Tuesday 250916

Service Cup Workout 2

Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 20 minutes of:

16/20-calorie row
50-foot farmers carry

The farmers carry should be completed as 25 feet out and 25 feet back. Each 25-foot section counts as 1 rep.

Add 50 feet to the farmers carry each round.

♀ 35-lb dumbbells
♂ 50-lb dumbbells

Post rounds and reps to the comments, and submit your score as part of the 2025 CrossFit Service Cup.

Head over to the Service Cup website for additional variations of today’s workout, as well as official updates and rules.

Resources:
Rowing Tips
The Dumbbell Farmers Carry

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Monday 250915

Service Cup Workout 1

21-15-9-9 reps for time of:
Thrusters
Lateral burpees over the bar

♀ 65-lb barbell
♂ 95-lb barbell

Post time to the comments, and submit your score as part of the 2025 CrossFit Service Cup.

Head over to the Service Cup website for additional variations of today’s workout, as well as official updates and rules.

Resources:
The Thruster
Lateral Burpees Over the Bar

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Sunday 250914

Rest Day

Am I Even Doing CrossFit?

CrossFit is constantly varied functional movements executed at high intensity. It is varied, but not too varied. It's a comprehensive approach to health that encompasses nutrition and enables you to perform functional, monostructural, gymnastics, and weightlifting movements, as well as engage in various sports. It's not what many people think it is. People will say things like, “I do CrossFit light” or “CrossFit-ish.” One great distinction made by CrossFit is that if you’re doing a program that does not produce total health, you are not doing CrossFit.

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Saturday 250913

For time:
1,600-meter run
Rest 3 minutes
800-meter run
Rest 2 minutes
400-meter run
Rest 1 minute
200-meter run

Post time to comments.

Compare to similar 250113.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Try to hit each of today’s running intervals as quickly as your capacity allows. Today is a day when most athletes can tackle the effort as prescribed. If you are alone, have a goal in mind for each interval. If you are training with a buddy or a group, keep up with someone who will challenge your pace.

Scaling:
To reduce the volume, cut the distances in half.

Today is a day when most athletes can perform this as prescribed. However, if you are new or less experienced, complete the beginner option and potentially perform each effort with a combination of running and walking.

In case of injury or limitation, for the 1,600-meter run, perform 3,500/5,000 meters on the Echo bike or 1,600/2,000 meters on the rower. For the 800-meter run, perform 1,750/2,500 meters on the Echo bike or 800/1,000 meters on the rower. For the 400-meter run, perform 900/1,250 meters on the Echo bike or 400/500 meters on the rower. For the 200-meter run, 500/700 meters on the Echo bike or 200/250 meters on the rower.

Intermediate option:
Same as Rx’d.

Beginner option:
For time:
800-meter run
Rest 3 minutes
400-meter run
Rest 2 minutes
200-meter run
Rest 1 minute
100-meter run

Coaching cues:
Check your running posture. Relax your shoulders, keep your torso upright, and set your gaze directly ahead of you. Maintaining a neutral spine and sound running posture will allow for more efficient running technique, reduced fatigue, and improved recovery.

Resources:
Running | Change in Support Drill
Running | Falling Forward
Running | Line Drills
Running | Position Drill

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Friday 250912

5 rounds for time of:
15 kettlebell swings
15 strict ring dips

♀ 53-lb kettlebell
♂ 70-lb kettlebell

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
In today’s workout, choose a weight for the kettlebell that is moderately heavy and allows you to complete your reps in 2 sets or less. Go into each set trying to perform unbroken swings, but break if you need to. For the strict ring dips, choose an option that allows you to complete your reps in 2 minutes or less. If you need to scale the ring dips, do your best to maintain the strict nature of the intended movement. Expect your shoulders and your grip to get tired and fatigued as you move through each round.

Scaling:
Reduce the load of the kettlebell. Reduce the reps of each movement.

To reduce the complexity of the kettlebell swings, reduce the range of motion and perform Russian kettlebell swings. That is also a great way to practice using a heavier bell, so if you struggle swinging the heavier weight overhead, stay with the weight, but reduce the range of motion. For the strict ring dips, perform banded strict ring dips.

In case of injury or limitation, for the kettlebell swings, perform single-arm kettlebell swings, kettlebell deadlifts, or unloaded good mornings. For the strict ring dips, lower the rings and perform foot-assisted ring dips.

Intermediate option:
5 rounds for time of:
15 Russian kettlebell swings
10 banded strict ring dips

♀ 53-lb kettlebell
♂ 70-lb kettlebell

Beginner option:
5 rounds for time of:
8 Russian kettlebell swings
8 foot-assisted ring dips

18-lb kettlebell
26-lb kettlebell

Coaching cues:
When completing the strict ring dips, keep the rings close and the elbows should track back. After a brief pause at the bottom, drive up like you're pushing the rings to your pockets.

Resources:
The Kettlebell Swing
The Strict Ring Dip
The Russian Kettlebell Swing
Ring Dip Coaching Tips

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Thursday 250911

Rest Day

Why CrossFit Trainers Are Among the Best-Prepared in Fitness

What separates a CrossFit trainer from the countless fitness professionals out there? It's access to the industry's most comprehensive three-tier education system that transforms good trainers into exceptional coaches through rigorous hands-on instruction, meticulous movement analysis, and real-world application. From mastering fundamental movement patterns in the Level 1 to developing elite coaching skills in Level 2, CrossFit's educational pathway ensures that when you step into an affiliate, you're getting guidance from some of the best-trained fitness professionals in the industry.

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Wednesday 250910

4 rounds for time of:
10 triple-unders
20 chest-to-bar pull-ups
30 wall-balls shots

♀ 14-lb medicine ball to a 9-foot target
♂ 20-lb medicine ball to a 10-foot target

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is a combination of skills. The triple-under is meant to be the higher-skill challenge, so choose a movement that allows you to focus on a skill before moving on to the lower-skill exercises. For the pull-ups, choose an option that allows you to maintain consistent sets of 5 reps. The wall-ball shots are meant to be completed in larger chunks, and the easiest of the three movements.

Scaling:
Reduce the reps of each movement. Reduce the loading of the medicine ball.

To reduce the complexity of triple-unders, consider double-unders or single-unders. Other variations may also be practiced; for example, crossovers, or one-foot single-unders or double-unders. For the chest-to-bar pull-ups, reduce the range of motion to chin-over-bar pull-ups or jumping pull-ups.

In case of injury or limitation, for the triple-unders, perform penguin taps. For the chest-to-bar pull-ups, perform ring rows. For the wall-ball shots, perform medicine-ball front squats for an overhead limitation, or medicine-ball push presses for a squatting limitation.

Intermediate option:
4 rounds for time of:
10 single-leg double-unders
20 pull-ups
30 wall-balls shots

10-lb medicine ball to a 9-foot target
14-lb medicine ball to a 10-foot target

Beginner option:
3 rounds for time of:
10 single-unders
15 ring rows
20 wall-balls shots

6-lb medicine ball to a 9-foot target
10-lb medicine ball to a 10-foot target

Coaching cues:
For the triple-unders, spin fast from the wrists, not the shoulders — stay tall and punch your toes down as you jump.

Resources:
Triple-Unders
The Chest-to-Bar Pull-Up
The Wall-Ball Shot
The Kipping Pull-Up
The Single-Under
The Ring Row

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Tuesday 250909

Every minute on the minute, alternating, for 12 minutes, complete:
Odd minutes: 10 unbroken deadlifts
Even minutes: 7 shuttle runs (25 feet out and 25 feet back)

Choose your load for the deadlift.

Post loads of the deadlifts to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is an opportunity to go heavy with an elevated heart rate. The loading on the barbell is completely up to you — the only caveat is that each set of 10 needs to be unbroken. You can choose to stick with one weight for all sets or increase the loading across as many sets as possible.

Scaling:
Reduce the reps of both the deadlift and shuttle runs.

To reduce the complexity of the deadlifts, perform sumo deadlifts. This will allow you to maintain a more upright position and eliminate the need to navigate the knees.

In case of injury or limitation, for the deadlifts, reduce the range of motion by elevating the barbell off the ground or perform kettlebell sumo deadlifts. For the shuttle runs, perform 7-10 calories on any machine (about 30 seconds of effort).

Intermediate option:
Every minute on the minute, alternating, for 12 minutes, complete:
Odd minutes: 10 unbroken deadlifts
Even minutes: 5 shuttle runs (25 feet out and 25 feet back)

Choose your load for the deadlift.

Beginner option:
Every minute on the minute, alternating, for 12 minutes, complete:
Odd minutes: 5 unbroken deadlifts
Even minutes: 3 shuttle runs (25 feet out and 25 feet back)

Choose your load for the deadlift.

Coaching cues:
When cycling deadlifts, focus on initiating the descent of each rep by pushing the hips back so the bar path is moving in a straight line down.

Resources:
The Deadlift

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Monday 250908

For time:
1-minute handstand hold
50 AbMat sit-ups
1-minute handstand hold
40 AbMat sit-ups
1-minute handstand hold
30 AbMat sit-ups
1-minute handstand hold
20 AbMat sit-ups
1-minute handstand hold
10 AbMat sit-ups

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is a midline clash. Expect the two movements to interfere with each other, and the accumulation of volume will make this effort more challenging. With that in mind, choose an option for the handstand hold that allows you to consistently hold for 20 seconds or more. The prescribed variation of the handstand should be completed with your back to the wall.

Scaling:
Reduce the time of the handstand holds and the reps of the AbMat sit-ups.

To reduce the complexity of the handstand holds, perform pike holds with your feet on a box or with your feet on the ground. In case of injury or limitation, for the handstand holds, perform plank holds. For the AbMat sit-ups, perform feet-anchored sit-ups.

Intermediate option:
For time:
30-second handstand hold
50 AbMat sit-ups
30-second handstand hold
40 AbMat sit-ups
30-second handstand hold
30 AbMat sit-ups
30-second handstand hold
20 AbMat sit-ups
30-second handstand hold
10 AbMat sit-ups

Beginner option:
For time:
30-second pike hold
12 AbMat sit-ups
30-second pike hold
12 AbMat sit-ups
30-second pike hold
12 AbMat sit-ups
30-second pike hold
12 AbMat sit-ups
30-second pike hold
12 AbMat sit-ups

Coaching cues:
When you are holding the handstand, press through your hands, squeeze your triceps, and brace your midsection.

Resources:
The Handstand
The AbMat Sit-Up
Handstand Hold Progressions

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Sunday 250907

Rest Day

From Reluctant Kids to CrossFit Coaches: How CrossFit Shaped Two Lives Over Nine Years

What happens when an 8-year-old gets scared of CrossFit but comes back at 14? And when an 11-year-old gets a one-month membership to try it out? Ben and Priya share their incredible nine-year journey from reluctant middle schoolers to confident college students who now coach CrossFit themselves.

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Saturday 250906

For time:
25 power snatches
25-calorie Echo bike
25 power snatches
25-calorie Echo bike
25 power snatches

♀ 55-lb barbell
♂ 75-lb barbell

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is a play on the classic Hero workout Randy. Attack this effort just as you would any Hero workout. You should sprint right from the start — complete as many touch-and-go snatches as you can, and race through the calories on the bike. Don’t try to game the workout or pace it. Push the pedal to the floor and hang on. The loading of the barbell is light, so make sure you choose a weight with which you can perform 1 or 2 sets of 15 unbroken reps.

Scaling:
Reduce the load of the barbell. Reduce the reps of the snatches and the calories on the bike.

To reduce the complexity of the power snatches, consider hang power snatches or muscle snatches.

In case of injury or limitation, for the power snatches, perform dumbbell snatches or consider power cleans if there is an overhead limitation. For the bike, substitute any machine you have available. If you have no machines, perform 12 50-foot shuttle runs (25 feet out and 25 feet back).

Intermediate option:
For time:
25 power snatches
20-calorie Echo bike
25 power snatches
20-calorie Echo bike
25 power snatches

45-lb barbell
65-lb barbell

Beginner option:
For time:
15 power snatches
15-calorie Echo bike
15 power snatches
15-calorie Echo bike
15 power snatches

35-lb barbell
45-lb barbell

Coaching cues:
On the return of the barbell on the power snatches, remember to pull your chest up and lower your hips as you lower the barbell to the ground. As you fatigue, avoid bending at the hips and rounding your back.

Resources:
The Power Snatch
Rogue Echo Bike

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Friday 250905

3 rounds for time of:
10 ring muscle-ups
20 alternating weighted single-leg squats
400-meter run

♀ 20-lb dumbbell
♂ 35-lb dumbbell

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today's workout is a triplet that combines higher-skill elements with a monostructural movement. The weighted single-leg squat presents a slightly greater challenge compared to the unloaded variation; however, using the weight as a counterbalance may allow for better torso positioning during the movement. With that said, if you have not “mastered” the basic single-leg squat, do not attempt to add weight in today’s workout. Get in some practice with the weighted variation prior to the workout, but when it is go time, perform the movement unloaded. For the ring muscle-ups, choose an option that allows you to complete your reps in 2 minutes or less each round. On the run, push the pace if your “wobbly” legs let you.

Scaling:
Reduce the load of the dumbbell. Reduce the reps of the ring muscle-ups and single-leg squats. Reduce the distance of the run.

To reduce the complexity of the ring muscle-ups, perform jumping muscle-ups or a low-ring transition. For the weighted single-leg squats, perform these with no weight. You may also consider single-leg squats with your non-squatting foot wrapped around the heel of your squatting foot.

In case of injury or limitation, for the run, complete 900/1,250 meters on the Echo bike, or 400/500 meters on the rower or ski erg. For the single-leg squats, consider a reverse lunge or an air squat. For the ring muscle-ups, consider a ring row + a push-up.

Intermediate option:
3 rounds for time of:
5 jumping muscle-ups
20 alternating single-leg squats
400-meter run

Beginner option:
3 rounds for time of:
5 low-ring muscle-up transitions
20 alternating reverse lunges
200-meter run

Coaching cues:
When performing muscle-ups, avoid dropping straight down from the rings after a successful rep. This will break your kip rhythm and prevent you from stringing reps together. Instead, press away from the rings at the top, counterbalancing with your toes in front of the rings, before moving into the kip for your next rep.

Resources:
The Kipping Ring Muscle-Up
Pose Running Drills | Lean and Pull
Low-Ring Muscle-Up Transition
Ring Muscle-Up Scaling
The Single-Leg Squat
Single-Leg Squat Scaling

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Thursday 250904

Rest Day

CrossFit Means Failure

CrossFit doesn’t just challenge your body — it rewires how you view success and failure. In this brutally honest (and strangely motivating) piece, we explore why CrossFit never gets easier, how failure becomes your most powerful coach, and why falling short might be the greatest victory of all. Ready to get uncomfortable? Read on.

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Wednesday 250903

Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 10 minutes of:
5 toes-to-bars
3 sandbag over-the-shoulders
1 wall walk

♀ 100-lb sandbag
♂ 150-lb sandbag

Post rounds and reps to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Each set of today’s workout contains a low volume of reps to allow you to cycle through quick rounds. Choose an option for the toes-to-bars that allows you to maintain unbroken reps for the entire workout. The loading of the sandbag should allow you to complete your reps in around 30 seconds. Your goal should be to complete 6 rounds or more. More-advanced athletes may be able to perform a single round in under a minute and hold that pace for the entire workout.

Scaling:
Reduce the load of the sandbag.

To reduce the complexity of the toes-to-bars, reduce the range of motion by bringing the knees to the chest or a consistent height on the body. For the wall walks, reduce the range of motion by walking your hands only a few steps toward the wall.

In case of injury or limitation, perform power cleans with a single dumbbell or barbell instead of sandbag over-the-shoulders. Perform V-ups or sit-ups in place of the toes-to-bars, and inchworms with a push-up in place of the wall walks.

Intermediate option:
Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 10 minutes of:
5 knees-to-chests
3 sandbag over-the-shoulders
1 wall walk

70-lb sandbag
100-lb sandbag

Beginner option:
Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 10 minutes of:
5 hanging knee raises
3 single-arm dumbbell power cleans
1 inchworm + push-up from the knees

Switch arms on the cleans as needed.

25-lb dumbbell
35-lb dumbbell

Coaching cues:
When pulling the sandbag off the ground, get your hands underneath the bag and squat down as low as possible. Lift the bag to your thighs, bear-hug it, then with the bag held tight to your chest, extend your hips and legs aggressively, and throw the bag over your shoulder.

Resources:
The Kipping Toes-to-Bar
Sandbag Training
DIY Sandbag
The Wall Walk
Kipping Hanging Knee Raises
Inchworm + Push-Up From the Knees

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Tuesday 250902

21-18-15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Bench presses
Box jump-overs

♀ 105-lb barbell and a 24-inch box
♂ 155-lb barbell and a 30-inch box

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout contains two movements that seemingly have nothing to do with one another. However, bench pressing is more challenging when out of breath — expect the box jump-overs to throw a wrench into today’s effort. Use a weight for the bench presses that allows you to perform consistent sets of 5 reps or more. On the box jump-overs, manage your pace based on your capacity on the bench. If you do not have a spotter available, do not push to failure on the bench presses. Stick with a rep scheme you can manage and stay safe.

Scaling:
Reduce the load of the barbell. Reduce the reps of each movement.

To reduce the complexity of the bench presses, consider using a pair of dumbbells instead of the barbell. For the box jump-overs, reduce the height of the box as low as necessary to maintain the jumping stimulus of the movement.

In case of injury or limitation, for the bench presses, consider dumbbell floor presses, weighted push-ups, or unloaded push-ups. For the box jump-overs, consider box step-overs.

Intermediate option:
21-18-15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Bench presses
Box jump-overs

75-lb barbell and a 20-inch box
115-lb barbell and a 24-inch box

Beginner option:
15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Bench presses
Box step-overs

35-lb barbell and a 12-inch box
45-lb barbell and a 20-inch box

Coaching cues:
As you are performing the bench press, drive the bar up and back, keeping your wrists stacked and elbows under the bar.

Resources:
The Bench Press
Box Jump-Over Variations

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Monday 250901

Every minute on the minute for 12 minutes, complete:
3 front squats

Score is total load lifted.

Post loads to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is an opportunity to lift a heavy load relative to your capacity. Athletes who know their best front squat should aim to start this workout at about 60%, then increase the loading across as many sets as possible. Advanced athletes should consider sticking with a challenging weight and holding across all 12 sets. Newer athletes should focus on developing consistently sound mechanics before adding weight. After completing the 3 reps, rack the barbell and rest with the remaining time.

Scaling:
Reduce the loading of the barbell.

To reduce the complexity of the front squat, consider adjusting your grip on the barbell. You could try resting the barbell on the shoulders and placing your hands on opposite shoulders, or using straps to eliminate the difficulty of the rack position. Another option is to use a pair of dumbbells.

In case of injury or limitation, consider performing a back squat or a dumbbell goblet squat.

Intermediate option:
Same as Rx’d.

Beginner option:
Same as Rx’d.

Coaching cues:
In the front squat, find a target to drive your elbows toward as you are completing your reps. This target should be above your neutral gaze and challenge you to keep your triceps parallel to the ground.

Resources:
The Front Squat

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Sunday 250831

Rest Day

The Quiet (CrossFit) Professional: When External Motivation Fails

When the music fades and motivational slogans fall silent, CrossFit reveals its most precious gift: the opportunity to discover who you really are in "that dark place" where only internal guts, will, and courage can carry you forward. Like the elite warriors known as "quiet professionals," true growth happens not through external hype, but in those solitary moments when you must choose between quitting and pushing through the pain. This is where CrossFit transforms from mere exercise into a daily battle with yourself — and where real character is forged one rep at a time.

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Saturday 250830

Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 20 minutes of:
20 lateral burpees over the dumbbell
20 alternating dumbbell hang clean-to-overheads
200-meter row

♀ 35-lb dumbbell
♂ 50-lb dumbbell

Post rounds and reps to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is a grind. Move at a consistent pace and aim to complete at least 4 rounds. The loading of the dumbbell should allow you to complete your reps in 2 sets or less in each round. If you need a place to slow down and recover, do that on the rower. In workouts like these, take it one round at a time and don’t get ahead of yourself or bother looking at the clock — it will only disappoint you.

Scaling:
Reduce the load of the dumbbell. Reduce the reps of the burpees and the hang clean-to-overheads. Reduce the distance on the rower.

To reduce the complexity of the lateral burpees over the dumbbell, perform these as standard burpees. For the hang clean-to-overheads, consider muscle clean and shoulder presses or kettlebell swings.

In case of injury or limitation, for the row, consider a 200-meter run or a 400-meter bike. For the lateral burpees over the dumbbell, perform up-downs over the dumbbell or in place. For the dumbbell hang clean-to-overheads, perform hang clean and shoulder presses with a medicine ball or a single-arm Russian kettlebell swing if there is an overhead limitation.

Intermediate option:
Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 20 minutes of:
20 lateral burpees over the dumbbell
20 alternating dumbbell hang clean-to-overheads
200-meter row

20-lb dumbbell
35-lb dumbbell

Beginner option:
Complete as many rounds and reps as possible in 12 minutes of:
10 burpees
10 alternating dumbbell hang clean-to-overheads
200-meter row

10-lb dumbbell
15-lb dumbbell

Coaching cues:
During the row, ensure you maintain the proper sequencing of each pull for the most efficiency and power output, and to preserve your energy and push harder for longer. Think about moving through each pull by initiating with a leg drive, then shifting your hips back, and finally pulling with your arms. On the return, it’s the opposite — the arms straighten, the hips flex, and then the legs bend.

Resources:
Rowing Technique Tips

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Friday 250829

3 rounds for time of:
400-meter run
30 GHD sit-ups
100-foot front-rack walking lunge

♀ 65 lb
♂ 95 lb

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is a bit of a midline mash-up. Expect the GHD sit-ups and the front-rack lunges to conflict with one another and make running more challenging. Aim to complete this workout in about 20 minutes or less. Choose a weight for the lunges that allows you to complete the distance in 2 sets or less in each round. If you are not familiar with the GHD sit-up or are not consistently performing the movement, reduce the reps and range of motion.

Scaling:
Reduce the loading of the barbell. Reduce the reps of the GHD sit-ups. Reduce the distance of the run and the front-rack lunge.

To reduce the complexity of the GHD sit-ups, limit the range of motion. For the front-rack lunges, consider using a pair of dumbbells to help minimize issues with the rack position.

In case of injury or limitation, for the run, complete 900/1,250 meters on the Echo bike, or 400/500 meters on the rower or ski erg. For the GHD sit-ups, perform V-ups or sit-ups. For the front-rack lunge, perform this movement with no weight or consider a low box step-up.

Intermediate option:
3 rounds for time of:
400-meter run
20 GHD sit-ups to parallel
100-foot front-rack walking lunge

55 lb
75 lb

Beginner option:
3 rounds for time of:
200-meter run
20 AbMat sit-ups
50-foot walking lunge

Coaching cues:
For the front-rack walking lunge, step long, keep your chest up, and drive through your front heel. Avoid letting your knee cave inward.

Resources:
Running Drills | Pose Alignment
The GHD Sit-Up
The Front-Rack Lunge
GHD Sit-Up Progressions
The AbMat Sit-Up
The Walking Lunge

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Thursday 250828

Rest Day

What 16 Years of Coaching CrossFit Has Taught Me

After 16 years in CrossFit — from a 90-pound-overweight beginner who could barely complete 3 rounds of Cindy to an affiliate owner and coach across two countries — I've learned that the most powerful question in fitness isn't about programming or technique. It's simply: "What would happen if I just showed up every day?" This is the story of how that question transformed not just my body, but my life's purpose, and why the path from athlete to coach might be the most rewarding journey you never saw coming.

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Wednesday 250827

For time:
50 deadlifts
40 pull-ups
30-calorie row
20 chest-to-bar pull-ups
10 squat cleans

♀ 125 lb
♂ 185 lb

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout is a chipper. Aim to complete this effort in 15 minutes or less. The loading of the barbell should be light-to-moderate for the deadlifts and moderate-to-heavy for the squat cleans. This means you should be able to consistently perform larger chunks of reps on the deadlifts and singles for the squat cleans. Manage your pace on the rower in anticipation of the final two movements. Don’t push too hard on the rower and end up putting yourself in a “hole” for the remainder of the workout.

Scaling:
Reduce the loading of the barbell. Reduce the reps of each of the movements.

To reduce the complexity of deadlifts, perform sumo deadlifts. This will reduce the difficulty in navigating the knees. For the pull-ups, reduce the range of motion. For the squat cleans, consider hang squat cleans or a power cleans.

In case of injury or limitation, for the deadlifts, consider kettlebell sumo deadlifts or unloaded good mornings. For the pull-ups, consider ring rows. For the squat cleans, consider dumbbell squat cleans or dumbbell power cleans if there is a squat limitation. For the row, use whatever machine is available to perform the calories.

Intermediate option:
For time:
50 deadlifts
40 jumping pull-ups
30-calorie row
20 pull-ups
10 squat cleans

95 lb
135 lb

Beginner option:
For time:
45 deadlifts
35 ring rows
25-calorie row
15 jumping pull-ups
5 squat cleans

35 lb
45 lb

Coaching cues:
In the squat clean, drive your hips forward, squeeze your glutes at the top, and make sure you finish the pull before pulling under the bar.

Resources:
The Deadlift
The Kipping Pull-Up
Rowing
The Kipping Chest-to-Bar Pull-Up
The Squat Clean
Jumping Pull-Up Progression
The Ring Row

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Tuesday 250826

J.T.

21-15-9 reps for time of:
Handstand push-ups
Ring dips
Push-ups

Post time to comments.

Compare to 210623.

In honor of Petty Officer 1st Class Jeff Taylor, 30, of Midway, West Virginia, who was killed on June 28, 2005, while conducting combat operations in the vicinity of Asadabad, Afghanistan, in Kumar Province. He is survived by his father, John; mother, Carrie; and wife, Erin.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout can be polarizing, depending on your strengths and weaknesses. Regardless, the push-up will arguably be the most difficult reps you have ever attempted. That said, for most, this is a workout that requires patience and perseverance. Expect to experience muscular fatigue rather than cardio-respiratory fatigue. When dealing with muscular fatigue, you must rest long enough for your muscles to recover before you continue. Manage your reps to allow for minimal rest during breaks and minimize the potential for muscular failure. If you have completed this workout in the past, look back at your previous effort to help navigate today’s effort.

Scaling:
Reduce the reps of each movement.

To reduce the complexity of the handstand push-up, perform pike push-ups. For the ring dips, perform jumping or banded ring dips. For the push-ups, perform from the knees.

In case of injury or limitation, for the handstand push-ups, perform seated dumbbell shoulder presses. For the ring dips, perform foot-assisted ring dips or straight bar dips. For the push-ups, perform these with your hands on an elevated surface like a 30-inch box.

Intermediate option:
21-15-9 reps for time of:
Pike push-ups
Jumping ring dips
Push-ups

Beginner option:
15-12-9 reps for time of:
Seated dumbbell shoulder press
Foot-assisted ring dips
Push-ups from the knees

15-lb dumbbell
20-lb dumbbell

Coaching cues:
On the ring dips, set your shoulders, keep your elbows back, and press through your palms. Finish with your arms fully locked out at the top.

Resources:
The Kipping Handstand Push-Up
The Ring Dip
Kipping Ring Dip
The Push-Up
Box Pike Push-Ups
Push-Up on Knees
Ring Dip | Coaching Tips
CrossFit Hero and Tribute Workouts

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Monday 250825

For 6 rounds, complete 1 minute of:
45 double-unders
Max kettlebell swings in the remaining time

Rest 1 minute between rounds. Score is total number of kettlebell swings.

♀ 53-lb kettlebell
♂ 70-lb kettlebell

Post reps to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout contains 6 sprint-style intervals. In order to get the most out of this effort, choose a jump rope variation that gives you around 30 seconds to perform kettlebell swings. The kettlebell loading should be something heavier than you may normally swing, but manageable enough that you can swing it for the entirety of the remaining time in the interval.

Scaling:
Reduce the loading of the kettlebell. Reduce the reps of the double-unders.

To reduce the complexity of the jump rope, consider performing single-unders. For the kettlebell swings, reduce the range of motion.

In case of injury or limitation, for the double-unders, perform penguin taps or consider 7/9 calories on a bike. For the kettlebell swings, perform single-arm swings or kettlebell sumo deadlifts.

Intermediate option:
On a 1-minute clock for 6 rounds, complete:
20 double-unders
Max kettlebell swings in the remaining time

Rest 1 minute between rounds. Score is total number of kettlebell swings.

35-lb kettlebell
53-lb kettlebell

Beginner option:
On a 1-minute clock for 6 rounds, complete:
20 single-unders
Max Russian kettlebell swings in the remaining time

Rest 1 minute between rounds. Score is total number of kettlebell swings.

18-lb kettlebell
26-lb kettlebell

Coaching cues:
For the kettlebell swings, drive through your heels, squeeze your glutes at the top, and finish with your chest proud.

Resources:
The Double-Under
The Kettlebell Swing
The Single-Under
The Russian Kettlebell Swing

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Sunday 250824

Rest Day

From Couch to 4,000 Workouts: How CrossFit Saved My Parents' Lives at 55

Seventeen years ago, Jocelyn Rylee, Level 4 CrossFit coach, Seminar Staff trainer, and owner of CrossFit Brio, convinced her two morbidly obese 55-year-old parents to do CrossFit. They couldn't do a lunge without assistance or run 800 meters. Today, they are 73, have both survived cancer, and have completed over 2,000 CrossFit workouts each. Jocelyn’s mom has lived 15 years longer than her own mother did, and her dad's cardiologists called his cardiovascular system "the cleanest they'd ever seen" after emergency open-heart surgery. This is proof that it's never too late to completely transform your life — but you have to be willing to start.

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Saturday 250823

21-18-15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Knees-to-elbows
Dumbbell thrusters

♀ 20-lb dumbbells
♂ 35-lb dumbbells

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
This descending rep scheme contains two movements with longer ranges of motion. Choose a weight for the dumbbell thrusters that allows you to finish your reps in 2 sets or less. Challenge yourself to go unbroken on as many sets as possible. For the knees-to-elbows, choose a movement variation that allows you to maintain consistent sets of 5 or more reps.

Scaling:
Reduce the loading of the dumbbells. Reduce the reps of each movement.

To reduce the complexity of the knees-to-elbows, bring the knees to a lower target. For the dumbbell thrusters, perform the movement with a single dumbbell or perform medicine-ball thrusters.

In case of injury or limitation, for the knees-to-elbows, perform V-ups or sit-ups. For the thrusters, perform front squats if there is an overhead limitation or push presses if there is a squatting limitation.

Intermediate option:
21-18-15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Knees-to-chests
Dumbbell thrusters

15-lb dumbbells
25-lb dumbbells

Beginner option:
15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Hanging knee raises
Dumbbell thrusters

10-lb dumbbells
15-lb dumbbells

Coaching cues:
With the dumbbell thrusters, drive the dumbbells up with your legs, keep the elbows up and in front of you, and finish with a locked-out overhead position — don’t let the dumbbells drift forward.

Resources:
The Strict Knees-to-Elbows
The Dumbbell Thruster
Kipping Hanging Knee Raises
Knees-to-Elbows Tips

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Friday 250822

3 rounds for time of:
800-meter run
30 GHD hip and back extensions

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
In today’s workout, we lengthen out the time domain and focus on kinesthetic awareness. The glute-ham developer (GHD) is a powerful piece of equipment that can help you develop midline stabilization and an understanding of where your body is in space. Choose a variation of the GHD movement that allows you to stay in control and work through quality reps. Push the pace on the runs as you are able.

Scaling:
Reduce the reps of the GHD hip and back extensions. Reduce the distance of the run.

To reduce the complexity of the GHD hip and back extensions, perform back extensions or hip extensions.

In case of injury or limitation, for the GHD hip and back extensions, perform good mornings or unloaded Jefferson curls. For the run, perform 1,750/2,500 meters on the Echo bike or 800/1,000 meters on the rower.

Intermediate option:
3 rounds for time of:
800-meter run
20 GHD back extensions

Beginner option:
3 rounds for time of:
400-meter run
15 GHD hip extensions

Coaching cues:
Take your time on the hip and back extensions. Focus on moving each body part independently of the other. Initiate the movement with trunk flexion, followed by flexing at the hip, and then reclaiming trunk extension in the bottom position. In the lifting phase, the trunk moves back into flexion as the hips extend, and the movement finishes with the trunk extended and parallel to the floor. Watch the movement demonstration carefully to get the best understanding of this movement.

Resources:
Running | Position Drill
The GHD Hip and Back Extension
The GHD Back Extension
The GHD Hip Extension
The GHD Hip, Back, and Hip and Back Extensions

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Thursday 250821

Rest Day

Dissecting the Squat

We take squatting very seriously in CrossFit. In the world of athletic development, the squat is the most important exercise for developing powerful hip extension, and therefore one of the best for improving athleticism. More than that, however, is that you need to be able to squat to stand from a seated position. So, we need to squat, and if we can’t, we have to figure out whether it’s a mobility issue or motor-control imbalance. In this 2015 article, Dr. Zachary Long shares three tests that will help you determine which one it is and how to fix it.

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Wednesday 250820

CrossFit Total

Back squat, 1 rep
Shoulder press, 1 rep
Deadlift, 1 rep

Post loads to comments.

Compare to 240515.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today is an opportunity to go heavy relative to your capacity. Be sure to look back at your previous attempts to help you navigate today’s effort. The loads today should require all of your attention and focus. The load is not heavy if you can carry on a conversation mid-lift. Advanced and intermediate athletes may attempt max-effort lifts for each movement and shoot for a personal record if the iron is hot. Newer athletes should treat today as an opportunity to practice technique and get comfortable with heavy lifts.

Scaling:
To reduce the complexity of the back squat, perform your reps to a target that provides pain-free range of motion. For the shoulder press, use a pair of dumbbells to avoid having to navigate the head. For the deadlift, shorten the range of motion by raising the bumper plates off the floor.

In case of injury or limitation, for the back squat, perform a dumbbell goblet squat or an air squat. For the shoulder press, shorten the range of motion by performing an incline press or bench press. If necessary, you can perform a push-up. For the deadlift, perform a sumo deadlift or a good morning.

Intermediate option:
Same as Rx’d.

Beginner option:
Back squat 3-3-1-1 reps
Shoulder press 3-3-1-1 reps
Deadlift 3-3-1-1 reps

Coaching cues:
In the shoulder press, tighten your core, squeeze your glutes, and press straight up — don’t let the bar drift forward.

Resources:
The Back Squat
The Shoulder Press
The Deadlift
CrossFit Total Demo From 220810

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Tuesday 250819

On a 25-minute clock, complete 5 rounds of:
Echo bike for 50 seconds, rest 10 seconds
Echo bike for 40 seconds, rest 20 seconds
Echo bike for 30 seconds, rest 30 seconds
Echo bike for 20 seconds, rest 40 seconds
Echo bike for 10 seconds, rest 50 seconds

Post total distance biked to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
It’s just you and a bike in today’s workout. Manage your pace based on the duration of each effort. As the time of the work intervals decreases, push the pace harder. Pay attention to the cadence or RPMs on the monitor. Try to maintain a consistent cadence or challenge yourself to increase your cadence as the time decreases.

Scaling:
Reduce the number of rounds.

In case of injury or limitation, perform today’s effort on any machine available.

Intermediate option:
Same as Rx’d.

Beginner option:
On a 25-minute clock, complete 3 rounds of:
Echo bike for 50 seconds, rest 10 seconds
Echo bike for 40 seconds, rest 20 seconds
Echo bike for 30 seconds, rest 30 seconds
Echo bike for 20 seconds, rest 40 seconds
Echo bike for 10 seconds, rest 50 seconds

Coaching cues:
When riding the Echo bike, sit tall, keep your core engaged, and think about smooth, controlled power — no jerky movements.

Resources:
Rogue Echo Bike

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Monday 250818

For time:
Accumulate 2 minutes of an L-sit hold
6 legless rope climbs to 15 feet
12 snatches
Accumulate 2 minutes of an L-sit hold
12 rope climbs to 15 feet
24 snatches

♀ 95-lb barbell
♂ 135-lb barbell

Post time to comments.

Stimulus and Strategy:
Today’s workout combines challenging gymnastics elements with a moderate weightlifting movement. As your midline muscles fatigue from the L-sit holds, expect the rope climbs and the snatches to become more difficult. Choose a weight for the barbell that allows you to maintain a cadence of 6 or more reps per minute. Your best strategy on the snatches will be quick singles. Snatches may be performed as a power or squat variation. On the L-sit holds, choose an option that allows you to consistently hold for 10 seconds or more. Manage the pace of the rope climbs.

Scaling:
Reduce the duration of the L-sit holds. Reduce the number of reps for the rope climbs. Reduce the loading of the snatches.

To reduce the complexity of the L-sit holds, bend one leg or tuck both knees in toward the chest. For the legless rope climbs, reduce height or perform legged rope climbs. For the rope climbs, reduce the height or perform 3 strict pull-ups per rope climb. For the snatches, consider performing hang snatches.

In case of injury or limitation, for the L-sit holds, perform plank holds. For the rope climbs, perform pull-to-stands or ring rows. For the snatches, perform kettlebell swings or dumbbell snatches. If necessary, perform cleans if there is an overhead limitation.

Intermediate option:
For time:
Accumulate 2 minutes of an L-sit hold with knees bent
6 rope climbs to 12 feet
12 snatches
Accumulate 2 minutes of an L-sit hold with knees bent
6 rope climbs to 12 feet
24 snatches

65-lb barbell
95-lb barbell

Beginner option:
For time:
Accumulate 2 minutes of a plank hold from the knees
6 pull-to-stands
12 snatches
Accumulate 2 minutes of a plank hold from the knees
12 pull-to-stands
24 snatches

35-lb barbell
45-lb barbell

Coaching cues:
In the L-sit hold, drive your heels forward and squeeze your quads — make your legs look like steel beams!

Resources:
The L-Sit
The Legless Rope Climb
The Power Snatch
The Snatch
The Rope Climb (Basket)
The Rope Climb (Wrapping)
Rope Climb Scaling | Pull-to-Stands

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Sunday 250817

Rest Day

Mechanics, Consistency, Intensity: What It Means

Intensity may be one of the most misunderstood aspects of CrossFit. But mechanics-consistency-intensity isn't just a catchy phrase, it’s the blueprint that separates smart coaching from dangerous programming. This foundational charter protects beginners and develops elite athletes, and CrossFit coaches are the ones who know best how to apply it.

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