What Does P Mean in CrossFit?
CrossFit is a fitness regimen that has gained much popularity in recent years. It is a high-intensity workout that combines elements of weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio. CrossFit is known for its use of unique terminology, including the letter “P,” which is often used in workout names and programming. But what does P mean in CrossFit? Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding CrossFit Programming
To understand what P means in CrossFit, it is essential to first understand how CrossFit programming works. CrossFit follows a three-day cycle of workouts, with each day focusing on a different type of exercise:
Day 1: Metabolic Conditioning (MetCon)
Day 2: Weightlifting
Day 3: Gymnastics
Each day’s workout is designed to target different muscle groups and energy systems in the body. For example, a MetCon workout might include high-intensity intervals of rowing, jumping rope, and burpees to improve cardiovascular endurance. A weightlifting day might focus on building strength in the deadlift, squat, or bench press. A gymnastics day might involve practicing handstand push-ups, pull-ups, or muscle-ups.
The Meaning of P in CrossFit
So, what does P mean in CrossFit? The letter P is often used in workout names to indicate a specific focus on one of the three-day cycles. P stands for “power,” and workouts with a P designation typically involve explosive movements that require a lot of force production. These movements might include:
– Power cleans
– Power snatches
– Box jumps
– Kettlebell swings
– Wall balls
P workouts are designed to improve power output, which can translate to better performance in other areas of CrossFit. For example, improving power can help with weightlifting movements like the deadlift or squat, as well as gymnastics movements like the muscle-up or handstand push-up.
Examples of P Workouts in CrossFit
To get a better sense of what P workouts look like in CrossFit, here are a few examples:
Workout 1: “Power Elizabeth”
– 21-15-9 reps for time of:
– Power cleans (135/95 pounds)
– Ring dips
Workout 2: “Pumpkin Spice”
– 3 rounds for time of:
– 10 power snatches (95/65 pounds)
– 20 box jump overs (24/20 inches)
– 30 calorie row
Workout 3: “Nate”
– AMRAP (as many rounds as possible) in 20 minutes of:
– 2 muscle-ups
– 4 handstand push-ups
– 8 kettlebell swings (70/53 pounds)
As you can see, each of these workouts has a focus on explosive movements that require a lot of power production. These workouts are designed to challenge athletes and help them improve their performance in other areas of CrossFit.
Benefits of P Workouts in CrossFit
So why are P workouts important in CrossFit? Here are a few benefits:
1. Improved power production: As mentioned earlier, P workouts are designed to improve power output, which can translate to better performance in other areas of CrossFit. Improved power can help athletes lift heavier weights, move faster, and perform more complex movements.
2. Increased calorie burn: Because P workouts are typically high-intensity, they can help athletes burn a lot of calories in a short amount of time. This can be beneficial for weight loss and overall fitness.
3. Variety: One of the great things about CrossFit is the variety of workouts, and incorporating P workouts adds even more diversity to programming. This can help athletes avoid plateaus and keep their workouts fun and challenging.
Tips for Incorporating P Workouts into CrossFit
If you’re looking to incorporate more P workouts into your CrossFit routine, here are a few tips:
1. Start slowly: P workouts can be challenging, so it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase intensity. This will help you avoid injury and build a strong foundation of power and explosiveness.
2. Focus on form: Because P workouts involve explosive movements, it’s important to focus on form to avoid injury. Make sure to work with a coach to ensure that you are performing movements correctly and safely.
3. Mix it up: Incorporating a variety of P workouts can help you avoid plateaus and keep your workouts fun and challenging. Don’t be afraid to try new movements and workouts to keep things interesting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, P in CrossFit stands for “power,” and it is used to designate workouts that focus on explosive movements that require a lot of force production. These workouts can help athletes improve their power output, increase calorie burn, and add variety to programming. If you’re looking to incorporate more P workouts into your CrossFit routine, start slowly, focus on form, and mix it up to keep things interesting. With dedication and hard work, you can become a more powerful and efficient CrossFit athlete.
