Cross Fitting

This month I decided to try out Cross Fit for several reasons.  I do have a Facebook account so if you’re like me you probably know several people who often post about their workout.  In other posts on FB and discussions I often hear that Cross Fit is cult like; that the members have drank the Kool-Aid.  With all the controversy surrounding Cross Fit I wanted to find out for myself.  Here are two articles on the topic:

• WebMD
• VPX Sports

One day of Cross Fit complete and I will tell you about it but, before I do, I think I should let you know where my opinion comes from....history/experience.  Apart from high-school sports my experience with working out had been off and on throughout my twenty's and early thirties (I'm 39 now).  From gym memberships to participating in triathlons to adventure races, I have always been active and continue to run or bike frequently and have included regular gym visits for almost three years. I am getting close to the fittest I have ever been and I still eat lots of dessert and drink lots of libations. I'd rather work out harder to enjoy those things!  My motto is sweat every day and you will feel happier and be healthier.

Because eating is obviously a passion of mine, I enjoy finding ways to make “healthyfood”taste good.  For example, my smoothie recipe has coconut water, yogurt, chia seed, flax seed, kale, protein powder, blueberries, banana and strawberries.  I do like kale, however; I add it to my smoothies because I don’t taste it and it gives me nutrients.  Grocery store visits are quick because I mostly walk the perimeter of the store for veggies, dairy and bread.  My attempt is to weed out processed foods; of course things like crackers, bread, oils etc. are difficult to eliminate.  I am also starting a 12-day cleanse to maximize my results; pills, drops and cutting alcohol, sugar and flour.

I went with a Cross Fit facility in downtown Denver for three reasons; price, they were offering a deal (Groupon/Livingsocial), proximity to my house and the friendliness of the owner.  The deal I bought includes unlimited visits for a month before 8:00 am (there is a 6:30am or7am class) and five “anytime” visits.  The early classes are “level-1” so they are instruction based; (with that said, I was very tired after class) and have other new-to-Cross Fit people.  I did check out a few other places and they offer a beginner 2-week certification that costs $120   I’m planning to attend three days per week during this month with some extra cardio (biking and running) in between.  

I will update again after a few more visits!