Beeton’s Book of Needlework: The Unexpected Guide for Crossfitters

Ah, crossfit! It’s the gift that keeps on giving. The more I immerse myself in this world of high-intensity workouts and relentless challenges, the more I feel like I’m part of something truly special. It’s hard not to be enthusiastic about it! But one thing that may surprise you is how many other things crossfit can teach you about life, and how many disparate sources of inspiration you can find to keep you fueled up and ready to dominate your next workout. Case in point: a classic book from the late 19th century that has nothing to do with fitness or sports, and everything to do with perseverance, determination, and mastery. I’m talking about none other than Beeton’s Book of Needlework by Mrs. Isabella Mary Beeton.

Before you roll your eyes and click away, hear me out. Beeton’s Book of Needlework may seem like an odd choice of reading material for a crossfitter, but trust me, it has more in common with what we do in the gym than you might think. For starters, the book is all about understanding complex movements and techniques, and breaking them down into simple, actionable steps. Sounds a little like learning how to do a clean and jerk, or kipping pull-ups, doesn’t it? Beeton’s Book of Needlework covers everything from sewing to knitting to crocheting, and it emphasizes the importance of mastering each step before moving on to the next. That’s something that we can all relate to in crossfit, where progress is made by focusing on the fundamentals and perfecting our form.

But there’s more to Beeton’s Book of Needlework than just a good lesson in technique and attention to detail. As I delved deeper into this timeless tome, I found myself transfixed by the sheer scope of what Mrs. Beeton was trying to accomplish. This wasn’t just a collection of patterns and instructions; it was a comprehensive guide to a whole way of life. Through her writing, Mrs. Beeton encouraged women to take pride in their skills and creativity, and to use their talents to make a difference in their communities. She recognized that something as seemingly mundane as needlework could be a source of empowerment and self-worth, and she wanted her readers to feel the same way.

That’s a lesson that applies directly to us in crossfit. How often have we doubted ourselves or felt discouraged by our progress? How often have we felt like giving up because the training seemed too hard or we didn’t see results as quickly as we wanted to? But just like the women who turned to Beeton’s Book of Needlework for guidance and inspiration, we have the power within us to push through, to keep grinding away, and to find meaning and purpose in our sweat and tears. Whether we’re working on a snatch or a simple embroidery stitch, we’re investing in ourselves and our future.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a little mental boost or a fresh perspective on your crossfit journey, pick up a copy of Beeton’s Book of Needlework and give it a read. You might be surprised at how much it has to offer, and how much it can teach you. And if you’re feeling particularly motivated, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below, along with what you did in your most recent WOD. We’re all in this together!

Crossfit isn’t just a workout; it’s a lifestyle that can encompass all sorts of unexpected sources of inspiration and guidance. Mrs. Isabella Mary Beeton’s Beeton’s Book of Needlework may seem like an unlikely companion to our weight plates and protein powder, but in reality, it has a lot to teach us about mastering complex movements, focusing on fundamentals, empowering ourselves and others, and striving for excellence. So the next time you’re feeling the burn, remember that you’re part of a rich and diverse community of crossfitters who are just as passionate and determined as you are. And don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!