Overcoming Plateaus
Variety in your training regimen can be a game-changer when you hit a plateau. Our bodies adapt to the stress we put them under (assuming we recover adequately). But what happens when that stress no longer yields results? Or better yet what if the stress required is not something we are willing to invest? That’s where variety comes in. By changing up your routine, you can challenge your body in new ways, stimulating further growth and improvement.
Avoiding Overtraining-Related Injuries
Consistently doing the same movements in the same way can lead to overuse injuries. Variety helps you use different muscle groups and joints, reducing the risk of overtraining a specific area. Small changes can lead to big results over time, especially when it comes to avoiding injuries.
Mental Mojo
Let’s face it, doing the same thing over and over can get boring. The importance of a reward in habit formation can’t be overstated. The new experiences and challenges that come with variety can serve as that reward, keeping you mentally engaged and motivated.
Real-World Readiness
CrossFit isn’t just about getting good at workouts; it’s about preparing you for the challenges life throws your way. By incorporating different movements and challenges, you’re better prepared for whatever comes your way.
The Social Factor
Variety isn’t just about what you do; it’s also about where and with whom you do it. Some folks will have memberships to different facilities for different goals—rock climbing gym, CrossFit gym, personal training, cycling club, etc. Our specialty courses actually came out of this desire to offer different settings and community vibes, keeping your social interactions as fresh as your workouts.
Your Personalized Variety Checklist
- Identify Your Plateau: What area of your fitness feels stagnant?
- Research New Movements: Look for exercises that challenge your weak points.
- Consult a Coach: Get professional advice tailored to you.
Action Steps:
- Take a Specialty Course: Step out of your comfort zone and learn something new. Weightlifting, gymnastics, nutrition…lots of options!
- Join the 800g Challenge: A simple way to add nutritional variety, performance improvements, and accountability.
- Book a One-on-One Session: Get personalized tips to add variety to your routine.
By implementing these tips and understanding the psychology behind them, you’re not just working towards a fitter you; you’re also building sustainable habits that will benefit you in the long run. Small improvements add up over time, leading to significant changes in your fitness and overall well-being.