What is Fitness and Who is Fit?
In 1997, triathlete Mark Allen was crowned “the fittest man on Earth” by Outside Magazine. But what does it truly mean to be "fit"? Is it just about endurance, like Allen’s? Or does fitness include strength, speed, and coordination as well? CrossFit has its own definition of fitness, which goes beyond simply running long distances.
CrossFit’s Definition of Fitness
CrossFit defines fitness as the ability to perform well in a wide range of physical tasks, not just endurance. This approach emphasizes three main models:
General Physical Skills: Fitness is the ability to perform well across 10 physical skills: cardiovascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. Improving each of these skills makes you fitter.
Performance at Tasks: Fitness is about performing well at any physical task, even those you haven’t practiced before. The goal is to be ready for anything, from lifting weights to running or jumping.
Energy Systems: There are three energy systems in our body (phosphagen, glycolytic, and oxidative), each fueling different types of activity. CrossFit emphasizes training all three systems to build total fitness.
Fitness on the Sickness-Wellness-Fitness Continuum
CrossFit also views fitness on a continuum from sickness to wellness to fitness. Fitness is more than just being healthy; it’s a step beyond wellness. For example, a body fat percentage of 40% is unhealthy, 20% is normal, and 10% is considered fit. CrossFit’s approach is designed to improve your health while also pushing you into a higher level of fitness.
In short, fitness is about being prepared for anything, improving across multiple physical skills, and training your body’s energy systems for overall performance and health. It’s not about specializing in just one area—it's about being well-rounded and ready for life’s challenges.
To read the original article written by Greg Glassman, click here.
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Fitness is a journey, Coach Alex.