CrossFit and Financially Fit

I first became aware of CrossFit while serving in the Air Force in 2006. At the time, I wouldn’t have considered myself physically fit but not exactly unfit either. My problem was mere boredom. Typical workouts never held my attention and frankly, I always found myself intimidated by the classic gym experience.

I didn’t jump on the CrossFit bandwagon back in 2006 but I developed a pretty decent physical fitness level which was mostly attributable to the months I spent deployed to Iraq. While there, I had some exposure to CrossFit, primarily burpees, air squats and pull-ups, coupled with traditional weight lifting. Upon my return in 2008, yet again, I began getting bored with the typical workout routine.

Fast forward to 2014 – I really needed a change! I traveled to Washington State to visit my sister and her family. During my week-long stay, I had the privilege of working out as a guest at the CrossFit box she calls home. I drank the Kool-Aid – I was hooked. I signed up at my nearest CrossFit affiliate the day after I returned home. It has been great! CrossFit provides challenging workouts that are never boring, strong community, and well, just plain fun. Sure, I’d be lying if I were to say that I’m not somewhat intimidated by learning new exercises or attempting to perfect old ones. However, a slight amount of intimidation reminds me I’m imperfect, always learning, and always progressing.

So, you might be wondering where I may be going with all this? As a money nerd, I certainly understand the discipline required to build (and achieve) a successful financial plan. I also know how difficult and sometimes painful things can become as you try to make sense of all the numbers, wrangling debt, taxes, insurance, investing – not to mention planning for your children as they grow and even potentially leaving a legacy. Yikes! There’s a lot to think of!

The fact is that achieving financial fitness (like physical fitness) not only requires mere discipline but also a format that will keep you engaged to get (and remain) fit. Likewise, you also need to ensure you are performing the exercises and getting the proper nutrition to help prevent injury. Alas, most people attempt to rest on mere will power, go it alone and eventually throw in the towel. Perhaps boredom creeps in or an injury rears its ugly head. In any event, performing the same actions expecting different results is a known definition of insanity.

So, what can you do to ensure you become and stay physically and financially fit? My answer: join a CrossFit community and hire a financial trainer. Whatever your choice, challenge yourself to embrace a bit of intimidation, find something other than routine, and never stop learning.