CrossFit isn’t just a way to stay fit. It’s endurance-testing training protocols that build muscle, burn fat and improve conditioning is a way of life.
However, CrossFit’s combination of weight training, aerobics, running and gymnastics isn’t for the faint of heart. Training safely is key to achieving the best results whenever you hit the local box.
Use these five tips to prevent CrossFit injuries while you train:
One of the most important steps in CrossFit is warming up before your WOD. Jumping into a strenuous workout while you’re still cold can hurt your muscles and joints.
The same applies when you end a workout abruptly. Muscles, tendons and joints need to ease in and out of intense physical activity gradually. Always take at least five to 10 minutes of warmup and cool down time to reduce your chances of muscle pulls, strains, sprains and joint injuries during your WOD.
Having someone watch your form and spot you on heavier moves is also key to avoiding CrossFit injuries. Whether you’re working out alone or in a group setting, using the buddy system ensures you stay safe, especially since coaches may not be able to keep tabs on everyone.
CrossFit is known for its success stories and personal breakthroughs. However, major gains don’t come with one workout. Go for gradual, incremental gains each week and keep building on them. Lifting to much or jumping too high can lead to injury, which can prevent you from working out altogether. Approach every WOD with common sense.
CrossFit WODs are designed to test your limits. While it’s great to challenge yourself, never lose sight of what’s realistic for you. Your body will let you know when it’s had enough. Stay tuned to these signals, and you’ll lower your chances of getting injured during CrossFit. Otherwise, you may run the risk of setting yourself back with an injury for weeks, and even months.
CrossFit is competitive, and many athletes are quick to post about their latest successes on social media. You’ll also see people in the box and want to beat them, or at least do as much as they’re doing. Competition is a great motivator, but it can also cause athletes to lift too much, run too fast or jump too high during the WOD. While it’s great to be inspired, stay focused on your personal goals.
CrossFit can push you to be the best version of yourself, but preventing injuries is key to making progress. The five tips outlined here will help you train smart, enhance your performance and reduce your chances of getting CrossFit injuries.
