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By Dave Delbecchi August 24, 2025
Earn Your Intensity. What does that really mean? The word earn can sound harsh—like we’re telling someone they don’t deserve something. But in CrossFit, “earning your intensity” is about respecting the process. It’s built on the foundation we always come back to: technique first, consistency second, and intensity last. If you focus on improving your technique and applying it consistently, then over time you truly earn the right to add intensity. And here, I’m speaking specifically about heavy lifting. Cardio has its own demands, but let’s stay with lifting for now. Take the back squat as an example. If you haven’t mastered a solid air squat—chest tall, hips below parallel, knees tracking properly—why would you expect to move heavy weight safely? If you can’t do the basics well, you haven’t yet earned the right to go heavy. When I say earn the right, it’s not about me telling you what you can or can’t do. You’re an adult. It’s really a question: has your technique and consistency prepared your body for the demands of heavier loads? Has your strength and mobility built up enough to handle the position safely? If not, then the smartest path forward is simple: refine your squat. Keep working at lower intensities on both strength days and in workouts. That way, you’ll improve movement quality, break old habits, and address mobility limitations. Sometimes it’s not a lack of strength—it’s just that you’ve gotten comfortable with “your version” of the squat instead of chasing a better one. By focusing on technique first, two things will happen: you’ll get stronger, and you’ll reduce your risk of injury. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to earn your intensity. So the next time you approach a heavy lift, remember—it’s not about how much weight you want to put on the bar. It’s about what you’ve earned through consistent, quality movement.
By Dave Delbecchi August 6, 2025
"Discover why most diets fail and how consistency, accountability, and proper nutrition coaching lead to lasting fat loss. Learn why calories and macros matter."
By Dave Delbecchi March 2, 2025
The book Smarter, Faster, Better breaks down motivation into one key principle: self-determination. The more control you have over your decisions, the more drive you will have to follow through. Studies show that people are far more likely to complete difficult tasks when they see them as a choice rather than a command. When you connect your actions—whether it’s a workout, eating more protein, or skipping junk food—to a bigger goal, everything becomes easier. This program has been about taking control. You made the choice to prioritize your health, eat well, and train with intention. Keep asking yourself why—why did you start? Why does it matter? The more you connect your daily habits to a larger purpose, the easier they are to sustain. CONSISTENCY WINS Forget perfection. The goal is to get it right most of the time. The difference between someone who sticks to their plan 100% and someone who hits 80-90%? Barely noticeable results—but a massive difference in sustainability. That’s why you need a system that works for your life: The 80/20 Rule – Stick to whole, nutritious foods 80-90% of the time, and allow 10-20% flexibility for social events, favourite meals, or just enjoying life. That’s 2-4 relaxed meals per week—so use them wisely. Make healthy eating easier than unhealthy eating – Set up your environment for success. Plan meals, batch cook, and keep real food within reach. Control your home environment – Don’t bring temptations into your house. You can indulge occasionally, but don’t make it a daily battle. The key to long-term success isn’t willpower—it’s systems. Set yourself up to win. Stay consistent, keep it simple, and take control of your choices. You’ve got this.
CrossFit Coach's view on scaling and the intended stimulus of workouts
By Dave Delbecchi November 13, 2024
Teaching the intent behind workouts and why it matters for results.
A group of people are posing for a picture in a gym.
By Dave Delbecchi October 17, 2024
Starting something new can be intimidating—especially when it involves intense workouts. But CrossFit isn’t about being the fittest person in the room; it’s about becoming your personal best. At CollectiveFit, we believe CrossFit is for everyone, regardless of where you’re starting. Here’s everything you need to know to take the leap and join our community! […] The post Starting CrossFit: What You Need to Know appeared first on CollectiveFit.
A bald man with a tattoo on his arm is leaning against a wall.
By Dave Delbecchi September 30, 2024
As summer came to an end, following several weeks of indulgence, I decided to modify my regular eating habits to see how my body would respond to some changes. To provide some context, weight loss was not my goal. I typically maintain a steady weight of around 160 pounds throughout the year with minimal fluctuations. […] The post Experimenting with Dietary Adjustments: A Personal Journey appeared first on CollectiveFit.
A silhouette of a person riding a bike at sunset.
By Dave Delbecchi March 30, 2024
Zone 2 training has gained significant attention in the fitness world for its profound benefits on cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall longevity. In this comprehensive guide to Zone 2 training, we’ll break down what Zone 2 training is, its benefits, and why it’s becoming a favourite among fitness enthusiasts and health professionals alike. What is […] The post A Guide to Zone 2 Training: appeared first on CollectiveFit.
A tray of food with a piece of salmon and a lemon slice.
By Dave Delbecchi November 10, 2023
You’ve probably heard this one: “You can’t outwork a bad diet.” It’s true. If you always eat foods that don’t match up with your fitness goals, you’re going to struggle to make progress even if you train hard. But with some major holidays approaching, it’s worth mentioning the flip side to that saying: One special […] The post Holiday Eating appeared first on CollectiveFit.
A group of people are doing exercises in a gym.
By Dave Delbecchi April 23, 2023
Fitness is full of buzzwords and jargon—so what is functional fitness training, and why is it important? Here’s the answer: Functional fitness training is used to help people become better at things they do in daily life. The movements used in this style of training are often—but not always—very similar to the movements you do […] The post What Is Functional Fitness Training? appeared first on CollectiveFit.
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