CrossFit® is an intense fitness program that was created by former gymnast Greg Glassman, which combines a variety of fitness modalities, including weight lifting, gymnastics, combat training and aerobic exercises. It is designed to help people increase strength and conditioning, and has been employed by some military and police training programs for this purpose. The main concept is that doing a variety of high-intensity activities can strengthen all parts of the body in a shorter amount of time than a traditional workout would.
Generally, CrossFit® workouts may be done on a person's own or in a group setting at CrossFit® franchise locations. The workouts change from day to day and can be found in online forums or posted at CrossFit® locations. They typically include a recommended amount and intensity of exercises to do. For example, a workout may include a one-mile run, quickly followed by 100 sit-ups, 100 push-ups, and one mile of rowing.
To ensure a high intensity workout, little rest is taken between individual exercises. The program does, however, include regularly scheduled days of rest. These often occur as a three-days-on, one-day-off, or five-days-on, two-days-off cycle.
While the workouts generally include specific exercises and goals, they are designed to be scaled to the individual user’s needs. In general, the exercises remain the same, but the level of intensity can be modified. For example, if a workout calls for 50-pound (about 22.7 kg) squats, the person should aim to use the heaviest weight he or she can, up to the 50-pound (about 22.7 kg) goal.
CrossFit® workouts are designed to employ a limited amount of equipment. Core components include a weight set and pull-up bar. Other pieces of equipment, such as a rowing machine, a climbing rope, and pieces of gymnastics equipment, may also be employed in workouts, but can often be substituted with other items.
While the program can be completed at home, people may also choose to work with a certified trainer at first. A trainer should be able to help the individual determine what exercises are appropriate and what amount of weight or repetitions are suitable. The trainer should also explain exercises that may be unfamiliar, such as the martial arts, combat, or gymnastics training exercises that are often included in workouts.
Some critics warn that CrossFit® is too intensive and can cause health problems. Several cases of rhabdomyolysis, a potentially fatal condition caused when muscle breaks down and enters the bloodstream, have been reported. Injuries from intense activity have also been reported. As with any exercise program, it is typically recommended that people consult a health care provider before beginning the CrossFit® program. Any changes in diet should be discussed with a health care provider, as well.