What is CrossFit? Is it Hiit?
CrossFit was created in the early 2000s by former gymnast Greg Glassman, who believed that true fitness meant being prepared for anything. His approach combined weightlifting, gymnastics, and high-intensity cardio into short, powerful workouts — shared online as the now-famous “Workout of the Day” (WOD).
What started in a garage gym quickly became a worldwide movement. Today, there are over 15,000 CrossFit affiliates across the globe, with millions of people — from everyday women to elite athletes — embracing the culture.
The reason it spread so fast? CrossFit delivers results. Not just in appearance, but in strength, confidence, and performance.
What Is CrossFit?
At its core, CrossFit is a strength and conditioning programme built around:
Functional movements (squatting, pulling, pushing, jumping)
Constantly varied workouts
High-intensity training
Each class blends elements of weightlifting, cardio, and bodyweight training. Instead of isolating one muscle group, CrossFit workouts train your whole body to move better in daily life — climbing stairs, lifting objects, or simply feeling stronger and more capable.
This is why CrossFit is often compared to HIIT: both use intensity and intervals. But CrossFit isn’t just HIIT. It also emphasises strength, skill development, and measurable progress over time.
What Does a CrossFit Class Look Like?
A typical 1-hour class includes:
Warm-up — mobility + dynamic prep
Strength or skill work — e.g. deadlifts, pull-ups, Olympic lifts
The WOD — the workout of the day (e.g. 3 rounds: 10 kettlebell swings, 15 box jumps, 400m run)
Cool-down — stretching or mobility drills
It’s high-energy, coach-led, and usually done in a group setting — which means plenty of encouragement along the way.
Why Is CrossFit So Popular?
Community-driven → you train alongside others, cheering each other on
Scalable → workouts adapt to all fitness levels
Goal-focused → you track lifts, progressions, times, and see real improvements
Empowering for women → lifting heavy, gaining strength, and being part of a supportive culture
Is CrossFit Right for You?
CrossFit might be a great fit if you:
Thrive on variety and intensity
Want to lift heavier, move faster, and train hard
Enjoy competitive motivation
Prefer a structured class with coach guidance
⚠️ One thing to remember: the pace is fast. Start slow, prioritise technique, and listen to your body to reduce injury risk.
Strong, Social, and Goal-Focused
CrossFit is more than a workout — it’s a culture. It’s about pushing your limits, building resilience, and discovering what your body is truly capable of.
For women, especially, it offers a space to grow stronger — physically and mentally — while being supported by a community that values effort over perfection.
If you’re ready to step outside your comfort zone, gain confidence, and train in a way that challenges every part of you, CrossFit could be your next bold move.
And if you’re new? Working with a coach who understands your journey makes all the difference — so you can learn safely, build strength, and feel empowered every step of the way.
