WHAT CAN CROSSFIT TEACH US ABOUT CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT?

CrossFit does not appeal to everyone but in fairness most forms of physical endeavour provide similar lessons to business and life…

My experience with CrossFit is that there are definitely some key elements of the general culture and approach which have transferable value for continuous improvement campaigns in any setting.

1. The most significant element is the sense of community which is built upon a shared passion and commitment to get better through determination and perseverance. More than that, there is a real focus on listening and learning from each other based on different techniques and personal triumphs over adversity.

2. Most CrossFit Boxes have their rules somewhere visible; these include 2 very relevant points for aspirant champions, a) leave your ego at the door and b) always be on time. At the top level in this sport there is a genuine humility and discipline which inspires the average enthusiast to strive for improvement.

3. What gets measured gets managed. There is a genuine attention to data and detail in CrossFit; numerous apps have emerged over the last year which enable easy mobile capture and analysis of each workout so that comparison can be made with peers and personal history. Data analysis drives planning and programming while workout reviews contribute more data – this in turn drives quantifiable continuous improvement.

4. Encouragement and recognition where needed and where it is due, becomes second nature because it is the right thing to do. Fitter, faster athletes make a point of cheering on less experienced enthusiasts as a matter of course. This engenders a sense of confidence, trust and mutual respect throughout the community.

5. Everyone clears up after themselves no matter who they are. There is a real sense that every member of the community contributes to the quality of the experience and the workout environment. This attitude and action is led by the coaches. It underscores the fact that no matter how fit the athlete the Box is bigger than any individual…

There are clearly some very transferable lessons from CrossFit to continuous improvement campaigns in general; create a community, drop the ego and be punctual, measure performance, encourage and recognise others, and serve the community to make it better!