
The momentum of the movement can be risky for the shoulders and the spine for inexperienced athletes, and can make it less effective for building certain muscles.ĬrossFit proponents argue the exercises are designed to be as efficient as possible, allowing for the most work in the shortest time. Michaels and other fitness experts have previously taken issue with CrossFit's kipping pull-up, in which athletes swing themselves up to the bar rather than lifting from a dead hang. "These are really dangerous things to be doing for time," Michaels said. She argues that it can be risky if athletes rush through the movement or attempt to keep pace when they're exhausted. CrossFit workouts are scored based on the number of repetitions in a set time period, meaning athletes rank better if they complete the exercises more quickly.

Michaels' other contention about CrossFit is that its need for speed could lead to injury or bad form. I wouldn't even dare attempt to teach it because it's so technical." CrossFit is fast-paced with uniquely intense moves, and critics say that risks injury

Michaels said that despite her years of experience in fitness, including more than a dozen specialist trainings in weight lifting, she "would never in my wildest dreams go out and try to teach an Olympic lift. Training expertise is important because CrossFit workouts often include advanced weight lifting and gymnastics movements that can be challenging for everyday athletes to learn, including barbell snatches, ring muscle-ups, and handstand push-ups. However, it's not required that instructors have a degree in exercise science, previous teaching experience or other coaching certifications, although many CrossFit instructors do have those qualifications. Some of the coaches are highly qualified or even renowned masters in specializations like weight lifting and gymnastics. The minimum requirement for CrossFit trainers (a Level One Certificate) is a two-day weekend training course followed by a test. "Not to say you can't be a CrossFitter and be in great shape, but it depends on the quality of your coach," Michaels said. It's a common concern voiced by fitness experts (including within the CrossFit community). Michaels said she believes CrossFit isn't consistent in its level of expertise. Michaels made the comments in a video posted her Instagram and YouTube pages in response to questions from fans and users of her app.ĬrossFit trainers can vary in experience level, although many are highly qualified Visit Insider’s homepage for more stories.Ĭelebrity personal trainer Jillian Michaels has reignited her feud with the popular fitness brand CrossFit, saying that she doesn’t “understand the logic” of the program, and that she believes the fast-paced, high-intensity workouts may do more harm than good.

Top athletes and gym owners have defended CrossFit’s methodology, citing its precise definition of fitness as a combination of strength, endurance, power, and a variety of skills.Michaels has previously critiqued CrossFit, calling certain exercises “cheating.” The sport has been controversial among other fitness experts as well.Celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels has spoken out against the popular workout style CrossFit once again, arguing that the fast pace and intensity may lead to injury, especially with inconsistent coaching.
