The problem most of us have with building endurance is the lack of time to follow traditional plans. Just because we have to work for a living, take care of and spend time with our families, and all the extracurricular activities work and family demands, does not mean that we can not build our endurance base. It really means that we have to be smart with our time, smart with our methods, and smart with our goals.
CrossFit Endurance, founded by Brian MacKenzie, is one such solution. This solution has drawn a lot of fire from people who make their living coaching traditional methods, but the criticism against CrossFit Endurance seems to be a drowning in misunderstanding. Knowing what we’re doing and why we’re doing it allows us to tweak our methods, improve our training plans, and increase our endurance.
The CrossFit Endurance philosophy is simple. As MacKenzie says, “If you’re running five miles a day at the same speed and think you’re getting a lot out of that, you’re sorely mistaken.” The Endurance principle draws directly from the definition of CrossFit: Constantly varied, high-intensity, functional movement. Most of us do not have time to log between fifty and a hundred miles of running per week, and even if we do, we’re missing out on variation, intensity, and functionality. The monotony of repetition is a breeding ground for over-training and injury. A seemingly simple injury not only derails your running plan, but forces most people to lose valuable fitness levels.
What CrossFit Endurance offers is the opportunity to become a more well rounded athlete who is capable of great feats of endurance with minimal impact on time and resources. A more well rounded athlete who is less prone to injury. A more well rounded athlete who can run long distances, but still function in day-to-day life, take care of family needs and work obligations. Yes, going out for a long meditative run can be relaxing and recharging, but if this is your only form of exercise, the opportunity to improve is minimal, if at all.
Several studies, as well as practical experience, shows that a stronger body moves more efficiently. Military, firefighters, and some police train with a similar mindset towards strength and endurance, but such a training plan could benefit us all in our ongoing pursuit of fitness and health. Whether you’re looking to step up your 10K to a Marathon & beyond, or if you’re looking to increase your 5K or 10K time, but don’t have time to spend on long boring ground pounding miles, CrossFit Endurance might be your answer. If you’re looking to do all of the above but still want the solid body of an athlete instead of the withdrawn physique of a runner, CrossFit Endurance is definitely the answer you need.
Be sure to check out the CrossFit Endurance website to find a certified affiliate coach in your area, or even for articles and tips to help you create your own endurance boosting workouts. MacKenzie’s groundbreaking book, Power, Speed, Endurance: A Skill Based Approach to Endurance Training is also available, and full of functional information.
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