I Am NOT A Victim

Written by CFK’s self-defense coach and PROTECTOR-IN-CHIEF…

Jeff Cravens

Thought for the moment: I am not a victim.

A defining characteristic of a victim is the loss of control over one’s life. Global pandemic. Mandated closures and lock-downs. Economic upheavals. Easy to feel victimized. But I don’t want to be a victim! So, I’ll be something else.

Most of us recognize this picture… it’s Tom Hanks and his buddy, Wilson, from the movie *Cast Away*.

Many may believe Wilson was created simply as a companion to the marooned and lonely Hanks. But the movie writers understood a very important principle in the psychology of survival.

Wilson was actually much more significant than just a friend. Wilson couldn’t do anything for himself… he needed help. Wilson NEEDED Tom Hanks. And that need elevated Hanks from victim, to RESCUER.

Were you a little surprised by the depth of emotion Hanks showed when Wilson was lost at sea? He hadn’t just lost a friend. In his mind, he had failed his main mission… his reason for surviving: to rescue his friend, Wilson.

So, back to you and me. Don’t want to be a victim? Then be a rescuer!

Find a way to serve someone. Make a gift for a friend, or mow a neighbor’s yard. Write letters to people you know… or don’t know (many are “trapped” in assisted living facilities).

Make someone smile. Get outside yourself.

For us “crossfitters” specifically, hit “like” on someone’s workout score… some of us are jazzed by that! Post your WODs or thoughts about your WODs on social media… major props to Diana Koza for that hilarious post-WOD face-plant pic!!

There’s one more survival tip from Cast Away I want to point out…

Give yourself a mission.

Tom Hanks had that one FedEx package he HAD to take back to the owner, it was his mission. What’s your’s?

Could be anything… a fitness goal, the “Twenty Committee” board, a weekly uplifting word to your family/friends… anything that is out in front of you, and requires you to do the next right thing.

So, hang in there my friends!! Be a rescuer, and make someone smile today.

In addition to being a regular CFK 5:30 am’er, Jeff Cravens is a black belt in Krav Maga and also studies Muay Thai kick boxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He is an instructor at the National Martial Arts in Oak Ridge, and previously served 5 years in the Tennessee State Guard.

Interested in learning self-defense? Shoot us a note HERE and we’ll send you details on our upcoming workshops!

Looking for At-Home Fitness?

Choose from one of our…

FIVE UNIQUE PROGRAMMING TRACKS!

Click HERE to schedule a free virtual consult with one of our professional coaches.

April 5, 2020

Introducing… CFK Go!

It’s GO Time! CFK Go is all about convenience, hard work, and results. In a fitness world where everything is too complicated, we’ve stripped things down to create an easy to use and insanely effective new workout track.

CFK Go doesn’t mess around – we get after it every workout, every day, every week with a training program built around dumbbell-focused, time priority, high-power output workouts. We took everything we love from different disciplines and brought them together in one simple, effective program.

Specifically, CFK Go combines the power of functional movements with the regime of traditional strength and conditioning. Each week of training consists of Full-Body and Push x Pull days through the week, and special weekend focuses of Saturday Squats and Sunday Sweat.

Scroll to the bottom to get a free sample week of workouts!

CFK Go Weeklong Snapshot…

MONDAY — Full-Body
TUESDAY — Push x Pull
WEDNESDAY — Body Pump & Full Body (Grind)
THURSDAY — Push x Pull
FRIDAY — Full-Body (Sprint)
SATURDAY — Saturday Squats
SUNDAY — Sunday Sweat

Whatcha Need for CFK Go…

Now, to get started with CFK Go, you can get by with only (1) pair of Dumbbells even if you don’t have a Jump Rope. The Jump Rope is highly recommended, but you can perform most of our CFK Go workouts by making a few easy substitutions.

Without a Jump Rope, you could substitute Mountain Climbers, Running in Place, “Phantom” Jump Rope Hops, Jumping Jacks or Plate Hops. These fast-paced cardio moves will give you a similar stimulus to the Jump Rope.

When choosing your Dumbbells to start CFK Go, we suggest you select your starting pair based on your goals. Are you STRONG, FIT, or CARDIO focused…

CFK Go | Your DB x Your Goals…

This is, of course, relative to each individual, but we can break it down by your individual goals and fitness levels.

If you’re new and just learning the movements, go for a lighter pair (10-20lbs) and shoot for a cardio-focused approach. Otherwise, see below:

STRONG — If you’re looking to get stronger and build more muscle, we recommend a pair of DBs between 50lb-35lb.
- Athletes with this goal should be able to perform 5-7 unbroken reps of most movements with their DBs
FIT — If you’re looking to develop amazing fitness and lean muscle, we recommend a pair of DBs between 40lb-20lb.
- Athletes with this goal should be able to perform 10-12 unbroken reps of most movements with their DBs
CARDIO — If you’re looking to get more cardio and burn fat, we recommend a pair of DBs between 25lb-10lb.
- Athletes with this goal should be able to perform 12+ unbroken reps of most movements with their DBs

A Few Final Points…

What if You’re Just Learning the Movements?

As with any new program (or new movements), it might take some getting used to the weight as you learn the ropes. We always recommend that you focus on moving well and at a pace that you are comfortable with. You are always in control of the intensity in every workout. If you want to push it a little more on some days, go for it. If you want to pull it back a little on other days, it’s all good. Always do you!

What if You Want a Little Bit of Everything?

We love that! Our recommendation would be to have a pair of DBs that are a little bit on the heavier side for you, another pair that’s a little bit on the lighter side for you, and a third pair that is right smack in the middle between heavy and light. This way you can mix up the DBs you choose for each workout depending on your goal!

Get your FREE sample 1-week program!

Just fill out the form below and we’ll send you your first week of workouts!

Name
First Last
Email
Phone
Primary Goal
- Lose weight
- Gain strength
- Stay fit
- Improve long term health

March 21, 2020

Week In Preview, March 22nd, 2020

“Don’t paint a dirty car” (on hiding poor form with more weight and/or speed).

-Greg Glassman

The Shutdown, Week 1

We’re as bummed as you to have to stay out of the gym for two weeks, but stay positive! It could always be worse, and as we’ve been saying, FITNESS ISN’T CANCELLED!

The gym is closed & the weather is gloomy, but you can’t control that. If fact, if you think about it, you have very little control of anything! However, the few things you DO have control over can mean everything, when given the right amount of focus. Here is the comprehensive list of everything that is 100% within your control:

Your thoughts
Your actions

Stay positive, and look for the opportunities in every situation. The obstacle IS the way! Gym closed? Here’s a chance to become a better runner. Raining outside? Burpees in the living room (or, run in the rain!!). When you see the opportunity, instead of the obstacle, you become UNSTOPPABLE!

Of course, we’re still here for you and will continue providing massive support, accountability, and guidance. Here are a few things we have planned.

Home Workouts

We will now have 2 programming tracks to follow. The Home/Travel WOD program will have the backpack workouts we’ve been putting out. The CFK Power program will be strength + metcon style, and all you’ll need is a set of dumbbells.

Equipment Loan

We’ll loan out certain items, free of charge, for the next 2 weeks. An email outlining the details of this program will come out Sunday afternoon, so stay tuned. Pick-up will be from 1 pm – 3 pm on Monday, at each location. Priority will be first-come, first-served so if you’d like something, we recommend showing up at 1 pm!

Remote Classes

Download and sign-up on Zoom to join us for live workouts starting this week!

Knoxville “Strong at Home” Health and Fitness Challenge

Sign-up on the Wodify Rise app for the 4-week challenge. Daily tasks that will help you beat cabin fever and build habits that create lasting success. It’s FREE-Ninety-Nine (everyone’s favorite price!), and open to everyone so share the link with anyone you think it would help! Sign-up HERE.

CFK Supplement Spotlight

Puori C3

In search of a recovery game changer? Vitamin C has been known to restore the immune function of athletes after hard workouts. C3 combines potent antioxidant blends and powerful energy boosting ginseng to pack a punch in your next workout. The coaches all agree, your selling yourself short if you don’t supplement with the C! Take 20% off when you purchase one Puori C3 and Puori D3 together!

Weekly WODs:

Monday – Raise the Roof

Home/Travel WOD

You’ll be going overhead a lot in day 1’s home/travel WOD. We have an ascending ladder of tuck jumps, backpack push presses, and front squats. Our goal is consistent movement for the duration 10-minute workout. We should be able to go unbroken on the backpack push press and front squat.

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
3 Sets
10 DB Strict Press (Light)
1:00 DB OH Hold
10 Tempo Knees To Chest (2121)
Conditioning
AMRAP x 13 Min
10 DB Sumo Deadlift High Pulls
10 Tuck Ups
5 Devil Press

Tuesday – Drop the Hammer

Home/Travel WOD

3 , 2 , 1 ,…. GO! That’s our sole purpose for today’s weighted or unweighted bodyweight workout. Our workout today gives you the option to use your backpack for the entire workout or use it for only one movement. We have a quick 2-minute running interval, push-ups, sit-ups, air squats, and backpack ground-to-overheads for time.

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
EMOM x 10 Minutes
Min 1: 5 -10 Strict DB Bent-Over Rows
Min 2: 5/5 Single Leg DB Deadlifts
Conditioning
EMOM x 4 Min
45 sec Bike, Row, or Run
-1:00 Rest-
EMOM x 4 Min
12 Double DB Power Cleans
– 1:00 Rest-
EMOM x 4 Min
45 sec. Bike, Row, or Run
Wednesday – Earn Your Rest

Home/Travel WOD

Our day 3 workout will require athletes to complete a set number of repetitions of backpack clean-and-jerks, overhead lunges, and double unders on a running clock. If you don’t own a jump rope substitute back-pack jump overs as an alternate scaling option.

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
5 Sets
10 DB Front Squats
10-15 Deficit Push Ups
-1:00 rest between sets-
Conditioning
For Time
40-30-20-10
Alternating single DB Thruster
20-20-20-20
Up-Downs
20-20-20-20
Alternating DB Snatch

Thursday – Training Day

Home/Travel WOD

We will dial things back today if we have been training consistently throughout the week. If you are following the 3 days on, 1 day off approach our workout today is a great chance just to MOVE! We have an alternating 15-minute EMOM of backpack thrusters, burpees over backpack, and backpack sit-ups. Our goal is finding a number of reps for each movement we can accomplish in 45 seconds consistently. By doing this, we leave 15 seconds of each minute for transition and rest.

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
10 Min x EMOM
Min 1: 10 DB Push Press (Light-Moderate)
Min 2: 40 seconds Double Unders or Mountain Climbers
Conditioning
10 Sets
10 DB Push Press (35/20) (20/15)
30 Double Unders or 30 Mountain Climbers
-30 secs rest between sets-

Friday – Cash Out

Home/Travel WOD

We have a 6 round workout planned for the end of the regular work week. Our workout includes a 400 meter buy in and cash-out that will leave you gasping at the finish line. We have 6 rounds of backpack swings, tuck-jumps, and jumping backpack lunges. If you want legs like a sprinter this workout is for you!

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
5 Sets
3 DB Deadlift + 3 DB Hang Power Clean +3 DB Power Clean + 3 DB Front Squats
(Score is Weight Used)

Conditioning

8 Rounds (:20 on/ :10 off)
Mov 1 – DB Hang Power Clean
Mov 2 – DB Upright Row
Mov 3 – Jumping Lunges
*1 Round= Full rotation through each movement
*No rest between rounds

Saturday – Beef Up Your Backside

Home/Travel WOD

You know why people who perform functional movements are so strong? It’s because we prioritize using multi-joint exercises to develop our body’s primary movers. Our today will bring some ALL the gains to our posterior chain in a workout that includes backpack squat cleans, thrusters, and back squats.

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
EMOM x 8 Min
Min 1: 2 Turkish Get-Ups(Right Arm)
Min 2: 2 Turkish Get-Ups(Left Arm)
Conditioning
For Time:
500/400 meter Row or 400 meter run
50 Alt. V-Ups
400/300 meter Row or 300 meter run
40 Alt. V-Ups
300/200 meter Row or 200 meter run
30 Alt. V-Ups
200/150 meter Row or 100 meter run
20 Alt. V-Ups
100/75 meter Row or 50 meter run
10 Alt. V-Ups

Sunday – Good Morning or Bad Morning, You Decide

Home/Travel WOD

We have quick burner for your early morning workout, or afternoon sweat session. Our workout today allows us to incorporate hamstring development and horizontal pressing strength into our routine. We have good mornings, mountain climbers, and push-ups.

CFK POWER (If you have a dumbell/kettlebell or other equipment at home we have a Strength plus Conditioning option for you)

Strength
3 Sets
15/15 Single DB Bicep Curls
15 /15 DB Tricep Kickbacks
Conditioning
2 Rounds for Time
50 Walking Lunges
30 Alt. DB Snatch
30 Push Ups
30 DB Goblet Squats
400m Run

March 12, 2020

Your Health, COVID-19, and What We’re Doing

Hi CFK Fam!

In light of recent concerns, we want to share an update on our plans to keep the gym the healthy space you all love.

As you already know, exercise is one of the best ways to keep your immune system strong. Paired with healthy nutritional habits and smart supplementation, regular exercise will help strengthen your resistance to illness of all kind, short and long term. So while the concern over spread of COVID-19 is real and should be taken seriously, please use this as an opportunity to assess your healthy habits across the board.

Yes, we want to wash our hands regularly and do things to mitigate the spread of germs. More importantly, we want to make sure we’re regularly active and eating a wide variety of whole foods, especially colorful veggies, while limiting our inflammatory foods such as sugars & alcohols and many artificial ingredients.

The habits you’ve been practicing over time and continue to practice now will have as high an impact on the state of your health and resistance to disease as the hygienic practices you implement now. Both are important, and should be evaluated.

Here are a few things we’re doing to maintain a clean environment, as well as a few things you can do while you’re in class to help out.

What we’re doing:

CFK has always placed the highest priority on sanitation and cleanliness. Our owner and founder Johnny owned a cleaning company prior to finding CrossFit, and we’ve maintained a top-down approach to cleaning the gym since the beginning. All floors and touched surfaces get cleaned and disinfected daily, as well as a rotating schedule assuring that all equipment gets disinfected on a regular basis.
We’re adding a disinfecting protocol with our coaches that assures all door handles, bathrooms, commonly touched surfaces get disinfected after each “block” of classes.
The blue gymnastics mats get professionally cleaned regularly, and we’re scheduling extra cleanings on them currently. We will also be using disinfecting spray on these daily.

What you can do:

Please wash your hands before and after each class, and give elbows instead of high fives.
Pump-in and Pump out! We have hand sanitizers around the gym, please use a pump on your way in and on your way out each class.
We have disinfecting wipes in each bathroom and buckets on the gym floor. Please take 1 wipe and wipe down your touched surfaces after class. Please be conservative as these have become harder to source. There is no need for more than 1, as the goal is to simply spread the liquid around to let the disinfecting agent do it’s job. One single wipe when used properly can disinfect a kettlebell, barbell, abmat and wall ball before needing another one, so please use wisely and share when appropriate.
If you’re sick, please stay home, as you’ll heal faster that way. Get out for a walk and leave the intense exercise for when you’re healthy. The same goes for your kiddos. We love them, but please keep them home if they are not well.

If you have any questions or concerns at all, please reach out to me directly at 865-356-9000 or email me HERE.

Eat well, stay active, stay healthy, and we’ll see you out there!

-Coach Rick

February 8, 2020

CF Squared 2020: CrossFit for Cystic Fibrosis

More than 30,000 people in the United States are living with Cystic Fibrosis, and approximately 1,000 new cases of CF are diagnosed each year. A progressive, genetic disease caused by a defective gene mutation, Cystic Fibrosis is a potentially deadly disease that causes persistent lung infections and restricts the ability to breathe over time. More than 75% of those affected are diagnosed by age 2.

A note from Johnny Davis:

CrossFit Knoxville is proud to be hosting our 6th Annual CF Squared event to raise money and awareness for the East TN Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

My 4 month old sister, Jennifer, died of Cystic Fibrosis when I was 4 years old. I saw what it did to my parents and how it devastated them and would like to help others avoid that if possible.

Cystic Fibrosis is one of the rare diseases that a cure might actually be in sight and your donations and efforts can legitimately make a difference. Come join us for some friendly competition to raise awareness and fundraising dollars to help those living with Cystic Fibrosis in Tennessee. One hundred percent of proceeds will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation!

Event Details

When: Saturday, March 14 2020 (9:15 am – 11:30 am)
Where: CFK North (906 Callahan Drive)
How to Register & purchase T-shirt: Click HERE (both team members must register individually)
Cost: $40/athlete (includes event t-shirt!) – 100% of all proceeds donated to CFF!!
- $20 for event only – no t-shirt
- $25 for t-shirt only – no event)

Workout Info:

Partner format: 2-person any sex teams (If you don’t have a partner we will find you one!)
- Both team members must register individually
Divisions: Rx, Rx-ish, Beginner
T-Shirts will be printed after the event to allow for late sign ups.

CF Squared Challenge WOD:

As with the symptoms and demands of the disease, this competition will include one lung-demanding workout designed to challenge athletes’ airways and ability to breathe.

In teams of 2, complete the following for time:

3 Rounds:

500m Simultaneous Row

21 Alternating Thrusters, EACH

Partner A’s barbell must be completely stopped and resting on the shoulders or overhead before Partner B can start their Thruster
5 Burpee penalty for setting the bar down. Both athletes must complete 5 burpees each!
Thruster weights: Rx (95/65), Rx-ish (65/45), Beginner (45/25)
- We’ll make it as light as you need if you are a beginner. Come have fun and help out CFF!

FAQ’s

Q: What if I don’t do CrossFit?

A: No worries! We have a beginner friendly version for everyone.

Q: Can I bring my kids?

A: Kids can definitely participate but they’ll probably need to be 10 and above or really tall. The rower is very challenging for smaller kids.

Q: What size shirt should I order, how are they cut?

A: We are using a unisex Bella + Canvas Tri-blend shirt. Check out this sizing chart.

Q: How will the heats work?

A: We will be able to run 8-10 teams at a time. We will not send out a heat schedule prior to the event, rather we’ll determine heats on the day of. Please plan to stay the whole time and cheer teams on as they work!

February 1, 2020

Week in Preview, February 2nd, 2020

“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”

–Mike Tyson

Supplement Spotlight:

“Go the Distance” with Extreme Endurance

If your looking for a way to increase your capacity for throwing it down in the gym look no further than extreme endurance tablets. You may have seen these products on our shelves recently, but skipped out on their amazing benefits. Extreme endurance has created a product that acts as a lactic acid buffer, and helps muscles to recover more than 5 times faster than their regular rate. As we workout we damage muscle fibers that allow blood creatine kinase levels to rise. Creatine kinase is an enzyme created from damaged muscles. The result of high levels of creatine kinase can manifest itself as muscle fatigue, decreased athletic performance, and even injury! Extreme Endurance is also known for its ability to decrease lactic acid production by up to 26%! The answer is clear… if you want to go the distance start with Extreme Endurance Tablets.

Upcoming Events:

Bring-A-Friend Friday + 2 weeks Free!

This Friday, ALL Classes

Bring ’em out, bring ’em out! This Friday is BAFF, and all guests will receive 2 weeks free! So spread the word, and join us for an awesome sweat to close out week 1 of February! (Please forward your friends this waiver to fill out in advance)

Self Defense Seminar

This Saturday, North @ 11:30am ($15/person)

CFK’s very own Jeff Cravens will be holding a seminar for all athletes interested in empowering themselves in unforeseen circumstances. The focus will be the self defense tactics of Krav Maga. Krav Maga is an Israeli martial art which focuses on natural body movements for protection against any attacker. Prepare for the unknown! In 75 minutes you will learn strikes and chokes that will help you come out on top in any future unforeseen events! Check out all of the details here, and email [email protected] to sign-up.

X-Over Symmetry Workshops

This Saturday, Both Locations @ 8am (Free)

Get those bulletproof shoulders! Learn how to properly use the X-Over bands to both increase shoulder strength & stability, and prevent or recover from injuries. No need to pre-register, just show up!

Weekly WODs:

Monday – “DO WORK” Field Day

This is a 45-minute calorie burning throw down with 20 stations of various movements. Run, row, tire flip, sledge hit, and kettlebell swing your way through this one. Fast and furious, or slow and steady… it’s your choice. Super fun, super challenging, let’s do this!

Tuesday – The Phoenix

Just as the Phoenix rises from the ashes, so will you in this triple “Death By” challenge – Death by swings, death by box overs, and death by pull-ups!

Wednesday – Squat Day

In our reset week, we take the weights down to 75% and work tempo. Lots of time under tension in this one, as we’ll add in a superset of Strict Press, and finish out with Tabata Abs to blast that core!

Thursday – Death Row

It’s back baby… A 20:00 EMOM that’s an absolute gut check! This one was last performed on 10/2/2019, so add a rep to either the calories or burpees from your previous score, and go for a 1 or 2 rep PR today!

Friday – Bring-A-Friend Friday

We’ve got a fun and challenging “Double AMRAP” set up for February’s BAFF, so spread the word, bring out your buddies, wear your RED, and let’s tear this one up!

Saturday Community WOD

Welcome to GRIP CITY! We’ll bring the dumbbells out for farmer’s carries + Hang Power Cleans, running and air squats. Hydrate up, this one’s gonna be a sweat fest.

Saturday L2

This one is going to get nasty! Teams of 3, 3:00 at rotating stations with Back Squats (from the floor), Calories on the bike, and Toes-to-Bar. Plus, a GUNZ-OUT finisher that’s sure to fill the sleeves!

January 10, 2020

Week In Preview, January 12th, 2020

“Work until your idols become your rivals.”

–Drake, Musician

Supplement Spotlight:

Glutamine + BCAAs

If you live your life in soreness from tough WODs. You aren’t alone! It’s just the nature of the crossfit! You most likely remember this feeling as you descend to the bottom of a plate loaded squat during our squat day warmup! We go hard 3-5 times a week in hopes of creating incremental changes over time. However, without the proper recovery post WOD or even during the workout we negate the gains we could be making. We all DESERVE those gains, right? Well, you can unlock the key to strength and recovery with one scoop of Transparent Labs BCAAs+ Glutamine. There are three branch-chain amino acids, and all of them are ONLY obtained through external sources! These amino acids include leucine, isoleucine, and valine. By supplementing with these critical aminos we allow the body to reduce muscle soreness, muscle fatigue, and build a body that can go beast mode! This trio of aminos blunt muscle breakdown which is common in our sport! Glutamine is also imperative for any type of fitness regimen. Glutamine is naturally found in the body, but is depleted during strenuous activities. When glutamine levels in our body plummet our ability to recover is sluggish! 5-10 grams of Transparent Labs Glutamine+BCAAs can be taken pre-workout, intra workout, or post-workout for optimal performance!

CFK EVENTS

CFK Challenge

Wondering how to meet your goals in 2020? If your goal is to lose weight, gain muscle, or even to perform better it starts with habits. We will be running 6-week gym wide challenge that will help you to establish healthier choices in the new year. Our use of the Wodify Rise app throughout the challenge will allow you to earn points for certain mobility, nutritional, and strength based activities throughout the 6-week period. The challenge is $99.00 and comes with a consult from our nutrition specialist Corey of EMOM nutrition, and a fit 3D body scan.

Ready to Make Some Changes?

Click Here

Weekly WODs:

Monday – SQUAT Day + LIFT

Lots of lifting today in the form of our week 7 squats, and kettlebell core work (weighted sit-ups, carries, and HEAVY swings). It’s the perfect chance to try a weight you’ve never tried before!

Tuesday – Push/Pull/Jump

Longer grind today with a 20:00 time cap and a total of 300 double-unders, 2k row, and 100 hand release push-ups!

Wednesday – Weightlifting Wednesday!

15:00 to practice a snatch complex, then an absolute banger of a workout. We’ll pick a variation of the snatch that you’re comfortable with and can move with intensity. Come to GET BETTER today!

Thursday – Grip & Grind

Longer duration workout with a high skill gymnastics movement, and plenty of dumbbells to go around!

Friday – “Diane”

Benchmark #2 of 2020! This is the first of 4 times we’ll encounter Diane this year. Remebmber to wear your R.E.D. and let’s get a good first test of this dirty deadlift doozy!

Saturday Community WOD

Bring ’em out Bring ’em out! No better way to start your Saturday than with a healthy dose of burpees, thrusters, and running!

Saturday L2 – I AM CFK Testing!

Saturday’s L2 class will be dedicated to the I AM CFK test day! Among other things, will be a 1RM Bear Complex, Max 2k Row, and Pull-ups! Don’t worry, if you don’t have pull-ups just yet, we’ll have modifications for you. Register for the challenge HERE

January 5, 2020

I AM CFK Winter 2020 – Healthy Habits = Healthy You!

What’s up CFK? The new year is hear and we’re like: “It’s time to turn up the heat, get really strict, workout 3 x’s a day, and finally make those Gainz we’ve been threatening to make for a while now.” Stop right there Tiger!

It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been training or how many times you’ve failed a diet/training program in the past, it’s still simply about habits just like it was then, and just like it will be next year. How about we take time to focus on creating habits that are sustainable and healthy?

When we create habits and remove emotion, learn what motivates us and what we have control over, we win. It is that simple.

Winter 2020 I AM CFK CHALLENGE LINK

The 2020 Winter I AM CFK Challenge is all about creating Healthy Habits. We won’t focus on restriction or temporary lifestyle changes to get “Six Pack Abs or Sweet Gunz.”

I AM CFK is a set of daily/weekly challenges designed to create lasting, sustainable habits that lead to long term success and yes, “Abs and Gunz” if you so desire but it’s not the focus.

To understand and develop habits, we must first analyze our current behaviors through consistent tracking, identify changes necessary, and incentivize healthy behaviors to replace the less desirable ones.

Watch this video and read this book to learn more about how habits work. We are very much creatures of habit no matter how spontaneous we may think we are.

What’s included in th 6 Week Healthy Habits Challenge – $99

*Points must be in by midnight each day. Tracking is a large part of the Challenge and critical to identifying the Growth Opportunities (formerly known as obstacles).

Baseline Fitness Test – Jan 18 (Retest Feb 29)
- Gymnastics – We’ll test both 1rm Pullups and Max Reps (If you don’t have pullups, we’ll use Very specific Ring Rows or band if you are close to pullups)
- Mono-structural – We’ll test your Power/Speed using the 250m Row and 20cal Assault Bike sprint. Mid Endurance will be tested using the 2K row. (1 Mile run can be subbed for Row)
- Weightlifting – We’ll test over all Strength using the 1RM Bear Complex and Strength Endurance with 7RM unbroken rounds of Bear Complex. (We’ll use a Clean Complex option for shoulder problems) *We wanted to switch this portion for alternating challenges but we really can’t identify a better test!
- Mobility – We’ll test basic hip, shoulder, and ankle mobility, weekly and daily challenges will be designed for mobility improvement which is critical to long term success and widely ignored unfortunately.
Before/After Fit3d
- We aren’t looking for drastic changes but if you follow the process we will see positive changes for sure.
Daily and Weekly Fitness Challenges
- These challenges are rooted in our beliefs of moving often, perfecting basics, addressing ‘growth opportunities’, trying new things, and learning new skills
Daily and Weekly Mobility Challenges
- These are not complicated routines but 6-10 minutes per day of focussed work that will pay mad dividends over time.
Daily and Weekly Nutrition Challenges
- Sorry folks, the bottom of the pyramid is built on proper nutrition and fueling. Few results are possible without basic changes
Weekly 15 minute CFK Coach Check-ins
- This is your time to ask questions and learn to make your own healthy decisions. Check-Ins are not for coaches to “tell you what to do,” but instead allow you to identify your personal “Growth Opportunities” and get feedback to help you decide for yourself what’s best, based on your goals.

Get Better EVERY MEAL ON THE MEAL!

Each I AM CFK Challenge comes with optional Custom Nutrition Support from Corey Church @ EMOM Nutrition Visit his website for more info.

CFK partners with Emom Nutrition to offer an insane value for our I Am CFK challenge. You will have the option of weekly food log review through the Lose It app by a certified Nutrition Coach and a second option of a Custom Nutrition plan, complete with daily Macros as well as food log review

Optional EMOM Nutritional UpGrades
- $49 = Weekly Food Log Review through Lose It app
- $99 = Everything above + Custom Nutrition plan, including Starting Macros!

Initial Testing Schedule and Prep:

Prep Week Training Schedule: Jan 13 – 17

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: Normal Activity
Thursday: Active Recovery Wod (RPE of 6-7)
Friday Off or a light row and foam rolling with lots of water but do NOT Workout!

Test Day: Jan 18, 2020 – 9:45 am

10:00 – 12:00 – Warmup, Testing, Cool Down
- Bring snacks and Water, belts, lifters, running shoes, wrist wraps, etc… or Nothing. It’s a test!

Prep Week Training Schedule: Feb 24 – 28

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: Normal Activity
Thursday: Active Recovery Wod (RPE of 6-7)
Friday Off or a light row and foam rolling with lots of water but do NOT Workout!

Retest February 29, 2020 – 9:45 to noon

10:00 – 12:00 – Warmup, Testing, Cool Down
- Bring snacks and Water, belts, lifters, running shoes, wrist wraps, etc… or Nothing. It’s a test!

How: Click “REGISTER“, sign up, show up, read the Nutrition Guidelines, grocery shop, food prep, complete challenges, create habits, and most importantly win long term!

*We will Crown an overall winner. However, if you participate in this challenge to completion you will also win. The points are for motivation, the habits built are the prize. Take the Challenge!

December 13, 2019

Week in Preview, December 15, 2019

“Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.”

-Steve Jobs

Supplement Spotlight: D-Aspartic Acid

This supplement triggers the brain to increase the body’s natural production and transportation of testosterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH). According to recent studies, T levels in men have drastically declined over the past decade while women experiencing ovarian and other reproductive issues are on the rise. This could be due to the very flawed average American diet. D- Aspartic Acid can be used to increase muscle mass, strength, definition, and promote health of the reproductive system. Guys don’t be D-ficient… Try D-Aspartic Acid.

Holiday Schedule

Christmas Eve (Tuesday, December 24)

BOTH LOCATIONS: 9am, 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm

*12 Days of Christmas WOD

Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25)

CLOSED – No Classes

New Year’s Eve (Tuesday, December 31)

Last Class: 5pm (North), 5:30pm (West)

New Year’s Day (Wednesday, January 1)

BOTH LOCATIONS: One WOD, 10am

Upcoming Events

Knoxville Full and 1/2 Marathon training Program with coach Mary

The new year is coming which means, at least at CFK, training for the Knoxville half and full marathon! Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to smash a PR, or aspiring runner with your sights on your first race finish, coach Mary’s got your back! Check out the details of our training program HERE

Weekly WODs:

Monday – PUSH. PULL.

It’s Re-test week, and we’ll kick it off with a 1RM Push press, followed by “PUSH. PULL.”! We last performed this bad boy on May 30, so start the week off by ringing that PR bell!

Tuesday – 5 Months ’til Beach Season!

Lots of strict gymnastics work that will leave your biceps and triceps screaming for mercy! While you may have trouble shampooing your hair after this one, your tank top will be appreciative.

Wednesday – Ski-WAT Day!

Week 3 of our current cycle, plus another short, UNCOMFORTABLE benchmark to re-test in “SPEED DEMON”!

Thursday – Full Sixty

We’ll move pretty much the whole hour today with a longer warm-up, a 15:00 EMOM, plus a finisher. Weighted planks, weighted step-ups, weighted sit-ups, and double-unders. Yikes!

Friday – CALIFORNIA LOVE

Oh yes, our THIRD benchmark re-test of the week on RED Friday! Bring your big girl pants… and knee sleeves, weight belts, headbands, wrist bands, lifters, and RED SHIRTS! It’s gonna go DOWN!

Saturday Community WOD

Bring your friends and family for this diabolical dumbbell derby!

Saturday L2 – Swing for the fences

It’s all about the Kettlebell today! 150 Russian swings for time, with a twisted treat at the top of each minute.

November 26, 2019

Run Your City!

Knoxville Half Marathon Training Program

It’s almost the new year, which means it’s time to start training for the Knoxville half (or full) marathon!

We’re lucky enough to have one of the very best endurance coaches around right here at CFK, in Coach Mary Cates. Whether you’re a seasoned endurance athlete looking for a new PR, or you’re going for your very first half marathon finish, coach Mary’s program will help you crush it!

Check out the details on the Half Marathon program below. If you’re wanting to run the full 26.2, email Coach Mary to set up a free first consultation.

Program Details – Half Marathon

Cost: $360 ($30/week)

Duration: 12-weeks (January 6 – March 29)

Race Day: Sunday, March 29

How to register: email Coach Mary

Included:

Bi-Weekly group training sessions with coach Mary
- Training sessions will mix short-distance, long-distance, and time trial efforts
- Athletes will receive instruction & coaching on running technique, pacing & strategy, mental approach, and mobility necessary to perform their best on race day
Weekly custom scaling for your CrossFit WODs
- Integrate mixed-modal training with your running to maintain and build core strength for better durability on long runs
- Find balance between disciplines to help you become a more well-rounded athlete
Race-Day Coaching
- Everyone needs a helping hand on race day! Coach Mary will be on the course to help you pace, get you water, and cheer you on to the finish!

Typical Weekly Schedule:

Sunday – Run, programmed by Coach Mary

Monday – Rest Day

Tuesday – CrossFit (modified and scaled by Coach Mary)

Wednesday – CrossFit (modified and scaled by Coach Mary)

Thursday (2-a-day Training) – Training w/ Coach Mary + CrossFit

Friday – Rest Day

Saturday – Group training run

**If you’re up for the full marathon (15-week program), please contact Coach Mary directly for an individualized training program

About Coach Mary

“Set a goal and if it’s easy to achieve, then we’ll set a bigger one,” words endurance coach, Mary Cates says often. Her goal is to build faster, stronger and healthier athletes and help them on the road to success.

Mary started running track in middle school and ran competitively through high school and college, but it wasn’t until she graduated that she understood the need for balance as an athlete. “I’d only focused on running. Putting up as many miles as I could, and over time, my body was starting to rebel against me a little.”

A few years later, Mary faced a different challenge, battling cancer and again, trying to find that balance of staying active while keeping her body as healthy as possible in order to fight her disease. It was during that time that Mary tried her very first Crossfit class. “It was so intimidating but there were so many things I struggled with, that I knew I really needed to stick with it.” And she did. She ran her first ultramarathon a few months after starting at CFK and fell in love with making the two sports work together.

Now Mary’s goal is to help other people run efficiently, build endurance and gain strength, but one of the things she’s most proud of is the CFK Endurance community. “We’ve become like a little family within an already amazing family. We go to each other’s races, no matter how far away, and we’re out there giving support and pacing to help people get to the finish. Our motto is that no one runs alone.”

When Mary’s not coaching athletes, you can find her spending time in the mountains or racing anything from the 5k to 100milers.