Don’t be cross, be fit

Cross fit, a non-conventional genre of strength training sans equipment, is gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts of the city. With social media buzzing with strongman workouts, facilities offering crossfit training have mushroomed around Bengaluru in the last three years.

A body exercise philosophy, on par with athletic training aimed at developing core strength and stamina, the form was developed in the US in early 2000 and has gained popularity across the globe.

“We were the first to introduce Crossfit in Bengaluru in February 2013 following a year-long trial with a group of dedicated people, who trained at Cubbon Park. Initially, the method had a lukewarm response but today situation has changed,” says M. Pradyumna, head coach and manager of Namma Crossfit line of fitness facilities.

Gaining popularity

The popularity of crossfit training has given rise to dedicated space for such workouts inside conventional gyms and fitness centres in Bengaluru. According to Anees of Fitness Time gym in Frazer Town, a separate arena on par with the weight training facility with traditional rope and lifting exercises was built. “The response for crossfit is overwhelming,” he added.

Called function fitness by experts, crossfit training involves regular physical activities performed in a systematic manner over a given time frame. Exercises include a mix of weightlifting, track and field activities and metabolic conditioning.

Rajesh Amarlal, a real estate professional from Hebbal has been undergoing crossfit training for a year now. “It is better than gyms as everyday there is a new and surprising set of workouts including outdoor sessions. The workout has improved my strength and stamina. I may not have lost a lot of weight but I tremendously feel fit,” the 33-year-old averred.

Injury scare

Crossfit training had earlier come under criticism regarding injury risks. However, training centres in the city claim to have professional trainers who are nationally or internationally certified. “A well researched module should be free of injuries. Problems arise when it is imitated by non-qualified professionals. In exercises like crossfit, ligament strains of the back mainly the sacroiliac strains is common and healing period is more,” says city-based orthopaedic surgeon Sharan Shivraj Patil of Sparsh Hospitals.

The doctor urged that trainers must critically address preconditions pertaining to pains in anyone opting for intensive physical training.