It’s not Crossfit it’s called GYMNASTICS!
I’m not saying this just because I was a former gymnast..oh wait yes I am….but gymnasts are AMAZING. Not only are they flexible and graceful but they are STRONG as hell. I attribute most of my strength in the gym as a carryover from being a gymnast for over 10 years. One of the things I HATE is when people think because you are doing a handstand that you must be a crossfitter..um actually NO…before crossfit there was a sport called gymnastics where they don’t do OLY lifts and things for time. Not trying to get into a crossfit debate here, just simply saying that if you cannot do a proper push-up or pull-up you should not try handstands and multi-plane pressing movements. Learn the proper progressions and go from there. Also, as a side note gymnasts do not train for muscle size; they must maintain their power, technique and quickness mainly done via bodyweight exercises and plane pushing movements, this is also why you typically see smaller gymnasts under 5’3 and 100lbs dominate in the sport.
I think it’s one of the best sports you can introduce your children to, boys and girls, because it teaches body awareness, good form, posture, balance and explosive power. I have seen the strength carryover in my daughter, who I’ve been working with well over a year, not only in pressing movements, but in overall strength. She recently showed interest in powerlifting and because of her gymnastic background teaching her proper form is that much easier.
It teaches PATIENCE….unlike weight lifting where you can learn proper form and begin to stack on the weight..body weight exercises, such as planches , static holds, front levers etc. take time and are sometimes NEVER attained (see Manna hold-my nemesis). You work through progression movements, keep practicing and pretty much cuss a lot. I still incorporate BW exercises in my training, it makes me feel “athletic” keeps me flexible and mainly makes me feel old as shit; especially when your quad is cramping from holding it off the floor, screaming at you until you put it down (yea I can squat heavy but can’t hold my leg up). ^^^^^see above photo of my daughter..that thur makes my quad cramp^^^^
This guy is amazing….
Overcoming Gravity by Steven Low
Building the Gymnastic Body by Christopher Sommer
Video Progression of an RLL-Wall HS-
