It Really is the Little Things That Matter…

Many athletes and trainees, me included, have a tendency to focus on the big picture when it comes to our training thus often forgetting the little things.  The problem lies in the fact those little things are what can make the difference between stagnation (and or injury) and progress.   

A dynamic warm-up is a great example.  I am the worst when it comes to any kind of meaningful warm-up.  During my soccer career and now as a professional CrossFitter I admittedly have not yet gotten consistent enough with pre-workout warm-ups.  I just want to “get to it” and my impatience sometimes compels me to skip a step which I know can help.  I know it can help because when I do a quick dynamic warm-up (see my dynamic warm-up here: http://chewablechunks.com/?cat=14 ) I find my joints are more readied for the impending forces from training. 

Another common training omission is working on skills and drills.  This is especially true as it applies to Olympic lifting.  It is easy to neglect working on components of a lift vs. doing the full version.  You have to remember that doing the component drills will translate to a superior full lift and thus greater progress and potential.

How about working to improve your recovery?  Most people just want to go home after their training session.  Take a few minutes and stretch and work on yourself.  I have found stretching with bands and self-trigger point work (using a lacrosse ball) to be best.  My resource for such matters is www.mobilitywod.com .  It’s a great site, check it out. 

Work on the little things and you will see BIG results.

Kate Rawlings is a high level competitive CrossFit Games athlete. With strength and endurance to spare, she is an excellent example of what the CrossFit lifestyle can do for you.