Crossfit--Pain or Gain

Crossfit. When I hear the word I immediately relate it to my first time ever trying a class in the Twin Cities. Being an athlete at heart, I love being challenged and pushed, and doing this sort of workout appealed to me the first time I tried it. It was very intense, very sweaty and mentally tough to try to get through the pullups, rowing, burpees and barbell thrusters that myself and my partner had to complete. I loved every minute! What I didn't love was the price tag to become a member. I figured that if I wanted to do a crossfit style workout, I could google some and do them on my own. I still do this from time to time to change things up! Lately, I've been hearing chatter about injuries as a result of completing exercises to exhaustion (or past) to get as many reps as possible in a certain amount of time. In my opinion, Crossfit does teach foundational moves and exercises that are appropriate for multiple levels, but throwing all levels into a competitive workout leaves the door open for injury. One article that I have found to show both sides of the fence of Crossfit is here. Make sure to read the comments at the end of the article...very interesting! Some coming from members and some very great points from owners of Crossfit facilities. I think looking at the scientific background from reliable sources and doctors is a great way to form an opinion. Trying out something new and doing it with an open mind is also a great way to see if it works!

In other news, the stairmaster and I are really hitting it off this week ;-) I took some progress pictures yesterday of some posing practice and am looking forward to seeing more changes happen over the next few weeks! (25 days til the show!!) Posing suit BETTER be here this week or I might freak out...or try to practice my yoga breathing and know that everything will be fine! I'm really feeling like every meal, every minute of lifting, cardio and sleep really count for something. My posing routine needs some work though. I've been turning to many youtube videos of physique routines from the pro's to see how to make transitions smooth and use the stage to my advantage. I'm really looking forward to this show knowing that I really pushed myself out of my comfort zone and am trying something new and exciting! I'm planning to do another physique show this fall and continue working this summer, but making sure to take a few weeks off to enjoy some R&R. I figured I've been working hard for 4 months, why go backwards?! Below a few practice poses: Side Tricep, open palm Front Double Bicep and open palm Back Double Bicep. Fun stuff!

Open palm, front double bicep

Open palm back double bicep

Side Tricep, Leg Extended