By now most people are on the road heading to their holiday destination. If for some reason you’re stuck in front of a computer with nothing to do, why not spend some time reading some worthwhile material?

Below are some articles I highly recommend people to read and review to better familiarize themselves with Crossfit. Indulge and enjoy!

*Note: Most articles can be found in the Crossfit Journal section of the main site*

1. What is Crossfit?

An article from the March 04 edition of the CFJ that covers the very basics of what CF is. So if you’re ever stumped when people ask you “What is CF?,” be sure to read this! You can also check out the Foundations article, which is always worth a reread every now and then.

2. Fundamentals, Virtuosity, and Mastery: An Open Letter to Crossfit Trainers.

A must read for everyone. While doing crazy movements or techniques are fun, you must master the fundamentals and create a solid foundation first. May sound boring, but it’s not. Jen’s Elements Classes is proof of that. With that said, the “Virtuosity” article is a must read for everyone, trainers and trainees alike.

The article was brought up in this post back in 2006, anybody remember reading that?

3. Crossfit Total

We know it consists of the press, squat, and deadlift, but if you ever wondered why then you need to read this article by Mark Rippetoe. You’ll learn why CFT was developed, why those specific lifts were chosen, and the process of CFT. If you are going to any of the games this summer, this is a MUST READ. Plus, it’s Rippetoe, need I say more?

4. Courtesy of the CF Forum, a list of bodyweight exercises.

Now you have no excuses for slacking off during the holiday.

5. A Theoretical Template for Crossfit’s Programming

Most of us realize the main CF workouts aren’t nearly as random as most people make it out to be. However, if you’ve ever been curious about how the workouts are decided, a good place to start is this article from the June 2003 CFJ. OR, next time someone asks how the workouts are decided you can respond like Brandon Oto…

6. The Olympic Squat

A little shorty from Catalyst Athletics, this segment from their article on the Olympic Squat focuses on the feet. Very essential for getting the squat down. Again, have to make sure your foundation is solid!

There you have it, some of the many many essential articles you should read. Enjoy the holiday weekend and be ready for class (Sunday for those who are in town).