What is CrossFit and CrossFit Games: an interview with Dave Castro

What is CrossFit

CrossFit - system physical training consisting of a continuously variable functional movements performed with high intensity. Exercises performed in CrossFit are a combination of athletics, weightlifting and gymnastics.

The main feature of CrossFit - a rejection of any specialization. Universal program provides diversified load, developing several physical qualities: strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, accuracy and stamina, as well as strengthens the cardiovascular system.

CrossFit workout can easily be adapted for people of different level and age. CrossFit is also often used for the development of functional qualities of swimmers, runners, fighters of mixed martial arts, police, fireAnd the military. CrossFit I chose to strengthen the muscles and tendons involved in long-distance running.

Posted by Alisher Yakupov (@alisherrr)March 15, 2014 at 3:46 PDT

Fran

CrossFit concept in 1974 came up with a former American gymnast Greg Glassman. He experimented with various loads and intensity variability and the methodology of creating street workout sought that would be most effective and functional. The first street workout, with whom is believed to be originates CrossFit - this ladder of 21-15-9 repetitions thrusters (front squat with ejection rod + pull freestyle). The champions are now doing it for a few minutes. Currently, worldwide there are more than 10,000 CrossFit clubs, and their number is growing daily.

Games

In 2007, Glassman and Castro organized the first CrossFit Games in Los Angeles. Then they were similar to the get-together of athletes in the garage, but now the game collect the stadium, and CrossFit is considered the fastest growing sport in the United States.

In 2010, Reebok and CrossFit agreed on cooperation, which I think was good for both sides. Athletes and fans got a beautiful and functional equipment, and Reebok had the opportunity to work with many thousands of community and improve its products.

In 2011, California launched a series of outdoor games Reebok CrossFit Games, which was attended by more than 26,000 athletes from around the world. And in 2015 in the games has already registered more than 200 000 people. This year, an important feature of online competitions have become simplified street workout for beginners. Thanks to them, in the Opens were able to participate, even those who started CrossFit just a couple of months ago.

In the past year, such "freebies" did not and I had to work with RX (recommended weights), the same for all athletes, both beginners and pros. As a runner, I had a hard time, but I was groaning and popping, yet coped with barbells and dumbbells, taking "honorary" tridtsadpyattyschkakoe something out of 60,000 in their sex and age group.

Posted by Alisher Yakupov (@alisherrr)March 31, 2014 at 11:56 PDT

Recently I was approached by representatives from Reebok with an exclusive offer to interview Dave Castro, dated to the fifth anniversary of their cooperation with CrossFit. For me it's like a schoolboy to interview the president. I talked with friends gathered athletes and issues that interest them.

- What is the meaning of collaboration Reebok and CrossFit, other than the manufacture of clothes and shoes? What changes have occurred since the beginning of the partnership?

- Partnership means including close cooperation in the organization of activities such as CrossFit Games and Team Invitational. We also discuss how to work with our affiliated partners and how to most effectively interact with the CrossFit community. We brand Reebok established a great relationship, which is much deeper than just the development and sale of clothing. Reebok and CrossFit today do not look like Reebok and CrossFit sample five years ago, when we started cooperation. On our side, one of the biggest changes that have occurred over this period was our impressive growth throughout the world. Especially in Russia and South America. And I am absolutely convinced that our partnership with Reebok helped us in this.

- Do you plan to include in the game, and street workout some other functional sports such as archery or gun?

I think no. I have always spoken out strongly against the use of weapons in the CrossFit Games. I tell you as an avid shooter. The weapon does not serve the verification of physical fitness in the form of fitness that we advocate. The same can be said about archery, but I sincerely believe that in this sport is very important to be in good shape, it requires skill, agility and strength. But again, none of these sports makes it impossible to test the level of physical training athletes need us much.

- Simplified street workout - this is a big step towards the novice athletes. You can evaluate how these influenced the development of street workout CrossFit?

- Introduction of lightweight WOD at CrossFit Games program was a great idea. I am very pleased that this initiative a success. Number of athletes practicing lightweight WOD outdoors increases from workout to workout.

- CrossFit - a universal tool of fitness. I love to run, and therefore a big fan of street workout CrossFit Endurance. Do you have any plans to develop a specific program for other sports?

- This is what happens by itself. Athletes find for themselves the best solutions more on an individual level than at the global level. I mean, that can take CrossFit as a basis and adapt it to fit their individual needs in order to reach new heights in fitness. And it's much better than to take some special training program and try to rebuild it for someone who is engaged in some specific sport.

- Tell me how you make up street workout: to paint directly on the board or in a cafe on napkins?

- Ha ha, it depends. It was such that I thought out WOD while jogging or while waiting for landing at the airport. I fix ideas on a tablet or paper, on a computer or in the board room. It happens in every one. And inspiration comes not only from CrossFit, but also from the theater, other sports, the arts and so on.

- paleodiety popularity - it's part of the popularity of CrossFit. What do you think about paleoprintsipah in the diet? Does he tried?

- Yes, I tried the Paleo. Our recommendations are very close to paleodiete. Meat and vegetables, nuts and cereals, some fruit, little starch and no sugar. This is all very similar to the paleo. But some schools with the rules of Paleo we can not accept. As an example, the complete elimination of salt and dairy products. I myself can follow our tips on nutrition and not afraid of fast carbs, just eat them in small quantities.

- Heard about your service in the Marine Corps. What was the most difficult part of the service and that you remember with a smile?

- Yes, I was in the unit "sea lion" for 12 years. The most difficult for me was the loss of friends and colleagues in the battles or during exercise. I consider myself very lucky that I'm still alive, given that he gave so much time such a dangerous service. I always remember with a smile, his friends and colleagues. This is a special caste.

- What have you heard about the development of CrossFit in Latvia and Russia?

- I know that you have a CrossFit is becoming more and more popular and that the growing interest in the methodology itself, and it makes me very happy. What could be better than the harsh Russian, who also support the CrossFit and so are his fans and ardent supporters. One day I hope to come to you already know for sure that, sooner rather than later in the CrossFit Games will champion from Russia.

In the meantime, we are waiting for the "birth Russian hero", you can see a short film prepared for the fifth anniversary of collaboration Reebok and CrossFit. In the video you can include Russian subtitles, if necessary.