5 common myths about CrossFit
Ever since the inception of the CrossFit methodology by Greg Glassman, there have been rumors and myths about the method and the community. Maybe you’ve heard these ones before, maybe not. But here’s 5 common ones and why you shouldn’t always believe everything you hear:
CrossFit is only for athletes: This is not true. CrossFit is designed for everyone regardless of their fitness level. What you see at the yearly CrossFit Games is the best of the best in the world. World class athletes who dedicate their lives to fitness. But that’s a very, very small percentage of the CrossFit community. The workouts can be scaled and modified to fit the needs of each individual no matter the fitness level or knowledge of movements.
CrossFit is dangerous: I’d argue that the majority of people who say this have never stepped foot into a CrossFit gym. While there is a risk of injury in ANY physical activity, CrossFit is not inherently dangerous. Thanks to things like our 101 program, you’re taught proper technique, by certified coaches who can help minimize the risk of injury. Most injury occurs when an individual attempts movements they’re not capable of.
CrossFit is only for people who want to bulk up: CrossFit can be used for weight loss, muscle gain, or general fitness. It is a versatile fitness program that can be tailored to meet different goals. Majority of the time this will rely on your diet. If you want to lose weight, you’d need to be in a caloric deficit, if you want to gain weight, a caloric surplus.
CrossFit is all about competition: While CrossFit does have competitive events, the average class is focused on the individuals fitness level. Participating in a class alongside other members provides us with friendly competition, a positive support system, and a way for us to push ourselves a little more than we might by ourselves.
CrossFit is a cult: Yes it is….jk. This is a common misconception, but CrossFit is not a cult. The community aspect is where this idea comes from. People who do CrossFit find themselves falling more and more in love with it as they do it. It is a fitness program that has a supportive community of people who share a common goal of improving their health and fitness.
Overall, CrossFit can be an effective and enjoyable way to improve your fitness and health, as long as it is approached with proper technique, coaching, and supervision. Plus you meet tons of people who are trying to better themselves everyday!