Friday, April 29, 2011

Technique Vs. Intensity

Can technique and intensity co-exist in a workout? In short the answer is yes, but if you watch "experts" on resources like youtube and have any concept of proper body mechanics you will find yourself cringing as they attack both simple and highly technical lifts with reckless abandonment of form in the name of smoking themselves. This is just asking for an injury. Smoking your body is easy...mastering your movement patterns is very difficult. On the other hand, you have trainers who fixate on technique to the point where they seem to be afraid to let experienced, capable people reach the intensity levels they need to accelerate their fitness to the next level. These same people end up quitting because they never see real results.

This is where a good coach is so essential to get the most out of your workouts. A good coach will teach you proper form and add in the right amount of intensity to advance your fitness level and technical proficiency. A good coach will also refuse to let you continue if fatigue sets in and your technique falls apart. You should always be challenged, but never beyond your capabilities. What good is that last sloppy rep when you have to sit out for a week from training because you killed your back? This is why learning from a qualified coach is far superior than trying to learn from a magazine or online video. Never let anyone teach you technique that has never mastered it themselves under the guidance of a true expert.

The marriage of technique and intensity is a fine art in my opinion, especially as one teaches more complicated movements such as kettlebell exercises and olympic style lifting. The skilled athlete makes their technique look effortless because not only have they practiced, but they have practiced perfectly by constantly refining their movements with precision and intensity in a perfect balance. I have been fortunate to have learned from incredible and inspiring coaches. My humblest respect goes out to these individuals who do it right. Make sure you learn the art of true fitness from someone who truly knows what they are doing and has your best interests and an individual in mind.

-Danny

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