What to do when the “performance” track is too simple but the RX track is too hard…..

We all reach a point in our fitness journey where we are ready for new challenges. It could be you are ready for a heavier weight or a more challenging progression. It’s like leveling up in a video game; you’ve conquered the early stages, and now you’re ready for the next level. 

While this new stage might be exciting, it can be confusing and even frustrating at times. Your current weights and movement progressions might feel too easy, yet the performance or RX weights and movements seem just too much. So, how do you navigate this in-between phase and come out stronger and fitter on the other side?

1. Change your mindset

With most of our workouts, we are trying to get the best time or the most reps. However, when you’re leveling up, it’s essential to shift your mindset. Accept the fact that your placement on the leaderboard will change and that’s okay. While it is a group class, it is your workout and your journey.

So as you venture into the next phase of your journey, you will find yourself moving slower with heavier weights or more complex movements. And that’s perfectly okay! Don’t get discouraged if you’re not winning the workouts anymore. The primary goal now is to get comfortable with the new weight, skill, or movement. Your body needs time to adapt to its new stimulus, and that’s how you get stronger and fitter in the long run.

For example, let’s say you were accustomed to power cleans at 65lbs and could move through them quickly. Now, you’ve upped the game and are working with an 85lb barbell, and it feels like you’re moving at a snail’s pace. Remember, this is a natural part of the process, and your focus should be on the journey, not the finish line. Embrace the challenge, and progress will follow.

2. Seek Out Help

When you’re facing new challenges, there’s no shame in seeking guidance. During your regular classes, make a point to ask the coach to watch your form as you attempt new movements, progressions, or heavier weights. Constructive feedback from a trained eye can make a world of difference in your technique and execution.

If you feel like you need more dedicated attention to work on specific movements, consider scheduling a 30-minute skill session with a coach. Skill sessions allow you to dive deeper into refining your techniques, receive personalized feedback, and explore appropriate progressions. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll feel more confident and proficient during regular classes.

Plateauing, reaccessing and leveling up is all part of the fitness journey that you are on. 

Give it a few weeks. You will gradually be able to go faster, gradually be able to move the barbell easier and one day be amazed at how many reps you are doing!

If you’d like to learn more or want to schedule a skill session, email dave@crossfitwindrose.com