I joined Crossfit in January of 2008. Crossfit is much more than a gym with simple membership requirements. More than buff enthusiasts, the instructors are nutritionalists that subscribe to a philosophy of living, a physical 'filosophia di vie' of sorts, which transcends simple exercise. Scott, Xi Xia, and Rochelle are compassionate individuals and true exemplars of the practices and ideologies which support what is commonly known as 'Crossfit'. In other words, beyond providing the basics, i.e., the simple guidance as to the proper form of exercise, they offered the personal attention and dietary suggestions that are critical for those (like myself) whom are impatient to see the results of hard work.\r
\r
Portland Crossfit is by no means easy. The daily workouts are intimidating at best. As a friend once said, ""If I'm not scared by the Work out Of the Day, it's not worth doing."" I resonate with this statement. I have now been an active member of the Portland Crossfit community for nine months, and I can say with absolute certainty that each day when I arrive for class I am honestly scared. The reward, however, is in the discovery that the goals are in fact, achievable. By completing the prescribed workouts, we empower ourselves to take steps toward, albeit inch by inch, the goal of becoming more fit individuals. My experiences at Portland Crossfit have afforded new friendships, a new sense of confidence in my body-image, and a total weight loss of 35 pounds. More importantly, I have maintained a commitment to healthy eating habits; I have continued to be smoke-free; and I have reaped the unexpected rewards of imagining that I have a chiseled physique (psychological overconfidence and apparent narcissistic results may vary).
Pros: The workouts should be illegal
Cons: Not located near a zoo
more