The Elementary Forms of Crossfit Life: A Review of Durkheim’s Classic

Hello, fellow Crossfitters! I just finished reading Durkheim’s “The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life” and I couldn’t help but see the parallels between religion and Crossfit. This book may not seem like an obvious choice for someone who lifts weights, but hear me out!

First, let me give you a brief synopsis of the book. Durkheim explores the nature of religion and argues that it serves as a unifying force that brings people together in society. He examines the rituals, symbols, and beliefs that make up different religions and explains how they reinforce social bonds. The book is important because it is one of the foundational texts in sociology and it sheds light on the ways in which humans create and maintain social order.

Now, let’s apply Durkheim’s ideas to Crossfit. Think about it – we have our own rituals (warm-up, WOD, cool-down), symbols (the Crossfit logo, workout names), and beliefs (that we can push ourselves to the limit and achieve our goals). We form communities at our boxes and bond over our shared experiences. In a way, Crossfit can be seen as a form of religion – it provides meaning and purpose to our lives and connects us to something greater than ourselves.

So, why should you read “The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life” if you’re a die-hard Crossfitter? Well, for starters, it’s a fascinating read that will challenge your assumptions about religion and society. It will also help you understand why Crossfit is so much more than just a workout – it’s a way of life. By drawing on Durkheim’s ideas, you’ll be able to articulate why Crossfit is important to you and why it matters to the people around you.

In conclusion, I highly recommend “The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life” to anyone who is interested in sociology, philosophy, or, of course, Crossfit. It will change the way you see the world and give you a deeper appreciation for the power of community. And speaking of community, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below telling me what you thought of this post and what you did in the gym today. Let’s keep the conversation going!