CrossFit in Schools

My colleague, Pierre Tranchemontagne, Tweeted me a video about CrossFit in high schools. He asked me if it was a possibility for a #physed course. The short answer is yes because everything is possible.

I'm no CrossFit expert but I am a personal trainer specialist and a physical education specialist. Here are my two cents about this often controversial topic after viewing the video above.

Pros:

1) When kids move & learn in a safe environment, it's always a win. Not all students enjoy the traditional physical education dominated by team sports.

2) I really do think extra education helps physical education teachers. If a teacher wants to get extra certifications go for it. We must try to stay within our scope of abilities.

3) With good periodization such a class could help students find a positive outlet during high school.

Cons:

1) Can our current teacher : student ratio allow the students to learn proper lifting mechanics and techniques without hurting their long term health? 

2) I wouldn't change the entire physical education program around CrossFit. I strongly believe in variety of physical activities to reach as many students as possible. However, if having a CrossFit or personal fitness class as an option means more students get to move in high school, then by all means, go for it.

3) At the elementary level, I would rather see proficient movers instead of lifters. I think it's more important that teachers learn how to move efficiently and use their bodies properly so that they can then teach their young students to do the same.