We often see athletes struggle with certain movements or workouts. It’s natural to feel frustrated when faced with a challenging exercise, but instead of complaining or avoiding the movement, there are ways to approach it with a growth mindset. Let’s explore the value of movement transfer, the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone, and the benefits of trying new things in your CrossFit journey.
The Value of Movement Transfer
One of the core principles of CrossFit is the idea of “constantly varied functional movements.” By incorporating a wide variety of exercises, we not only build well-rounded fitness, but we also develop skills that transfer to other movements and activities. When you encounter a difficult movement, remember that the skills you develop from mastering it will have a positive impact on other aspects of your training.
For example, if you struggle with handstand push-ups, working on them will not only improve your shoulder strength and stability but also enhance your overall body awareness and control. These attributes will help you in other gymnastic movements like pull-ups and muscle-ups.
Mindset: Stepping Outside of Your Comfort Zone
It’s human nature to avoid discomfort and stick to what we’re good at, but the real growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. When you find yourself facing a challenging movement, take it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Instead of thinking, “this is stupid,” shift your mindset to “this is an opportunity for growth.”
Remember, progress doesn’t happen overnight. It takes consistent effort, patience, and a willingness to be vulnerable. By embracing the challenge, you’ll not only develop new skills but also build mental toughness and resilience that will serve you well in and outside the gym.
Trying New Things: Expanding Your Fitness Horizons
CrossFit is built on the idea of constantly challenging yourself with new movements, exercises, and workouts. By trying new things, you expose yourself to different training stimuli, which helps prevent plateaus and keeps your fitness journey engaging and enjoyable.
When faced with a difficult movement, take a step back and assess what aspects of the movement are challenging for you. Is it a lack of strength, mobility, or technique? Identify your weaknesses and work on them by incorporating accessory exercises, mobility drills, or seeking advice from your coach or fellow athletes.
Remember, everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and it’s essential to be patient with yourself as you work on your areas of improvement. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and stay committed to the process.
Challenging movements are an integral part of the CrossFit experience. Instead of avoiding or complaining about them, embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and expand your fitness horizons. By focusing on the value of movement transfer, maintaining a growth mindset, and trying new things, you’ll not only become a better athlete, but you’ll also develop mental toughness and resilience that will benefit you in all areas of your life. Remember, the only way to truly fail is by not trying at all.