CrossFit
CrossFit begins with a
belief in fitness. The aim of CrossFit is to forge a broad, general and all
around fitness. We have sought to build a program that will best prepare
individuals for any physical everyday tasks not only for the unknown, but for the
unexpected. After looking at all sports and physical tasks together, we asked
what physical skill sets and adaptations would most universally provide themselves
to performance edge. Capacity pulled from the crossroads of all sports demands
would simply give itself quite well to any type of sport. In sum, our specialty
is not specializing. Crossfit is a jack of all trades.
CrossFit
is made up of different things. Primarily, it’s a fitness regimen developed by Coach
Greg Glassman over a few decades. Glassman was the first person in history to
actually define fitness into a meaningful, measurable way (increased work
capacity across broad time and modal domains). CrossFit in itself is defined as
that which optimizes fitness (constantly varied functional movements performed
at relatively high intensity). CrossFit is also the community that
spontaneously arises when people do these workouts together. In fact, the
communal aspect of CrossFit is a key component of why it’s so effective.
Today,
CrossFit, the company, provides accredited training seminars throughout the
world. We publish several websites providing extensive free content, including
workouts, training and support for becoming fit, as well as a growing Journal
of extended instruction. We have a worldwide network of more than 5,500
affiliated gyms and more than 35,000 accredited CrossFit Level 1 trainers. And,
we have created the Sport of Fitness, known as the CrossFit Games, where we
crown the Fittest Man and Woman on Earth.
Stress Reliever
How
you can use exercise to relieve stress. If
you don't have a very active lifestyle, and often feel strangled by stress and
depression, you may want to take note.
Here are the main ways exercise and stress are
connected:
Body Systems
When stressed, each of your body systems
(cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory, muscular etc.) need to interact
efficiently for you to respond well. Exercise helps your body systems practice
interacting with each other, in a healthy way. This directly leads to a better
overall response to stress.
Endorphins
These are your natural pain killers that give you a
"high". Although more research is needed, there's no doubt that long
periods of moderate to high intensity exercise, does have a happy affect on
your emotions.
Fight or Flight
This is your natural reaction to any stressful
situation. The problem is that much of today's stress doesn't require either
physical fighting or running. But your body still provides the chemicals for
it, which can be harmful if they remain. The best and most logical way to clear
the chemicals, is to actually do some exercise.
Rhythm and Flow
Some exercise, like running and cycling, lets you
get into a rhythm. That rhythmic flow of a repeat action relaxes your mind.
It's a bit like focusing on nothing and everything at the same time. It's your
time. Just make sure you keep an eye on where you're going!
Socialize
Any sport or exercise with friends, gives you the
chance to socialize, that you may not normally get. "Having a laugh"
with friends is more than just fun. It gives you a chance to share your
problems, and know that someone is there if you need them.
Better Sleep
Lack of sleep often leads to a vicious cycle. You
become more stressed and anxious during the day, which means it's even harder
to sleep at night. Exercise not only helps break that cycle, but can lead to a
positive cycle instead. When you sleep well, you'll have more energy in the day
and be more productive.
Organize your Life
Stress is often caused by a lack of organization and
planning, whether it's in your work life or home life. Following a workout
plan, where you set yourself goals and ultimately have a sense of achievement,
will help you transfer those skills to the rest of your life.
Fighting Your Family History of Health Problems
Health experts have
long noted the importance of physical activity. Exercise not only improves your
appearance. It can also improve your health. Exercise helps to reduce the risk
of some diseases. They include heart disease, stroke, type-two diabetes,
osteoporosis and even some kinds of cancer.
America’s Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention says heart disease is the leading cause of death
in the United States. About 600,000 Americans die of heart disease every year.
High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels in blood can increase your risk
of heart disease. Medical experts say both can be reduced through normal
exercise.
Physical activity is
also known to increase the release of endorphins. These chemicals reduce
feelings of pain. They also help people feel more happy and peaceful. There is
some debate about exactly what causes the brain to release endorphins. Some
experts believe it is the act of exercising itself. Others say it is the
feeling one gets from having met an exercise goal. Either way, the two things work
together when it comes to improving one’s emotional health.
Exercise improves your
energy levels by increasing the flow of blood to the heart and blood vessels.
One of the main reasons people exercise is to control or reduce their weight.
Physical activity burns calories – the energy stored in food. The more calories
you burn, the easier it is to control or reduce your weight.
