There are idiots in every gym, not just crossfit boxes.

I work out at this place by my house: http://www.bodyonefitness.com/. It's a lot like CrossFit in terms of the mix of strength training and cardio. But without the competition, any of the crazy Olympic lifts or tire throwing, and any of the cult-like stuff. I can see how some people might get into that, but it's not for me.

This gym is the only place I know of, even in LA that's doing something like this. I think it may end up catching on. The number and size of classes seem to be growing all the time. I used to do a boot camp down on the beach, but these group training sessions are probably two – three times harder.

We typically do a tough warm-up then three rotations where you're going back and forth between two exercises. But the format can vary all over the place. Some days will be a lot of upper body, others all legs, etc. It's extremely tough, but the instructor varies the classes so you can do it every day of the six days they're open if you want. All of the people of those six days are an incredible shape, and that's all they do. I'm working my way up to that.

I feel like I get a lot of the endorphin rush from something like cross fit, but without worrying about injuring myself or getting a visit from "Uncle Rhabdo": http://www.nytimes.com/2005/12/22/fa...ted=print&_r=0

http://www.crossfitsouthbay.com/word...11/Rhabdo3.jpg

The personality type of many crossfitters is the same as many vegans, paleo dieters, and (to a lesser extent) triathlon competitors, in that they seem to crave attention for their participation in that sport/movement.

It's like the old joke: How can you spot a vegan? You won't have to, because they'll tell you before you even want to know.

A thousand times this.

Of course it's wonderful to design and experiment with new workouts, to consider alternative approaches to traditional exercise, and to attempt to improve physical endurance and stamina. But the mere fact that there is a novel, "improved" exercise routine, is not reason to completely ignore/ eschew other exercise. Worse yet is the attitude.. were it simply "I only Crossfit", that'd be fine, do whatever you want; it's that they seem to scoff at people whose workouts consist of anything that ISNT Crossfit.

I'm in the best shape of my life right now, and I attribute that directly to staying interested in going to the gym. That means kettle bells, tabata, traditional weight lifting, basketball, swimming, etc. That's not too far from the Crossfit mentality, but because I don't do the WODs, I'm sure there isn't a single Crossfitter who would say I'm in better shape than they are.

If you want an entertaining read about Crossfit, plus get a lot of pics of Crossfit girls, google "couch thread" igx.

The same can be said for certain people who are really into anything. Attention whores aren't specific to Crossfit.

I know a guy who recently failed at completing an Iron Man competition who looks down his nose at anyone who doesn't do Iron Man Competitions. I don't assume that they are all like him... but they probably are.