I’m in the Open

There’s something special about the CrossFit Open. It’s technically the first stage of qualifying for CrossFit Games, but for many it’s a test to see how far they’ve come. It allows athletes of all ages and ability levels, to come together in a really unique experience. You’re surrounded by your gym family, rooting for you, in the comfort of your second home, while you go to your max. The air is vibrant with excitement and energy. The entire box comes together, morning and evening classes, elite and beginners.

It took me three years to do my first CrossFit Open. My first, I didn’t understand. My second, I just watched. My third, last year, I finally did it. It was a turning point for me. I performed better than I ever thought I would and gained a sense of self-confidence that I took with me both inside and outside the gym.

Last year I wasn’t able to complete all five of the workouts as written (RX) and had to scale back the weight and some of the movements. I wish I had done the Open that first year, when I could barely lift 65 pounds and I would highly encourage anyone in that position to try. It didn’t matter if I was scaling or doing it RX, I felt like I could take on the world. Be it the dopamine firing at all cylinders or being surrounded by the people, the experience is motivating and gives you an amazing high that can’t be beat.

It took me three years to do my first CrossFit Open. My first, I didn’t understand. My second, I just watched. My third, I finally did it. My fourth, I will push myself to my limits.

Are you in the Open?