TRENDS may come and go in the fitness world, but CrossFit is one which seems to be sticking around.

CrossFit was established in America in 2000 and is now practised by 10,000 people across the world.

Worcester now boasts one of the biggest CrossFit affiliated gyms in the Uk - Bullpen Fitness.

We took a closer look at the fitness craze that is sculpting bodies across the world

 

CrossFit is a combination of constantly varied, high-intensity functional movements; consisting of a mix of aerobic exercise, gymnastics, and weightlifting.

Bullpen Fitness opened in Worcester in November 2013 and since then has expanded its facilities to meet demand.

The decision to expand follows the enormous growth in the sport over the past two years.

Affiliate gyms, and its social media awareness, providing endless online conversations.

Company founder and owner of Bullpen Fitness, Fraser Mckenzie believes interest in the sport is still growing.

“I am delighted to be able to take Bullpen Fitness to the next level, providing numerous opportunities for the people in Worcestershire.”

"It’s a very exciting time for us," he said. "Not only now, but looking to the future we have further expansion plans for 2015.

“We will be looking forward to another year of growth in the industry."

CrossFit combined with Strength and Conditioning can offer certain advantages that make them a beneficial addition to an individual’s overall training programme.

In particular, CrossFit burns more calories in a shorter period of time, due to its great focus on intense cardio and strength training.

A workout can last just 10 minutes, but your metabolic rate (the rate at which you burn calories) remains elevated, even when the workout is completed. Therefore you will continue to burn more calories and blast fat.

With the variety of functional movements you endure in CrossFit, this significantly helps to increase mobility, whether this be sitting comfortably at the bottom of a squat or simply getting out of a chair.

IT’S FUN! If you’re the type who gets bored using traditional gym equipment then CrossFit could be for you. The workouts change daily, so there is no danger of you or your body getting bored doing the same thing day in day out.

In CrossFit if you’re not doing gymnastics, you’re lifting barbells, blasting your cardiovascular system, or completing your first pull-up. The list is endless. And because it's adapted to the individual, people of all abilities and ages can do it.

Finally, CrossFit breed’s community, CrossFit works on the basis that working out in a group is known to deliver positive effects. Exposure to social atmosphere helps to build relationships which helps to keep you motivated and interested throughout the session.

Regional One member of Bullpen Fitness, Sarah Hickinbotham, turned to CrossFit about three years ago.

"I got back into fitness about three years ago, having done competitive swimming and kickboxing until my mid teens," she said.

"I got stuck in a rut doing classes at my local gym and wanted to try something that would push me.

"I'd heard of CrossFit Westmids (now Bullpen Ftiness) when it opened in November 2013 but, in all honesty, it sounded a little scary.

"The following July I plucked up the courage to attend a class after several friends told me I'd love it.

"I ended up partnering with Jake Abbott (former Worcester Warrior first-team flanker) in a pairs workout and initially, was somewhat intimidated b teaming with a professional sportsman.

"But, as soon as the workout began, I was hooked. I loved the intensity of the workouts and, months down the line, I love what it's done for my body, and my physique.

“You're constantly challenging yourself to achieve your goals and surpass them under the guidance of some of the most accomplished coaches I've ever encountered.

“What I adore most, however, is the genuine feeling of being part of something special. I joke about Bullpen Fitness being my second home, but the staff and members there really are like family."

Athlete and co-owner of Bullpen Fitness Will Kane says: “I was always sceptical about CrossFit, however after reluctantly doing it as part of a strength and conditioning program for rugby, I can safely say I’ve never looked back.

“I now personally compete in CrossFit,” he says. “However witnessing the day to day improvements in members gives me greater satisfaction than winning a CrossFit competition.”