Congratulations James C., Tyson S., Ysbrant M. and Amanda S., for completing our Elements Workshop curriculum!
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[polldaddy poll=4467221]
An unfortunate, though expected consequence of an hour-long class structure is that rarely, if ever, are we permitted an opportunity to field serious questions or entertain thoughtful discussions. The demands of many bodies packed into 60 minutes are plentiful, and while we relish the chance to really talk about the what, why and how of the tasks we undertake, it isn’t always realistic to accomplish that and get your warm-up, skill development and workout in.
So, what about creating some time for just this purpose: a town hall-style dialogue or series of exchanges? Anything related to the topic of health, fitness and nutrition would be fair game—even topics away from our primary purpose if they’re the right ones. Maybe you want to know how MPH evolved and where we are headed. Perhaps you often wonder why this experience feels like aiming for a moving target, and you want to understand how best to adapt to these new challenges. Do you ever speculate about the physics of the squat, deadlift and press? Would you like a referral to our tattoo artist? Actually, that last one is already coming to a Sunday post near you. You get the idea.
If you are a current MPH athlete, let us know if this interests you by voting once in the above poll. Then, if it does, post questions you want answered to today’s comments section, or send us an email if you prefer some anonymity. This last step is important. In order to make the best use of everyone’s time under this format, we will create a framework for good discussion in advance with your questions. You didn’t really think it would be a “free-for-all,” did you?
Rest today.
why does our conditioning decrease, and seemingly so fast, when we take time out of our training schedule? why do we get less sore when we’re working out on a regular basis, even though we are still pushing ourselves, tearing muscles, etc.?
how is protein absorbed into the body?
why alternate cold AND hot water?
what is muscle memory? how does it work?
with so much emphasis on digital and virtual experiences, what is the future of physical existence and what is the role of fitness in that future?
is there any meaningful way to normalize our WOD scores by the height, limb length, caloric intake, etc.? what is the best way to track our scores? what would be the ultimate way to visualize WOD scores and progress?
why does that crazy thing with the lacross ball on the bottom of your foot work?
How do coaches and fellow athletes think about CrossFit as training for other sports/life vs. a sport/end unto itself?
What are typical CrossFit overtraining injuries that we should keep our eyes peeled for preliminary signs of?
How many times per week should we aim to go truly all-out, and is this number higher for CrossFit than for, say, running, because different workouts address different things?
What is the MPH foundation story(/legend/myth)?
Can we do a promo for the Paleo Eaters Blog at the town hall?
Do you think that c.f. training capitalizes well enough on a beginner’s ability to make strength gains quickly, and if yes, how does MPH specifically try to maximize this window? If not, what could we be doing better to make people stronger when they first begin?
Emails- do you want them from us? What kind? When? Have you considered separate addresses?
How are you? Are you getting enough sleep? Are you having enough fun outside of work? Is this still your dream job over a year in?
It is becoming a trend at my workplace to ditch the office chair and sit on a ball to support posture. Is it potentially advantageous to sit on a ball all day instead of an office chair?
How can we identify a plateau? Is this a bad thing? If so, how can we move forward?
How should we be setting goals?
How do you approach programming workouts?
How can I go faster? Is it physical or mental?
In an ideal world, what does our time outside the box look like to support our progress in the gym?
Will there be a way for those of who can’t be in the room to hear the answers to these great questions? Maybe videotape, or, if the timing’s not too awkward and you all miss my face so much you can’t stand it, Skype.
How can we learn to push ourselves beyond our comfort zones, both mental and physical?
What do you eat? And how do you find time to plan/ cook/ pack it all, given your schedules?
How much can training compensate for lack of innate ability? Will some athletes just always be faster/ stronger than others, regardless of training, recovery and nutrition?
What do you think of Robb Wolf’s oft-repeated contention that crossfit isn’t healthy/ideal for some/most people due to adrenal burnout issues, heightened cortisol levels, and a worsened sex hormone profile. Do these issues play a role in your programming strategy for our workouts? Do you monitor athletes for adrenal burnout? How should we be monitoring ourselves?