Grant Park 6am Amanda writes:
. . . I am very interested in participating in the Weight-lifting Club as I would really like to increase my strength and power; however, since I'm still pretty new to FitWit, I wanted to know your thoughts / insight on whether I should add this to the regular FitWit camp. Would it be more beneficial for me to focus on improving my performance in the regular FitWit sessions before adding more? Or do you think that strength-training will enhance / complement the FitWit Camp?
While I don't want to do too much too soon, I also don't want to shortchange myself. I really like the progress I've made so far and want to continue moving forward and pushing myself harder. I appreciate any thoughts and/or insight you might have . . .
Best,
Amanda
Great questions Amanda. I think you would do great at the weight-lifting club, and it will give you a lot of experience and confidence that will carry over into
FitWit and beyond. Here's why:
"I really like the progress I've made so far and want to continue moving forward and pushing myself harder."
You are a great example of the "You vs. You" spirit. That's the beginning of all improvement, and regardless of whether or not you do
FitWit-Strength, you will continue to make progress with that attitude.
"Would it be more beneficial for me to focus on improving my performance in the regular FitWit sessions before adding more? Or do you think that strength-training will enhance / complement the FitWit Camp?"
Increasing overall strength (at the level we're talking about) enhances all other areas of fitness. By increasing your strength, you will improve your speed, stamina,
cardio endurance, and more, as well as improve your ability at the strength exercises at camp (e.g.
kettlebells and sandbags). Strength is the universal multiplier for fitness ability.
"While I don't want to do too much too soon, I also don't want to shortchange myself."
Recovery is very important. In fact, no fitness gains are made without proper recovery. That's one of the major reasons we take one- to two-week breaks after every camp. During camp, if you are truly giving 100% each workout, I recommend
no more than 5 workouts per week. As a beginner, to make the most out of the strength training, two-times per week will be needed, which means you'd need to lay off of one
FitWit session per week. Six workouts in a week can be done, but not often, and certainly no more than 3 times in a camp. RECOVERY is very important and the thing most often overlooked by people.
Great questions Amanda. I hope to see you at
FitWit-Strength! Anyone else have any questions?
