We all come from different athletic backgrounds and we each have our strong points and our weak points. If you are a marathon runner, you may walk into a gym with off the charts endurance, but not be able to squat half your body weight. On the other end of the spectrum, you might be a power-lifter but not able to run a mile. CrossFit exists to correct these imbalances. All-around athletic performance is the goal.
To create balanced athletes, CrossFit identifies 10 basic physical skills to develop. They are:
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 body’s 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.
By training all ten physical skills equally, CrossFit creates a broad and inclusive level of fitness in its participants. The goal is to produce well-rounded athletes equipped to handle anything and excel at whatever is placed in front of them.
Next Time-
The Core Exercise Platforms of CrossFit