CrossFit went through an unexpected decline when the pandemic lockdowns occurred but the exercise trend is finding new life in enrolling senior citizens into its classes.
It’s not that CrossFit never had older people in its classes before. It was always promoted as a routine that adapts to anyone’s abilities. It’s just that now it seems to appeal to those over 60 and so CrossFit is going with the flow.
Three reasons why CrossFit is good for seniors
There are three good reasons why CrossFit is appealing to those in their golden years. The first is because of how movements are structured.
Movements mimic life
CrossFit movements used in its workouts are similar to those people use every day to reach for things, get that dustball from under the couch, or take out the trash. Senior citizens see sense in working on those
muscles because they need them to remain independent for as long as possible.
It’s adaptable
While CrossFit can be intimidating, the routine and daily workouts are adaptable to anyone’s skill level. That means a senior citizen that has trouble with one aspect can forego that or change it to something they can do. That makes the workout likable since there’s no pressure to keep up with the group.
A CrossFit coach typically will help customize your workout so seniors will get personal attention to make sure they stay safe.
It’s social
The CrossFit community is a highly social one. People know and help each other move along in their
personalized routines. Since many over 60 years old live alone, have family elsewhere and are retired, they relish the social interaction.
Can CrossFit help you live longer?
There isn’t a direct study suggesting that doing CrossFit helps longevity. However, many peer-reviewed
studies exist suggesting that things like high-intensity functional training, high-intensity interval training, and endurance training help boost longevity.
A study published in the Journal of Aging Research shows that those who remain physically active can live up to seven years longer. Additionally, 54 peer-reviewed publications that said people who participate in an
endurance-related sport can have “superior longevity.”
Conclusion
No one has to be intimidated by Crossfit. There are thousands of gyms across the country and any of them will be happy to explain how it works and what it can do for you. It never hurts to ask and most will allow you to visit a typical workout for free to check it out.
