Finding the Joy in the CrossFit Open: A Message to Coaches

Let’s face it: if you’ve been around the CrossFit Open for a while, your feelings about it might be... complicated. Maybe you’re feeling jaded, disconnected, or just not as enthusiastic as you once were. And honestly? That’s okay. Reflecting on the past—and even being critical of it—is part of growth. But today, I want to invite you to take a step back and remember what the Open used to mean to you, your community, and your athletes.

Think back to the first couple of Opens you ever did. Do you remember the anticipation, the raw terror when the workouts were announced, and the excitement of game day? The music blaring, the judges counting reps, the electric energy of your community coming together. The Open is unlike anything else in CrossFit, and for many people, it’s one of the only places they’ll experience that kind of camaraderie and passion when it comes to using their bodies.

For the vast majority of the people walking into your gym, this is it. They’re not training for the Games, Regionals, or even Sectionals (if you remember what those are). They’re not playing other sports or competing anywhere else. The Open—these three weeks of intensity, accountability, and celebration—is their Super Bowl. It’s their chance to challenge themselves, connect with others, and feel part of something bigger. And that’s incredibly powerful.

Now, I get it. You might have your grievances with CrossFit HQ or with things that have happened in the past. You don’t have to agree with everything to still see the value in the Open. As a coach and leader in your community, your role isn’t just about your personal feelings. It’s about creating opportunities for growth, connection, and joy for the people who trust you to guide them. The Open is a chance to give your athletes an experience they’ll never forget—and that matters.
If you’re feeling burned out or skeptical, I encourage you to shift your perspective. Think about how you can make the Open special for your gym. You don’t have to follow the HQ playbook perfectly—you can tailor it to your community. Make it fun, make it unique, make it yours. Throw in themes, spirit weeks, post-WOD celebrations—whatever gets your people excited and engaged.

The truth is, the Open isn’t about HQ, the leaderboard, or even the workouts themselves. It’s about the people who walk through your doors. It’s about uplifting them, challenging them, and helping them realize they’re capable of more than they ever imagined. That’s the magic of the Open, and that’s why it’s worth leaning into.
So, yes, it’s okay to feel jaded. It’s okay to have doubts. But don’t let that stop you from creating something meaningful for your community. This isn’t just about you; it’s about the people you serve. And if you can find a way to rediscover the joy and excitement of the Open—and share that with your athletes—you’ll give them an experience that might just change their lives.

Here’s to three weeks of connection, challenge, and celebration. Let’s make it count.