Intensity

Conventional fitness wisdom prescribes intensity in workouts in moderation - terms like target heart rate, perceived rate of exertion, etc are used with a recommendation for middle range like Goldilocks wandering through the Pappa, Momma and Baby Bear's residence. That workout is "tooooo easy," that workout is "tooooo hard" and this workout is just right - meaning it is in the middle of the intensity range. That low to middle intensity is prescribed to allow higher volumes (longer workout time) to keep things safe and under control.

Workouts within our group move well past the middle ground of low to middle intensity - these workouts are hard. The best way I've heard to describe the intensity engaged in the CrossFit approach is by the CrossFit Founder, Greg Glassman, who refers to intensity in workout as "physical and psychological discomfort." No discomfort, no intensity.

Can it be carried too far? Sure it can, there is a constant need to gauge the effort of the athletes, modify and scale as necessary, but encourage them to engage intensity. Here's a couple of pictures of intensity that these workouts tease out. Good on Holly and Andy for going after it hard.