Newsletter 050824

Bailey here,

I am re-launching this newsletter to be a cost-free tool for this community. It’s simple, useful, and easy to digest. You will receive one each week, no matter how busy I am so please stay subscribed and send it to others! These days, life here in Ohio got more interesting! Check the pic at the bottom of Alexandra’s and my two new babies, between that and all of the projects around our land to finish — it’s never been more important to be well. Fitness helps me get it done, here’s a window into what I read with my family, I feel like they can help you too.

1. Athleisure Besieger – As colorectal cancer emerges as a leading cause of death among young adults under 50 years old, medical professionals are sounding the alarm. (Optimizer)
2. Plant-Based Diet May Slow Prostate Cancer Progression – Research suggests that a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains could extend the lives of prostate cancer patients​ (JAMA Open Network)​.
3. Depression Risk Increases During Perimenopause – A study highlights how hormonal fluctuations and physical changes may elevate depression risk as women approach menopause​ (Pharmacy Times)​.
4. Gut Bacteria and Heart Disease – A new study links certain gut bacteria to reduced heart disease risk through better cholesterol processing​ (NIH Research Matters)​.
5. Mammogram Guidelines Updated – New guidelines recommend starting mammograms at age 40, with a frequency of every two years, to better detect early signs of breast cancer​ (Boston’s News Leader)​.
6. Anger’s Impact on Heart Health – Recent findings discuss how anger can lead to changes in blood vessels, potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes​ (New Scientist)​.
7. Stair Climbing for Longer Life – Incorporating stair climbing into daily routines could significantly decrease the risks of heart disease and premature death​ (Fortune)​.
8. Equinox Launches Health Optimization Membership – An extension of its partnership with Function Health, the service will debut in NYC and Highland Park, Texas before rolling out to other markets. (Fitt)
9. Impact of Western Diet on Memory – Research indicates that a Western diet, high in fat and sugar, might cause long-lasting memory damage​ (Medical News Today)​.
10. Advancements in Parkinson’s Disease Treatment – Scientists are exploring new approaches to treat Parkinson’s disease by targeting neurogenesis, which could lead to innovative therapies​ (ScienceDaily)​.

My latest from Youtube: striving for that 400 lb, 500 lb, 600 lb aggregate. Today’s focus on is on the upper body work. Bench press requires technique and proper bar path to move heavy weight, with even a small mistake making the rep harder or causing failure.

Leaving one to three reps in the tank during bench press can be more effective than going to failure.

WHOAAAAA NEWS by Bailey

As a former top CrossFit Games athlete, I’ve witnessed the incredible growth and community-building power of CrossFit over the years. Now, with the emergence of Hyrox, many are wondering if it could be the new CrossFit or if CrossFit should feel threatened by this newcomer. After reflecting on the growing popularity of Hyrox and its approach to fitness, here are my thoughts on this media trend.

A New Fitness Craze With Big Drama

The global fitness phenomenon that makes gym-going a competitive sport

The challenge of retaining competitive edge in retirement

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that Hyrox has carved out its niche quite impressively. The scene at their events, like the recent one in Berlin, is electrifying! The founders have successfully mixed the adrenaline of competitive sports with the allure of a spectacle – something that resonates with a wide audience. Hyrox combines running with functional movements familiar to many CrossFitters, such as farmer’s carries, weighted lunges, and burpee broad jumps. This format, taking about 90 minutes on average to complete, appeals to those looking for a challenging yet accessible fitness race.

Hyrox’s emphasis on simplicity and accessibility is one of its strongest selling points. Unlike CrossFit, which includes complex Olympic lifts and gymnastics skills, Hyrox sticks to simpler movements that reduce the risk of injury and lower the barrier to entry. This approach could indeed make it more appealing to the masses who might find CrossFit intimidating.

However, does this mean CrossFit should feel threatened? Not necessarily. CrossFit has a deeply entrenched community and philosophy that goes beyond just workouts. It’s about improving life through fitness, and its methodology has proven effective and transformative for countless individuals around the world. The CrossFit Games, which I had the honor of competing in, aren’t just about finding the fittest; they’re about celebrating community and human potential.

As a methodology, CrossFit’s adaptability and the sheer variety of its workouts ensure that it remains fresh and continually challenging. This diversity is something that Hyrox, with its fixed race format, doesn’t quite replicate. While Hyrox offers a fantastic competitive experience, CrossFit provides a comprehensive fitness regimen that can adapt to anyone’s needs, from elite athletes to beginners looking to get in shape.

It’s also worth noting the overlap between the two communities. Many athletes who compete in Hyrox started in CrossFit gyms, and some Hyrox events even take place at CrossFit affiliates. This synergy suggests that both sports can coexist and even benefit from each other’s presence.

Ultimately, the rise of Hyrox does not necessarily pose a threat to CrossFit; rather, it adds another layer to the world of fitness sports. Each has its unique strengths and appeals to slightly different audiences. Just as marathons and triathlons exist alongside each other, so can CrossFit and Hyrox. Both communities emphasize health, fitness, and the spirit of competition, and both can thrive as they inspire more people to lead active and healthy lifestyles.

Hyrox is a welcome addition to the fitness world, bringing its style and flair to the competitive scene. While it draws inspiration from CrossFit, it’s not a replacement but rather an alternative that complements the broader spectrum of fitness activities available today. CrossFit doesn’t need to feel threatened but should continue to innovate and evolve, as it has always done. The real winner here is the fitness community, which now has even more options to explore and enjoy.