Reflections on the 2018 CrossFit Open at AIO

Another CrossFit Open has come and gone, and what an incredible five weeks it was at AIO. Every year, the Open pushes us farther than we expect, reveals strengths we didn’t know we had, and reminds us why we show up day after day.

Week 1: Hitting New Movements

The Open kicked off with a long metcon of toes-to-bar, dumbbell hang cleans, and rowing. Many of you attacked it more than once—strategizing, grinding, and discovering new gears.

First Toes-to-Bar: Several members achieved this milestone, adding a new movement to their CrossFit skills. Moments like these lit up the gym and set the tone for the weeks ahead.

18.2 & 18.2a: Legs, Lungs, and PRs

This partner workout pushed legs and lungs to the limit with a fast front-squat/burpee couplet followed by a heavy clean.

PRs Everywhere: Watching members hit personal records after such intensity was unforgettable. The energy in the gym that day was next-level.

Week 3: Breaking Barriers

Week 3 introduced new combinations, new standards, and big breakthroughs.

First Pull-Ups & Muscle-Ups: Many athletes achieved first pull-ups and first muscle-ups, proving what’s possible when you push past your comfort zone.

Inspiring Performances: Members kept motivating each other—turning weaknesses into new strengths.

18.4: “Why Can’t I Do a HSPU?”

The new handstand push-up standard challenged everyone—but the results were incredible.

First HSPUs: Several members got their first handstand push-ups, including flawless cycles from athletes who worked hard and kept at it.

Determination in Action: This workout showed the power of persistence and community support.

18.5: Chest-to-Bars & Thrusters

The final workout combined a community vote with a 7-minute chest-to-bar and thruster ladder.

Milestone PRs: First unassisted pull-ups, first chest-to-bars, and athletes exceeding their own expectations were everywhere. Some even left the bands behind for good—what a statement!

The Takeaway: You Raised the Bar

The bar has officially been raised—by you. Whether you learned a new skill, hit a long-chased lift, or completed your first Open, you are not the same athlete you were five weeks ago.

Growth in Action: Stepping outside your comfort zone, challenging yourself, and leaning on the community makes every milestone meaningful. Remember, there’s always another way to climb the next mountain.

Celebrate the Community

CrossFit is more than lifts and movements—it’s stress relief, smiles, and belonging. Being an AIO athlete means showing up, moving with intention, and striving to get a little better every day.

Congratulations to everyone who took part in the 2018 CrossFit Open! We’re proud of you—and yes, we’re already excited for next year.

On second thought… want to do it all again tomorrow? 😉

— The AIO Team

P.S. There were so many amazing moments we couldn’t fit them all here, but know this: we noticed, we felt them, and we’re incredibly proud of each of you.

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