I can see why people who do it can’t stop talking about it. Crossfit can be difficult but it’s extremely rewarding.
I’ve done CrossFit once before in college and was completely exhausted afterward. I went all out which left me struggling halfway through and I was doing all the reps, all the sets, all at once which is not the best way to go for a beginner. My first workout at The Power House changed my entire perspective.
I signed up for the afternoon Workout of the Day (WOD) class which is the special workout for that specific day. As I walk in, I am pleasantly greeted by the instructor who asks me if this my first time and if any modifications need to be made to my workout for injuries. I’m the first one there and wait as 5 people come in for the class. The class casually talks beforehand and you learn a lot from the conversations that you hear. For example, one woman was pregnant and in her second trimester. Props to her as that is not what I expected coming into a CrossFit gym.
As a warmup we start by running 800 meters outside and by a run, I mean more of a light jog because it’s a warmup. We then foam roll our legs, to relieve any muscle tightness or soreness. The coach goes through each of the exercises listed on the dry erase board on the wall. After explaining, she has us do each exercise a couple of times to make sure that we are doing them properly, answering any questions I had as well. Then it’s time for the main workout.
When the main workout started, I expected an intense workout like last time. This time the coach gave me a critical piece of advice, pace yourself, take small breaks when needed and do the workout with fewer reps. She starts the clock, and we begin at our own pace. Even with reduced reps it’s still a challenge. Each movement is repeated three-time, in a specific order with running in between the movements. Throughout the workout, the coach and the other people in the class cheer you on while you all workout together.
After the main workout there is another part that focuses on a specific muscle group (post WOD). Today it was abs. After the instructor explained each exercise, we began doing them. These exercises wear you down but make you feel great afterward. I did it. I paced myself and was successful.
When I finished the WOD I felt amazing. The endorphins in my brain went off and it was one of the best senses of accomplishment I’ve ever felt after a workout. I felt somewhat invincible, like I could get through anything and win. I’m super excited to see what’s next in my CrossFit adventure.