Sunday, October 11, 2009

training styles

What's the difference between Crossfit, Boot Camp, Exercise Class, Kettle Bell workout, Interval Training and so forth?
They try to appeal to someone. It's like buying shampoo. There are mandarin scented ones with a hint of peach, or cucumber melon scented ones, or unscented ones...do they really differ that much? The answer is NO. Not really. They would get your hair washed, all of them. So how does that apply to all the special types of training? Do what you like. But do it with heart and do it regularly. Not everyone likes spinning and not everyone likes dancy workout classes. Fitness levels and likes and dislikes vary.
I vote for complexity, intensity and variety. That is why I like to do boot camp, as opposed to sitting on a broom handle in a closed up room, or bouncing around to music standing in one spot. I am also not a great fan of Crossfit because it wears on the body with too much intensity and provides for no recovery. Overuse injury is likely to result, however! I do think it is a good platform to drastically increase fitness levels and help with weight loss. You choose if you are willing to submit your body to overuse to get there. Not everyone is a Navy Seal.
H.I.T.T. or high intensity interval training is also a great way to get in shape and have a good mix of tortures in your workout.
Boot camp, on the other hand, can be whatever. I like to alternate between muscle strength and endurance, cardiovascular fitness, and fun games. You can't go wrong with it!
So, yes, I am partial to my own technique, but I am also a participant and picky about my workouts. Remember, whatever you decide to engage in, make sure someone is paying attention to you and your form, your progress and your input. Make sure you get sweaty and feel great at the end of the workout. Make sure you look forward to your workouts.
Have fun and push yourself!

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