What the heck is this long, unpronounceable word: Neuroendocrine Adaptation (NA)? NA is "a change in the body that affects you either neurologically or hormonally. Neurology relates to the nerves or the nervous system: the functions of the brain, the spinal column and the peripheral nervous system (responsible for coordinating body movements and for receiving external stimuli). Hormones are chemical substances that act like messenger molecules in the body. Hormones travel through the body, helping to control how cells and organs work.
So, how do Crossfit workouts and this NA word go hand in hand?
Research done by Dr. William Kraemer, Penn State University, has shown which exercises maximize the NA responses. It was found that isolation movements, such as dumbell curls, hamstring curls, leg extensions, etc. have essentially no effect on the NA response. (Crossfit website, article, "Foundations")
Crossfit emphasizes the importance of NA by making it one of the four defining themes of their programming. Heavy load weight training, short rest between sets, high heart rates, high intensity training and short rest intervals, found in Crossfit programming, are all associated with a high NA response.
In laymen's terms? Well, it means that working with the Crossfit programming, you are improving your 'self' in a much deeper way than just strong muscles and bones. You are improving the health of your cells, tissues, nerves, hormones . . . essentially building a strong MIND & BODY!
Crossfit programming goes deeper than just the surface . . . try it and see!
~ Coach Heather