Trainer certifications reduce risk of injury
Within the last decade, the relatively new fitness program CrossFit has ignited a passion across America to become physically fit. Before delving into the debate on whether CrossFit is beneficial or catastrophic, let’s take a look into what exactly CrossFit is.
In 2001, gymnastics coach Greg Glassman launched a website designed for providing a library of workouts, exercise demos and an active discussion forum. The foundations that Glassman put in place on this website have helped more than 1,000 CrossFit gyms spring up across America.
The principle foundation is a fitness program that incorporates strength and fitness conditioning programs that are appropriate for any age range or physical capabilities. The core of the workouts is a blend of weight training, gymnastics and Olympic weightlifting techniques. In addition to improvements in these areas, participants in CrossFit will also see gains in stamina, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility and balance.
The workouts of CrossFit never the same on a day-to-day basis. On one day, the workout can include pull-ups, push-ups and kettle ball swings. The very next day, the workout could include deadlifts, squats, presses and thrusts. The chances of workouts becoming stagnant and boring are slim compared to a traditional gym where workouts can be highly repetitive and dull. The one aspect that is incorporated in CrossFit that is lacking in most gyms is the sense of community. The classes are taught in groups by professional trainers who motivate you to push yourself to the limits during every workout. The individual members of the gym become like a family, pushing and inspiring each other to do their personal best.
Opponents of CrossFit call it dangerous. They argue the techniques involved completely disregard proper form, use unnatural moves and push you out of safe limits. Working out becomes hazardous when the movements are inappropriately applied and pushed to unprepared levels or the instructor does not have the knowledge or ability to teach the involved movement patterns correctly and effectively. While this is generally true, trainers for CrossFit know what they are doing. In order to become a CrossFit trainer, one must attend certification seminars and complete an exam.
While the workouts for CrossFit can be dangerous, they are only dangerous when done improperly. With proper training from the trainers and classes, CrossFit members learn proper techniques to minimize injury and maximize growth. David Geier, Jr., the director of sports medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina told the Livestrong foundation, “I think the benefits of CrossFit outweigh the risks — but the risks are real.”
He’s right. If practiced correctly, CrossFit creates strong men and women, ensures longevity and creates body awareness.
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