Full Range of Motion

Hey Gang:

The sport of CrossFit has standards to meet to ensure we are doing our movements correctly and using the full range of motion with each repetition. 

There are two reasons:

  1. We want to be sure that we are measuring our progress accurately. For example:
    • If the first time we do CrossFit workout “Cindy” (which is a 20 min AMRAP of 5 pull Ups,10 push ups and 15 air squats) we squat to full depth and then repeat the workout again at a later date with a partial squat, we will likely have a better score on paper but definitely it will not reflect an increase in our fitness. 
  2. We want to strengthen our body through the full range of motion that the joint allows. This action activates more muscle groups that will allow us to move safely and more efficiently through life. As you age, getting yourself from lying to standing will keep you out of extended care, therefore making sure the chest touches the ground on the burpee is vital for our long term independence. 

Building mental strength is no different from physical training. Nearly everyone finds it easy to be kind, show patience and respond in love when things are going well. We are currently in a situation where we are being asked to go past our comfort zone and into unknown territory. We have an opportunity to either build mental fortitude or snap. Just like in our physical bodies when we are forced to move in ways that are not familiar it is uncomfortable and often even painful but if we work at it our responses to struggle will be ones of action instead of paralysis.

Let’s reflect on ways we are being strengthened in this season: 

  1. Doing more with less. We are told not to run to the store for every need thus we are being resourceful and using what we have.
  2. Being self motivated. Without the encouragement and comradery of coworkers or workout buddies we are needing to access the inner motivation to complete the work before us. 
  3. Serving one another. Helping our neighbour or family member with compromised health who cannot get out for groceries. 
  4. Connecting with family. Being at home in close quarters can be challenging but is an awesome opportunity to work on relationship and communication skills that have been getting in the way of growth and unity. 
  5. Teaching us to wait and have faith. It is easy to be patient when you know the end but we don’t have that luxury. Learning how to manage the stress of the unknown is going to be eternally valuable in our lives. 

I will close with a great quote by strength trainer Charles Poliquin “Strength is gained in the range it is trained.” keep on fighting the good fight gang! 

Blessings on your day,

Coach Tracey