What on Earth is Crossfit, you might ask. Well I certainly did when my friend, who's an avid fan, first mentioned this to me. To quote their website, it's "a strength and conditioning programme built on constantly varied, functional movements executed at high intensity." I still wasn't totally sure what this meant so decided to join them for a free introductory session before Christmas. Based in a former garage building in the grounds of the imposing Pear Mill in Bredbury near Stockport, this has none of the sleekness and modernism of the gyms that are popping up all over the place. The large, single space inside is equipped with rowing machines, a metal frame for manual pull ups and areas for weights and floor exercises. Thankfully this is definitely not a 'muscle head' / Rocky Balboa gym environment and there are no floor-to-ceiling mirrors on the walls. No mirrors at all, in fact. After an hour's induction where the centre manager (who's a lovely chap) provides you with a one-on-one session, introducing you to the various exercises involved, you can choose to stay for a Crossfit class - which I did. Fast forward an hour and the human formerly known as Michael was completely exhausted and just about alive. In that time I'd rowed, done pull ups, sit ups, press ups, box jumps and squats (with barbells), lifted kettle bells and lunged my way across the centre. Every class is different and the exercises for the day are written on the whiteboard before you arrive so you know what you need to do. You're provided with your own record sheet to keep notes on your personal bests so you can see how you're progressing week-to-week. It's certainly different to what I've experienced before in a gym; plus the friendliness of the staff and fellow 'Crossfitters' makes you feel welcome. Though I'll probably stick to BMF (http://www.yelp.co.uk/biz/bmf-prestwich), this is worth a try if you want to concentrate more on strength and conditioning. read more