Is CrossFit Dangerous?
The two points we'd like to address here are 1) Form vs. Intensity and 2) A condition called Rahbdomyolysis (rhabdo). These seem to be the two main discussion points for folks outside the CrossFit community. First of all, don't be naive. Body aches and managing injuries are a part of ALL training programs. The very foundation of any workout (even stretching) is tearing down tissues in order to force them to rebuild stronger or become more flexible. With that being said, let's look at these two topics.
Form vs. Intensity
In Life (highest intensity, no concern for form) - If life was to challenge you with a situation where bodily injury or harm to you, or someone you care for, was a real outcome is form going to matter? Life does not care about form and you will inevitably tax your body in less then ideal positions. From a more day to day perspective, when you are in your garage trying to reach over objects to place an awkward box up on a shelf, you're probably not thinking of form. Do you first ensure that your weight is in your heals, your midline is tight, and the weight is moving directly in-line with your frontal plain?... Perhaps you should yes, but for the most part the answer is NO. In dangerous situations and day to day activity you will call on your body to manage objects using body positions that are less then ideal.
In a competitive environment (high intensity, find efficiency in form) - Let's assume competitive means a max lift, a sporting event or a workout where you are competing against yourself or someone else. If you are committed to doing your best, odds are you will push yourself beyond where you do in your daily practice. With that push may come a compromise form. You may strain to overcome forces that will put you in positions that are difficult to recreate in a controlled practice environment.
In practice (moderate intensity, quality form) - In practice, form needs to be the focus. Kinesthetic awareness, muscle memory and finding efficiency in movement all need to be developed in a practice environment.
In CrossFit we "dance" between that competitive environment and a practice mentality so that we are always ready for what life demands of us. You need to understand how to operate in a practice environment in order to maintain your body. You also need to know when to dial up the intensity and push your limits in order to excel.
Rhabdomyolysis (Rhabdo)
A serious medical condition that can result from workouts that everyone should be aware of. We recommend that you take a moment to read this article on Rhabdo.
