CrossFit offers a variety of ways to tone up just about every muscle group, yet people are getting injured in high numbers while doing it. Since these sessions have trainers, why is it that so many people are getting injured? Like anything else, the issue most likely isn't with the trainer, but with a lack of preparation. Even the best protein bar combined with determination and proper adherence to the CrossFit guidelines isn't going to be enough if you don't take the proper steps to prepare for a session.
Keep Hydrated - One of the fastest ways to get injured when doing any kind of exercise program is to skip out on hydration. If you want to cut down calorie consumption, simply avoid drinks with refined sugar in them. Consider relying on natural juices and water, but avoid caffeine and refined sugar. You're going to lose electrolytes and liquids when you start sweating during CrossFit training, and that can be dangerous. Keep something to drink on hand so that you can refuel as needed.
Use a Nutrition Plan - Skip the fad diets and use a nutrition plan that works for you. Maybe you're trying to lose weight and want to reduce your calorie intake. That's fine, as long as you are still getting your nutritional needs met. For example, instead of having a sandwich for a snack, enjoy one of our tasty low carb bars. It's a good idea to speak with a health professional who knows your unique circumstances so you can develop an appropriate diet plan. Otherwise, you could do more damage to yourself than good when you engage in CrossFit training. It's even important to think about when you eat as much as you think about what you eat. For example, diabetics are encouraged to eat multiple small meals throughout the day in order to keep their blood sugar from spiking at any given time.
Stretch in Advance - Before you engage in any kind of training program, make sure you take the time to stretch your muscles. This helps loosen them up and prevents a lot of the pain that you may experience if you don't stretch. On top of that, stretching helps you develop smooth, toned muscles instead of random bulky areas.
Rely on Professionals - When it comes to specific programs like the CrossFit program, make sure the trainers are certified to teach you and aren't just someone who happened to use the program once and then decided to start training others. Relying on someone who isn't properly trained is an almost guaranteed direct route to a future injury. It's also important that you speak with your trainer to discuss your current abilities and limitations. In some cases, you may need to start out with a less strenuous program in order to help your body get used to exercising on a regular basis before starting the CrossFit program.
CrossFit is an excellent way to get into shape fast, but you need to take the right steps to get there. Don't assume you can safely go from the couch to hand-stand push-ups without expecting some kind of injury to follow.
Be sure to check back here regularly for more tips on how to bring your A-Game in a way that's both smart and safe.