C RO S SF I T
We know it’s hard, we know it will whip us into shape, but we wanted to know more about what exactly
CrossFit entails. So we talked with Dr. Jennifer Brady-Murzyn, co-owner of CrossFit Athletics in Southside Pittsburgh to get the skinny.
produced by KIMIKO MAINPRIZE, photo via CROSSFIT ATHLETICS
YOU'RE THE CO-OWNER OF A CROSSFIT GYM- CAN YOU
TELL US MORE ABOUT WHAT CROSSFIT IS?
CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program which utilizes a variety of exercises in order to maximize strength and
endurance. It is scale-able to all levels of fitness. CrossFit
focuses on all domains of fitness such as strength, endurance, flexibility, power, speed and agility.
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH CROSSFIT? WHY?
I had heard about it from a mentor in California before it
became popular and gave it a try on my own. At the time I
was a competitive triathlete and thought that I was in good
shape. I got crushed on my first workout and have been
hooked ever since. I realized that I needed more strength
training in my routine. Even though I could run a 22 min
5k; I was not able to do a pull up or lift that much weight. I
ended up being able to improve my 5k time to 20:47 with
CrossFit training.
WHY DO YOU THINK CROSSFIT IS SUCH A GREAT WORKOUT?
We use a variety of training modalities which translate into
functional movements in everyday life. The workouts never
get easy. You are always trying to improve from the last
session by either moving faster, adding more weight, or performing a more advanced movement.
FOR THOSE OF US WHO HAVE NEVER TRIED IT, WHAT
CAN WE EXPECT FROM OUR FIRST FEW SESSIONS?
Expect some of the movements to take some time to learn.
Be prepared for some challenges but also the great feeling
of accomplishment and support from working out in a group
setting.
WHAT IS THE TOUGHEST THING ABOUT CROSSFIT? THE
BEST PART?
The toughest thing about CrossFit is realizing that it may
take time to achieve some of your fitness goals. For example, if you cannot perform a pull-up, it could take several months to build up the strength to do one without assistance. We do have exercises that people can substitute to
get there. The best thing about CrossFit is how rewarding
it is to achieve those goals that you did not think were possible. We also have a very encouraging community which
draws a lot of people to CrossFit. The camaraderie and
social aspect is a unique part of the CrossFit culture.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR LIVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE?
Nutrition is a key component! You cannot out train a poor
diet! An exercise program that includes both strength, endurance