If you are new to CrossFit, you will notice a lot of words and acronyms that you may not know. CrossFit has its own unique terminology that reflects the specific exercises, movements, and concepts associated with this fitness regimen. Here are some common CrossFit terms:
WOD : Stands for “Workout of the Day.” This is the daily set of exercises and activities prescribed by CrossFit trainers.
AMRAP : “As Many Rounds (or Reps) As Possible.” In a given time frame, perform as many rounds or repetitions of a set of exercises as you can.
EMOM : “Every Minute on the Minute.” Perform a set number of reps of an exercise at the beginning of every minute, resting for the remainder of the minute.
Box : Refers to a CrossFit gym. It can also be used to describe the plyometric box used for various exercises like box jumps.
Double-Unders : Jumping rope where the rope passes under the feet twice with each jump.
Kipping : A technique used in certain gymnastic and bodyweight movements, like pull-ups and toes-to-bar, involving a dynamic hip movement to generate momentum.
PR : “Personal Record.” Achieving your best performance in a particular exercise or workout.
Metcon : Short for “Metabolic Conditioning.” Typically involves high-intensity, varied workouts designed to improve cardiovascular endurance.
Chipper : A workout with a large number of different movements or exercises, often performed in sequence.
Tabata : A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout involving 20 seconds of intense effort followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated for four minutes.
HSPU : “Handstand Push-Up.” A push-up variation where the body is in an inverted position against a wall.
Muscle-Up : A gymnastic movement that combines a pull-up and a dip, transitioning from hanging below the rings or bar to supporting yourself above them.
The Girls : A set of benchmark workouts named after women (e.g., Fran, Cindy, Grace) that are used to measure and track progress.
OHS : “Overhead Squat.” A squat performed with the barbell held overhead.
Snatch : A weightlifting movement where the barbell is lifted from the ground to overhead in one fluid motion.
Clean and Jerk : A two-part weightlifting movement involving lifting the barbell to the shoulders (clean) and then from the shoulders to overhead (jerk).
These terms are just the tip of the iceberg in the CrossFit lexicon, and understanding them can help you navigate CrossFit workouts and discussions more effectively. If you have any questions about any other terms you hear in the gym, please feel free to ask a coach.
