A Trainer’s Breakdown:
We’ve probably all come across a crossfit workout at some point – ultra-fit people throwing weights around, doing muscle-ups and nearly reaching vomiting point on the rowing machine. Am I into it? No. Am I slightly jealous of their power and athleticism? Yes. Alternatively you’ve got traditional weight-training – less heavy breathing, lots more variety of exercises – but maybe slightly boring? So what do you choose?
What is crossfit?
Crossfit is a fitness program that aims to develop overall fitness, including: strength, endurance, flexibility and agility. CrossFit workouts combine elements of weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardiovascular exercises to create high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts that challenge multiple muscle groups and energy systems. The workouts are usually done in a group setting and are designed to push individuals to their limits.
What is strength training?
Strength training focuses on developing muscular strength, power, and endurance through lifting weights and resistance training. The primary goal of strength training is to increase muscle mass, improve muscular strength and endurance, and enhance overall physical performance. Strength training typically involves exercises such as weightlifting, powerlifting, and bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups and squats.
Crossfit vs Strength training – key differences
Crossfit is great, if you’re after variety, you want to burn lots of calories in your workout and you’ve got a bit of a competitive streak. It’s also great if you enjoy the camaraderie of training in a group. Cons – training at this intensity means you’re more at risk of getting injured.
Strength Training is usually slower-paced, can be done on your own, and tends to a more personalized workout. With this kind of training you can expect better muscular adaptation and less risk of injury.
How to choose the right option for you?
Crossfit:
- Group Training
- Generalized workout
- Challenging
- High Intensity
Strength Training:
- Targeted focus
- Low risk of Injury
- Personalized programming
- Better muscle adaptation
Overall you should do the kind of training that excites you the most – or that you know is a program you can actually stick to! Consistency will get you the best results – no matter what the program. If you’re competitive and you enjoy high intensity workouts, then Crossfit is for you! If you prefer a more systematic approach and have specific areas that you want to target then you’ll get better results from strength training.
Here at Hiscoes we’ve combined the best of both in our Small Group Training sessions. You can get the motivation from the group without risking injury in our Strength Training sessions. If you still want to experience some of the variety and intensity that Crossfit offers you can combine your strength training with HIIT or X-Training. Try Small Group Training for 2 weeks at Hiscoes.
