CrossFit Frequently Asked Questions

If you are a rookie in the world of CrossFit, then you may have numerous questions going through your mind. In this FAQ section, we have tried to answer some of these common queries in the best way possible.

1. What is CrossFit?

CrossFit is a high-intensity workout routine which was created by Greg Glassman in the year 2000. The regime is subjected to daily changes and was primarily designed so that one gets better results in a short amount of time.

2. Do I need to have any experience before joining a CrossFit Box?

No, you do not need any prior experience for joining a CrossFit Box. Furthermore, it is a routine which is suitable for people of all shapes, sizes, and fitness backgrounds.

3. What can I expect during my first CrossFit workout?

CrossFit is a group workout routine so you can expect to see a whole bunch of people in the Box doing the same exercises as you. You will also find a trainer or a coach who will tell you the number of sets and rounds of different tasks that you need to perform for the day.

4. What can I expect after my first CrossFit workout?

CrossFit workouts can be very tiring especially if you are a first-timer. That is why your body might go through a shock system as all your muscles, joints, and ligaments are put to full use during the initial workout.

5. What makes CrossFit different from other gyms or exercises?

If you are a member in a gym, then you know that doing the same exercises day in and day out can be very dull. However, with CrossFit, there is a new workout routine every day. Also, it targets your entire body and not just a particular part or portion.

6. What are the foundational or core CrossFit movements?

All the foundational exercises of CrossFit are based on real-life activities. Movements, like running, squatting, lifting weights, etc., are the concept behind the CrossFit workout routine. It was created so that it improves your posture and flexibility.

7. What exercises are included in CrossFit?

  • Air Squat
  • Push Jerk
  • Sumo Deadlift High Pull
  • Medicine-Ball Clean
  • Deadlift
  • Shoulder Press
  • Push Press
  • Front Squat
  • Overhead Squat
  • Box Jump
  • Burpees
  • Thruster
  • Pistol Squat

8. What warm-up exercises can I perform before the WoD?

The most effective warm-up exercises that you can do before your workout of the day are Overhead Squats, Back Extensions, Sit Ups, Dips, and Pull-Ups.

9. Is the weight of the bar included in the loads listed for CrossFit?

Yes, the weight of the bar is always included in the loads listed. The word prescribed weight means the total amount of loads lifted by you.

10. What diet should I follow with CrossFit?

A proper diet is also a crucial element for achieving excellent results in CrossFit. You should always consider eating more vegetables, fruits, meat, seeds, and nuts. Food items with starch should be limited, and sugar must be eliminated from your diet. Following a similar plan will give you enough energy to keep up with this high-intensity workout. But will not add any body fat whatsoever.

Pieces of Equipment Used During CrossFit

Gymnastic Rings

Gymnastic rings are usually considered a good option for upper body workout. But in CrossFit, they can be used for a variety of exercises just by adjusting the strap length.

Kettlebells

Kettlebells are used as weights during numerous CrossFit exercises. Due to their round shape, they add stability or balance and are also easier to lift.

Weight Bench

Almost every exercise in the CrossFit routine has something or the other to do with a weight bench including racks and stands.

Olympic Barbell

Lifting weight is impossible without a barbell. You should always opt for one that has a high weight capacity and a good grip.

Weight Plates

Weight plates are another equipment that is a must for CrossFit. However, make sure that the plates are compatible with your barbell before buying.

Medicine Ball

These are generally used for strengthening the core, stamina improvement, developing reflexes and improving coordination.

Rope Climbing Kit

Rope climbing in CrossFit is not like what you use to do in the gym class. You need to consider different things like risks of burn marks, texture and weight capacity before choosing the perfect kind.

Squat Box

These are exclusively used during a CrossFit routine. Squats, Step Ups, and Jump exercises are a few activities where one might need these boxes.

Common Terminology Used in CrossFit

1. What does WoD mean?

WoD stands for “Workout Of the Day”. It refers to the type of exercises and their sets or rounds that you need to perform for that particular day.

2. What does Box mean?

The center or the gym room where CrossFit classes are conducted is known as the Box.

3. What is a Hook Grip?

Wrapping your palm around a bar and being able to grab as much as your thumb with the first two fingers is known as a Hook Grip.

4. What does Pood mean?

It is a Russian measurement unit for kettlebells. Usually, one pood is equal to 36 lbs.

5. What is Tabata?

Tabata is a kind of workout regime where you do the assigned exercise for 20-seconds and then take a 10-second break. It is repeated for a total of eight intervals or till four minutes.

6. What does Pistol mean in CrossFit?

In CrossFit, a one-legged squat is known as a Pistol.

7. What does Waiters Walk stand for?

Walking an assigned distance while holding weights over your head is known as a Waiters Walk.

8. What are the abbreviations used during a WoD?

  • AMRAP- As many repetitions as possible
  • BP- Bench Press
  • BS- Back Squat
  • BW- Body Weight
  • CFT- CrossFit Total
  • DL- Deadlift
  • FS- Front Squat
  • GHR- Glute Ham Raise
  • GPP- General Physical Preparedness
  • HSPU- Handstand Push-Up
  • KTE- Knees To Elbow
  • MP- Military Press
  • OHS- Overhead Squat
  • TTB- Toes To Bar
  • SPP- Specific Physical Preparedness
  • Set- A specific number of repetitions
  • PR- Personal Record