Function vs. Performance
There are some days where the workout on the board is split under the terms “Function” and “Performance”. So what do these mean and how do they apply to you as an athlete (because all of us are athletes whether you like it or not)?
Function – This training group’s goal is to maximize favorable adaptations with smaller amounts of input. What does that mean? You will normally see the term “Function” as designating a scaled version of the workout. The movements or loads involved are designed to not hold you up because of lack of technique, coordination, or muscular strength. The focus is on proven training protocols that will maximize strength development, body composition and will give good exposure to a variety of movements. You apply to the function group if your training age is very low (i.e. just started CrossFit, little to no experience with sport outside of CrossFit, deconditioned, lacking in neuromuscular coordination). Function means to maintain or increase fitness as it applies to the real world.
Performance – The performance group is just as it sounds. It is for those who have a good base level of fitness, have been involved with sport recently, or have been doing CrossFit for a while now and have a solid foundation of all the movements. This group is ready to test there fitness inside and outside of class. Performance is about applying your fitness. You will need a solid understanding of proper mechanics, a greater emphasis on applied mobility, and the consistency it will take to achieve your goals. Higher level gymnastics and attention do detail when breaking down the olympic lifts are two defining parts of performance.
So, which one are you?