What Makes Us Crazy For CrossFit?

If you follow trends in health and fitness, chances are good that you’ve heard of Crossfit by now. What’s all the fuss about and where did it come from?

What is it? CrossFit is a fitness movement that was founded by Greg Glassman in 2000, who opened a gym in Santa Cruz, California that year (the same year he was hired to train the police department there). So it’s no coincidence that there are some academy/military-inspired aspects to this style of training. But, if you’re worried that it’s just for jocks, keep reading!

One of my favorite CrossFit slogans is actually something I can’t print, but my PG-rated version of that motto is that CrossFit is “un-mess-with-able!” Here’s why:

  • CrossFit skips the complicated equipment and instead there’s a major focus on functionality and only a limited number of exercises per session.
  • A combination of fierce cardio with strength training, kettlebells, functional moves, gymnastics and even jump rope makes up the classes.
  • The workouts pack an incredible punch – they can be pretty intense and require days off for recovery.
  • CrossFit also offers an extensive Internet community, which is great for sharing tips and keeping each other motivated.

How do I try it? Local gyms and CrossFit fitness centers are popping up all over the world – there are 3400 CrossFit centers across the globe and counting. But, if you’re intimidated by the intensity of the workouts, here’s a mini circuit workout you can try from the comfort of your own home for a similar effect.

It’s a 3-parter. 3 exercises, 30 seconds each, for 3 rounds.

  • Mountain Climber: Starting in a pushup position, bring the left knee toward your chest and rest it on the floor so you’re in a lunge position. Then, keeping hands on the floor, jump and switch your feet in the air, landing (safely) with the right foot under the chest and left foot back. Repeat for 30 seconds and then move on to…
  • Pop Squats: Lower into squat position as if you’re sitting down in a chair, abs engaged and making sure your knees don’t pop out past your toes. Push yourself to standing – but don’t stop there. Without locking your knees, add a little jump into the air at the end of your squat. When you land, lower yourself right back down into the squat. Grab weights for added difficulty. Repeat for 30 seconds and then…


  • Step-Back Lunge with Cross Chop: Reach your arms diagonally across your body to the left as you step back with your right leg and dip into a lunge. PUll your arms across your body to the right hip as you slide your right leg back to standing. Repeat 12 times on each side.

And, if you’d like to get even more fat-burning, toning and strengthening benefits similar to a CrossFit workout, try my Body Blast Solution kit. With 5 DVDs, a core ball, diet book, and easy-to-use equipment, it’s a complete home gym with the power to sculpt from head to toe.