We often hear people outside the Box say “Those people are too intense”. When in fact we do not perform as maximal intensity but rather relative intensity.
Relative intensity in CrossFit is a concept that tailors the workout intensity to the individual athlete’s current fitness level and capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of what it means and why it’s important:
Key Points:
- Personalized Effort: Relative intensity means that the intensity of a workout is scaled to match the individual’s physical and psychological tolerances1. This ensures that each athlete is working at a level that is challenging yet safe for them.
- Progressive Overload: The goal is to gradually increase the intensity over time. This approach helps in building strength, endurance, and overall fitness without risking injury2.
- Measurable and Observable: CrossFit measures intensity through power, which is calculated as work done over time. This allows for objective tracking of progress1.
- Safety and Efficacy: Before increasing intensity, athletes must demonstrate consistent and correct mechanics. This ensures that they can handle higher intensities without compromising form and risking injury3.
- Adaptability: Workouts are often modified to suit the individual’s current fitness level. This could mean adjusting the weight, reps, or movements to ensure the intended stimulus of the workout is achieved4.
Conclusion:
Relative intensity is a cornerstone of CrossFit training, ensuring that workouts are both effective and safe for athletes of all levels. By focusing on personalized effort and gradual progression, CrossFit helps individuals achieve their fitness goals while minimizing the risk of injury.
