The origins of CrossFit date to 1996, when former gymnast Greg Glassman began developing a high-intensity fitness approach that combined elements of gymnastics, Olympic weightlifting, and calisthenics. Glassman had created his first signature workout at age 16. In 2000, he formally incorporated CrossFit, Inc. with Lauren Jenai.
In 2001, the pair opened a physical gym in Santa Cruz, California, and began publishing “Workouts of the Day,” or WODs, online. These workouts attracted an early following among military personnel, law enforcement officers, and firefighters. In 2002, this interest led to the opening of the first affiliate gym, commonly known as a “box,” in Seattle.
The CrossFit methodology emphasizes constantly varied, functional movements performed at high intensity. The stated goal is to prepare participants for any physical challenge, including what the program describes as the “unknown and unknowable.” Growth was steady in the early years, with 13 affiliated gyms by 2005. By 2013, the number had expanded to approximately 8,000 affiliates worldwide.
As participation increased, public attention shifted to the intensity of the program and the level of commitment displayed by many members. Critics began to describe CrossFit as “cult-like,” pointing to its specialized terminology and strong in-group identity. Observers have also noted that social activity for many participants becomes centered on the box, sometimes at the expense of relationships outside the gym.
The perception of CrossFit as a cult is frequently tied to the shared physical strain of its workouts. Advocates argue that collective effort and mutual support foster social bonds similar to those found in other communal institutions. Supporters also say that the close-knit environment reflects community-building rather than exclusion. Critics, however, have raised concerns that the emphasis on intensity can encourage participants to exceed safe physical limits.
Corporate governance also became a focus of attention. Following a 2012 divorce settlement with Lauren Jenai, Glassman assumed full control of the company. During this period, CrossFit developed a reputation for confronting critics directly. Company representatives frequently engaged in public disputes with researchers and journalists who questioned the program’s safety or effectiveness.
In 2020, CrossFit faced a major turning point after Glassman made controversial comments related to the murder of George Floyd. The backlash prompted widespread gym disaffiliations and ultimately led Glassman to sell the company. Eric Roza acquired CrossFit with backing from Berkshire Partners.
Sociologists and psychologists have examined CrossFit as a social phenomenon. Some suggest that the strong identification among members reflects broader social isolation. As the organization moves forward under new leadership, it continues to navigate the legacy of its origins and the “cult” label that has accompanied it for more than two decades.
Key Sources:
Gemmell, K. (2017, August 10). An Expert Weighs In: Can Certain Workouts Be Considered Cults? Competitor.
Gregory. S. (2014, January 9). Lift, Squat, Repeat: Inside the Crossfit Cult. Time.
Hejtmanek, K. R. (2025). The cult of CrossFit: Christianity and the American Exercise Phenomenon. NYU Press.
Sanderlin, R. (2011, July 20). Commando-style workout has cult following. The Fayetteville Observer.
Wlodarczyk, K. (2023, October 30). Is CrossFit a cult? Unveiling the reality. Iron Bull Strength.
Encyclopedia of Cults, Sects, and New Religious Movements 