CrossFit and New Experiences
Not a long post here, but something I've been thinking about more recently as we have a new wave of individuals coming through our On-Ramp Program. If you're one of those people, or you're still relatively 'new' to CrossFit, this post is for you!
Most people that are thinking about joining CrossFit or are in the process of becoming 'regular' CrossFitters think of their success purely in physical terms. "Am I co-ordinated enough to do this," "am I strong enough to do this" etc.. and don't get me wrong, this is exercise, it's going to require you to move and be physical that's just a fact (and something for another post). But don't let that be the only variable in determining your success in CrossFit.
What do you think the difference is between those individuals who see results in CrossFit and become lifelong CrossFitters and those who drop by the wayside? And I'm not talking about athletes or those who join CrossFit after being involved in competitive sports. I'm talking about those who are new to fitness in general.
I'd like to share with you my journey through CrossFit.
When I began CrossFit about 5 years or so ago I was a total newbie. Sure I had done some basic exercise...bicep curls, treadmill...all that good stuff. But I certainly had never lifted before, or done gymnastics, or pushed myself in the physical realm. A friend of mine had tried it over his summer off during University and was swearing by it.
Back then there was only one CrossFit gym in Ottawa and being a poor student I just couldn't afford it so I began trying to figure it out at the University of Ottawa gym. I still clearly remember trying to snatch, clean, and kip and getting glares and stares all over the place.
I wish I was lucky enough to have a community to support me as a beginner.
Unfortunately, university gyms are some of the most judgmental places ever. I felt awkward, uncomfortable, and thought about just quitting and going back to my regular routine many times.
However, I made the decision at that point that I was going to commit and get comfortable being outside my comfort zone. If I didn't then, what would happen the next time I got pushed outside my comfort zone? Would I give up on the next new experience?
So, I put my head down and pushed through and little by little became more comfortable until I got to a point where I didn't even notice the glares at all.
My point is this, in CrossFit (and life in general) to be successful you need to step outside of your comfort zone.
Everyone will have a different approach to dealing with this but here's a tip that will help with the gym.
Think back to a job you had and how you felt when you started. Nervous, perhaps intimidated by others who knew what they were doing already, generally uncomfortable. But you stuck with it, why? Most likely because you had no choice, a job is a job and you need to live! Well think of your health the same way, why should you push through it? Because you have to! Think of your health like your job, it's a necessity!
I know it seems like I'm taking a bit of a 'tough love' approach and don't get me wrong we will do everything we can on our end to make you feel comfortable, prepared, and welcome. But at the end of the day your mentality and willingness to embrace new experiences will dictate and largely impact your success in CrossFit, and life!
Here's to new experiences!