CrossFit has its own language. It’s hard enough to start something new when you know what words mean. But when you start CrossFit, it seems like you have to learn a whole new language. Here, in no particular order, are seven CrossFit words that tripped me up the first (and second and third) time I heard them:
One: AMRAP – This means As Many Reps (or Rounds) as Possible for time. The term is usually used in conjunction with the day’s WOD.
Speaking of…
Two: WOD – Workout of the Day. This is exactly what it sounds like. It’s the workout you’ll be doing that day.
Three: Scale – This is the term used for any modification to the WOD. Most of us scale something. Doesn’t matter. Just keep moving.
Four: Rx – This is the opposite of scaling. This is a WOD done exactly as written. I’ve been doing CrossFit for three years now, and I can Rx a few things. I find great joy when I’m able to Rx something, but not being able to Rx a WOD doesn’t stop me from trying.
Five: Metcon – Short for Metabolic Conditioning. This is a longer workout than, say, an AMRAP.
Six: Pood – Pronounced exactly how it looks, this goofy word is a weight measure for kettlebells. It’s super fun to say, but beware when poods go up.
Seven: PR – Personal Record. Personal records are super fun to set. It doesn’t matter if you Rx’d or not. A PR for time or weight (or both!) is a PR. These are celebrated with abandon.
There are more words you’ll learn when you walk into a CrossFit gym, but these should get you started. See something you don’t understand? Don’t be shy. Ask your coach. That’s what they’re there for. Stick with it. It’ll all make sense soon enough.
Happy sweating!
Meghan
