Learn the moves, and understand why they matter.
One of the cornerstones of CrossFit is the idea of “functional movements.” Many of the movements that are prevalent in traditional gyms are non-functional. For instance, leg curls and leg extensions have no equivalent in nature.
Other exercises mimic movement patterns that are naturally found in everyday life. Squatting is standing from a seated position; deadlifting is picking any object off the ground. These are functional movements, using multiple joints for every activity.
CrossFit utilizes functional movements for a couple or reasons. First, these motions are mechanically sound. When done properly, they are safe and they deliver results. Second, they elicit a high neuroendocrine response. Put more simply, they’ll lead to quicker results due to the high intensity with which you’ll be doing them. If you’ve done some WODs, you already know this is true. If not, functional movements are about to change your world.
To see the full library of CrossFit movements, visit www.crossfit.com.
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