An Open Invitation

Every year, the CrossFit Open, the three-week global competition, allows us to assess our fitness and determine where we stand. Our performance in repeat workouts provides a valuable data point to assess how our fitness has changed (and hopefully improved!) since we last attempted the workout. Areas where we struggle or get stuck during Open workouts provide clues about weaknesses we should address in the coming year. And, of course, the leaderboard gives us insight into how we compare to our peers worldwide and allows us to analyze where we stand with previous years.

These are all compelling reasons to do the Open. Yet there’s another reason for signing up for the Open that just might surpass all the others. As Eric O’Connor so eloquently states in his article “Are You All In? Communicating the Value of Competition to Your CrossFit Members,” “CrossFit competition doesn’t just build better athletes — it forges stronger, healthier, and bolder humans.”

Lest you think this is an exaggeration, especially the “bolder human” part, we need to explore how important it is to regularly do things we find difficult. If we are to develop and improve our mental toughness, confidence, and performance, we have to stretch ourselves by doing what is uncomfortable — doing the things we don’t want to do even though we know they’re ultimately good for us. We have to face our fears head-on. It’s the only way to move the needle. 

Maybe even more importantly, though, the Open offers the opportunity to “perform under pressure.” Yes, there is a risk we’ll get stuck on a movement, fail to beat the time cap, or flat-out “choke,” but these risks are precisely why the Open is an excellent opportunity to learn what we’re made of. Uncertain about the outcome, we get to put it all on the line, give our best effort, and see how we perform. 

The good news is the result isn’t the most crucial aspect of the workout. It’s not the number of reps or rounds, the loads lifted, or the time to complete that count. What’s truly important is that we show up and leave it all on the gym floor. 

Steve Magness’ new book, “Win the Inside Game,” explores the idea that “choking doesn’t occur in private.” Why? Because when we fail publicly — especially in something tied to our identity — our brain panics.

In CrossFit and the Open, performing in front of peers means navigating these mental battles. The fear of missing a muscle-up, failing a lift, or hitting the time cap can trigger doubt. But if we let that fear dictate our actions, we short-circuit mastery.

The Open is our chance to fight back — to do the hard thing despite the fear, embrace the challenge, and walk away stronger, fitter, and prouder of ourselves than before.

This year, we’re faced with another decision: We can choose the pain of discipline — or doing the hard things — or the pain of regret. One of these is rewarded with increased personal satisfaction, confidence, and joy. The other haunts us forever. 

So choose wisely this year. Do the hard thing. Have a great Open! 

Register for the 2025 CrossFit Open!

Remember, your registration and first score submission MUST be completed by Monday, March 3 at 5 p.m. PT if you want all of your Open workouts to count.

About the Author

Stephane Rochet is a Senior Content Writer for CrossFit. He has worked as a Flowmaster on the CrossFit Seminar Staff and has over 15 years of experience as a collegiate/tactical strength and conditioning coach. He is a Certified CrossFit Trainer (CF-L3) and enjoys training athletes in his garage gym.