many places where you can find a trainer who will help you with equipment and support you. A good place to start your fitness quest is at Pleasanton Crossfit where you will be in good hands while you train.

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