Size does not equal strength
Strength does not equal power.
Both of these statements are true. There is no correlation between mass and strength or strength and power. Pretty sure the Olympics have proven that time and time again, whether we are talking about weightlifting or gymnastics. The lifting folks have been moving double to triple (and then some) of their body weight for a very long time - skill. Similarly, so have the gymnasts - the masters of their body weight (and probably then some) - again, skill.
Consequently, it is with some dismay that I see flabbergasted folks tonight on the front squat. Truth be told, both types of sports, lifting and gymnastics, require an immense amount of technique and practice. It shouldn't be taken lightly when we repeat time after time that focus should remain on technique - because strength will come.
I know it's slightly disheartening when there is a downward slide in weights that you have moved. Trust me and all of those who you see, sometimes this can happen - however, you gotta keep your head neutral, have some patience and go back to the basics. In order to achieve, you must adapt, which means you may go outside of your comfort zone from time to time. One of the things I noticed tonight was regarding our Wendler Program. It is never meant to be taken lightly, so I figure I will just lay it out once again, the last of 5,5,5 or 3,3,3 or 5,3,1 is meant to be till you can't hold the bar anymore. Now if your form is compromised, stop. If you can't hold the bar anymore, go till you can't - don't let the workout be a reason why you won't push yourself to a level of discomfort that you haven't felt in awhile.
Furthermore, whether you are doing a met-con WOD or a strength WOD, stretch.
Gumbi has the ability to stretch all the time, you don't. I just want to see you do it more often, whether it's part of our hour together or not. The chances of you taking it seriously at home may be kinda slim, I know that when I get home, the last thing I want to do is get all up in my foam roller and Samson Stretch. . .
That's enough of that. . . .
A whole lot of competitions are coming up around the corner. For some it's first time adventure races like the tough mudder, the warrior dash, or the rugged maniac. For others, it's in-house competitions (like the ones at CrossFit Relentless - see left hand side of page), Olympic Lifting in Stamford, a plethora of 5k's or triathlons, or even the LifeAsRx Tour. Take 15 minutes before or after your WOD and do something to get better at what it is you are going to be facing. This is a lucky opportunity you have to know what you are facing, therefore, face it as fully prepared as you can be.
A shout out to the CrossFit Relentless Team for this past weekend's performance at the Northeast Regional's Qualifier for the CrossFit Games. They did an outstanding job coming into the weekend ranked 11th, and showing everyone that that specific spot wasn't for them, they ended up in 6th place which was out-friggin' standing.
"It is always wise to look ahead, but difficult to look further than you can see. "
Winston Churchill
- Coach Tony
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