There is no doubt what-so-ever that technique is important, and poor technique is dangerous.
What I would like to propose is that poor intensity is just as dangerous – just on a different scale.
Poor technique causes immediate and acute damage. Damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. Pain. Inflammation. This damage is immediate, obvious and in your face. And because we’re used to such instant gratification, our dulled 21st century brains can easily make the link. Poor technique = pain. Avoid poor technique = avoid pain.
Intensity however is not so obvious. Poor intensity doesn’t manifest itself straight away. The damage caused by poor intensity is much more chronic, much more long term. And because of this, we struggle to make the link. Research tells us that, long term, poor exercise intensity leads to an increased risk of developing seven of the top ten causes of loss of quality of life:
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Malignant Cancer
- Mental Disorder
- Respiratory Disease
- Nervous System Disorders
- Musculoskeletal Diseases
- Diabetes Mellitus
I would never for a moment say that technique is not of paramount importance… but should intensity really take second place? Surely in respect to overall longevity, and LONG term quality of life, intensity sits in top spot?
Is it too far fetched to surmise that intensity is in fact MORE IMPORTANT than technique. I’m not claiming it is, but there’s certainly an argument there. It’s so easy to sit on the fence and say ‘Why, you need both, work on technique, then increase intensity’. I agree, but just maybe the latter is more important for your long term health.
