What Is CrossFit And Is It Good For You?

CrossFit is a lifestyle that includes a high-intensity workout regimen that incorporates plyometrics, gymnastics, bodyweight exercises, Olympic-style weightlifting, and endurance training. It also encourages eating a healthy, balanced diet to help you reap the rewards of the program.

Many CrossFit exercises include explosive movements in a circuit style. The workouts aim to strengthen the entire body with exercises like power cleans, burpees, and snatches. Other exercises include jumping rope, pushups, pullups, and climbing ropes. Most of the movements are done in a rapid motion with little rest time in between (via WebMd).

The CrossFit nutrition plan encourages eating meat, vegetables, nuts, some fruit, very few starches and no sugar, with a balance of 40 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent protein, and 30 percent fat.

There are several benefits to CrossFit. For one, you will get stronger. Lifting weights is beneficial not only for building muscle but also improving cardiovascular endurance, stamina, balance, mobility, and coordination. You will burn calories with the workouts, which is good news if you want to lose body fat. You'll probably sleep better, too (via Shape).

Because CrossFit is a high-intensity program, it is suited for healthy, fit individuals who can endure vigorous workouts. However, it can still be tough for people who are physically fit.

A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research examined the frequency of injuries in athletes who participated in CrossFit routines. Out of 132 people, 97 sustained an injury, with most involving the spine or shoulders. A total of 189 injuries were reported, with nine of those requiring surgery (via Europe PMC).

Among the general population, common injuries associated with CrossFit workouts include rotator cuff and Achilles tendonitis, low back pain, knee injuries, and tennis elbow. If you have previous injuries or a health condition, you might want to consider a less risky regimen. In addition, people over the age of 65 should consult with their physician before embarking on a CrossFit journey (via Healthline).