March 1st marked the kickoff of CrossFit Open 24.1 at Crossfit Ythsie, presenting a challenging workout:

21 Dumbbell Thrusters (one arm)
21 Burpees
21 Dumbbell Thrusters (second arm)
21 Burpees
15 Dumbbell Thrusters (one arm)
15 Burpees
15 Dumbbell Thrusters (second arm)
15 Burpees
9 Dumbbell Thrusters (one arm)
9 Burpees
9 Dumbbell Thrusters (second arm)
9 Burpees

RX: Men: 22.5kg / Women: 15kg Time Cap: 15 minutes

Crossfit open 24.1

Entering CrossFit Open 24.1 was a daunting decision for me. I doubted my physical and mental readiness and questioned the point of participating if I couldn't handle the prescribed weight.

Friday morning, I observed fellow box members tackle Open 24.1, witnessing their determination and grit. Their efforts inspired me to overcome my hesitation and commit to the challenge. Despite intending to wait until the last session on Friday night, I found myself withdrawing mentally as I watched others endure the workout's intensity.

Over the weekend, I grappled with internal conflicts, striving to muster the courage to confront the challenge. On Sunday, I scheduled myself for the 6:00 PM session on Monday, resolving to face the workout head-on.

Monday arrived, accompanied by waves of anxiety and self-doubt. Fears of disappointing my CrossFit community and clients loomed large. My stomach churned with nervous anticipation.

In the afternoon, I drafted a message to my assigned judges, contemplating withdrawal due to my mental state. Fortunately, I hesitated before sending it.

At 5:30 PM, I had a candid conversation with myself, urging me to push through the fear and embrace the challenge. With Queens of the Stone Age's "Better Living Through Chemistry" blaring in my car, I drove to the gym with a newfound determination.

Arriving at the box, I resolved to give it my all—no turning back. Opting for the first heat, I immersed myself in the warm-up, opting for the scaled weight of 15kg.

Paired with my supportive judge, Shaun Henry, I blocked out distractions and focused on his encouraging words as I began the workout. Starting with 21 Dumbbell Thrusters on my left arm, I maintained a steady pace, transitioning to Burpees with calculated breaths between each rep.

As I progressed through the workout, the intensity escalated. Despite feeling strong initially, the cumulative fatigue made each burpee a monumental struggle. The crowd's cheers and Shaun's support became my lifeline, urging me forward.

Special thanks to Azz for cranking up the volume on "Better Living Through Chemistry" during the 15s—it provided a much-needed boost.

Entering the pain cave, I pushed through the thrusters while battling dizziness and exhaustion. Every rep of the burpees demanded sheer willpower, but I refused to relent. Push, rest, repeat—until the 15 minutes elapsed.

Collapsing to the ground, I struggled to catch my breath, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenge I had just faced. Shaun's fist pumps and the camaraderie of fellow athletes lifted my spirits. Though I fell just short of completing the 15s, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment.

Reflecting on the experience, I realized the significance of pushing past fear and embracing discomfort. By confronting the challenge head-on, I not only proved my resilience but also reignited my motivation to improve.

With newfound determination, I eagerly anticipate tackling CrossFit Open 24.2 this Friday, ready to push my limits and continue my journey of growth.

Conquering Fear in CrossFit Open 24.1