26/05/2026
CrossFit is first and foremost a brand and a specific methodology created by Greg Glassman in the early 2000s. The name itself comes from "cross training" the idea of mixing different training modalities rather than specializing in just one.
What CrossFit actually is:
Constantly varied functional movements
High intensity
Mixes:
Olympic weightlifting (sn**ch, clean & jerk)
Powerlifting / strength training (squats, deadlifts, presses)
Gymnastics / calisthenics (pull-ups, muscle-ups, handstand push-ups, rings, etc.)
Metabolic conditioning (running, rowing, biking, double-unders)
Core work, mobility, and functional patterns
Sometimes strongman elements, kettlebells, sandbags, etc.
So when someone says "I do CrossFit", they're usually saying they train using this cross-training philosophy (often at an affiliate gym that follows the daily workout of the day). But technically, you can do "cross training" without doing official CrossFit... plenty of people have been doing hybrid training (powerbuilding, functional fitness, etc.) long before the brand existed.
The brand aspect is important because:
"CrossFit" is trademarked.
Only licensed affiliates can officially call themselves "CrossFit [Gym Name]".
The methodology is open-source in spirit (they publish the WODs), but the name and certain standards are protected.
A lot of people now just say they do "functional fitness" or "hybrid training" to avoid the tribal connotations that CrossFit sometimes carries (both the good and the sometimes overly intense reputation).
#2026
19/04/2026
Plyometric is a type of explosive training method that involves stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) exercises. It focuses on rapid muscle lengthening (eccentric phase) immediately followed by a powerful shortening (concentric phase), using the elastic energy stored in muscles and tendons to produce greater force and speed.
Simple Definition
❌Who Uses Plyometrics?
Athletes in almost every sport (especially those requiring jumping, sprinting, or quick changes of direction)
Basketball, Martial arts, volleyball, soccer, rugby, tennis, track & field
Military/special forces training
Some fitness enthusiasts for fat loss and conditioning (when programmed properly)
Plyometrics are jump training or explosive power exercises where you:
Land softly from a jump or drop,
Quickly "bounce" or rebound into the next explosive movement (like jumping again) with minimal ground contact time.
The goal is to train your muscles to generate maximum force in the shortest possible time, improving power (force × velocity).
❌Why It Works? (The Science)
When you land from a jump, your muscles and tendons stretch and store elastic energy (like a spring). If you immediately explode upward, that stored energy is released, making the movement more powerful than a regular jump or lift. This is called the stretch-shortening cycle.
Key benefits:
-Increases explosive power
-Improves speed and agility
-Enhances jumping ability (vertical jump, broad jump)
-Boosts athletic performance in sports like basketball, soccer, volleyball, sprinting, etc.
-Improves tendon stiffness and reactive strength
-Can help with injury prevention when done correctly (stronger muscles/tendons)
❌Important Guidelines
Not for beginners... you need a solid strength base first (e.g., able to squat 1.5× bodyweight is a common recommendation for advanced plyos).
Focus on quality, not quantity. Emphasize speed and minimal ground contact time rather than high volume.
Proper landing technique is critical: Soft knees, absorbing force through hips/knees/ankles, good alignment to avoid injury.
Recovery: Plyometrics are very taxing on the nervous system and joints. Allow 48–72 hours recovery between sessions.
Progression: Start with low-intensity (e.g., ankle hops) and gradually increase height, speed, or complexity.
Surface matters: Use grass, turf, or rubber floor mats, avoid hard concrete.
24/05/2026