If you’re new to CrossFit, the language used in classes and conversations can seem like a foreign tongue. CrossFit has its own unique terminology, which can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming for newcomers. This guide will help demystify CrossFit lingo, making it easier for you to understand and get acclimated to the community. By the end of this post, you’ll be well-versed in the most popular CrossFit terms and ready to join the conversation at your local box.
CrossFit Lingo: A Glossary of Popular Terms
A
AMRAP: Stands for “As Many Rounds (or Reps) As Possible.” This term describes a workout where you perform a sequence of exercises as many times as you can within a set time limit. For example, “AMRAP in 20 minutes of 5 pull-ups, 10 push-ups, and 15 squats.”
Air Squat: A basic squat performed without any added weight, using only your body weight. It’s a fundamental movement in CrossFit that focuses on proper form and technique.
B
Box: The CrossFit term for a gym. Unlike traditional gyms, CrossFit boxes are often more minimalistic, focusing on functional training equipment rather than machines.
Burpee: A full-body exercise that combines a squat, plank, push-up, and jump. It’s a staple in many CrossFit workouts due to its effectiveness in building strength and cardiovascular endurance.
C
Chipper: A type of workout that includes a series of different exercises, usually with a high number of repetitions. Participants “chip away” at the reps, moving from one exercise to the next.
Clean and Jerk: A complex Olympic weightlifting movement where the barbell is lifted from the ground to the shoulders (clean) and then from the shoulders to overhead (jerk).
D
Double-Unders (DUs): A jump rope exercise where the rope passes under your feet twice for each jump. It’s a challenging move that requires coordination and endurance.
Deadlift: A fundamental weightlifting exercise where a loaded barbell is lifted off the ground to hip level, engaging multiple muscle groups.
E
EMOM: Stands for “Every Minute On the Minute.” This workout format requires you to perform a specific number of reps at the start of every minute, resting for the remainder of the minute.
F
Front Squat: A squat variation where the barbell is held across the front of the shoulders, engaging the core and quads more than a traditional back squat.
Fran: One of the most famous CrossFit benchmark workouts, consisting of 21-15-9 reps of thrusters and pull-ups.
G
GHD: Stands for “Glute-Ham Developer.” This equipment is used for exercises that target the glutes, hamstrings, and core, such as GHD sit-ups and back extensions.
H
Handstand Push-Up (HSPU): A challenging bodyweight exercise where you perform a push-up in a handstand position against a wall.
Hero WOD: Workouts named in honor of fallen military personnel, law enforcement officers, and first responders. These workouts are typically longer and more challenging.
K
Kipping: A technique used in CrossFit to generate momentum for movements like pull-ups and handstand push-ups. It involves using the hips to create a swinging motion.
KB: Short for “Kettlebell.” A cast-iron or steel weight used for various exercises, such as kettlebell swings, snatches, and Turkish get-ups.
M
Metcon: Short for “Metabolic Conditioning.” These workouts are designed to improve the efficiency of the body’s energy systems and typically include high-intensity exercises performed in rapid succession.
Murph: A Hero WOD named after Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy. It consists of a 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another 1-mile run, often performed with a weighted vest.
O
Overhead Squat (OHS): A squat variation where the barbell is held overhead with arms fully extended, requiring stability, balance, and mobility.
P
PR: Stands for “Personal Record.” This term describes achieving your best performance in a specific exercise or workout.
Pistol Squat: A single-leg squat that requires strength, balance, and mobility.
R
Rep: Short for “repetition.” A single complete movement of an exercise.
RFT: Stands for “Rounds For Time.” This workout format requires you to complete a set number of rounds of a series of exercises as quickly as possible.
S
Snatch: An Olympic weightlifting movement where the barbell is lifted from the ground to overhead in one continuous motion.
Scaled: A modified version of a workout or exercise to suit the ability level of the athlete. Scaling can involve reducing the weight, adjusting the movement, or changing the number of reps.
T
Tabata: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol that involves 20 seconds of work followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated for 8 rounds (4 minutes total).
Thruster: A combination of a front squat and an overhead press performed as one continuous movement.
W
WOD: Stands for “Workout of the Day.” This is the prescribed workout that all members of a CrossFit box perform on a given day.
Wall Ball: An exercise where a medicine ball is thrown at a target on the wall, caught, and then immediately squatted with before repeating the throw.
Y
Yoke: A piece of equipment used in strongman-style workouts. It consists of a frame with a crossbar that can be loaded with weight, which the athlete carries on their shoulders.
Z
Zone Diet: A popular nutritional plan followed by many CrossFit athletes. It focuses on a balanced intake of macronutrients to optimize performance and health.
Understanding the CrossFit Culture
Beyond the terminology, CrossFit has a unique culture that emphasizes community, support, and personal growth. Here are a few cultural aspects that newcomers should know:
Community
One of the most significant aspects of CrossFit is its strong sense of community. Members of a CrossFit box often form close-knit groups that provide support, motivation, and camaraderie. Whether you’re celebrating a PR or struggling through a tough WOD, the CrossFit community is there to cheer you on.
Competition
While CrossFit is a personal journey, there is also a competitive element. Many workouts are timed or scored, allowing athletes to compete against themselves and others. This competitive spirit drives improvement and keeps workouts exciting.
Commitment to Growth
CrossFit encourages continuous learning and improvement. Whether it’s mastering a new skill, improving technique, or achieving a new PR, there is always room to grow. The variety in workouts and emphasis on functional movements ensure that athletes are constantly challenged.
Why Understanding The CrossFit Lingo Matters
Understanding CrossFit terminology is crucial for several reasons:
Improved Communication: Knowing the lingo allows you to understand workout instructions and communicate effectively with coaches and fellow athletes.
Enhanced Experience: Familiarity with CrossFit terms helps you feel more comfortable and confident in your workouts, making the experience more enjoyable.
Safety: Understanding the terminology ensures that you can follow workout instructions correctly, reducing the risk of injury.
Join Us at CrossFit Lanier
Now that you’re equipped with a better understanding of CrossFit lingo, you’re ready to dive into the world of CrossFit with confidence. At CrossFit Lanier, we welcome newcomers with open arms and provide the support and guidance needed to achieve your fitness goals. Our experienced coaches and friendly community are here to help you and support you every step of the way.
If you’re in the Cumming, GA area and are ready to make a positive change in your life, we would love for you to join us at CrossFit Lanier. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, our gym offers a welcoming environment where you can grow, learn, and excel. You’ll truly feel like a part of the family here.
Visit our website to learn more about our classes, meet the team, sign up for a free 3-day trial, and start your CrossFit journey today!
