With each New Year brings a new round of resolutions and for many people that may include getting back in shape.
However, this year’s resolutions might see an increase in CrossFit attendance.
The workout program has generated a great deal of online conversation about both the success and criticism from participants. Various success stories could be enough to convince someone to try it out.
CrossFit can simply be defined as professionally coached, high intensity strength training over short, medium, and/or long intervals of time. Each workout is designed to push athletes to complete functional movements at a high intensity level.
With hard work, participants often see improved cardiovascular and respiratory endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, coordination, and balance.
“[Before] I had pretty chronic back pain, something I don’t really feel anymore.,” says Melanie McPhail after having done CrossFit for over a year and a half.
The wide variety of movements from each workout prevents the body from building up just one area of muscle. This is something that could easily happen with a single movement, such as running for example.
CrossFit London is one of the few gyms locally to provide this type of training. Head coach and owner, Dave Henry follows a general outline for each workout he teaches:
– Warm up: participants must get their muscles moving and heart rates up to prepare for the hard work ahead
– Barbell strength work: participants complete intervals of squats by gently loading on heavier weights
– Metabolic conditioning: short, intense workouts that combine a variety of body movements with training tools. May include push ups, squats, pull ups, burpees, etc.
– Cool down: participants take the time to stretch their muscles and lower their heart rates.
Many have criticized CrossFit for their lack of weight training and high risk of injury. Henry says he invests much of his time researching these criticisms and find solutions to protect others throughout his workouts. He stresses that his small classes of 12-16 people allows him to teach proper lifting, get to know people on a one-to-one basis, and provide them with individualized workout programs if needed.
“I make time for anyone that asks the questions, and I make time for some of the people that need to be told,” Henry says about his coaching style.
CrossFit London is located in the heart of downtown London.
