CrossFit, some people absolutely love it and some people absolutely hate it. There are only a few who are in between. The “sport” has been the biggest fitness phenomenon of our time. Ten years ago it was virtually unheard of while today you can CrossFit gym or “box” as they call it just about everywhere. There are now over 10,000 boxes worldwide. CrossFit has grown like a weed over the last seven years particularly. Some say it has peeked and is losing popularity while the die-hards say it is still going strong.
CrossFit isn’t without problems. There is the often argued about injury rate along with rhabdomyolysis, kipping pull-ups, expensive memberships and the fact that many think you can’t “get huge” by doing CrossFit. That hasn’t slowed it down though until what might be happening now. In the video below Marc Lobliner discusses with Stephen Adele and Greg from Isatori why Crossfit isn’t gaining popularity anymore.
CrossFit took the fitness world by storm when it first came onto the scene, combining elements of weightlifting, cardio, and gymnastics into a high-intensity workout. But like many trends, it’s facing its own set of challenges that could be contributing to a decline in popularity.
First, let’s talk about injuries. CrossFit is notorious for being a high-risk activity when it comes to injuries. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, the intensity and complex movements can be a recipe for disaster if not performed correctly. This has led to a slew of negative publicity, pushing some potential new members away.
Then there’s the issue of cost. CrossFit gyms, or “boxes,” generally charge a premium compared to traditional gyms. When you factor in additional costs like special shoes, wrist wraps, and other gear, it can be a financial turn-off for many. As people reassess their budgets, especially in uncertain economic times, these extra costs could be a determining factor.
The rise of home workouts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has also had an impact. When gyms closed, people turned to home workout programs and apps, many of which are cheaper and more convenient than a CrossFit membership. The pandemic forced us to reconsider how we exercise, and for some, that shift has become permanent.
Lastly, there’s a sort of “lifestyle fatigue.” The CrossFit culture can be intense, and not everyone is up for that level of commitment. The diet, the gear, the jargon—it’s a lot to take in. As the initial allure wears off, people are realizing that maybe they don’t want to live and breathe CrossFit.
To sum it up, while CrossFit still has a dedicated following, a combination of factors like injury risk, cost, the rise of alternative workout options, and lifestyle fatigue could be contributing to its decline in popularity.
