For the kind of money CrossFit costs, why don’t I just go find a Personal Trainer?

CrossFit follows the idea that you get what you pay for. Although not every CrossFit gym will be the "best possible CrossFit experience", the training and knowledge that you can receive in a good affiliate will be worth every penny. If you break down the cost of using a personal trainer for a full month, 3-5 hours a week, you will quickly find that CrossFit is a less expensive alternative and can have even better results.

 

I heard that a lot of people get injured doing CrossFit, is this true?

No bullshit, people do get injured in CrossFit. That being said, you will find large amounts of injured people in any fitness setting, especially running. When CrossFit is done correctly and coupled with a mobility program it is completely safe. Listening to your body when it needs to rest and recover is also very important in staying healthy.

 

How long will it take to get results?

This depends entirely on the kind of result you are looking for and your current fitness background. Everyone will have a little different experience with CrossFit initially. If you fall into the "deconditioned" category you will most likely find that within a month you could double your power output for a particular workout. If you come from a very strong fitness background you will still see results, but as you are probably already accustomed to, they will come slower than those someone will enjoy if coming from zero. 

 

How often should I train?

This is another question that cannot have a blanket answer. When your are starting out your new routine you should try to CrossFit 3 times a week, ideally spaced out to give your body time to recover. Working out less than 3 times a week will more than likely delay your progress. As your body becomes accustom to the demands of CrossFit try to add one or two more days during the week. CrossFit main site follows 3 days on 1 day off. that can be a good point for some ore advanced athletes. 

 

Why are all the benchmark workouts named after girls?

Greg Glassman, founder of CrossFit, was inspired by the naming system of storms. According to the weather service, giving storms names reduces complications in both written and spoken comminications regarding the storms. Thus, the CrossFit "girls" were born. Plus, they're total bitches. 

 

What is Kipping? Is it cheating?

Kipping refers to a few gymnastics maneuvers that CrossFitters will use to assist primary muscle groups worked in a number of different exercises. While kipping is not the best way to develop strength in a given move, it allows many more repetitions of the exercise to be completed in a shorter amount of time. While attempting to maximize power output it becomes very important to develop efficient kipping technique for these moves. Some moves the can be "kipped": pull-ups, ring dips, muscle-ups, handstand push-ups. 

 

Should I be in shape before starting CrossFit?

The best way to get in shape for CrossFit is to do CrossFit. Due to the fact that CrossFit can be universally scaled there is no minimum starting requirements. A good trainer should be able to modify or create workouts for you to match your ability while new to CrossFit. Many gyms will offer workout levels such as Beginner, Intermediate, Rx (prescribed) or even Rx+ or Competition level. 

 

Will CrossFit help me lose weight?

CrossFit can most certainly help you lose weight due to the fact that it burns a lot of calories during and after the WOD. Most people around the fitness industry will have heard the saying: "A six pack is made in the kitchen, not in the gym." Take this to heart. Weight loss is largely governed by the equation calories in less calories out. If the resulting number is negative then you can expect weight loss, positive and you will gain weight. 

 

How is CrossFit different than P90X or Insanity?

One of the main benefits of CrossFit is the personal attention you will get from your trainers. While other circuit training is definitely not "bad," it may lack some of the offerings that CrossFit can provide. CrossFit also benefits from being "constantly varied." This means that your body will not be able to adjust to it like other circuit training and you will see faster gains. Additionally, you cannot overlook the value that the community provides in a CrossFit affiliate, they will help you achieve your goals. 

 

What age group is best for CrossFit?

Anyone can engage in CrossFit. Many affiliates will offer CrossFit Kids classes for the youngest members of the group to learn a little about exercise and develop healthy habits from a young age. On the other side of the spectrum, weightlifting can be beneficial for adults of any age. CrossFit will help keep the elderly remain active and capable. 

 

I’m a woman, will I get “bulky” by doing CrossFit?

A majority of women do not have the genetics to get "bulky." Just like weight loss, gaining muscle mass is largely dictated by what you eat. While CrossFit can definitely help you gain muscle, it takes determination to put it on. With some attention to diet, it would be difficult to become "too muscular" without trying. Give it a shot, if you are not enjoying the bodily changes, chances are the other people in your classes are. 

 

Can I go whenever I want or do I have to go to a class?

While some gyms do have "open gym" times in their schedule, this is not the best way to begin CrossFit. If you are confident enough in your abilities to perform the exercises safely, then talk to your gym owners and see what you can do in order to "do your own thing." Chances are good that you will want to be in class. Good CrossFit classes will take the guess work out of your program and will help you meet and form bonds with those enduring the same workouts you are. 

 

How do I get started?

While you can start CrossFit in any gym, the best way to do it would be to go through a reputable gym's "on-ramp" program. This will allow you to learn all of the exercises as well as mobility techniques, nutrition advice, and general best practices. Additionally an introductory program will group you with other people who have not learned the CrossFit moves and will take away the pressure you may be feeling. 

 

What is a “Drop In”?

A "drop in" simply refers to a one time visit to a gym that you are not a member of to do the WOD. Some gyms will let people drop in for free, but typically there is a fee associated with it, typically $10-$30. At certain locations, a trade of another affiliate t-shirt will be accepted to drop in for a WOD. 

 

What is a class like?

Classes will vary GREATLY based on location. That being said, a CrossFit class should start with some kind of dynamic warm-up. From there the coach should lead athletes through a brief mobility circuit. Next comes strength or skill work, time given to athletes to either perform a few lifts or work on a CrossFit move that may be a little more difficult. Typically the meat of the class will be spent performing the MetCon (Metabolic conditioning). Some gyms will opt to have a "cash out," or additional work to help athletes reach their goals.

 

How long are workouts?

The "workout" will typically be an hour. There will be many parts to it however. See the "what is a class like" section to get the breakdown. The MetCon, the main part of the days work, will typically be anywhere from 4-30 minutes long. Most workouts will fall in the 10-20 minute range. It is important to vary the length of time an athlete is working in addition to the moves in order to train all of the metabolic pathways.