What is CrossFit?
Learn from MFP Owner, Marco Dapkey, about the Magic, Art, Science, and FUN!
Being Present: Wholistically Engaged, Ready to Embrace
At the onset of my journey, I turned to CrossFit for healing and purpose. Initially, my attraction lay in its competitive nature. Yet, I soon realized that my true calling did not reside in competition. My fulfillment came from assisting others in attaining a more enriching existence – aiding them in unlocking their full potential.
Therefore, before delving into the realm of CrossFit, it is crucial to ponder: What am I seeking from this? What drives me here?
To grasp the essence of CrossFit and oneself, an open mind is imperative. As an affiliate owner, it is my responsibility to impart knowledge and enlightenment. The educational journey offered by CrossFit is unparalleled. It transformed my life, and I aspire for a similar impact on yours.
The CrossFit Timeline: Greg Glassman and CrossFit's Evolution
Greg Glassman, the visionary behind CrossFit, may not be a household name for newcomers to the fitness phenomenon, but for those of us who have been part of the community for some time, his impact is undeniable, sparking both admiration and debate. I choose to steer clear of delving into the controversies surrounding Glassman, instead, focusing on his profound influence in transforming countless lives for the better. Let's direct our attention to his mission and his unwavering dedication.
Glassman's philosophy revolves around these core tenets:
- Prioritize consistent, quality movement.
- Shed the ego and prioritize the journey over short-term gains.
- Progress to higher intensity levels once movement mastery is achieved.
At its essence, CrossFit, as envisioned by Glassman, is a methodical and quantifiable approach to improving fitness. While it challenged traditional fitness norms and raised some eyebrows in the industry, it was crafted with safety, efficacy, measurability, and inclusivity at its heart. Despite facing unwarranted criticism and legal challenges, CrossFit prevailed, cementing its status as a versatile and transformative fitness regimen for individuals from all walks of life.
CrossFit Aim and Prescription
CrossFit is officially defined as “Constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity”.
A functional movement in the gym supplements your life outside of it. Training functional movements allows you to live life to its fullest, play more sports, run with your grandkids, get up off the ground, push and pull heavy weights, I think you get the point. In other words, your CrossFit training means that you are training to live life, building resilience to have as few limitations as possible. That’s the magic in the movement.
At a CrossFit Level One seminar, there are 9 foundational movements that you would learn. You should master these functional movement patterns before you try to get sexy with intensity.
CrossFit standardizes movement patterns and emphasizes variance for diverse progression. The program fosters physical aptitude and resilience in individuals of all backgrounds. After mastering movements, intensity is introduced, requiring proper utilization and earned commitment for efficiency.
Defining Real Fitness
CrossFit characterizes a comprehensive fitness regimen as one that enhances work capacity across diverse time and modal domains. Physical potential entails not just surviving, but thriving; it involves conditioning our bodies to achieve more as we mature. It encompasses elevating all facets of our well-being – our strength, speed, power, endurance, and beyond. Rather than specializing in one area, it involves mastering multiple disciplines. This is the essence of true fitness according to CrossFit, which delineates and assesses the authentic meaning of being fit.
An exemplary illustration of defining genuine fitness includes:
- Completing a mile in under 5 minutes
- Deadlifting 500 pounds
- Executing 50 pull-ups
- All consecutively.
Fitness is subjective, yet this is the remarkable benchmark set forth by CrossFit for its community. Pay close attention to these fundamental concepts while viewing the accompanying video presentation.
The 10 Components of Fitness:
- Cardiovascular/respiratory endurance: Think O2!
- Stamina: Energy Efficiency
- Strength: Absolute Force
- Mobility/Range: ROM
- Power: Rapid Force
- Speed: Less time from A to B (Also, cyclical time of repeated movement)
- Coordination: Neurological/Movement Patterns
- Agility: Less transition time
- Balance: Center of gravity
- Accuracy: Movement Control (direction/intensity)
Domains: Monostructural, Run/Bike, Row/Swim, Jump, Gymnastics, Bodyweight, Push, Pull, "SLIPHS", Weightlifting, External Load.
Metabolic Pathways: Phosphagen, Short (1-10s to 30s), Anaerobic (Phosphocreatine), Maximum intensity, Glycolytic, Medium (30s-2:00 to 20:00), Anaerobic-Aerobic, Moderate to Threshold intensity, Oxidative, Long, Aerobic (think breathing), Low intensity.
Debunking CrossFit Stigmas
CrossFit saw a remarkable surge in growth during the decade spanning from 2010 to 2020 due to its remarkable ease of entry. With just a single weekend commitment to the Level One Seminar, individuals can swiftly become certified CrossFit coaches and even launch their own fitness facilities. This accessibility, while truly commendable, has had its complexities. On one hand, it has facilitated the rapid proliferation of gyms across the globe. Glassman's entrepreneurial spirit was undeniably a driving force behind this expansion, although at times, it led to certain shortcomings. Despite this, my overall experience with CrossFit has been overwhelmingly positive, chiefly due to its distinctive emphasis on inclusivity and approachability. It's a movement that champions fitness and transformation, ultimately contributing to a world that is better for it. While not all fitness centers may measure up equally, the significant impact of this movement cannot be understated. Should you have any inquiries regarding common misconceptions surrounding CrossFit, feel free to reach out to me; I'd be more than happy to engage in a conversation with you.
MFP Approach to CrossFit
MFP is about having:
- A wholistic approach
- Intensity protocols
- Injury management
- Structural balance
- Longevity
Are we conventional here? Not quite, and that's the beauty of it! CrossFit was never intended to be ordinary or one-size-fits-all. It's about finding equilibrium and embracing variety. It's about prioritizing fitness for improved health and longevity, so we can lead better, longer lives. There is no one-size-fits-all fitness formula. CrossFit encourages us to approach life with a curious mindset. At MFP, we embrace curiosity and are dedicated to a holistic journey.
Words alone can't capture the essence of both the CrossFit and MFP experiences. To truly grasp the essence of CrossFit, you must take a leap of faith and step into a CrossFit gym. Immerse yourself in the energy of the movements and the camaraderie of the community. You'll discover that it's an unparalleled experience. CrossFit transforms lives. CrossFit MFP transforms lives – I've witnessed it firsthand. Whether you're new to CrossFit or considering starting your journey, I hope this resonates with you. Remember, it's all about well-being. Health will always be the priority, and it doesn't have to be complicated. Take that first step and discover CrossFit for yourself.
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