Crossfit has a negative connotation to those outside of the CrossFit community.
Many believe that it's a group of crazy athletes with weird workout objectives, and maybe they're right, but CrossFit has one of the most empowering communities of any sport.
Recently, I was in a CrossFit class trying to complete a pretty difficult workout with a lot of running. As I ran past the other athletes, I kept hearing "Almost done" or "You're killing it! Keep it up!" People find CrossFit to be intimidating.
Honestly, I did too when I first began, but you soon find out that no one cares if you scale a workout.
No one cares if you finish last or can't lift as heavy of weights. People care that you are putting your all into whatever it is your doing. It is great to finish first, but in the CrossFit community, people are sitting there cheering you on even when you are the last to finish.
I've visited a few other gyms here and there whether it was for a competition or any other reason, and I've always found crossfit to be one of the most welcoming. You can be a complete stranger and they treat you as if they've known you forever. It really drives in the feeling of community that not many other forms of fitness have. It's also one of the few communities that treats its athletes as equals.
Never once have I heard a sexist comment from a male athlete or vice versa. If any female athlete were to have a faster time than a male or lift a heavier weight, it's always words of gratitude and encouragement. The same goes for athletes with disabilities as well. Numerous military members are also part of the community, many of which have lost limbs or full-body mobility. These athletes have never turned away and are not looked at any differently than fellow members. Necessary adjustments are made to provide the athlete with the proper tools needed, but they are not and will never be overlooked.
As a community, we hold each other accountable. We push each other to become the best versions of ourselves inside and outside of the gym. The crossfit community has become an outlet for so many individuals and allows each person to build lasting friendships with others. The challenges that crossfit provides you with brings athletes together and demonstrates the importance of wellness and kindness among its members.
"Surround yourself with those who challenge you, push you and motivate you."