The explosion of CrossFit and Reebok’s Sport of Fitness have resulted in a massive overdose of information and advertising. The message is pretty consistent. Jump into CrossFit and you will be in awesome shape. It is for everybody. You can do this. Be elite! Alright, maybe not the last one. I drink the Kool-aid and definitely believe it fuses all of the necessary components for health; strength training, cardio, flexibility, nutrition, and competition!

The competition can be a big component, and in some instances, a hindrance to your performance and progress. We love to watch the clock and we love to check the whiteboard to look at the numbers from previous classes. Competition is good. Competing against unrealistic opponents is not good. The first few months should be focused on learning the exercises and practicing correct form. You will get faster when the movements become automatic.

Try to compete with yourself primarily. A log book is invaluable and there are a wide variety of apps like MyWOD and Beyond the White Board to help you keep track of your weights and times. Don’t be in too big of a hurry to leave when the WOD is over. Stretch and track your performance. It will help you identify opportunities and celebrate the wins. Make it a point to try and break a record at each workout and celebrate every win. Negative Nancy is very lonely. Positive Paulie is always with a crowd. Compete against people with similar experience levels like those who braved On Ramp with you.

This is by no means a suggestion that you shouldn’t aim high. Constantly pushing yourself is necessary to grow and achieve more in any aspect of life. This is simply a recommendation to keep your aspirations realistic and targeted. Write down your goals and keep track of your progress.

I will be out of CrossFit for the next several weeks. I had knee surgery and won’t be able to have fun for quite some time. I miss it already and it’s only been a little over a week. Keeping it Paleo which seems to be helping with recuperation.

Have fun out there! Lift it, swing it, pull it, press it, and climb it. TIME!