by Anthony Francisco

Created on: April 17, 2009   Last Updated: May 25, 2009

As a dedicated practictioner of Crossfit, I am a firm believer of the Crossfit philosophy. So, what is the Crossfit philosophy? Simply, the program consists of "constantly varied, high intensity, functional movements" that aims to prepare each trainee for the unknown or the perils of real life situations. By combining the variables of Olympic weightlifting and Gymnastics, while improving the ten general fitness principles: cardiovascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy, Crossfit will produce a well balanced athlete, one that is prepared to test the boundaries of human performance.

Who uses Crossfit?

Crossfit has become the choice strength and physical conditioning program for the Military's elite, top martial artists and other professional athletes worldwide. It has advanced beyond the ranks of a normal physical regimen, attracting those who depend on their physical attributes to effectively do their job. Yet, Crossfit is also practiced by kids, expecting mothers, and other gym goers just looking to shed a few pounds. Often enough, a person of average fitness will fully embrace the Crossfit philosophy. Initially it will be an uphill battle, but with consistent effort and focus, this person will rise to the ranks of an elitist. An athlete capable of monumental feats, a hundred pull ups at any given moment or 135 lb. overhead squat with ease. True to the Crossfit motto, "Forging Elite Fitness," this person will never be the same.

The methods

Crossfit is always varied, combining the most complex barbell moves with basic calisthenics exercises such as pushups, pull ups, and sit ups, done at a blazing pace with perfect form. Sometimes a workout will consist of high volumes of any one exercise, such as a hundred burpees, or broken up into sets of different moves. On any given day, a Crossfitter may expect to run, row, pull, push, climb, squat, lift, or jump. Maybe walking blindly into a puke session is not the most idealistic workout program, but the results will speak for themselves. Often referred to as an adventure sport, the unknown provides the ultimate advantage.

Why Crossfit?

I choose to do Crossfit because it is fun, challenging, and yields the kind of results that I am looking for. I no longer fear pull ups, or long distance runs, or pretty much any physical activity. I have made noticeable improvements in the sports I play, without excess sport specific training. Simply, I do what I used to do better, faster, and with little effort. I am no longer shackled to the confines of a preset workout methodology. I am constantly learning, growing, and adapting the challenges I face every day. When I venture into the unknown, I will be ready. When I step outside into the playground of the world, I will be ready. And when I pursue the enemy on the field of battle, I will be ready.

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