Do you think that CrossFit is only for muscle-bound weightlifters? Think again! CrossFit is a next-level fitness class that combines fast-paced exercises with a strong sense of community. If your goal is to lose weight, you should consider CrossFit workouts.
Let’s review the benefits of CrossFit for weight loss and why you should visit your local CrossFit gym today.
BURN FAT
CrossFit workouts are one of the most effective ways to burn fat. Why? CrossFit workouts are high-intensity with exercises being performed in rapid succession, usually to beat the clock. It’s only after you’ve hit your target reps or time that you can take a break before trying something new and equally as challenging.
High-intensity workouts like CrossFit have been scientifically shown to significantly increase the rate of fat burning in the body through an increased metabolic response and utilization of stored fat. What’s more, HIIT workouts like CrossFit can increase EPOC levels for hours after a workout.
Excess post-oxygen consumption (EPOC) levels coincide with the oxygen debt that is left after a workout. You just worked your butt off, now your body has to work to restore blood oxygen levels. This means increased calorie burning for hours post-workout. (1)
Another great way to burn fat and complement your CrossFit workouts is by using a thermogenic waist trimmer belt. This unique belt has been shown to increase blood flow to the core, supporting the utilization of stored fat as fuel!
BUILD MUSCLE (& BURN MORE FAT)
Lean muscle tissue is important for weight management because it supports an increased level of calorie burning. In other words, the more lean muscle you have, the more calories you burn while at rest.
CrossFit workouts will get you seriously jacked and cut. Workouts range from bodyweight to barbells, but one thing is certain, if you stick with CrossFit workouts, you’re going to build muscle. Most newcomers build muscle and burn fat simultaneously for the first couple of months. (2)
NEVER WORRY ABOUT A PLATEAU
The number one reason that the majority of people stop seeing results and get discouraged with their weight loss is because they stop seeing progress. Things are going great for a month and then the weight loss slows down or stops altogether. The reason? No variety.
If you don’t change up your workouts with new exercises and more challenging acute variables including repetitions and sets, then your body will adjust and stop progressing. CrossFit workouts are always changing, introducing new cardiovascular challenges.
Not only do CrossFit workouts support weight loss through direct fat burning and muscle building, but you’ll also see a huge boost in endurance and performance. The more you push yourself, the better results you’ll see, and CrossFit makes this possible every week.
STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM
Weight loss is in the mind as much as the body. If you aren’t motivated to lose weight, you won’t. Thankfully, one of the most defining features of CrossFit is its strong support system.
When you join a “box” or CrossFit gym, you aren’t just signing up for another passive fitness class; you’re joining a family. Serious CrossFitters are extremely supportive of one another, especially when it comes to life-changing goals like weight loss.
You can rest assured that you’ll have the emotional support you need to stay motivated throughout your entire CrossFit weight loss journey.
BETTER CHANCE OF STICKING TO IT
Continuing with the point above, CrossFit is one of the best ways to achieve your weight loss goal because it keeps things different every workout, you’ll be surrounded by friendly people who are there to support you, and above all, it’s fun!
Put all of these variables together and you dramatically increase your chances of sticking to the workouts and your goals until you achieve them.
WILL YOU START USING CROSSFIT FOR WEIGHT LOSS?
Have you been having trouble achieving your weight loss goal? Think CrossFit can help you? Will you begin using CrossFit for weight loss? Let us know on our Facebook! If you have a video of yourself in a CrossFit workout, tag us on Instagram so we can share it.
REFERENCES
- Boutcher, Stephen H. 2011. “High-Intensity Intermittent Exercise and Fat Loss.” Journal of Obesity. Hindawi Publishing Corporation. 2011. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2991639/.
- Mangine, Gerald T, Jay R Hoffman, Adam M Gonzalez, Jeremy R Townsend, Adam J Wells, Adam R Jajtner, Kyle S Beyer, et al. 2015. “The Effect of Training Volume and Intensity on Improvements in Muscular Strength and Size in Resistance-Trained Men.” Physiological Reports. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. August 13, 2015. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4562558/.
