CrossFit: No Excuses

I went to the gym today.

I realize that’s a very simple, boring statement but, for me, it’s huge. I so did not want to go. I woke up exhausted, and being in an office all day doesn’t exactly scream ‘energy booster’.

I have a headache. My arms hurt. I’m tired. I’ll go tomorrow.

All excuses that don’t fly with my trainer, who also happens to be my brother. They also don’t fly with the owner of the gym, but not for lack of trying on my part, trust me.

“My head hurts; I just want to put that out there,” I announced to the whole gym. M smiled. He literally couldn’t care less. The owner asked if that was an excuse. “No, I’m just letting you know.”

“20 burpees for excuses,” guy in blue shirt says as he walks by. Excuse me? Who the hell are you and, while we’re at it, shut up.

“10 seconds,” the owner tells us.

Well, shit. That didn’t work.

30 clean and jerks (at 95 lbs, thankyouverymuch) – including one that almost took me down with it – and 6 minutes and 7 seconds later, and I was done. Quick and painful.

Did you expect me to say painless? Please. Anyone who has done CrossFit knows that this workout regime brings ‘no pain, no gain’ to a whole new level. I’ve come closer to crying during a workout than I would ever care to admit.

See, my warmup sucked - I couldn't get past 4 full, chest to the ground pushups. I only got 4 55 lb overhead squats. It was tough. But I DID IT. That's they key. Not every workout is going to be fantastic. Just push yourself as far as you can to make sure that you're not giving up on YOU. Because in the end, isn't that who you're doing this for?

Honestly, if you’re looking for a new workout, give it a try. Even if you’re not, I would still recommend it. If you can, try a CrossFit gym. I like CrossFit Oshawa, but then I’m biased because the people and camaraderie are fantastic. CrossFit workouts push you way beyond your limits, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll have after you hit a max rep that’s heavier than you ever thought you could get is second to none.

Besides, you'll never have to worry about your body getting used to the workouts. CrossFit will kick your ass every day, and I both love and hate it for that.

Seriously, do it. What have you got to lose?