Do you get a bit confused what training gear is needed for Crossfit? and more importantly the right time to use it?
We will simplify and explain it what is needed and when is the appropriate time to use it.
There is no reason to buy all the training gear and not know how to use and sometimes for some its not needed.
With some training gear it is best to start raw. Raw meaning no training gear and learn the fundamentals of the movement . When you have learnt the fundamentals and it has been perfected then implement the training gear into it.
If you are relying on training gear to perform better, it could lead to injury as the movement isn’t performed correctly and a sign of a weakness. If there is a weakness it is best to work on that weakness first.
The type of training gear require can depend are three certain things. How long you have been training for? if you have previous injuries and how many times a week will be be doing CrossFit.
The longer you do CrossFit, your body will adapt to it. Your ankles and wrists will become more flexible, your legs will become stronger and your core strength will improve ten-fold.
If you have a previous injury, for an example knee issues, then you will need to have that supported with knee sleeves especially with heavy loads and the knee sleeves will assist to keep the knees warm and supported.
If you are planning to do CrossFit 2-3 times per week that will give the body time to rest and recover. For someone who will train 5-6 per week especially when the body is fatigued, using training gear, for an example wrist wraps can help avoid wrist injury in a clean.
A belt to be used during training is a great piece of training gear to assist to protect you back, keep your core tight and lift heavier. Do not rely on your belt. If you have a weak core then you should work on your core strength.
Wrist wraps are commonly used for a movement in front rack position eg. front squats, thrusters, push press as it is a common complaint of wrist pain. Consequently rolling (using a peanut or lacrosse ball) and stretching the wrists, forearms, lats and triceps will help get those elbows into a better position. If you find handstands painful on your wrists then work on loosening the forearm area and stretching the wrists, otherwise approach the other areas mentioned above. However anyone with a previous wrist injury or with a lot of muscle mass in the shoulder area will always be at risk. At this point I recommend wearing wrist wraps just to allow the individual to do the movement.
One of the most common complaints for CrossFitters is knee pain. The knee pain can be for various reason. Knee Sleeves are commonly used for athletes who suffer from knee pain as it keeps the muscles surrounding the knee warm. You will find that in the warmer months the knee sleeves aren’t needed as much as the muscles are warm already.
Weightlifting shoes are great if you are aiming to lift heavier. These shoes are expensive but if maintained well they will last for years. The wedge in the heel will give you more stability and ankle flexion needed for weightlifting.
At the end of the day if you want to reach your potential, do not rely of training gear to achieve it, the training gear can assist you.
