Designed to be challenging, CrossFit is suitable for everybody as workouts can be modified depending on your age or current fitness level.
As it grows even more popular, more and more people are looking for answers about CrossFit, the benefits of the training method, and what a CrossFit body might look like.
Here are some CrossFit FAQ:
What is Crossfit?
CrossFit is a fitness program made up of guided routines or WODs (Workouts of the Day) that involve a series of ‘functional movements’. These exercises focus on safe, effective and efficient movements like the ones you use in everyday life.
Your WODs are designed to test your strength, speed and endurance but you almost always have an experienced trainer with you to make sure you stay safe and injury free.
1. Is CrossFit good for weight loss?
The HIIT workouts at CrossFit are great for burning calories and the harder you work, the more calories you’ll burn. As you increase your strength and endurance you’ll also be turning your CrossFit body into a fat burning machine. Those who show up for CrossFit regularly can expect to see increases in body strength and muscle mass. As your body’s composition changes you will be able to burn fat and calories better than before you started CrossFit.
If you want to lose weight however, you’re going to need to combine your exercise, no matter how intense it is, with a good diet. CrossFit has a nutritional component that recommends you eat a variety of healthy foods (less carbs, more protein) and in the quantities that support training.
2. How many times a week should you do CrossFit?
There is a substantial difference in fitness results between those who train once or twice a week and those who train four to five times a week. This is not to say you should attend CrossFit every day as overtraining is counterproductive. It’s also important to ease your way into the CrossFit program over the first few weeks and let your body get used to the intense nature of the workouts. Once you’ve acclimatised your CrossFit body, you can start to really challenge and push yourself.
3. How should a beginner start CrossFit?
You’ll want to start by picking the right WOD, and unless you’re a serious athlete already then starting with beginner-friendly WODs is a good idea. You should expect to be challenged though and do movements and lifts that you may have never done before. You should also be prepared to exert more energy than what you’re used to.
There is a learning curve with CrossFit and you will need to go through the process of learning the mechanics and movements. Don’t be afraid to try new things and you’ll improve quicker than you might think possible.
4. How long does a CrossFit class last?
The goal of CrossFIt is to burn as many calories as possible in the shortest amount of time possible. Don’t expect the WODs to be over in 10 minutes — most workouts last between 45 and 60 minutes.
5. Will CrossFit make me ripped?
If you want it to it will! Every CrossFit body has the potential to be shaped and toned by CrossFit workouts but when you enter the gym you’ll notice not everyone has a fitness model physique.
Put in the hard work and you’ll definitely see results but set yourself small achieveable goals like losing a few pounds or kilos to start off with. Remember, it’s all about the journey!
6. Is CrossFit safe?
The simple answer is yes, CrossFit training is safe. Especially when compared to how dangerous it to sit on your couch and do nothing! A CrossFit WOD will always have a qualified trainer there to help you move safely and effectively through the movements and exercises. To avoid injury, it’s important to go through the learning curve and to build your base strength levels before you push yourself harder.
Find out why CrossFit has become so popular and sign up for your first CrossFit class at FitnessLab CrossFit in New Braunfels. But be careful… it’s addictive!
