The 2023 NOBULL CrossFit Open is just a few weeks away, and Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil caught up with Chase Ingraham and Tim Paulson to discuss their ideas on how to increase participation. Ingraham is a 10-year affiliate owner and the south center affiliate rep for CrossFit HQ, while Paulson is the co-owner of CrossFit Pallas in Ithaca, New York. They discussed what works, what doesn't, and why it's important for your coaching staff to participate in Friday Night Lights.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Click the link below to sign up for the Open:https://auth.crossfit.com/?client_id=games_D9Mh3d&extra=%2Fregister%2Fopen%3Futm_source%3DSport-website%26utm_medium%3DSport-register_early_article_KL%26utm_campaign%3DSport-2023CFGO&redirect_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fgames.crossfit.com%2FcentralAuth&response_type=code

The off-season competitions these past several months have been packed full of fitness. For elite athletes, the Rogue Invitational included 10 events, the Dubai Fitness Challenge with eight, and most recently, TYR Wodapalooza with nine. While all three majors had similar volume, Rogue and Dubai spread the workouts over four days, whereas WZA, just two days.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Chase Ingraham and CrossFit Games competitor Tim Paulson to discuss whether there were actually too many tests for a two-day competition, or if it was necessary for a more well-rounded test. The three looked at other competition formats, the pros and cons of each system and how taking away some fitness could be better for a spectator experience.Use code "CHALKUP" to get $20 off:butcherbox.com/morningchalkupRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2023/01/19/by-the-numbers-how-two-day-wodapalooza-gave-athletes-as-much-volume-as-four-days-in-2022/Show Breakdown:0:50 - Volume within two-days2:00 - Impact of doing indy and team3:30 - Are athletes prepared for this volume6:15- More events better test?10:10 - Spectator experience12:30 - Bottom Line

The 2023 CrossFit season is officially upon us, but we still have several questions about how certain stages will play out. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with sports analyst Mike Halpin and Games athlete Brent Fikowski to discuss what we do know, and what questions we still have.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"To watch Part 1, click the link below:https://youtu.be/ezZGRRFMx7oShow Breakdown0:20 - Will North America get most of the spots?2:30 - Brent reveals his training partner5:30 - Impact to Oceania without Tia9:25 - Oceania shift on the men's side?12:30 - Does the Open matter14:00 - The bottom line

Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sat down with Emma Cary and Matt Tores on the TYR Wodapalooza podcast stage after Cary placed 3rd in the Elite Individual Division. As her first live competition since returning from a back injury, the three discussed the process of returning to the competition floor, how Cary is learning to take more risks in her strategy, and even the importance of finding a passion outside of CrossFit.Honorable mention to Morning Chalk Up's Preslie Hirsch for subbing in mid-interview while Kalil had to excuse herself during an acid reflux attack.

Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sat down with Mat Fraser and Sammy Moniz to catch up at TYR Wodapalooza. With recently bringing on new athletes this season, the three discussed the dynamic of the group, what it's like to have a house full of people, and how their upcoming romantic getaway turned into a "family vacation."

Now that we've had a few weeks to digest what the season structure will look like, sports analyst Mike Halpin has laid out some key examples of how the new "strength of field" rule could impact spots at each semifinal.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Halpin and Games athlete Brent Fikowski to discuss some of the different scenarios that are raising questions, specifically, how important the Open could be with this new rule in place.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Show Breakdown1:30 - Thoughts on the strength of field2:50 - How the 2022 Games impacts the structure9:30 - What part does the Open play in strength of field12:36 - Looking into NA East and NA West Semifinals

Just days before the Christmas holiday, CrossFit CEO, Don Faul sent an e-mail to affiliates owners announcing that Gary Gaines, General Manager of Affiliates, is no longer with CrossFit HQ, making him the sixth CrossFit executive to change in 2022.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Make WODs Great Again creator and affiliate owner, John Wooley, and Senior Editor, Joe Genetin-Pilawa to discuss the changes in leadership, if this is normal for big companies, and what the future could hold under CEO Don Faul.Use code "CHALKUP" to get Ground Beef for Life + $20 off:butcherbox.com/morningchalkupRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/12/24/gary-gaines-general-manager-of-affiliates-becomes-sixth-crossfit-executive-to-leave-company-in-2022/

Tia and Shane gave everyone some exciting Christmas news last week as they announced their pregnancy! And that means there will be a new Fittnest Woman on Earth at the 2023 CrossFit Games. But -- Tia not competing this year will also impact stages in the season before we get to Madison, WI.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil spoke with sports analysts Dex Hopkins and Joey Adduci to discuss how Tia not competing in the 2023 season will impact the rest of the women's field, and they even gave their "way too early" predictions for the next championship title.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Show Breakdown:0:30 - Initial thoughts on the announcement2:40 - Is this actually "good" for the women's field6:40 - Other women up for the title7:50 - Impact to Oceania Semifinals10:00 - Games moms who made comebacks15:39 - Way too early predictions for the 2023 champion21:45 - The bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/12/24/tia-clair-toomey-announces-pregnancy-and-change-of-events-for-2023-games-season/

Merry Christmas ya'll! You can start planning your 2023 CrossFit season now that we have the full list of Semifinals Locations and an equipment list for the Open...and beyond! Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Chase Ingraham and Dex Hopkins (before he leaves for baby duty) to break down where athletes will be headed for Semifinals and take a first look at the equipment list as they speculate which movements could show up.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"

In this episode of the Bottom Line, Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil brings sports analysts Dex Hopkins and Joey Adduci on the show to debate which training method is superior: individualized programming or a training camp. The two go back and forth bringing up certain athletes that have fared well with one spectrum of the argument, and discuss which side of the coin they ultimately land on.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Show Breakdown:0:45- Initial thoughts3:30 - Is there a benefit to being alone8:20 - Brent Fikowksi as an example13:00 - Training around "character traits"14:15 - The bottom line

TYR just announced they'll be selling limited edition athlete replica jerseys ahead of Wodapalooza. With the t-shirts selling at $40, TYR is giving $20 of that directly back to the athletes.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with sports analyst Dex Hopkins to discuss how TYR is leveling up when it comes to giving athletes more financial opportunities -- both in the percentage earned and who is included.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Link to get your hands on a replica jersey:https://www.tyr.com/hdn-lp/tyr-wza-athletesShow Breakdown:1:00 - TYR giving athletes a bigger cut for jerseys2:15 - Who gets to opt-in4:30 - Looking at the past8:43 - Giving athletes time to opt-in11:24 - TYR in the space13:00 - The bottom line

With numerous off-season competitions to choose from all around the globe, how does an athlete narrow down which one might help inch them closer to their overall goal? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil catches up with seven women and seven men to see what drives them to compete and if there's a common theme amongst the athletes.Use code "CHALKUP" to get Ground Beef for Life + $20 off:butcherbox.com/morningchalkup

The "unknown and unknowable" is part of our CrossFit roots, but has the sport outgrown the concept? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Training Think Tank coach, Adam Rogers, and Brute Strength coach, Matt Torres, to discuss ways that CrossFit can evolve from this potential sticking point and still challenge athletes in a way that moves the sport forward.Use code "CHALKUP" to get Ribeyes for a Year + $20 off:butcherbox.com/morningchalkupShow Breakdown:1:44 - Preparation leads to a better spectacle4:00 - What should be released ahead of time5:10 - Will unknown and unknowable go away9:10 - The price of this format14:00 - Is this just part of "fitness"

At the CrossFit Games and the Rogue Invitational, we saw a new test of strength: ladder style with an odd object. Historically, the sport has tested strength primarily with a barbell, and in a way that allows athletes to choose their own weights -- rather than having set weights to hit.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Training Think Tank coach, Adam Rogers, and Brute Strength coach, Matt Torres, to discuss which style better demonstrates an athlete's true ability when it comes to testing strength.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Show breakdown:0:52 - Implementing odd objects5:00 - Creating a better tie-break8:50 - "Playing the game" choosing your own weights13:17- Ladder style here to stay?17:00 - Downside of ladders19:40 - The bottom line

CrossFit has released the Games rulebook earlier than ever, and we're diving into what's new and what could impact athletes in the 2023 season. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and Joey Adduci to talk about how the change in the residency rule could shift where athletes compete in Semifinals, the introduction of the two-appeal rule, and which athletes might benefit from having best practices in place ahead of time.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Show Breakdown:0:40 - Transparency from CrossFit2:00 - Residency Changes6:13 - Country representation9:00 - Proactive approach11:00 - Two appeal process17:00 - Consistency with the season19:45 - The bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/11/16/2023-rulebook-review-region-selection-and-the-two-appeal-rule/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/11/15/breaking-the-2023-crossfit-games-rulebook-has-arrived-heres-what-you-need-to-know/

When looking at CrossFit Games champions like Justin Medeiros and Tia-Clair Toomey, their weaknesses are few and far between. Recently at the Rogue Invitational, even with a 19th placement in the strict handstand push-up event, Laura Horvath was still able to take home the title and stand on top of the Podium.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil chats with Dex Hopkins and Joey Adduci to discuss how big of a margin a champion can have with their weaknesses and how changing the standard of a movement like the handstand push-up impacts an athlete when trying to narrow that margin.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:55 - Margin for error with a weakness3:15 - Looking at weaknesses in past champions5:30 - Training when standards change10:00 - "Field goal" of HSPU always changing13:00 - The bottom line

A new ranking system for the CrossFit Games season was recently announced by HQ through the Hopper e-mail. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with sports experts Dex Hopkins and Mike Halpin Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Show Breakdown:0:45 - Initial thoughts3:45 - Athletes this system could affect6:00 - Watching the system play out10:30 - Comparing other professional sports12:15 - Regional breakdown16:30 - What came first, chicken or the egg19:50 - Who benefits and who suffers22:50 - Bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/11/10/crossfit-introduces-worldwide-ranking-system/

New details emerge from the European Championship, an off-season competition that has yet to pay its podium athletes, judges, and media. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Jason Croxon, the man behind Jason CF Media, to peel back the layers of how the competition is planning to pay its people for the event in 2022, through a competition in 2023...and how the athletes are apparently not supporting it.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code "CHALKUP"Related Videos:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKjPMsqQy9Qhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDCo9-hLrgIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvXMal53DRghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONxyUFMAIUURelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/04/european-championships-ends-with-large-amount-of-debt-organizers-unsure-they-will-be-able-to-pay/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/11/05/european-championships-update-support-a-2023-event-and-you-might-get-paid-for-2022/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/11/08/european-championships-update-the-show-will-go-on/

As off-season competitions continue to outsource training camps for their programming, it raises the question of whether there might be an unfair bias when it comes to athletes competing from the camp that's programming the event. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Training Think Tanks head coach Max El-Hag and Chase Ingraham to discuss their concerns when payouts get involved and some ideas as to who could program off-season events to even the playing field.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:43 - Potential conflict of interest2:40 - How it can benefit training camps5:00 - Standards to make it more “fair”9:25 - Is it better to have multiple camps program12:45 - Too many cooks in the kitchen?15:20 - Unconscious bias to help your athletes17:20 - Who should program events18:30 - Utilizing Dave Castro?!20:30 - Increase in participation21:55 - Bottom LineTraining Think Tank original video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvpVkn97Owc

Watching the younger generation of CrossFit Games athletes grow up with the sport of CrossFit versus having an athletic background in other sports raises the question of which path will ultimately fair better at the Games. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Jason Khalipa and Jared Graybeal to discuss the topic and dive into different scenarios of how each track might play out.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:50 - Long-term outcome of only training CrossFit2:40 - Comparing athletes based on background5:30 - Rich Froning as an example8:00 - Coaches implementing sports into training10:30 - What elements should the Games include16:00 - Creating consistency in the sport17:05 - Jason planning an event at Castro's Ranch

Is it on the competition? Should the athletes assist? Who is going to help get sports fans in those seats at events? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Niki Brazier and sports agent Benji Hull to discuss solutions to increasing in-person viewership. Whether athletes should be contractually obligated to compete once they're on the roster or if CrossFit HQ should be assisting in marketing efforts, ideas were brought up on how changes can be made.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:50 - Competitions assisting athletes to compete1:50 - Including spectators in events3:24 - Should CrossFit HQ help6:13 - Should athletes have a contractual obligation10:14 - Other solutions13:50 - Is having a Livestream a barrier15:52 - The bottom line

With the change in decision to make all Semifinal workouts standardized this season, it raises the question of whether it will impact ticket sales and spectator turnout. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and Adrian Conway to discuss whether standardized programming will impact getting butts in seats and how it might ultimately affect the Crossfit Games season.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:40 - Initial thoughts4:00 - Magic of the leaderboard5:20 - Does programming impact spectators9:50 - Standardized programming improving excitement12:20 - The bottom line

CrossFit recently announced changes to the 2023 Games season structure, which included a few updates for the team division. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and Chase Ingraham to discuss how the return of Super Teams could potentially add more interest to the division...at least on paper.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:1:00 - Dex experience on Super Team2:57 - Chase saying it's better on paper5:00 - Does this take away from affiliates11:00 - Is this the right direction for Teams14:20 - A future challenge to Mayhem17:45 - The bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/17/return-of-the-super-teams-in-2023/

It might be one of the best ways to professionalize CrossFit, but no one is talking about it -- training camps paying athletes to be part of their team. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and Chase Ingraham to discuss which camps are paying their athletes, why it's not openly discussed, and the challenges a "new sport" like CrossFit faces when trying to make this more commonplace.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:45 - How does paying athletes change the tune1:50 - Who pays athletes5:30 - Why aren't all camps doing this13:10 - Why aren't we talking about this18:00 - Is there a downside19:30 - The bottom line

Recently in the Hopper email from CrossFit, there was an article titled, The Judge's job. It read in part, "while judges are there to facilitate and create a fair competition, they ultimately share these responsibilities with the athlete. As stated in CrossFit Rulebook section 1.19, athletes are responsible for counting and completing all required reps."Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and Justin LoFranco to discuss whether athletes should be accountable for counting their own reps, the athlete/referee responsibilities in other sports, and who ultimately should be in charge for reps at each stage of the game. Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:1:00 - Dex can't fitness and count3:00 - Should it be different at the Games9:20 - Is counting part of the "fitness" test12:30 - What does this say about rules14:40 - Which side makes it more professional18:40 - The bottom line

We may not have all the answers yet, but we have a first look at the changes for the 2023 CrossFit Games season structure. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and Brent Fikowski to break down the significant changes for the individual field, some questions it raises, and whether this is ultimately the right direction they want to see the sport headed.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:1:20 - Changes to the Open3:00 - Going back to "Regionals" format4:50 - Looking at North America East versus West6:30 - Region based on citizenship7:50 - Standardized programming12:25 - Elimination of Last Chance Qualifier18:00 - Extra spots at certain Semis?25:20 - 6 days at the Games30:40 - The bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/11/breaking-crossfit-announces-new-season-structure-with-major-changes-dropping-three-semifinals-in-the-process/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/11/how-many-qualifying-spots-will-each-semifinal-receive/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/11/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-crossfit-games-season-structure/

Within the last few years, we've seen more apparel brands jumping into the CrossFit Space. But with more players in the ecosystem, which brand sits on the throne? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Justin LoFranco and Matt O'Keefe, the chief executive officer of HWPO, to discuss the major brands in CrossFit and who ultimately is the top dog in the space.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:10 - Growth of brands in CrossFit2:30 - Trends4:30 - Shift with new title sponsor6:00 - NOBULL and Reebok10:26 - TYR sponsoring WZA13:40 - R.A.D. entering the chat15:50 - Another brand in the mix?20:00 - The bottom line

For the third time in its history, the CrossFit Games are on the move. This time, to Birmingham, Alabama. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil caught up with Dex Hopkins and Brent Fikowski to discuss the details behind the new location, what athletes consider about each new site and some potential programming opportunities that might be in store.Learn more at http://ucan.co/chalkup and save 20% on your first order with code CHALKUPShow Breakdown:0:41- the details2:00 - venues that could be used4:00 - athlete perspective5:20 - the humidity of Birmingham8:26 - training ahead of time11:00 - programming opportunities13:50 - changing locations 15:10 - population of the location17:17 - pro or con?20:20 - the bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/07/sweet-home-alabama-crossfit-games-to-birmingham-for-2024-27/

After confirming that athletes have yet to receive their prize money from two off-season competitions, CanWest and the European Championship, more athletes have come forward stating they too had not been paid from their respective Semifinals.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Justin LoFranco and Emily Beers to break down what's actually happening when it comes to athletes not receiving their payouts and whether those prize purses should be reliant on ticket sales.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/10/03/canwest-games-athletes-continue-to-await-prize-purse-payouts-twelve-weeks-out/Show Breakdown:1:15 - Why are their delays with CanWest2:00 - Is this the same situation with Euro Championship3:25 - Does history show a trend5:10 - Mood from athletes and event organizers6:45 - Semifinals also not paying10:00 - Can we refer to the rulebook11:15 - Should competitions rely on ticket sales for prize money14:30 - How to increase ticket sales16:45 - The bottom line

Many times when discussing the growth of CrossFit, we look to Golf to draw parallels. Both are primarily individual sports, and their fan base partakes in the sport, just to name a few similarities. But for those who've been paying attention to Golf recently, the battle between the PGA Tour and LIV has become quite fascinating, raising the question of whether CrossFit needs a competitor too.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Matt O'Keefe, the chief executive officer of HWPO, and Jared Graybeal, the general manager of Underdogs athletics, to break the question down further and really answer the question of whether this would create positive change or become detrimental to our sport.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:06 - Will CrossFit ever have a competitor4:20 - Could one of the off-season majors be a competitor10:00 - Following the money11:30 - What would it take the athletes to switch16:30 - Benefits to having a competitor26:20 - The bottom line

With a goal in mind to grow the sport, a significant opportunity to do so is during the CrossFit Games broadcast. But is the current model conducive to grabbing the attention of non-CrossFitters -- or -- is it working against growing the sport? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil, Brian Friend, and Emily Beers discuss ways the Games broadcast can improve to build a fan base outside of CrossFit in hopes of continuing the push to legitimize the sport.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:10 - Thoughts from a non-CrossFitter2:25 - Expanding elements in the broadcast5:45 - Events to improve on the broadcast7:15 - Is it a logistics barrier8:30 - Integrity of the test versus growing the sport12:40 - The bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/08/29/fan-perspective-was-the-2022-nobull-crossfit-games-a-success/

The leaderboards are populated for the Dubai CrossFit Championship and TYR Wodapalooza after both online qualifiers took place simultaneously. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil and Brian Friend discuss which notable athletes we will most likely see compete, who didn't make the cut, and even some storylines we expect to follow once the competition's kick-off.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:00 - When we'll see finalized leaderboards1:40 - Similarities with both competitions3:17 - Differences with WZA and Dubai5:20 - Qualifiers versus invites7:30 - Dubai, whose in and whose out8:45 - Who missed the cut10:00 - Thoughts on Chandler Smith10:40 - Women field in Dubai12:35 - Different structures for the field of play13:30 - The bottom line

Now that the field is set for the Rogue Invitational with a roster of 20 men and 20 women, it's apparent that some notable names are missing. Those names include Tia-Clair Toomey, Mal O'Brien, Brooke Wells and Haley Adams. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend and Chase Ingraham to discuss whether the competition becomes more or less exciting without these top contenders in the mix.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:00 - Will more or less people tune in4:00 - What will the data from Rogue tell us7:00 - Early predictions8:46 - How could this be less interesting10:14 - The Bottom Line

In the most recent edition of CrossFit's Hopper e-mail that discusses judging, along with off-season competitions underway -- we thought it was time to circle back to the conversation of standards. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend and Chase Ingraham to discuss which type of off-season competitions should be considered an opportunity to "practice" judging and some possible solutions to better streamline communication and standards across the board.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:05 - Are off-season competitions "practice" for judges3:51 - CrossFit licensed events versus non-licensed events7:00 - Who decides judging rules9:30 - Daily athlete briefings13:30 - Standards book15:10 - Bottom Line

The Dubai CrossFit Championship and TYR Wodapalooza are two of the most notable off-season competitions and right now, their online qualifiers are taking place simultaneously. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil and Brian Friend discuss some of the notable athletes registered, how you can and can't follow along through the leaderboards and some ways to improve the online qualifying process in the future.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUp***Editors Note: After recording, Brian Friend realized he misspoke about Valentina Rangel. She recently competed at the Madrid Championship where she placed 4th -- not in the Rogue online qualifier.

The goal of the Crossfit Games is to find the fittest man and woman on Earth, and in doing so, the competition involves a balanced test among several events. But what is the goal of off-season CrossFit competitions? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend and Chase Ingraham to discuss whether these competitions need a balanced test, what the goal of off-season competitions should be, and whether it needs to be a universal mission across the board.Whoop Discount Link: https://join.whoop.com/MorningChalkUpShow Breakdown:1:00 - Should it be balanced4:25 - One goal throughout7:00 - Should competitions be upfront9:24 - Communicating with athletes14:40 - Bottom Line

After finishing third overall at the CrossFit Games, Ricky Garard feels more confident than ever that he's on the right track to climb to the top of the podium. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Garard to discuss the highs and lows of the Games, what it was like to be back and even how the energy from fans can play a huge part in mindset during the week of competition.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPVideo Breakdown:1:00 - Vacationing with Pina Colada5:00 - Emotions with the CrossFit Games8:00 - What happened in the Echo Press Event9:45 - Envisioning being back14:00 - How the fans affect his headspace15:45 - Atmosphere with the other athletes18:13 - Chalked out his eyebrows20:10 - Programming and Games volume23:24 - Is the Games different now24:24 - Off season competition plans

After Rogue published a finalized list of competitors on their website for the Invitational, there were some glaring holes in who wasn't on the list in the women's field. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend to discuss the top athletes who won't be there, what this means for the podium and how the competition between the men's and women's fields will be vastly different.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/09/15/is-the-2022-rogue-invitational-roster-finalized-breaking-down-whos-in-and-whos-not/Show Breakdown:0:50 - Who is competing2:55 - Why say no to biggest prize purse5:20 - Who will be the women's champion7:40 - Will Rogue backfill9:12 - The bottom line

Whether you're a CrossFit Games athlete or someone with specific Open or Quarterfinal goals -- training during the off season is the time to dial in on some of those weaknesses. But prioritizing movements or even modalities can be tricky, especially when we're trying to have a healthy season.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Chris Hinshaw, the founder of Aerobic Capacity and Strongman Rob Kearney, programmer of the STRONG track for HWPO, to break down how athletes can be working on both endurance and strength in the off season.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:2:40 - Which lifts take priority4:30 - Differences based on weaknesses5:40 - Focusing on strength and endurance8:20 - Balancing the two modalities11:20 - Progressing through the season12:45 - How long can we stretch a strength cycle14:00 - Not losing your gains15:25 - The interference effect17:30 - Hours training19:10 - The bottom line

We took The Bottom Line on the road in Madrid, Spain! Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil caught up with Dylan Malitsky, the VP of Sports for Loud And Live to chat about the decision to change the competition format allowing athletes to compete in team and individual. Malitsky discusses how this will impact the future of Wodapalooza, what athletes are saying, and even gives us a sneak peek into the elite payouts.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/09/08/wodapalooza-makes-splash-with-format-change-we-did-some-soul-searching/Show Breakdown:0:50 - Why the change in format1:35 - A peak into programming2:18 - Feedback from athletes3:30 - How will this impact spectator turnout4:30 - When will the programming release5:25 - Whose coming5:50 - The bottom line

Making his eighth appearance at the CrossFit Games, Pat Vellner had high hopes to inch back up the leaderboard. To his surprise, and many analysts and fans, he placed just outside of the podium finishing sixth overall. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sat down with Vellner to discuss how he's utilizing pliability to help his mobility in the off season, the difference in programming this year at the Games and why he thinks this system is good for the sport.To learn more about Pliability and work on your mobility today, click the link:https://pliability.app/mcuShow Breakdown:0:45 - Recovering from the Games3:53 - Working with Pliability7:50 - Where is Vellner sore11:00 - Getting back into training14:15 - Processing this years Games20:40 - Changes to his training23:50 - Celebrating wins25:00 - How to warm-up in the back28:10 - Rookies versus Veterans34:00 - Vellner will be back next season37:00 - Looking ahead to 2023Related Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/09/05/romwod-embarks-upon-new-era-with-pliability-rebrand/

With the close of the season, athletes are reevaluating not only their training but where they're training. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend to discuss the recent news of three notable athletes changing camps, if these moves were the right ones and what we can expect to see with other athletes making their own moves.Show Breakdown:0:50 - Athletes moving to HWPO4:00 - All three are former CompTrain athletes5:14 - Is this good for Katrin's future6:38 - Athletes on the move8:54 - Gabi Migala also leaves10:53 - The bottom lineThe U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/08/27/crossfit-games-veteran-amanda-barnhart-leaves-comptrain-as-exodus-continues/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/09/06/gabriela-migala-parts-ways-with-the-progrms-john-singleton-this-is-just-a-natural-progression/

The Rogue Invitational online qualifier leaderboard has been finalized and we're taking a first look at which athletes will be heading to Austin, TX to prove their fitness. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend to discuss how they might stack up against the rest of the field, and answer the question of whether this is the best group of "Q" qualifiers yet.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:0:58 - Looking at the leaderboard2:22 - Legacy athletes coming to Rogue3:00 - Categorizing these athletes4:42 - Who Brian is excited to see6:00 - This years qualifiers stacked against previous qualifiers8:00 - Will anyone finish top 5 or 108:20 - Is it the best group yet9:00 - Bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/09/07/rogue-finalizes-rx-leaderboard-best-group-of-rogue-qualifiers-ever/

Most professional sports have an off season that lasts about six months. But for CrossFit? If we factor in the off season major competitions and the online qualification process, there's really only about a month of true downtime. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with head coach at Underdogs Athletics, Justin Cotler, Brian Friend and Joe Genetin-Pilawa to layout the whole season, discuss the challenges for athletes and look at possible solutions to reformat the off season.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:1:15 - Joe takes us through the history of previous off seasons2:45 - Justin reminds us what Sanctionals was like for athletes4:45 - Laying out the entire season8:15 - Comparing CrossFit to golf9:00 - How to get athletes paid12:30 - Brians instagram suggestions13:44 - Is making money or competing at the Games more important16:00 - How do coaches help athletes decide18:24 - Suggestion for the season23:30 - Comparing the top athletes and their approach26:00 - Zelos Games qualifiers27:32 - More money making opportunities31:30 - The bottom lineRelated Video:https://youtu.be/_wtBy_O9SDkRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/09/04/qualifying-for-the-off-season-majors-a-professional-athletes-dilemma/

As if winning the Upper Extremity division at the CrossFit Games two years running wasn't impressive enough, Casey Acree did so in a dominant fashion. Acree took first in all 8 events, placing 280 points ahead of the second-place finisher. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sat down with Acree and Alec Zirkenbach of the Adaptive Training Academy to recap the Games, discuss how the adaptive divisions have moved forward this year and how Reebok is playing a key component in pushing the divisions forward.Check out the link below to get your pair of Reebok Nano X2s.https://bit.ly/3OG340zShow Breakdown:1:30 - Acree training for the Games and coaching footballs3:15 - Winning every single event5:05 - Comparing 2021 to 2022 Games7:22 - Improvements to adaptive divisions12:00 - How to make the divisions more inclusive14:20 - Season structure16:00 - Adaptive Training Academy18:45 - Acree's role with ATA19:45 - Reebok Bonus Program with adaptive division24:30 - Off-season competitions25:45 - Reebok donates to ATA27-30 - Future of adaptive divisions29:30 - What would Acree like to see in the adaptive division32:00 - Any hints to next yearRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/07/21/competing-and-coaching-in-madison-casey-acree-pulling-double-duties/

Whether Tia-Clair Toomey retires now, in a year, or in 5, there inevitably will be an impact to the women's division and the sport once she hangs up her hat. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and James Hobart to discuss whether her dominance is better when she's in the sport competing or once she retires and the impact she'll have once she does retire.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:0:54 - Impact once Tia retires4:21 - How does her dominance play into the non-CrossFit community7:00 - Other athletes in the mix9:45 - Is it good to have athletes "break the programming"13:35 - Is the sport better now or once she retires16:06 - The bottom line

It's the question many of us have been asking well before the CrossFit Games: is Tia-Clair Toomey retiring? We heard it on the CrossFit Games broadcast, we've heard Toomey herself allude to it, so what's it going to be? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Dex Hopkins and James Hobart to dissect the topic and discuss what we really think will happen with Toomey going into the 2023 season.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:1:47 - Will Tia retire before the 2023 Games4:45 - Is Tia doing team?!6:20 - Hints alluding to her last Games7:20 - Was this Games dominant enough for her9:16 - Did she change her mind mid-Games11:50 - Does Tia want to beat the programming13:26 - Going out on her own terms15:14 - Will she retire at an off-season competition19:40 - The bottom line

Now that we've had a chance to take a step back and look at the entire CrossFit Games Season as a whole, is this a structure that moves the sport forward? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend and Chase Ingraham to discuss the length of the season, if quarterfinals and semifinals are necessary and some suggestions on how to drive the sport forward.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:1:37 - Should there be a true off-season for athletes3:00 - Why don't athletes just do off-season competitions4:00 - Has the season structure progressively gotten better6:30 - Advancing from the open to quarters11:08 - Reviewing the season with quarterfinals and semifinals13:00 - Does Brian want to say goodbye to quarters15:18 - Does this structure grow the sport professionally17:36 - Brian and Chase's main suggestions for the season18:46 - Can we have the fittest 40 men and women with a change in structure21:18 - The bottom lineRelated Article:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/08/28/do-we-need-both-quarterfinals-and-semifinals/

2x CrossFit Games champ and veteran of the sport, Annie Thorisdottir, had a much different experience in Madison this year. Opting out of the individual division to make a run for the podium on Team CrossFit Reykjavík, the results were not was Thorisdottir and her team expected. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Thorisdottir to discuss some of the challenges the team faced, how Katrín Davíðsdóttir almost ended up on the team, and where her head is at heading into the 2023 season.Check out the link below to get your pair of Reebok Nano X2s.https://bit.ly/3OG340z

With the close of the CrossFit Games, the off-season is already well underway as athletes decide which events they plan to compete at. With that -- the return of online qualifiers...which brings us full circle to the topic of workout standards. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend to discuss some notable athletes that will not be at the Rogue Invitational, not due to lack of fitness, but from not reading the directions before performing certain workouts.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

CrossFit’s Global President, Jason Dunlop, is out after a little over a year, adding to a flurry of moves at the top for the embattled company’s leadership core. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Justin LoFranco to discuss the timing of this announcement, what it means for the leadership at CrossFit and what we hope to see moving forward.Show Breakdown:0:50 - where did this news come from1:56 - strategy behind making this public now2:54 - impact of stability of CrossFit6:19 - are these just growing pains9:12 - trading in CrossFit for Orangetheory11:00 - the bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/08/26/breaking-jason-dunlop-resigns-from-crossfit-to-take-lead-role-with-orangetheory-fitness/

CrossFit Games athlete Amanda Barnhart announced on her social media that she'll be leaving CompTrain. Barnhart’s departure marks the fourth instance in the last three Games off-seasons that a high-profile athlete has left the New England-based training camp. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Brian Friend to discuss what this decision means for CompTrain and what he thinks might be going on at the training camp.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAPShow Breakdown:1:00 - what are we seeing with athletes leaving CompTrain2:53 - how the coaches staff plays a role in the equation4:45 - impact on training environment to athletes6:40 - why are high-level athletes leaving after 2-3 years8:41 - so what is happening9:53 - the bottom line

32 cameras, two drones, a camera in a car, and a camera in a boat. That's what it took to make The Capitol Event come to life on the CrossFit Games Livestream. And don't forget...that was just one event! Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sat down with one of the masterminds at the forefront of the CrossFit Games broadcast, Mike Roth, to get an inside look at how the broadcast has evolved over the last 11 years, the interworkings of his team with the Games programming, and why certain decisions are made when it comes to which athletes get air time.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

Completing his 9th CrossFit Games, Noah Ohlsen is a veteran that fans expect to see among the fittest. From his best ever finish in 2019 placing second on the podium, to his 12th place finish this year -- defining success has shifted for him over the years. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Ohlsen to discuss how the Games experience has changed for him each year, what it was like winning Spirit of the Games and he even teased ahead to his team for Wodapalooza 2023.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

It's been a big year for Saxon Panchik. He moved to Tenessee to train with the PRVN crew at the beginning of the season and followed that up by winning the Open and his Semifinal. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Saxon to recap his Games season, discuss some positive takeaways although he didn't place where he wanted on the leaderboard, and what his plans are for the 2023 season.Check out the link below to get your pair of Reebok Nano X2s.https://bit.ly/3OG340z

Chyna Cho has done it all. She's competed at the Games numerous times as an individual, stood on top of the podium with CrossFit Mayhem Freedom, been on the Games demo team and this year -- stood on the podium as a masters athlete. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil caught up with Cho to recap her season, discuss how the master's division could potentially improve and even teased a "hypothetical Super Team."Check out the link below to get your pair of Reebok Nano X2s.https://bit.ly/3OG340z

Two-time CrossFit Games athlete Jayson Hopper had a slow start in Madison. With a goal of top 10 and starting the week in the bottom half of the field, he had a lot of work in front of him to earn enough points to reach his goal. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Hopper to talk about how he ultimately surpassed his goal on the leaderboard, some of the highlights from the Games and even teased ahead to a team he's creating for Wodapalooza.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

She won the hearts of fans in Madison as she gritted through the Capitol event, Rebecca Fuselier. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with her to recap her rookie year at the CrossFit Games, discuss how the Capitol was a bitter-sweet moment and how this is just the beginning of her Games journey ahead.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

Rookie of the Year, Nick Matthew, can be spotted pretty quickly on the competition field. Yes -- by his really swift jump rope and gymnastics skills, but even more notable -- his crop tops. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Matthew to discuss his rookie year at the Games, how he got the nickname "crop top Nick" and even some exciting apparel you can expect to see coming soon...The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

After punching her ticket through the Last Chance Qualifier, Arielle Loewen placed 11th overall for her second CrossFit Games. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Loewen to discuss what it was like to have her first event win, go head to head in the final heat with some of the top dogs, and possible solutions to advance the right athletes to the CrossFit Games.The U.S. Army’s Warrior Fitness:https://www.goarmy.com/?iom=BHCQ-2747552_FMT_AP_2747552_USAREC_MEB_EVENT_LAP

As Games veteran Brent Fikowski wrapped up his 7th CrossFit Games, the outcome of finishing 16th was far from what he expected. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil catches up with Fikowski to discuss this year's placement, the changes in programming, his role in the PFAA during the Games and even one of his recent Instagram posts that gives us a peak behind the curtain to conversations among the men's field.Check out the link below to get your pair of Reebok Nano X2s.https://bit.ly/3OG340z

The CrossFit Games can be an emotional roller coaster -- for the athletes, spouses, coaches, and of course...managers. Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil caught up with one of the most notable managers in the CrossFit Space, Snorri Baron, to discuss what it was like to have two of his athletes on the podium, some of the emotions he was feeling throughout the weekend and what we can expect from him and his athletes this next coming year.

Who will stand on the podium on the women's field at the Games? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Jamie Hagiya and Bella Martin as they reveal their 1, 2 and 3 on the women's podium.New customers save 20% at Vuori with link:http://vuori.com/mcupod

The Fittest Man in Australia, Jay Crouch, is packed and ready for Madison. He sits down with Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil to discuss what success for him at the Games looks like, the heavy lifts he does and doesn't want to see on Saturday and what trainings been like through each stage of competition.Check out the link below to get your pair of Reebok Nano X2s.https://bit.ly/3OG340z

Who will be awarded most improved at the CrossFit Games? Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sit's down with Tommy Marquez, Brian Friend and Patrick Clark as they all picked a different athlete who they think will earn the title.New customers save 20% at Vuori with link:http://vuori.com/mcupodShow Breakdown:1:40 - What is the criteria for most improved2:53 - Variables PC considered.3:35 - Elements Tommy looked at4:50 - Tommy's pick6:27 - PC's pick8:10 - Brian's pick10:30 - Where are the men picks?13:02 - Other names that stood out14:12 - The bottom line

Tia-Clair Toomey is arguably the most dominant athlete to ever enter the sport of CrossFit and with no plans of slowing down. This season, it's incredibly possible that we will see Toomey awarded her 6th title as Fittest Woman on Earth. But are there athletes in the field that can potentially take the title?Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with CEO Justin LoFranco and Armen Hammer to talk about how dominant Toomey is, and what we need to see from the rest of the Games field to potentially shift up the podium.Whoop Discount Code: https://bit.ly/3JULfIFAlready a WHOOP user? Open your mobile app and click on community and enter “COMM-MCHALK” to join our team.Video Breakdown:1:06 - What does Toomey's Semifinal dominance say about her fitness2:54 - Looking at the competition level against Toomey4:03 - How a new Games programmer could play a part in podium results5:42 - Is there something that could be programmed that Toomey can't do?8:45 - Other athletes that could potentially take on Toomey10:30 - Looking at the numbers13:10 - Justin's hope for someone else to stand on top of the podium14:00 - The bottom lineRelated Articles:https://morningchalkup.com/2022/05/22/tia-clair-toomey-jay-crouch-and-urban-energy-punch-tickets-to-games-with-torian-pro-titles/https://morningchalkup.com/2022/05/22/tia-clair-toomey-mayhem-freedom-and-crossfit-reykjavik-run-tables-at-semifinals/

It's moving day. Day 2 is when we typically see some shifts in the leaderboard...at least for those who are just a few points apart.For Tia-Clair Toomey, it was a day to assert her dominance but Kara Saunders was not going to let her do it without a fight. Some strategy was used during the barbell complex which ultimately worked in Toomey's favor.Ricky Garard and Jay Crouch are the men to watch right now -- especially ending day 2 with both at 364 points. One more day of competition to go and anything can happen for which athlete takes home the Torian Pro title.Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil sits down with Bella Martin whose boots on the ground at the Torian Pro to talk about all of the major moments from the day and who you should have your eye on going into the final day of competition.

When you look up the word "athletic," a definition pops up that defines it as "physically strong, fit, and active." For CrossFitters, that's literally all of us! In this episode of The Bottom Line, Jamie Hagiya and Chase Ingraham dive deeper when defining athletic ability. The two of them sit down with Morning Chalk Up's Lauren Kalil to give their top men and women athletes that they define as the most athletic in the sport.Some of their picks are probably who you'd expect...but others, are a blast from the past with some serious talent!Whoop Discount Code: https://bit.ly/3JULfIFAlready a WHOOP user? Open your mobile app and click on community and enter “COMM-MCHALK” to join our team.Video Breakdown:1:08 - Jamie picks Tia-Clair Toomey2:20 - Jamie picks Carolyne Prevost4:45 - Chase tee's up his picks6:14 - Chase picks Danielle Brandon7:20 - Chase picks Val Voboril7:30 - Jamie highlights a fun memory with Val8:15 - Chase goes in-depth about his pick9:30 - Jamie takes us back to her competitive days with Val12:20 - Chase labeled Rich Froning as overall best athlete ever13:06 - Chase picks Guilherme Malheiros14:40 - Chase picks Cody Anderson17:11 - Jamie picks Elijah EZ Muhammad21:20 - Jamie picks Chandler Smith24:30 - Chase reveals his honorable mentions