By definition, CrossFit is constantly varying functional movements performed at high intensity. Functional movements are compound movements that are safe, natural and performed in everyday life. They are essential to daily activities, and as a result are more important to a person’s overall well being. Variation is emphasized to ensure general physical preparedness, which is the necessary skill se
t and knowledge to perform any given physical task effectively and efficiently. In addition, variation allows athletes to become proficient in a wide range of movements and skills rather than specializing in just one skill. These generalists, otherwise known as “jack of all trades” are found to be fitter than their specialist counterparts as measured by work capacity over time, also known as power or intensity (CrossFit Journal). Combining these elements and applying them over a person’s lifetime defines fitness and the purpose of CrossFit.
