Did anyone else feel inspired by the display of absolute athleticism over the weekend? I sure did. The workouts were exhausting to watch, especially as I sat watching on my phone, folding washing. These athletes are at the top of their game and have spent the last couple of months preparing for this event in a hope they would make it to the Games in August. It really made me miss the days where I trained to compete. I realised long ago I was never going to make it to the Games, however I did train for years to compete professionally in netball. Whilst the two sports are completely different, I wanted to draw a parallel to competing in general. The time, commitment and dedication it takes to be at the top of any sport is the same. The below should highlight just a few elements that not only games athletes go through, but the at the top of their games in any sport.
Dedication, Commitment, Passion and Sacrifice
These four go hand in hand when it comes to the Games. You must be dedicated to the cause, committed to training, ultimately have a passion for the sport and be willing to sacrifice it all to be the best. Without these, you may find it difficult to get up every morning and continue with your rigorous training regime.
Training
Games athletes do not just lift weights, in fact that is just one component of their intense training regime. From swimming, to sprint training, to long distance runs, to gymnastics movements, that is what CrossFit is all about, variation. CrossFit Games winner 2017, Matt Fraser, knew he would never be beaten in weightlifting movements, however he realised he was coming dead last in sprinting events. What did he do? He sort the help of a track and field coach to work on his technique, and it paid off, coming 2nd in the sprinting events at last year’s games. Whilst it is important to work on your strengths, it is just as crucial to work on your weaknesses, as they are more than likely be exploited at the games.
Nutrition
Gone are the “cheat days”. The times you say YES to the fries and coke. Competitive Crossfit is more than just a sport, it is a lifestyle. You will need to embrace the chicken, meat and veggie way of life. And be prepared to eat and eat a lot. Anywhere from 4–6 meals a day in fact. Most seek the help of a nutritionist, however there are countless articles online dedicated to Crossfit nutrition. Do yourself a favour and work towards a nutrition plan you know is achievable.
Time
Training for the Open, the regionals and then onto the games, takes time! I’m talking about a couple of hours a day, 5 to 6 days a week, depending on how committed you are to making it all the way to the games. Bear in mind most of the professionals that make it to the games, are just that, professionals. Competing is their job, they get paid to train and participate in the games, with the sole expectation of winning.
Utilise your rest
Your body will need a break, especially if you are training multiple times a week. Try to take one day a week to RELAX. Now your version of relaxing may be yoga, going for a hike or simply just having a sleep in. Listen to your body and don’t ignore the warning signs, because an overuse injury can take weeks if not months out of your training schedule, if not treated correctly.
Being a games athlete is not what most would consider fun.
It is hard work, which many may not consider when they look up at Katrin Davidsdottir standing on the 1st placed podium. Behind that first place is blood, sweat and tears. And yes, you don’t need to be an athlete competing to take on board the above points. To be honest, you can be someone just starting your health and fitness journey, wanting to make a change.
