The CF main site states the aim of CrossFit is to “forge a broad, general and inclusive fitness… a program that will best prepare trainees for any physical contingency — not only for the unknown, but for the unknowable.” The same holds true for our thinking at EDCF. We want to make you faster and more powerful. We want to build your endurance, stamina, strength, and flexibility. We want to heighten your sense of balance, coordination, agility, and accuracy. All while encompassing mental fortitude and toughness.
The term “CrossFit” is more ambiguous than most people generally think. Each gym is different and their programming reflects it, whether it is randomized chaos or targeted and progressive. I once heard that CrossFit gyms are like cars. You have your Lamborghinis and you have your pintos. There are many who do it right but a many many many more who have little to no background in strength and conditioning and are doing it wrong. Thus, giving the brand a bad perception and turning potential new crossfitters away before they get to really experience everything a legitimate box has to offer.
When I read on the interwebs and see things like “I do CrossFit five times a week” or “will CrossFit go well with my yoga and cycling schedule?” I have to sit there and just shake the head. To me that sounds like “I did fitness today at the gym” or “I was a work and did a lot of business today”. Quite simply, CrossFit is a broad term and is interpreted in a multitude of ways. There are so many movements involved in typical CF programming. You have your power lifts, olympic lifts, supplemental lifts, bodyweight movements, gymnastics, mobility, plyometrics, running, rowing, biking, and even swimming. These are just the raw materials. You then have to factor in the training of specific energy systems. The phosphocreatine, glycolytic, and aerobic pathways (more on these later). Once you understand these, you then have to progressively and periodically build on each without taking too much away from the others.
Since last Monday, we have been applying a new style of programming known as fluid periodization. Fluid periodization is comprised of strength, power, and stamina macrocycles. We will be focusing on each for at least a three week span to single out and work specific energy systems. Once on energy system is worked sufficiently then we will move on to the next. Once through all three, you will all come out better athletes across the board. I know the programming is heavy now, and some of you might not find it that enjoyable, but believe me, it serves a purpose. For more on fluid periodization, watch this…