Officially, CrossFit is "Constantly Varied, High Intensity, Functional Movement". So what does that mean? Let me break it down for you as simply as I can.
Constantly Varied-
We vary exercises and movements constantly, because life is varied, and we do not know what life will throw at us. If we train this way, we are more prepared. However, constantly varied DOES NOT MEAN RANDOM. We vary movements and exercises consistently enough to get good at them, and have upward adaptation.
High Intensity-
High intensity is anything above 60%, and it does not mean maximal intensity. Some think CrossFit athletes go to failure commonly, or a 1RM. This happens occasionally, but not regularly. We do test certain lifts with a 1rm (or 3RM or 5RM or 10RM) so we can check progress. Occasionally we go to failure, but with the right exercise, at the right time, with the right coaching. Moving large loads (high intensity) long distances, quickly, is a great way to measure power output, so high intensity is absolutely part of what we do.
Functional Movement-
Think of this as the movements we do commonly in life. Pick things up off the ground (deadlift). Put something overhead (press). Carry things (farmer carry). Functional movements are typically multi-joint and use big muscle groups. Experience has shown us we get a bigger "bang for the buck" training functional movement instead of isolated single joint movements.
That's it, in a nutshell, sort of. There is actually a lot more to it, and the best way to learn about is to attend a quality CrossFit gym. Contact me with questions at jerrod@crossfitlynchburg.com.