Getting Started

I threw a few hissy fits before I truly gave in to CrossFit. I didn't understand the exercises, the lifting was intimidating, the workouts sounded crazy, and the nutrition too restrictive. CrossFit's trademarked phrase is "Forging Elite Fitness". That word, "elite" was kind of a put-off at first, especially considering the extremity of their workouts. Although it took time, I'm now enthusiastic about CrossFit and the results I've gained from it.

While getting started may be hard and confusing (an uncomfortable break from the comfortable routine) it's worth it. I want others to know how valuable this program can be, and that no one has to over-do it (i.e., blow chunks, injure themselves) to get results. I'm human, and I don't plan on taking that out of the equation. That's what this blog is about.

Few of my workouts are performed without some kind of bitching or whining. ("Why can't I just get on the elliptical," I used to think. "I LIKE the elliptical!"). I spend most days either looking forward to, or dreading the WODs. Learning something new can throw me into fits. Technique, repetition, practicing with a broom stick, make me want to just go on a lazy jog for 30 minutes. However, each new exercise is another layer, all stacking up towards some kind of physical enlightenment.

Which leads me to another part of the equation. Gender. If anything, this blog seeks to indulge in the female CrossFit experience. Mastering exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, power cleans, and front squats are intimidating as hell, and sometimes seem dangerous. (I use that excuse on my whiniest days.) Watching guys blast though pull-ups and perform Olympic lifts does not help a girl's ego. If anything it makes her want to flee to Curves where she might enjoy some gentle circuit training. But I digress, for now, because CrossFit accommodates every fitness level, AND I know good CrossFit people who don't do it to be the best. Every person is out to beat their own best time.

Which brings me to the next factor in this exercise adventure: Age. I'm almost 30. Injuries are creeping into the routine. Metabolism is slowing down. Results are hard-won. All the more reason to stick with CF. (I'm calling it that now, CF). I’m stronger than I’ve ever been, even though I’m older than I’ve ever been. Is there hope? Hell yeah!

Also, nutrition. The number one factor that determines my everyday well being is nutrition. Notice I said well being, not happiness. Brownies bring happiness, oh yes, but apples bring well being. I highly recommend a paleo diet but I bend on this all the time. I won't lie and say I eat paleo. Oh, how cool it would be to say "I eat a paleo diet". But it's just not true. A woman needs chocolate, sugar, wine, things like that, this I believe! I don’t cut the good stuff out. Just cut down.

It's important for me to mention that I don't work out in a CrossFit gym. My fiance and I work in a home/garage gym that he's constructed over the years. The homespun approach to CF can be even more complex but just as fun. It requires a good partner, and a great deal of responsibility to do CF independently. Acquiring the proper knowledge and technique are part of that responsibility, and will ensure the greatest benefit and the least amount of injuries. My fiance has hosted many CF workouts at his garage gym and no one has been hurt. Do your homework before attempting this stuff at home. Please!

That wraps up my equation. Everyone has different variables to factor, and hopefully I'm hitting a place in the CF community that hasn't been covered. Did I mention I'm a girly girl? I can talk mascara and shoes with the best of them, but also enjoy getting stronger, one WOD at a time.