My CrossFit Training Journey
This section is a log of my own CrossFit training journey. I will be logging my progress for each day that I train. This I hope will be an inspiration or of some help to anyone else who wants to try CrossFit. The links to to each day are at the bottom of the page.
The main reason I was inspired to try CrossFit is because it is a true form of functional training. You never see a machine in a CrossFit workout. Machines don't mimic everyday movements. And the equipment used is minimal. It's a simple approach to fitness but the results you get are anything but simple.
The best part is that anyone, regardless of gender, age, or fitness level, even children can do CrossFit. It's adaptable to the least fit and out of shape person to the most elite athlete. The workouts and the exercises can be modified and adjusted as you increase your fitness level.
CrossFit is functional. Every exercise has a direct relation to some type of human movement. If we apply these techniques to how we move on a daily basis, we will move more efficiently and we will prevent injury. Plus you'll feel great moving around with a balanced and strong body.
I liked many things about CrossFit, but everything has something that may not seem right or perfect. The only problem I could see was that the toes pointed out slightly when you squat. I've always learned that the toes must point straight ahead. So yes there are arguments as to the proper form of a squat like do the toes point straight ahead? or slightly out? do you stand at shoulder width or slightly wider or very wide?
Every argument is convincing enough to doubt the other. So maybe all are correct and they depend on what your goal is.
The important thing is they all agree that the back must keep it's natural spinal curve throughout the movement, so that you don't put pressure on the spine. And they all agree that the knees should stay in line with the toes.
My CrossFit training experience so far has been quite surprisingly great. I've just started the fundamentals. It's been quite a different experience from traditional strength training. I can't see getting bored with CrossFit.
You always have a goal or a new level to reach and you never do the same exact thing. I think the fact that it's so goal oriented is what makes it so fun and so rewarding.
Our bodies are amazing and CrossFit training can make you realize that your body is more capable of doing things you never thought were possible or that you weren't capable of doing. I didn't think I had the strength to do pull-ups, or a hand stand pushup (Ok I had a little assistance). You surprise even yourself.
Even though I consider myself pretty fit and in shape, most of the movements have been new to me and the form has been different from what I've learned and have been practicing for so long.
So I highly highly recommend that before you try it on your own, find an affiliate CrossFit gym near you and learn the fundamentals with a certified CrossFit trainer. You can learn the basics properly and then move on to training on your own.
Don't attempt it on your own even if you are in shape. It's not worth injuring yourself. But if you are familiar with the movements and have done them before then give it a go and have fun with it.
Crossfit Exercises: Theses are the foundations exercises we covered before I started the WOD's (Workout of the Day).
