Time for my first taste of CrossFit…the elements session. Most CrossFit boxes make you go through this initial series before you can attend the regular classes. Think of it as a guided introduction to the how and why of CrossFit, as well as in-depth instruction in the most common movements and exercises used in the program.
While GSX usually covers the elements in three 1-hour sessions, I was lucky enough to get my condensed down into one 3-hour session! Chuck led me through the motions of Air Squats, Push Ups, Pull Ups, Sit Ups, Wallballs, Knees-to-Elbows, Presses, Push Presses, Push Jerks, Back Squats, Front Squats, Over Head Squats, Deadlifts, Rows, Kettlebell Swings, Cleans, and Snatches…to name a few. Form was the focus in all exercises. The better the form, the more efficient you are and that’s what CrossFit is all about.
I was surprised how awkward some of the movements were, but elements is about getting familiar with the exercises. Mastering some of the more complex movements will take awhile. That’s what Chuck told me anyway…but maybe he was just being nice. My biggest area for improvement…FLEXIBILITY! Shoulder and hip flexibility was killing me during overhead and front squats. You can guarantee that I will be focusing on improving those.
My head was spinning with all the details from the different movements, but it was time for my first real workout. I knew I could always head to the CrossFit page to refresh my memory of the movements. Also, most sessions at GSX start with skill work that covers the exercises you will use in that workout. Now on to my first workout! You can check it out below. (Remember that I had just done an elements session before…)
My 1st GSX Workout:
