Every time I get ready to try CF, I stumble across an article like this.

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I don't want to become the CF defender as the article raises some issues that we've seen posted in other articles as well and have some validity. However, first scroll to the bottom and note that this is by a guy trying to get you to buy his book on his training approach so of course he's going to find issues with other approaches.

I've been doing CF since March - albeit with some big gaps during the Summer. Have I seen results in overall strength, endurance, and built muscle - absolutely. I'm also still the guy usually with the lowest weights and slowest times in the gym (aka "box"). However, as someone who has historically hated working out what I really like about CF is the variety and the camaraderie. In a good box everyone is supportive and since you're doing the same work at the same time there is a real supportive team often cheering or working along side you as you finish off that last set after everyone else has finished. When people talk about CF being "cultish" frankly a lot of it I chalk up to the camaraderie that gets naturally built when you're around the same people day after day accomplishing something that is really challenging. In many ways it's not that different from being part of any other team or being in the military.

As far as the dangers and injuries I would say that is where having good qualified coaches is super important. I know in my box they insist on certifications and a period of supervised coaches before letting a new coach in. I'll also add that it is up to you to know when you need to dial back the weight a notch to keep your form right. At least in my box they'd much rather you complete with the right form than max weight.

I have no doubt that people have had bad experiences with CF but it seems to come down to choosing the right box and checking your ego more than anything.

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