From CrossFit to Culinary Balance: Fitness Lessons in Malta
The article explores the experience of training with Aimee Cringle, the eighth fittest woman in the world, highlighting lessons in strength, endurance, and balanced living. Through a challenging workout session, the author gained insights into the importance of movement quality, the influence of a supportive environment, and the need for balance between activity, recovery, and nutrition. These principles resonate with Malta’s vibrant food and fitness culture, where fresh, health-conscious Mediterranean cuisine complements opportunities for physical activity, from group fitness classes to scenic outdoor exercises. The narrative underscores the transformative potential of integrating mindful eating and consistent exercise, encouraging readers to embrace Malta’s unique offerings to enhance their overall well-being.
Training with One of the World’s Fittest Women: Lessons in Strength, Endurance, and Healthy Living
In the pursuit of living a healthier, happier, and longer life, exercise plays a pivotal role alongside nutrition, mental well-being, and rest. Whether you’re indulging in Malta’s vibrant culinary scene or exploring new fitness challenges, the balance between physical activity and mindful eating can be transformative. Recently, I had the chance to train with CrossFit athlete Aimee Cringle, the eighth fittest woman on earth, at Blueprint Training—a gym that’s a hub for world-class athletes. What followed was an eye-opening experience that reinforced the connection between strength training, resilience, and the value of a supportive environment.
I’m no stranger to fitness challenges, having worked out with elite athletes like Alex Yee and Daniel Dubois. But Cringle, a Grenade athlete and professional CrossFit competitor, was in a league of her own. Her sheer athleticism—refined by years of training—was both humbling and inspiring. Aimee’s reputation precedes her, with people paying to watch her train and compete. Intrigued by her discipline and curious to learn what makes her tick, I dove into one of her “chilled” training sessions. Spoiler alert: it was anything but.
The Workout: A Blend of Strength and Endurance
Cringle, a master of efficiency, began by jotting down the workout on a whiteboard—a ritual that centers her focus before the session. The workout consisted of three circuits performed in AMRAP (as many rounds/reps as possible) format, combining cardio with gymnastics movements:
Circuit One:
- SkiErg x12 calories
- Sled push @80kg x50ft
- Bar muscle-up x8
Circuit Two:
- BikeErg x15 calories
- Sled push @80kg x50ft
- Wall-facing handstand press-up x8
Circuit Three:
- SkiErg x12 calories
- Toes-to-bar x25
- BikeErg x15 calories
Each circuit lasted 10 minutes, with no breaks between rounds. The goal? To complete as many reps as possible while maintaining proper form—a lesson in both physical and mental stamina.
The Reality Check
As the timer buzzed, I quickly realized the gulf between my fitness level and Cringle’s. The first round started smoothly; I kept pace with her on the SkiErg and sled push. But as we transitioned to muscle-ups, her relentless efficiency left me trailing. By the second circuit, my shoulders burned from the earlier gymnastic movements, and the wall-facing handstand press-ups became a test of pure grit. Cringle, meanwhile, breezed through each exercise, her flawless technique allowing her to maintain intensity and conserve energy.
Picture this: you’re pushing your limits, sweat dripping, lungs burning, and your workout partner—calm and composed—is already a lap ahead. It felt like racing a Terminator. By the third circuit, I was scaling down reps to survive, while Cringle powered through, unfazed.
Lessons Learned
1. Movement Quality Is Key
Watching Cringle perform each exercise with precision highlighted the importance of technique. Whether you’re lifting weights, running, or cooking, efficiency matters. Maltese cuisine, for instance, is rooted in tradition, with recipes passed down through generations. Just as Cringle refines her movements, chefs refine their craft to create nourishing, flavorful dishes.
2. Environment Shapes Success
Training alongside Cringle pushed me harder than I would have solo. This speaks to the power of community and accountability in fitness. Malta’s health-conscious dining scene offers a parallel—restaurants like Balance Bowl and Pure Living create environments where nutritious eating becomes effortless. Surrounding yourself with people and places that align with your goals can be transformative.
3. Balance and Recovery Are Essential
While Cringle excels at high-intensity workouts, she balances them with rest, mindful eating, and recovery. Malta’s Mediterranean lifestyle is a natural fit for this approach, with fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and olive oil at the heart of its cuisine. Pair a vibrant salad or grilled fish with regular exercise, and you’re on the path to longevity.
Applying Lessons to Everyday Life
Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply looking to improve your health, the principles I learned from Cringle apply universally: prioritize movement quality, surround yourself with supportive people, and balance activity with rest and nutrition. Malta offers countless ways to integrate these lessons, from joining fitness classes at gyms like Fort Fitness or CrossFit Sliema to exploring local farmers' markets for fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients.
For those new to fitness or hesitant about group workouts, consider starting small. Try a yoga session overlooking Malta’s stunning coastline or take a brisk walk through the winding streets of Valletta. Pair your workout with a post-exercise meal from one of Malta’s many health-focused eateries, like The Grassy Hopper or The Seed Cafe.
The Takeaway
My session with Cringle was more than a workout; it was a lesson in resilience, efficiency, and the power of community. While I struggled to keep up with her, the experience pushed me to redefine my limits. It reminded me that fitness, much like healthy eating, is a journey—not a destination.
Malta’s vibrant food and fitness scene is perfectly suited for those looking to embrace this mindset. Whether you’re savoring a hearty bowl of Aljotta (Maltese fish soup) or pushing through a challenging workout, every step you take toward health adds to the quality of your life. Just don’t pick one of the fittest women on earth as your workout partner—unless you’re ready for the challenge.
So, what’s your next step? Dive into Malta’s culinary treasures, find a fitness class that excites you, and embrace the journey to a healthier, happier you. After all, a rising tide lifts all boats—and here in Malta, the tide is strong.