The Crossfit Games - North Central Regionals

Who knew watching people work out would be so much fun!?

Last weekend we went to watch our friend George compete in the Crossfit Games North Central Regionals, and were simply amazed.  Never have I seen that many incredibly fit people in such a small space.  It was truly surreal.  The event was held in a large conference center on Navy Pier in Chicago, and even as we walked along the pier we could tell who was there for the crossfit games and who was a tourist.  When the high socks, sharpee markings, and matching t-shirts didn't give them away the sinewy muscles did.



George powering through the overhead squats



We stayed for a few hours and were able to see George's team compete in the team competition which was to complete 250 reps of chest-to-bar pull-ups, 250 reps of kettle bell swings, 250 double-unders, and 250 over-head squats.  Even watching the last place finishers power through this workout was nothing short of inspiring.  As a spectator, I was reminded of my high school track days, and longed for a chance to compete again.  It looked like a lot of fun.  Arduous and painful, but fun.  While, I'm probably years away from even being able to qualify for a regional crossfit event, I can say this:  Stacey and I's workouts have been slightly more intense and inspired ever since then.  Thank you to all those who competed.  Your efforts were an inspiration and a marvel.



I Survived CrossFit!

I thought it might kill me, and it didn't.  We might even be friends some day.

I was really nervous for my first CrossFit workout last week.  I didn't know if I would understand the foreign language of abbreviations or survive the physical intensity that I expected.  Both turned out ok.  I learned some new acronyms and although totally spent afterwards, did not die.

A huge thank you to George at CrossFit Chicago for showing us the CrossFit ropes.  I am not giving up my regular gym membership just yet, but expect we will be showing up for CrossFit from time to time.

My Dirty Little Secret: I'm scared of CrossFit

Yes, CrossFit is scary to me.

I think it has something to do with the extensive use of acronyms, overall unique terminology and affinity for socks.  As well as the fear that I just won’t measure up.  I’m no couch potato, but I’m no high performance athlete either.  When I think of CrossFit, I think of a bunch of athletes – doing handstands.

Oddly, we were first introduced to paleo through someone involved in CrossFit.  We've been living a paleo lifestyle for about 13 months now, but have never crossed over into the world of CrossFit.  I've been intrigued by it, but scared of it at the same time.

I consider my current workouts to be pretty decent.  We lift heavy things, do some sprints and functional types of movements.  We do a pretty good job of keeping it interesting and improving our strength.  But it is just Ryan and I.  I don’t have to worry about how I compare to anyone I am working out with, because I don't try to compare myself to a 6’4” muscular guy. 

The CrossFit style group workout intimidates me.  What if I’m not good enough?  What if I realize that I am not fit at all and can’t do anything?  What if I'm the worst?  I guess we will find out the answers to these questions after my first CrossFit workout tomorrow morning!  Wish me luck!