I started doing Crossfit at the Asylum fairly consistently since July ’09 and since then I’ve noticed significant improvements in my overall health.  All of the physical activities that I’m into doing (hockey, snowboarding, surfing, and of course fire fighting) have become easier since I’ve started Crossfit, due to the emphasis of non-specific exercises.  It wasn’t until recently, however, that I was completely blown away with how much it has improved my overall fitness.

              I’ve been a member of the Boise Fire Dive-Rescue team for almost 8 years.   In order to stay on the team, all dive team members must pass the I.A.D.R.S. watermanship test annually.  This test involves a 500m freestyle swim, immediately followed by a 15 minute water tread with the last 2 minutes requiring both hands to stay above the water surface, followed by a 800m fin, followed by a 100m ‘buddy tow’ in complete SCUBA gear on the water surface.  Normally, the dive team members are given 1 to 2 months advanced notice to prepare for this test, which I have always had to take full advantage of, considering that I’ve never swam competitively and have struggled to keep up with the average diver on the team.  In the past 6 years, my times have decreased, even with preparing a month or two in advance.  This year, however, we were not given any advanced notice or time to prepare.  After initially dreading what the outcome would be from taking the test unprepared, I gave it my all.  With not doing any swimming the months leading up to the test and staying in shape mainly by doing Crossfit at the Asylum, I managed to get the best times I had in 6 years.

              I am now a true believer in the science behind Crossfit. Other firefighters have also found incredible benefits to doing Crossfit and have posted them here.

-Alberto G.