CrossFit is the fitness craze sweeping the nation. It's hard to categorize CrossFit because a CrossFit workout could feature such a broad range of techniques and equipment that it doesn't fit nicely in to one precise exercise category. It's safe to say that, each time you work out you'll be doing something new, unusual, effective and tough.

CrossFit's mantra is "Forging Elite Fitness" which means that workouts are often very challenging- most definitely not for the fainthearted. That's not to say you need to be an athlete to get started as workouts can be scaled so that novices can safely complete them; safely however not effortlessly! There are often various levels for each and every workout for novices, intermediate and advanced exercisers and as lots of workouts are against the clock, you can also regulate your training by going at it as hard and fast or slow and easy as your personal fitness levels allow.

Lots of exercises require little more than some space, an exercise mat, a stopwatch and the desire to work up a sweat while others require access to specialist equipment such as Olympic weights, gymnastic rings, rowing machines, tractor tires and, that exercise stalwart, a jump rope.

Speaking of jump ropes, skipping is an excellent way to warm up before moving onto the more strenuous main CrossFit exercises; many of which include skipping and, particularly, double unders. In case you didn't know, a double under involves turning the rope not once but twice per jump and, once mastered, is a really cool-looking way to crank up your heart rate and burn lots and lots of calories. It goes without saying, double unders require a good speed rope as a slow-moving, thick rope simply will not turn quick enough for you to spin it two times before landing.

The workouts are made to increase a higher level of fitness so that you are pretty much fit for anything. The broad spectrum of workouts are made to improve your:.

1. Cardiovascular fitness

2. Stamina

3. Strength

4. Flexibility

5. Power

6. Speed

7. Coordination

8. Agility

9. Balance

10. Accuracy

These ten fitness characteristics make up what CrossFit's creator Greg Glassman calls the foundations of fitness.

The workouts often have quirky names such as Barbara, Angie, Fran and Linda, however don't let those genteel names deceive you; these are the "benchmark" workouts through which performance and progress are assessed.

Various other exercises are named after fallen military and public service personnel which is fitting as these are the men and women that use CrossFit to guarantee they are fit enough for everything their demanding jobs throw at them.

If you want to increase overall fitness, lose fat, develop muscle and train like an athlete then CrossFit could well be for you. The workouts are fun, varied and tough and the community is a really welcoming one. Give CrossFit a go - you may just love it!