The CrossFit world remains active
Even after the 2024 CrossFit Games
With several key offseason events gaining attention. One notable upcoming competition is the Rogue Invitational, set for November 8-10 in Aberdeen, Scotland. As the temperatures drop locally, Dubai competition season is also well underway with an event every weekend from now until December.
Get out there and get involved in supporting your local fitness community.
Is CrossFit for everyone?
Quite contrary to the hype, CrossFit is not just all about topless Barbell PR’s and sub 6’ mile times. It is designed to cater to recreational and elite fitness enthusiasts, making it adaptable based on individual goals and fitness levels.
For recreational athletes, CrossFit offers scalable workouts that can be modified in intensity, load and complexity. The program focuses on general physical preparedness (GPP), meaning it aims to improve overall fitness across various domains like strength, endurance, flexibility and coordination. The workouts are designed to be inclusive, allowing anyone from beginners to seasoned athletes to participate and progress at their own pace.
For elite athletes,
CrossFit serves as a competitive sport, where top athletes train rigorously to compete in events like the CrossFit Games. The same functional movements are employed, but at much higher volumes and intensities, with a focus on excelling on the competition floor.
In summary, CrossFit’s versatility allows it to serve both recreational fitness seekers looking to improve their overall health and elite competitors striving for peak physical performance.
This month we’re getting up close and personal with Coach Luke Tweddell:
How long have you been coaching?
I started coaching back in 2015 after leaving the British Military as a Royal Marines Commando. Over the last 9 years I've coached between the UK, Thailand, Australia and now Dubai.
How do you keep on top of your coaching game after so long?
The key to remaining on top of my coaching is to always remain the student. No matter how much I learn there is always something else I can gain knowledge on and put into practice with coaching classes and with 1-1 clients.
Who’s your favorite athlete to watch?
I have a few faves across a few different disciplines – Daniel Brandon in CrossFit and Lasha Talahadze in Weightlifting are probably my top 2 right now.
What’s your favorite move?
I am strongest at gymnastics having a trampolining background as a kid, so body control comes naturally to me. I really enjoy Oly-lifting. My least favorite is running!
Sweet or Savoury?
Sweet any day of the week
Coffee or tea?
Neither – tropical Red Bull.
Slow & heavy or fast & light?
Slow & heavy is my jam.
If there’s one piece of advice you can share with any new CrossFitter, what would it be?
The most beneficial thing for any newbie in CrossFit is to lift an empty bar more than you lift a bar with weight. Most people are too keen to add weights and lift as heavy as they can with poor technique. If you master an empty barbell you will reach your true potential exponentially faster.
If you’re new to the Whgym CF Community, welcome.
Below is a reminder of what to expect throughout the week:
Monday – Mixed Modal / Engine
Tuesday - OLY /Powerlifting
Wednesday – Gymnastics Skill
Thursday - OLY /Powerlifting
Friday – Strongman
Saturday & Sunday – Team Throw-down
