How Weightlifting and Crossfit Competitions Differ:

So having attended my fare share of weightlifting and Crossfit tournaments in my time I have come to some inalienable truths about each, and how they differ. First off, these are my own personal opinions. I am a weightlifter, and have not competed in Crossfit. I am merely giving my impression of what I have seen, as an athlete and spectator.

Crossfit competitions are chaotic. People are everywhere. I mean everywhere. Spectators and competitors mingle and chat among each other. In every corner a discussion is taking place. How do you train? What do you do for this? OMG your legs are hot!!! Its all going on. Having the spectators so much apart of the action almost gives things a party atmosphere. Everyone is smiling, everyone is psyched to be there. It is electric, and that enthusiasm and passion rubs off on you. It doesn't take long before you are shouting over everyone else in support of your own athlete, or friend. While there are obviously teams competing against each other, you wouldn't think so. All of the competitors are very supportive and encouraging of their opponents. To the point that they actually cheer opposing teams on. This level of comradery, and sportsmanship is something I have never seen, and I am extremely impressed by it.

Weightlifting tournaments are an entirely different kettle of fish. Teams generally stick to themselves, and do their own thing in which ever corner they have designated their own. Very little talking happens between competitors before competition. This is because the only two questions you are liable to hear are: What you starting with? and, What are your best lifts?. Many a competition has been won, and lost due to pre-competition intimidation. I can attest to this. During the competition everyone does their own thing. You always have the head phone guy in the back getting pumped to Metallica. The guy getting last minute technique adjustments by his coach. ( on a side note, you cant change an athletes technique on the day of competition. I will go into more detail in my future post on responsibilities of  a coach at competition ) And the guy having a nap in the quietest part of the hall. ( that's me ) 

Once the competition is over, it all changes. That's when the handshakes, and well done's come out. Its not a communal thing, athletes take their time and individually congratulate other competitors. It is usually during this time that the athletes suss each other out per say, and give out business cards or contact info. Weightlifting is a very small, close nit community. Its takes a while and a good few competitions before you are truly accepted.

In my heart as a weightlifter I wish that tournaments could be more like Crossfit tournaments. Where everyone comes together for the pure joy of the sport. I know that it is a competition, everyone is out to win, but I do think that we could take something from Crossfit here and try and make it a more enjoyable, gathering of like minded people, rather than an intimidating antisocial event. Sport should be about the enjoyment and comeradry of competing against your peers. It should be celebrated, not revered. Thank you Crossfit. You have taught me a valuable lesson.