Power output is the sine qua non of CrossFit. It’s effectively the only thing we measure. As a result, it’s easy to “win ugly”. Nobody even cares what your muscle-up looks like as long as you get above the rings. And it doesn’t matter how crazy you look when you push the sled – as long as the sled is moving, you’re doing what you’re supposed to do.

Gymnastics is different because there is a huge aesthetic component. In gymnastics, you have to do a bunch of hard stuff while making it look easy. You’re scored on your “line” and many other purely aesthetic considerations. You simply can’t win ugly.

I’ve been working really hard on my gymnastics and I must admit that the aesthetics are very challenging for me. Somehow my body stubbornly refuses to hold a beautiful line. Nevertheless, I am convinced that the manic obsession with form and posture is helping my CrossFit.

You can try it for yourself. Next time the WOD calls for kipping pullups, try them with your legs zipped tightly together, rather than flailing wildly as though you’re being electrocuted. You might be amazed how looking different makes you feel different.