When people hear “CrossFit,” they usually already have an opinion. Maybe you picture really intense workouts that look impossible, or people pushing themselves to exhaustion. That was me too. I thought it looked a bit extreme, and honestly, not the most approachable. I assumed it was a bunch of movements randomly thrown together to make a workout and was only for people who could complex movements, not for someone like me just trying to stay healthy and move well.
I couldn't have been more wrong.
How I Got It Wrong
At first, I thought CrossFit was about doing dangerous workouts at max speed with no regard for form. I figured if I tried it, I’d either injure myself or I wouldn't fit in with everyone else. but when I actually gave it a fair chance, I discovered something completely different.
CrossFit isn’t just about how much weight you lift or how fast you finish, it’s also about training your body to move better in everyday life. Squatting, lifting, pressing, running, climbing… these aren’t “gym things,” they’re life things. And the best part? Every workout can be scaled to your level. Whether you’re brand new to fitness or already experienced, it’s adjustable. You don’t have to “keep up” with anyone, you just keep getting better at your own pace.
Why CrossFit Works So Well for Health
CrossFit is like a well-rounded investment in your health. Instead of just focusing on one area, like strength or cardio, it trains you in everything: mobility, coordination, endurance, power, agility. All very useful things when building resilience.
And when you look at long-term health, they are valuable attributes that keep you moving confidently, remaining strong as you age and thrive in everyday life. That’s the real payoff.
Rediscovering the Fun in Movement
Here’s the thing I didn’t expect: the fun you have. The workouts are always varied, so you’re never stuck in the same boring routine. One day you’re learning how to deadlift, the next you’re rowing, and another you’re hanging from rings like you’re back on the playground.
It reminded me that movement doesn’t have to be about punishment or “earning your food.” It can feel playful again just like the school days.
Wrapping It Up
If you’ve ever written CrossFit off as “too much,” maybe it deserves a second look. It’s not about being the fittest person in the room, it’s about stacking odds in your favour for better health and quality of life with the added bonus of learning some cool things during the process.
My advice, keep moving in ways that are fun, challenging, and meaningful to you. CrossFit just happens to be one way to do that.
