The countdown to the big event has officially begun. On 27 June, teams will compete at our Sutton club to find out who takes home the trophy. While moving quickly is important, moving safely is even more critical. After all, if your form breaks down during a hard workout, you'll waste valuable energy and potentially increase your risk of injury. That's why we're launching a technique form guide this week. Specifically, the guide focuses on three major movements from the challenge: the Rower, Kettlebell Swings, and Dumbbell Thrusters. By mastering these fundamental techniques, you'll be able to move more efficiently, protect your body, and maximise your score. So, be sure to read this guide carefully and start preparing your body for the challenge.

1. The Rower

The rowing machine is a fantastic tool because it works your entire body. However, many people make the mistake of pulling with their arms too early, which reduces power and efficiency.

• The Setup: To begin, sit tall and strap your feet in securely. Then, grab the handle while keeping your back straight and your torso leaning slightly forward from the hips.
• The Drive: Next, push hard with your legs, as your lower body should generate the majority of the power. Once your legs are nearly straight, lean back slightly and smoothly pull the handle towards your ribs.
• The Return: Finally, reverse the movement in a controlled manner. First, extend your arms, then lean forward from the hips, and lastly bend your knees to slide back to the starting position.

By practising this sequence consistently, you'll conserve energy and improve your overall performance. As a result, you'll be able to maintain a stronger pace throughout the challenge. This rowing form guide is an excellent way to build efficiency. For additional tips on improving endurance and stamina, be sure to read our article on Assault Runner Tips How to Improve Your Speed and Stamina.

2. Kettlebell Swings

Kettlebell swings are brilliant for building strong legs and a powerful core. Even so, you must remember that a swing is not a squat. It is a hip hinge.

• The Hinge: First, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Soften your knees slightly, push your hips far back, and keep your chest lifted.
• The Snap: Next, squeeze your glutes and push your hips forward as fast as you can. This powerful hip movement is what sends the kettlebell flying upward.
• The Height: Allow the weight to rise naturally to shoulder level. Do not pull the weight up with your arms. Instead, let it float before it drops back down between your thighs.

Consequently, keeping your spine straight will protect your lower back from getting tired. Our movement form guide aims to keep your spine safe. If you want to know how to stay relaxed for these powerful movements, check out our article on Take a Breath: How to Breathe Away Gym Anxiety.

3. Dumbbell Thrusters

This movement combines a full squat with an overhead press. Because it combines two exercises into one, it will make your heart rate skyrocket very quickly.

• The Squat: Hold a pair of dumbbells at your shoulders. Next, sit your hips down deeply into a full squat. Keep your elbows high and your heels glued to the floor.
• The Drive: Push hard through your feet to stand up fast. Use the speed from your legs to help move the weights upward.
• The Press: Finally, finish the movement by pressing the dumbbells straight overhead. Lock your arms out fully at the top before dropping smoothly back into your next squat.

As a result of using your whole body, this routine will test your mental strength. If you want to improve your fitness even further, read our guide on The Power of HIIT: How High-Intensity Intervals Work for Every Body.

Practice in Your Next Routine

Don't wait until the day of the competition to practise your technique. Rather, start incorporating these tips into your next workout to fine-tune your training routine. And if you'd like some extra guidance, our friendly fitness instructors are always on hand to provide a quick form check on the gym floor.

Let us train smart, support each other, and get ready for a fantastic challenge on the 27th of June!

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