CrossFit. To Do, or Not To Do

CrossFit. To Do, or Not to Do

That is the question! Well let’s first talk about What CrossFit is. CrossFit is defined as Constantly Varied (Lots of Choices) Functional Movements (Things that you do naturally, where the body is used as a full system) High Intensity (Sprints, Heavy Lifts, or ability to move large loads over long distance quickly) So would a 10k run be considered CrossFit? What about  climbing the stairs with your child in arms? I got it…You are a powerlifter so you only Squat, Deadlift or Bench Press in intervals of 1000lbs, is that not CrossFit?

The answer is that all of these items combined into an inclusive program is what makes it CrossFit. Being able to accomplish any physical challenge thrown your way is CrossFit. We need to re-focus and remember that simplicity and consistency are the way to get to the finish line. If we get distracted by the fancy heavy lifts, our 10k run will really suffer, as will our rate of breathing while carrying our kids up that flight of stairs at bedtime each night. It is not enough to just be good at one aspect of fitness. We need to increase all 10 of the general physical skills listed as:

1. Cardiovascular/respiratory endurance – The ability of body systems to gather, process, and deliver oxygen.
2. Stamina – The ability of body systems to process, deliver, store, and utilize energy.
3. Strength – The ability of a muscular unit, or combination of muscular units, to apply force.
4. Flexibility – the ability to maximize the range of motion at a given joint.
5. Power – The ability of a muscular unit, or combination of muscular units, to apply maximum force in minimum time.
6. Speed – The ability to minimize the time cycle of a repeated movement.
7. Coordination – The ability to combine several distinct movement patterns into a singular distinct movement.
8. Agility – The ability to minimize transition time from one movement pattern to another.
9. Balance – The ability to control the placement of the bodies center of gravity in relation to its support base.
10. Accuracy – The ability to control movement in a given direction or at a given intensity.

So to answer the question, if you want to truly be physically fit and ready to take on anything life might throw your way, then find a CrossFit gym and get started! See you in the box.

-Coach Jeremy