There really is nothing like going to the gym to brighten your day…but even when you thought your home away from home couldn’t get any sweeter, we’re here to tell you how it can. Here are 9 ways to achieve CrossFit Bliss.

1. Create Camaraderie Through CrossFit

If CrossFit were easy, everyone would do it, but it takes a special type of person to embark on the CrossFit journey. I’m sure I can speak for most of us when I say that there have been times where the only reason I made it through a WOD was because other people were suffering through it with me. That being said, your fellow CrossFit athletes have likely seen you at your worst, so why not build a friendship so they can see you at you best, too?

2. Support Your Squad

Perhaps one of the most rewarding things about CrossFit is the ability to come together for a competition. I’ve found competitions to be one of the best ways to ignite my passion for the sport, whether I’m competing or not. And if you are the competitor, nothing is more motivating than having your squad behind you, repping your box, cheering loud and proud.

3. Participating In Team/Partner WODs

This ties in well with competitions, because they are better with friends! And, if you’re working with more experienced athletes who push you to be your best, they are even better. Even if you’re not competition ready, or have no interest in competing, I encourage you to jump in a partner or team WOD in order to gain more depth as an athlete.

4. Celebrate The Accomplishments Of Others

CrossFit is all about community, so you should absolutely celebrate the heck out of your fellow athletes when they nail PRs or finally get that muscle up! Maybe they outlifted you, or got their muscle up before you, or maybe not. Either way, you should be using their accomplishments as fuel for yours.

5. Appreciate Your Progress Today

Let’s face it, you aren’t going to hit your PR every time, and that’s totally fine (and normal!). Many factors contribute to performance including consistency, nutrition, and sleep to name a few. Be honest with yourself and appreciate your ability to perform today.

6. Ask Questions

While constantly varied, everything in CrossFit is intentional, especially when it comes to programming. Not sure why today’s WOD is the way it is? Ask your coach. Not sure if your nutrition is on point? Ask your coach. Not sure if you’re lifting as efficiently as possible? You guessed it…ask your coach!

7. Set Your Intention

Asking questions gives you the knowledge you need to know why you are training the way you are. The volume of training will vary depending on your overall goal. For example, an athlete training to qualify for Regionals is going to train differently than an athlete simply looking to sustain a healthy lifestyle. So ask yourself, “What am I training for?” and set your goals and your training schedule accordingly.

8. Take Rest Days And Have A Cheat Meal

For the average athlete, over training could do more harm than good. It is important to listen to your body and give it a chance to reset and recharge by taking rest days. And, while you’re at it, don’t sweat it when you treat yourself to a cheat meal! (Read: meal as in 1, not an all day binge!) So, tell me, what’s your guilty pleasure?

9. Enjoy The Ride

CrossFit is tough, but the intention is for you to always be ready for whatever life throws at you. I don’t know about you, but life has thrown me many curveballs. But, because we train just as much physical skill as mental agility, it’s easy to meet the challenges head on and enjoy the ride!

Which of these 9 keys have served you the best? Let us know in the comments below.