The CrossFit prescription is to perform workouts that are constantly varied, done at high intensity and based on functional movements.
Let’s look at “Functional Movements“
1. Functional movements are NATURAL. These movements are essential to independant living. We were born doing these movements (squats= getting from a chair, deadlift = picking an object off the ground and press=pushing something overhead on a shelf). Nobody invented these movements. As opposed to a non functional movement like the ‘behind the back wrist curl’: somebody invented this very unique movement. And seriously, where are you gona use that movement? Maybe it’s a fancy way that I have yet to learn, to poor pepper on your steak?
2. Functional movements are SAFE. If we would put an excessive load on a deadlift, assuming the athlete respects the proper form, he or she will not get hurt. If we do the same with a typical machine at a regular gym, like the peck deck, the risk of getting hurt is much greater at one rep max load.
3.Functional movements are universal motor recruitment patterns. They are performed in a wave of contraction from core to extremity. This will help maximize neuroendocrine response. Much of our work focuses on the flexion and extension of the hips and extension flexion and rotation of the torso.
4. Functional movements are compound; they are mutli-joint. You can’t break them down in simpler movements. Take a Squat for example: there’s no way I can break it down. Doing leg curls, leg extensions and calf raises, all isolation movements, will not help you get a better, heavier squat.
5. The most important aspect of functional movements is their capacity to move large loads, over long distances, and to do so quickly. These three attributes (load= F, distance= D, and speed=T) are related directly to the production of high power (Power= (F*D)/T). Intensity is defined exactly as power, which is what gives us results.
Gino maximing neuroendocrine response