Drew and Paige break down CrossFit Open 26.2, analyze what separated top performances from the rest of the field, and discuss the real demands of the workout—from pulling endurance and midline fatigue to athlete IQ and pacing mistakes. They also react live to the 26.3 Open announcement, offering immediate strategy insights, movement breakdowns, and coaching tips for approaching the workout efficiently.The conversation dives into pacing burpees, managing barbell fatigue, thruster mechanics under pressure, and how small decisions—like when to break sets or control body language—can drastically impact your final score. Along the way they share practical advice for athletes at every level, from first-time Open participants to those preparing for quarterfinals.If you’re tackling 26.3, coaching athletes through the Open, or just want a deeper understanding of strategy and execution in high-pressure workouts, this episode will help you approach the test with a smarter plan. ------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFITMisfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at http://sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

The new Misfit Affiliate “Rushmore” phase kicks off Monday, March 16, and in this episode, Drew, Hunter, and Paige break down exactly what athletes and affiliates can expect over the next seven weeks. From weekly benchmarks and heavy-lift days to the philosophy behind GPP-focused programming, the crew explains why this phase is designed to build real, lasting fitness rather than just chase one-off PRs.They dive into the idea of “Mount Rushmore workouts,” the role of benchmarks in measuring long-term progress, how gyms should approach coaching the phase, and why showing up consistently matters more than chasing flashy movements.Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or gym owner following Misfit programming, this episode will help you understand how the phase is structured, how to get the most out of it, and why variance and effort remain the foundation of elite fitness.------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFITMisfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 262: 26.1 Recap + Live Reaction to the 26.2 AnnouncementIn this special live-style episode of the Misfit Podcast, Drew and Paige break down CrossFit Open 26.1, discuss strategy mistakes and lessons learned, and react in real time to the 26.2 Open workout announcement.Along the way they dive into pacing strategies, gymnastics fatigue, and how to approach the workout whether you're chasing a finish or fighting for a few muscle-ups. The conversation also touches on athlete integrity, preparation for high-pressure competition moments, and the mindset shift that can unlock your best performances.Plus: a Misfit Mind segment on the idea that the real competitive advantage might come from a simple mindset—“I don’t mind what happens.” What does that mean for athletes chasing outcomes while trying to stay focused on the process?Expect strategy tips, warm-up advice, community shout-outs, and a breakdown of how to approach 26.2 if you want to get the most out of your Open performance.

The 2026 CrossFit Games season is officially here.In this ultra-special edition of The Misfit Podcast, Drew and Paige go live for the 26.1 Open announcement and break down everything you need to know — stimulus, strategy, pacing mistakes, movement efficiency, warm-up flow, priming, transitions, and post-workout recovery.This episode is more than a workout recap. It’s a masterclass in athlete IQ.They dig into:• Why simple couplets expose real fitness• How to choose “forever” wall ball sets• Managing the push-pull between cadence and gas tank• Box jump vs. step-over decision making• Body language, mindset, and competing head-to-head• Why GPP always wins in the OpenWhether you're chasing quarterfinals or just want to execute your best possible 12 minutes, this conversation will help you approach 26.1 with intention.Add the hashtag #RainOrShine to your Games profile and get on the Misfit leaderboard for 2026.Now it’s time to test it.Program for the best. Scale for the rest.Let’s get to work.------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFITMisfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

What does it actually take to level up in CrossFit?From Open athlete… to Quarterfinals… to Semifinals… and beyond. We break down the 2024 season workout by workout to expose what really separates levels.Spoiler: it’s not just your muscle-ups.In this episode we cover:• Why GPP is the foundation for everything• Movement efficiency vs. movement obsession• How pacing mistakes end seasons• The role of body language and athlete IQ• Why you have to “earn the right” to show your strengths• What actually changes when you go from Quarterfinals to SemifinalsWe’ve seen beginners become Games athletes.There is a natural order to progression, and you don’t get to skip steps.If you want to understand where you are on the ladder… and what it takes to climb to the next rung… this episode is for you.Misfit Athletics provides programming for Crossfit athletes. Whether you're a top competitor or an affiliate athlete we can help you crush your weaknesses and become the best athlete you can be!------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5 Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT Misfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

What does it actually take to level up in CrossFit?From Open athlete… to Quarterfinals… to Semifinals… and beyond. We break down the 2024 season workout by workout to expose what really separates levels.Spoiler: it’s not just your muscle-ups.In this episode we cover:• Why GPP is the foundation for everything• Movement efficiency vs. movement obsession• How pacing mistakes end seasons• The role of body language and athlete IQ• Why you have to “earn the right” to show your strengths• What actually changes when you go from Quarterfinals to SemifinalsWe’ve seen beginners become Games athletes.There is a natural order to progression, and you don’t get to skip steps.If you want to understand where you are on the ladder… and what it takes to climb to the next rung… this episode is for you.

Quarterfinals are back, and we’re breaking down exactly what that means for you.In this episode, we dive into what to expect from the 2026 Quarterfinals based on past data, how to prepare (whether you're following Misfit programming or not), and how we structure our Quarterfinals peaking phase to maximize execution and intensity. We cover volume distribution, workout styles, movement trends, athlete IQ, and how to navigate prep during the Open.We also get into:Why Quarterfinals returning is a big deal for the sportThe in-person semifinal structure debateMovement patterns that consistently show upHow to approach redos and stress during Open seasonWhat makes comp prep different from standard phase trainingSprintervals, in-WOD lifting, and why stimulus is kingIf you're aiming for Quarterfinals, chasing Semifinals, or just want to understand how to think like a competitive athlete for the next six weeks, this episode lays it out clearly and practically.Quarterfinals peaking phase begins February 16th. Execution starts now.------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5 Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT Misfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

Zone 2 training is back, and this time, we’re cutting through the noise.In this episode of the The Misfit Podcast, Drew and Paige break down what Zone 2 actually is (and what it isn’t), why it’s so misunderstood in the CrossFit space, and how Misfit Athletics practically applies it with everyday athletes all the way up to elite competitors.You’ll learn:Why Zone 2 is defined by blood lactate, not heart rate, and what that really meansSimple ways to tell if you’re accidentally living in Zone 1 or drifting into Zone 3How Zone 2 builds aerobic capacity, mitochondrial density, fat oxidation, and long-term work capacityWho truly needs Zone 2 (and how much), based on training volume and aerobic backgroundHow Misfit uses Zone 2 to increase volume without crushing athletes during high-stress phasesReal-world execution tips: pacing, warm-ups, warning signs, and how to track progressThe episode also includes a camp recap from a weekend at CrossFit Roots, highlighting high-level coaching, athlete breakthroughs, and why staying a student of the game matters, no matter how long you’ve been in fitness.If you’re a CrossFit enthusiast who “knows enough to be dangerous,” this one’s for you. Expect practical takeaways, honest nuance, and zero dogma, just how to use Zone 2 as a tool instead of a trend.Train smarter. Build the base. And stop guessing.------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5 Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT Misfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

The CrossFit Open is almost here, and in this episode, Drew and Paige go deep on what actually matters when it comes to performing your best.This isn’t just another Open preview. It’s a practical breakdown of how to think about the Open: pacing, athlete IQ, movement efficiency, and why the Open matters no matter where you fall on the competitive spectrum — from first-timers to Games hopefuls.They unpack:What the Open is really testing (and why fitness still reigns supreme)The most common movements and workout formats you should expectHow to approach strategy vs. effort, when to push, when to stay smoothWhy grip strength, pulling gymnastics, overhead stability, and leg drive are non-negotiablesThe difference between training and practicingHow to use Open simulations to build confidence, sharpen execution, and uncover weaknessesThe role of objectivity, data, and self-awareness in leveling up as an athleteWhy “going hard” isn’t always the same as performing wellThey also dive into mindset, flow state, community, and how to reverse-engineer competitive success, plus their usual Read / Listen / Watch recommendations and updates from inside Misfit Athletics.Whether you’re chasing leaderboard spots or just looking to show up better than last year, this episode gives you a clear framework for attacking the Open with purpose.Let’s get to work.------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5 Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT Misfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

In this special Affiliate Edition of The Misfit Podcast, Drew is joined by Hunter Wood (Misfit Gym Portland owner) and Paige Semenza to break down everything coaches and affiliates need to know as the Mad Jack Phase kicks off — just in time for the CrossFit Open.This seven-week General Physical Preparedness (GPP) phase is built around versatility, strength, and adaptability, inspired by the legendary “Mad Jack” Churchill — a true jack-of-all-trades. The crew dives into how affiliates can best prepare athletes for Open season, from coaching heavy squat cleans and front squats to managing gymnastics progressions, cardio days, and movement efficiency in real-world class settings.They also cover:How to coach front squats and squat cleans more effectivelyTeaching gymnastics to mixed-ability classesScaling bar muscle-ups for large affiliate groupsWhy monostructural conditioning still matters (even when it’s not “fun”)How to communicate Open strategy to different athlete personalitiesKeeping coaches aligned across large staffsCreating better buy-in and consistency during Open seasonWhether you’re an affiliate owner, coach, or athlete, this episode offers practical insight into smarter programming, better coaching communication, and how to help your community thrive during the Open.Mad Jack Phase starts Monday, January 26th.Get in the Telegram, grab your free trial, and sharpen the axe (or sword 😈🗡️)------------------------------Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5 Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT Misfit Athletics Programming:https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfithttps://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/Misfit Affiliate Programming:https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.comInstagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathleticsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathleticsThanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!