How CrossFit Fosters Inclusivity

CrossFit is taking the world by storm. An article on Health.com notes that CrossFit is often touted as one of the best and fastest routes to a healthy body. With the whole workout program based on the fundamentals of functional fitness, CrossFit focuses on using movements that reflect things you do in daily life— like picking things up from the floor, climbing stairs, and carrying heavy bags, among other things.

Apart from it being a good workout for both fitness enthusiasts, CrossFit also builds a community by fostering a safe space for anyone with a passion or interest for the sport.

If you still find yourself intimidated by the sport, here are some reasons why you might 

People of all ages, sizes, color, and gender are welcome

A CrossFit gym in Seattle made the headlines by putting up a sign by their front door that said: “We reserve the right to refuse service to racists, homophobes and assholes of any sort. Your assholery is not welcome here.”

Sure enough, most (if not all) CrossFit gyms try to do away with the stereotypes that come with the sport. The idea of providing a safe space for people to focus on growing stronger is something that resonates inside CrossFit gyms.

People with disabilities are empowered

Because of the sport’s adaptability and how it celebrates personal strengths, CrossFit communities have also been a source of personal growth for people with disabilities. An article from TheMighty.com shows the ways CrossFit is adapted as a way for PWDs to feel stronger and more confident in themselves. CrossFit is perhaps the only sport that recognizes athletes’ unique abilities at the core of its program.

In fact, Bustle.com recently featured 24-year old Wesley Hamilton from Netflix series Queer Eye, who was shot in the spine and was paralyzed. Since then, Hamilton started participating in CrossFit and found inspiration in his disability, founding “Disabled but Not Really”, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering PWDs via fitness and nutrition.

Everyone’s strengths are celebrated

CrossFit’s aim is to welcome people willing to test their limits. This year’s 2019 CrossFit Games was the first one that allowed transgender athletes to compete, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to reach their full potential.

Doing the rounds on the Internet recently is the story of Lauren Bruzzone, a 72-year-old avid CrossFit enthusiast. If you thought you couldn’t teach an old dog new tricks, Bruzzone is there to prove everyone wrong. She started CrossFit at 60-years-old and has been doing it ever since.

For most people, CrossFit is also where they come to accept their body’s capabilities and form, whatever size or shape they may be. Refinery29 highlights a post made by CrossFit athlete Jamie Hagiya reminding readers that CrossFit might not make everyone look like a lean athlete, but it will push you to find your strongest self both physically and mentally.

If you’re interested in knowing more about what you can do for yourself and your lifestyle, be sure to check out the Lifestyle tag on Daydreaming in Paradise!