More Than Just Fitness: What CrossFit does for you:
Have you ever wondered mid-workout why you do it to yourself?
Have you ever sat on the sofa and weighed up the pro’s of actually going to the box?
Have you ever contemplated who would really notice if you stopped training?
The answers to all these questions are very simple.
You do it for your health and well-being.
The pro’s are more energy, better sleeping patterns, increased resilience to illness and a greater quality of life.
The person who would notice if you stopped training the most is you!
The reason most people, including me, get into exercise is aesthetics. The majority of us just want to lose a little weight, gain a bit of muscle or ‘tone’ the ones we already have. The truth is that these are all by-products of a good exercise regime but should not be the main reason for it. Exercise does so much more for us besides make us look a little ‘better’.
As I have developed more and more as a coach and athlete I have come to realise the massive positive effects training has on mine and my clients lives:
Energy Levels: exercising regularly will strengthen your heart and lungs meaning they can supply your body with blood and oxygen more efficiently. This will result in increased energy levels which can be applied to everyday activities, not just the gym!
Disease/Illness Prevention: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of, or control the effects of, heart disease, some cancers, diabetes, obesity, a weakened immune system and arthritis. Increased heart and lung capacity combined with a strong immune system will decrease your chances of picking up everyday colds and flu’s.
Stress Relief: Regular exercise will improve your mood through the production of endorphins, the bodies feel good hormone. This in turn will help you forget the days stresses and irritations as you switch off and get stuck into the workout. The social aspect of a CrossFit class will also help you to relax and unwind from your days work.
Sleeping Patterns: Physical activity can help regulate your body temperature, ease stress levels and relax the body and mind. This will all lead to a better nights sleeps.
Injury Prevention: Resistance training improves the strength of the muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones. Stronger muscles and tendons help hold the body in correct alignment and protect the bones and joints from impact and shearing.
So the next time you are crashed out on the couch considering whether or not you can be bothered to train, remember, it may have a bigger impact upon your health than just looking good naked!