Monday, January 07, 2008

16 Minutes of CrossFit-ness

"CrossFit is a core strength and conditioning program built on constantly varied, if not randomized, functional movements executed at high intensity."

This past weekend I took the opportunity to experience a class at CrossFit Toronto. I've seen numerous articles that rave about this place and have high recommendations coming from friends who've been there, telling me that i gotta try it. So i finally did and wow, what an amazing workout it was!

Once you step into the place, you'll immediately notice its a very anti-gym environment. No big mirrors, change rooms, or fancy workout equipment. The workout facility is basic and consists of an open concept space with a monkey bar apparatus, rings suspended from the ceiling, a dry erase board, and various free weights such as kettlebells, dumbbells, balls, boxes, and kegs. Oh, and a couple of monster truck tires! It's quite the mix.

The workout began with a 5 minute warm up followed by 8 rounds of Tabata intervals alternating between exercises at each pair of stations.

Station 1: Wall ball shots + Ball slams
Station 2: Box jumps + Burpees

In this workout you work at the first station for 20 seconds then have 10 seconds to move to the second station. You then work at the second station for 20 seconds then have 10 seconds to return to the first. Perform each circuit 8 times for a total of 16 minutes.

That's right...this workout was a very short, high intensity, fat blasting 16 MINUTES. Which comes to show that there's no excuse for not having time to workout. You can have a good workout with any amount of time you've got. I must say that I am feeling some soreness in my upper body, abs, and glutes but it's a good kind of pain. That was one of the most intense 16 minutes of my life. I felt pumped and would definitely go back for more.

If you're looking to try something different or need to bust out of a workout rut, go check them out here:

CrossFit Toronto
388 Carlaw Ave. Suite 301 Toronto, ON | crossfitto.com

The drop in fee is $20 but if you're new to this,
your first 2 classes are FREE.

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