WODsource

The Open is in the books. Murph has been completed (and hopefully, so has your post-WOD burger). Now we hit the sweet spot of the training year—the off-season. At many affiliates, this is the time when the whiteboard gets a little more flexible, and the focus shifts from leaderboard PRs to real development.

So what does that mean for you?

A Time to Develop

The off-season is the best time to get stronger, address limiting factors, and build long-term capacity. Without the pressure of weekly benchmarks or hero WODs, you can hone in on quality movement and sustainable progress. Got holes in your squat mechanics? Struggling with pull-up volume? Now’s your window.

This is also the perfect time to slow things down just a bit—less redlining, more intention. Strength cycles, strict gymnastic progressions, and movement virtuosity are all on the menu. Think of it as investing now so your future self can hit next season with more tools in the toolbox.

Life Gets Busy—Make a Plan

Summer isn’t always about training. Between travel, weddings, BBQs, and general chaos, it’s easy to let your routine slip. The best way to stay on track is simple: make a plan and stick to it. Don’t leave your training to chance—put your sessions on the calendar just like anything else.

When you’re on the road, adjust expectations. You don’t need a barbell and pull-up rig to stay consistent. A hotel room workout, a trail run, or even a long walk can keep the momentum going. And remember—rest days on vacation are not a failure. Sometimes, recovery is the best training choice you can make.

A Cautionary Note

Don’t try to “bank” training before a vacation. Cramming two weeks of WODs into five days isn’t going to get you ahead—it’s more likely to burn you out. Stick with your normal flow, taper if needed, and return ready to roll.

---

Final Thoughts

Summer training is about balance—between development and recovery, routine and flexibility. This off-season, stay consistent, be intentional, and play the long game. Whether you’re logging heavy squats or long walks on the beach, remember that fitness isn’t built in a single week—it’s the result of sustained effort over time.

Set a plan. Move with purpose. And when life gets hectic, do what you can.

Because in functional fitness, showing up consistently always wins.