Want to be ready for every WOD? Ensuring your gym bag is equipped with the right gear can enhance your performance and overall experience. From fundamental essentials to performance-enhancing additions, this guide outlines everything you need (and some stuff you might just want!)
The Foundation
These are the non-negotiables, the cornerstones of your CrossFit kit:
- CrossFit Shoes: Investing in quality CrossFit shoes is paramount. These versatile shoes offer the stability required for weightlifting, the flexibility needed for dynamic movements, and the durability to withstand the demands of high-intensity workouts. They even provide enhanced grip and support for rope climbs. Consider popular options like the Nike Metcon, Reebok Nano, or NOBULL Trainers.
- Skipping Rope: A good quality speed rope, adjusted to your height, is essential for mastering double-unders and other skipping variations commonly incorporated into WODs.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your training session.
The nearly essentials!
Take your training to the next level by adding these key items to your gym bag:
- Wrist Wraps: Provide crucial support for your wrists during heavy lifting movements such as snatches, cleans, and overhead squats, reducing the risk of strain or injury.
- Gymnastic Grips: Protect your hands from rips and tears while enhancing your grip on pull-ups, toes-to-bar, and kettlebell swings. We stock Velites grips, a highly recommended option for CrossFit athletes.
- Lifting Belt: A lifting belt offers additional core support during heavy lifts, promoting stability and reducing the risk of injury.
- Thumb Tape/Lifting Tape: Prevent hand tears and maintain a secure grip with quality lifting tape. CrossFit Chiltern tape is available for purchase at the reception area.
Maximising Your Potential
For those looking to optimise their performance and address specific needs, consider these additions:
- Weightlifting Shoes: If Olympic lifting is a focus, weightlifting shoes are a worthwhile investment. Their raised heel and rigid sole offer superior stability and support for heavy cleans and jerks.
- Running Shoes: While CrossFit shoes can handle short runs, dedicated running shoes provide enhanced comfort and support for longer distances or running-focused WODs.
- Knee Sleeves: Offer warmth and compression to your knees, which can be beneficial during squats, lunges, and high-rep burpees.
- Long Socks: Provide additional shin protection during box jumps and rope climbs.
- Shin Guards: The same as long socks but another layer of protection.
Optional Extras
These items can further enhance your CrossFit experience:
- Wrist Bands: Absorb sweat and help maintain a firm grip. I have recently discovered how much I like these for ring work and to stop my gymnastic grips digging into my wrists.
- Gloves: Offer extra grip and hand protection for those who prefer them. (Not a preference for most but some people like these.)
- Deodorant: Essential for maintaining freshness during and after intense workouts. (This maybe should be in the essentials list!!)
- Small Towel: Keep sweat at bay and maintain a dry grip. For the sweatier of us!
Beyond the Equipment
While having the right gear is essential, as always remember that other factors contribute significantly to your CrossFit success:
- Prioritise Form: Correct technique is crucial for injury prevention and maximizing results. Listen to your coaches and focus on quality movement over quantity.
- Respect Your Body: Rest and recovery are vital components of training. Don’t hesitate to scale workouts or take rest days when needed. Be aware of outside stress factors when managing your workouts.
- Fuel Your Body: Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet that supports your training goals and provides the energy required for optimal performance.
- Embrace the Community: CrossFit Chiltern fosters a supportive and encouraging community. Connect with fellow athletes, share your journey, and celebrate achievements together.
- Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to recover and rebuild.
By equipping yourself with the right gear and embracing a holistic approach to training, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any WOD at CrossFit Chiltern.
I look forward to seeing you at the box!
Jeremy