Competition vs. Training

I've spoken before about understanding the difference between competition and training, and how not recognizing that difference can adversely affect your development as an athlete and overall fitness. While CrossFit workouts tend to lend themselves to competition (most workouts are timed or scored in some way), the competitive factor cannot override the purpose of the workout on any given day. Our workouts are not random, and they are not designed to be freestanding tests of overall fitness. So, while friendly competition during a workout can help maintain a high intensity level, it can also lead to some less than desirable outcomes.

One of those outcomes is sacrificing form, movement standards/ROM, or even (in extremely rare circumstances) integrity in order to beat that time/score. A vast majority of these occurrences are unintentional and side effects of WoD brain, but they have serious consequences. Consistent breakdown in form can cause the athlete to adopt less than efficient or ideal movement patterns. As far as miscounting is concerned, I know how difficult it can be to keep count when you're in that uncomfortable place, but it's part of the process. If you know you lose count regularly then count out loud, keep a tally on the board, or even grab a piece of paper and a pen. 

Don't let 'competition' negatively impact your purpose for being here at CrossFit 818: better fitness in a fun group environment!

2015 CrossFit Games Champions: Ben Smith and Katrin Tanja Davidsdottir

Today's Workout

A. For time:
1-2-3-4-5-4-3-2-1
Wall walk ups
5-10-15-20-25-20-15-10-5
Double unders

*alternate (1WW, 5DU, 2WW, 10DU...)

B. Tabata mash up:
L-hang
Box jumps (24/20)

Posted by Zareh.