CrossFit is growing in popularity each day. CrossFit Games now attract thousands of participants and fans. Like any other sport, there are plenty of people who want to do it for fun or at an amateur level. Looking at clips of CrossFit competitions, it is understandable why you are intimidated or feel inadequate. However, it is important to realize that, the videos represent the top levels of the sport and athletic freaks. Remember, even they had to start somewhere. Though you may never get to the level of Mathew Fraser and Tia-Clair Toomey, dominant CrossFit champions, at the very least you will have a fit and healthy body.
Maybe you have already made up your mind on trying CrossFit but you are unsure where to start, you have come to the right place. In this article we will elaborate an easy process of getting started. Read it and you will soon be on your way to top-notch fitness, health, and wellbeing.
Find a CrossFit Gym and Coach Near You
The critical initial step is finding a credentialed CrossFit coach or licensed CrossFit affiliate. They will offer guidance on when, where, what, and how to start. Many people have suffered serious injuries when they start CrossFit on their own, usually at home, without expert help. You are likely to try harder sets that are beyond the capacity of starters. An experienced coach will ease you in. They will also be present throughout to catch you or help you in case of anything. The endurance and strength that is required in CrossFit is not built overnight. It is a progressive process that requires patience and discipline.
Currently, estimates indicate there are over 15,000 CrossFit gyms around the world with majority of them in the United States. In addition to having experienced certified coaches on hand, they offer a variety of equipment and facilities necessary in your CrossFit journey. Unlike your home, in the gyms there is a lot of emphasis on safety. Apart from the coaches and staff, your fellow CrossFit understudies will step in to help prevent serious accidents. Being around fellow enthusiasts will also go a long way in helping you remaining focused and ultimately achieving your goals.
Finding a CrossFit gym near you is a simple process. You might have even seen one while out and about. If not, just Google it and you will probably have a number of options to choose. CrossFit is a demanding process thus your primary considerations should be convenience and support. The closer the gym, the better. Also, you could choose a gym if some of your friends or family members are already going there. They might turn out to be the cheerleaders you need to get over the hump.
How to Prepare
Contrary to what people say out there, you need not be fit to take up CrossFit. Besides, you might be starting CrossFit to get fit in the first place. Worry not about your fitness, it will come with time. Once you begin training, a good CrossFit coach will modify the workouts to suit your fitness level at that point. As your body builds up strength, you can progress to more challenging activities.
Adjust your schedule to accommodate time for going to the gym and recovery. You obtain the best results by regularly and consistently turning up. Otherwise, the progress will be slow or non-existent. Make sure nothing in your schedule conflicts with time allocated to CrossFit.
Checking with your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like asthma or diabetes or any other chronic diseases, is advised. Change your diet to accommodate the increased demand. Consume meat and other proteins, vegetables, seeds and nuts, some fruits, and minimize starch and avoid sugars. Adhering to a good diet will hasten your fitness journey and help you maintain any gains you make.
Take time to purchase the right gear and shoes. You need a versatile and durable cross-trainer that can endure the heavy stress you will put on them while doing burpees, weightlifting and other exercises. Sweat-wicking clothes will come in handy, as you will definitely sweat, a lot. Find compression gear for any problem areas such as knees. A water bottle will also come in handy.
Once, you have all this in place, all you need now is courage and will to proceed
Get Started
CrossFit is exciting and fun. Initially it will be hard and you might be tempted to quit. Stay strong and remain true to the course, the benefits are many. Keep track of your progress as it will help motivate you. Get started today and be part of the story of thousands of others who stepped up and reaped the rewards of CrossFit.
