The Cult of CrossFit is in Community: The Desire to Belong

Together we are Stronger

There are more CrossFit gyms in the world than Starbucks in the US.

Let that sink in a moment.

CrossFit began its monumental growth in 2000, soaring to over 13,000 locations in 2017. The cult-like fanaticism of its followers has led it to become the most dominant fitness trend of all time.

Why has CrossFit been so successful?

Beyond the tremendous health benefits of the workouts, nutrition, or lifestyle philosophy, it has captured an element of society that has long been disappearing. CrossFit instills a sense of community and social belonging in its members.

Communities are Disappearing

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane (for some of us). Churches were the heart of families and communities for centuries. They would bring families and communities together in celebration, fellowship, and supporting one another in hard times.

Now in the 2000’s, we don’t have the same troubles our ancestors once had, and there’s never been a better time for freedom of speech, global connectedness via the internet, and ability to choose where we live.

As a result, our connections have grown broader, yet research shows they are shallower than ever:

• 16% of Americans have no religious preference (up 800% since 1950)
• 40% decline in community participation
• 72% of people feel lonely

Communities are disappearing and leaving us lonely

Welcome to the Matrix

Today’s quick and easy access to devices and the internet has led to an explosion in how much easier it is to connect, and yet has left us feeling lonelier and more disconnected than ever. Despite the hundreds of hours Americans spend on social media, the divide in real life has only grown larger.

• The average American spends 11 hours a day using media
• Since 2008 youth sports participation has declined 8%
• By age 19, Americans are as sedentary as their aging Grandparents

People are lonelier, less engaged, and less active than ever before. Even in fitness, people are more likely to plug in some headphones and jump on the treadmill than grab a buddy for a nice run under the sun.

Is there a Red Pill? (Matrix fans enjoy)

Community is the Solution

As Churches and garage sales fade, people still have that same desire for connectedness and community. That kind of connection that can’t be achieved through Facebook likes alone.

This would be easier with a friend

Adolescents and adults may turn to traditional gyms or recreational sporting events. The large franchise gyms might give you a warm welcome tour, have some familiar faces, maybe even an occasional spot buddy or two. But, unless you’re very outgoing, it’s difficult to turn strangers into friends or feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself. People are still left glued to treadmill televisions, iPods, and noise-cancelling headphones.

What makes CrossFit Special?

CrossFit offers a completely different experience. Boxes are communities and families. The owners and coaches are spouses, siblings, and best friends. They have community roots and they welcome members warmly into their circle.

WODs may be individually scored, but they are completed with team spirit and group effort. The advanced athletes always rush to cheer on the rest of their class. When you’ve got a squad of people screaming at you to finish a set of rope climbs, you’ll be amazed to learn how much more you have left in the tank.

Birthdays, newborns, and holidays are all celebrated together. Everyone knows when you reach a new PR. Your box mates hold you accountable to missing a class and showing up on time.

Sound like a family? CrossFit combines the best of fitness with the healthy atmosphere of a community.

Join the CrossFit Community

With over 17,000 affiliates world-wide, there’s a likely a CrossFit Box within 20 minutes of your home.

Source: www.map.crossfit.com

When you sign-up for a membership, you’re buying into an experience and a fitness family. You receive the expertise of trained, athletic coaches, access to state-of-the-art equipment and exercise programming, and most of all, entrance into a vast community of fitness fanatics.

CrossFit is growing larger each year. It’s helping people fall back in love with fitness with the help of a supportive and nurturing community.

Have you found your tribe?

Motivation. Information. Preparation.

We want to make every WOD your best WOD.  

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