Can You Explain CrossFit’s Popularity Over the Last 18 Years?
CrossFit is a training methodology that has as many adherents as it has critics. One side says it’s the path to all-around athleticism and strong community. The other says it’s expensive, dangerous, and cultish. All this before the fitness craze is even old enough to buy cigarettes.
1996
The first gym offering CrossFit-style workouts opens in Santa Cruz.
2000
Married business partners Greg Glassman and Lauren Jenai start CrossFit Inc.
2005
There are 13 certified CrossFit “boxes” (gyms) in the U.S.
2007
The first CrossFit Games are held. First prize is $500.
2009
Vanessa Hudgens turns to CrossFit to go from skinny to vicious for Sucker Punch.
2010
Coach Paul Fournier implements CrossFit as a training exercise for the Miami Marlins baseball team.
2014
Over 10,000 dedicated CrossFit gyms exist in the U.S.
2018
The Reebok-sponsored CrossFit Games, a four-day event featuring team and individual events, awards over a million dollars in prize money.
