CrossFit for the confused-a guide to WODs, goats, & more

For the uninitiated, CrossFit—a sport that combines aspects of Olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardiovascular conditioning to “forge elite fitness”—can be confusing. Newcomers enter a CrossFit gym to see people doing ridiculous things on jungle gyms and saying ridiculous words like “WOD” and “AMRAP.” Things only get worse when the workout actually starts, with everyone throwing barbells around and jumping on boxes at breakneck speed for ten minutes or so before collapsing in a heap and gasping for air. If you haven’t had the pleasure of that first-time experience at a CrossFit gym, you’re probably even more confused by what CrossFit is (especially after that description!).

With the CrossFit Games starting on July 22, Beutler Ink decided to partner with JP CrossFit—a CrossFit affiliate located in Boston—to dispel some of the confusion. For the uninitiated, A Viewer’s Guide to the CrossFit Games provides a primer on some of the common movements, including what counts as a good rep during a competition, and an explanation of what some of the terminology means. And if you’re a seasoned CrossFitter, we’ve got something for you, too—tips on performing the movements from JP CrossFit owner Logan Miller.

You’ll be doing thrusters and working on your goats in no time.