As an experienced CrossFit athlete and coach, I have learned some valuable lessons along the way. One of the most important things I’ve learned is to not judge a book by its cover, or in this case not judge a gym by its machines.
As an experienced CrossFit athlete and coach, I have learned some valuable lessons along the way. One of the most important things I’ve learned is to not judge a book by its cover, or in this case not judge a gym by its machines.
I recently spent some time working out in a globo gym, due to an injury rehab program. I was extended a very warm welcome, from day one. Although this was an ideal place for my rehabilitation, I was still skeptical on going back to a globo gym, which I swore I would never do. I had several misconceptions of what my experience would be like, and it was an eye-opener for me. I will give the disclaimer that this facility, in addition to being a globo gym, does have a sports performance area, is independently owned, and belongs to no franchise or licensing body.
The first thing that surprised me was that it actually reminded me of my CrossFit beginnings. A lot of people went out of their way to introduce themselves to me. From that point on my mind opened up and allowed me to reflect on some misconceptions. Here are the misconceptions I had, which you may share, and what the reality turned out to be:
Misconception #1: Everyone there is just there to look beautiful
You will find a lot more figure and bodybuilding competitors, or even people who just want to put on some beach muscle at a globo gym than you would at your typical CrossFit box, but it doesn’t mean everyone there is trying to be one of “the beautiful people.” Through candid conversations, I discovered most of the people are very conscious about their health. The word paleo does make sense to people here. But vanity does come in all shapes and sizes, and in the end we all share something in common, aside from feeling great, it doesn’t hurt to look good naked.
Misconception #2: It’s full of no-neck meatheads who spend too much time in the mirror and not enough time on functional movements
You can find a wide variety of people within a globe gym, I myself have worked in with a professional hockey player, a very accomplished powerlifter, and a bodybuilder all in the same workout. All very driven, goal oriented, and passionate people. I was surprised by the attention to form and discipline in resting periods. We all benefited from each other’s respected areas of experience and were able to share some solid advice. I’ve seen amazing feats of strength there that I have yet to see in a CrossFit box. Respect.
Misconception #3: There is no community
CrossFit boxes pride themselves on being a community within a larger community. No globo gym that I am aware of is part of community as large as the CrossFit family, but community does exist, and it is stronger than most people expect. There is a lot of camaraderie and encouragement to be found, it can be even more diversified that the average CrossFit box.
Misconception #4: Most people don’t know what they are doing
As a CrossFitter, we assume most people don’t know what they are doing and just “go to the gym.” We assume almost everyone has terrible form, and is only concerned with lifting heavier. CrossFit has been accused of the later numerous times, yet as CrossFitters we typically assume we have it right and everyone else has it wrong. Truth is, bad form does not discriminate.
Misconception #5: CrossFit is better
CrossFitters are loyal to their WODs. We believe that CrossFit is not only the best way, but the only way. But there are people who have goals that don’t involve CrossFit-type training. Some people see the results they desire from using machines and mirrors. Some people have no interest in performing constantly varied, high intensity movements. Some do not see routine as the enemy.
Conclusion
The globo gym is not ideal for me, but it does have a purpose for others. My mind and spirit belong to functional fitness and CrossFit. CrossFit has opened my eyes in so many ways, and in this instance it showed me how to get comfortable with the uncomfortable, to make the most of every training day, and above all keep an open mind when it comes to fitness. Although our goals may differ, in the end those of us who train, regardless of methodology, all believe in the same thing. We are all part of an even bigger community, the community of fitness.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock.
