I joined a CrossFit gym a few months ago without much information of what I was getting into. I only knew that it consisted of a variety of workouts to develop strength and conditioning. As time went by, I found out much more…
CrossFit has a fun, engaging and demanding nature. It requires a ‘no nonsense’ mindset, one needs to engage with the workout and do the best. Today was my 54th workout and I have learned not only about exercise technique but about my self, specifically my inadequacies and my potential. I am always surrounded by more experienced people who motivate me, they are friendly and supportive too.
This is a perfect environment in which I have tested my limits and surprised myself, I recently managed to do a few pull ups for example. This may be nothing to some but it was very difficult for me and it took some time!
CrossFit is a lifestyle characterized by safe, effective exercise and sound nutrition. CrossFit Journal
The combination of exercise and sound nutrition is nothing new but it must be underpinned by discipline. Like every new habit I have implemented in my life, I found it hard at the beginning but I got into it very quickly for the reasons I outlined above.
Eat meat and vegetables, nuts and seeds, some fruit, little starch and no sugar. Keep intake to levels that will support exercise but not body fat. “What Is Fitness”, CrossFit Journal, 2002
I have seen significant improvement in my life both mentally and physically. Although I am still adjusting my diet, I am mindful of what I eat and when. I plan my week ahead and balance it with working days and other responsibilities. I wish I had more energy and didn’t need to rest so that I could train 6 days a week, some people have told me that CrossFit may be addictive, I believe them!
A few days ago, I saw an ad in the underground. It had a pancake picture and prompted people to lose weight without having to change their lifestyle or sacrifice what they enjoy the most. I personally find this approach misleading and very sad. Firstly because it doesn’t work, secondly because things that are worth living for take time and effort. It is rewarding to push yourself through a workout and keep going even when you feel you won’t make it. When you push yourself and others push you (coaches, peers), you strengthen your body and mind and are elated at the end. No pancake has given me this feeling and I like to work hard.
There is a lot to learn and I look forward to continue training and learning. I highly recommend you to find a CrossFit gym nearby and to learn more about it, the CrossFit website is very useful.
Happy training!
This post is day 7 of my #100DaysToOffload challenge. Visit 100daystooffload.com to get more info, or to get involved.