This week on Barbell Shrugged, we help you get ready for the 2016 CrossFit Open.

The questions never change. “Am I strong enough to compete? What movements can we expect? What about running, will there be RUNNING!? What do you think it’s going to take to make Regionals this year?”

These are good questions, but they’re also often packaged with a sense of pressure. I’m sure you’ve noticed, but the winning numbers only grow more impressive every season. That’s amazing for the sport, and amazing to watch, but there is also a downside.

We often let the big landmark performances distract us from our mission. It’s that simple.

The good news is that the core standards never really change. To place high you need great lifting and the ability to pile up a shit-ton of work. But you knew that already, right? This is CrossFit, after all. But there’s still a lot you can do to maximize your own competitive experience and boost your odds.

Our 2016 advice starts with a call to take away the pressure. You don’t have to worry about anything at all, friend. The Barbell Shrugged crew will be here to take on the journey with you, from this starting point all the way through to the Games.

Enjoy the ride,

Chris

P.S. And if you’d like a little help to make sure you you’re ready for the Open and have a programming to keep you at 100% ability so you can do your best this year,  be sure to check out our Open Prep program here in Overtime.