In Power Athlete Radio episode 728, Dave Lipson reflects on how CrossFit competitions, particularly the CrossFit Games, have transformed over the years. What started as a grassroots movement with a “come one, come all” mentality has evolved into an arena dominated by professional athletes. This shift, while driving the sport forward, has created both opportunities and barriers for the CrossFit community.

CrossFit’s Early Days: Accessible to All

In its early days, CrossFit was designed to be inclusive, allowing anyone with the drive and determination to test their limits. Dave recalls how you could walk into a local gym, gather a handful of enthusiastic athletes, and participate in throw downs or even qualify for the CrossFit Games. It was accessible to weekend warriors—everyday fitness enthusiasts who loved training hard and wanted to challenge themselves.

The beauty of those early competitions was their relatability. CrossFit wasn’t just for elite athletes; it was for anyone who enjoyed pushing themselves. Whether you trained at a box or in your garage, you could dream of competing on a bigger stage.

The Shift to Professionalism

As CrossFit grew in popularity, so did the level of competition. Dave explains how the CrossFit Games quickly transitioned from a hobbyist’s challenge to a showcase for professional athletes. The workouts became more demanding, the training volume skyrocketed, and the standard of athleticism reached an entirely new level.

The belief that someone could train alone in their garage and show up to win the CrossFit Games became a thing of the past. While that may have been possible for a brief window, the sport evolved rapidly. Athletes started training full-time, treating CrossFit like a career. These competitors dedicated themselves to perfecting their craft, with specialized coaches, nutrition plans, and recovery protocols.

As Dave points out, by the time you hit 25 years old, if you’re not already excelling at the sport, the window for competing at the highest level has likely passed. The sheer physical demands and risks of injury make it difficult for older athletes or newcomers to break through.

A Double-Edged Sword

This professionalization of CrossFit is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it has elevated the sport, inspiring awe and respect for the athletes who dedicate their lives to becoming the fittest on earth. On the other hand, it has made the competition side of CrossFit feel unattainable for many.

For the everyday CrossFitter, the emphasis on elite performance can be discouraging. Dave notes that many people feel like they can’t “play” anymore, as the bar for entry has been raised so high. At the same time, the spectacle of the CrossFit Games has brought widespread attention to the sport, introducing people to the idea of becoming stronger, more capable men and women.

The Pursuit of Fitness vs. Competition

Dave offers practical advice for those navigating this new CrossFit landscape: If you’re not in a position to compete professionally, don’t let it discourage you. Focus on enjoying your fitness journey rather than trying to keep up with the intensity and volume of professional athletes. The original spirit of CrossFit wasn’t about being the best in the world—it was about becoming the best version of yourself.

Takeaways from CrossFit’s Evolution

Dave’s reflections highlight the double-edged nature of CrossFit’s evolution. While the rise of professional athletes has driven the sport to new heights, it has also created a gap between elite competitors and the average CrossFitter.

Ultimately, the heart of CrossFit remains accessible to everyone. Whether you’re training for fun, personal growth, or competition, the lessons of hard work, resilience, and community remain the same. As Dave emphasizes, it’s important to appreciate the journey, embrace your fitness, and celebrate the pursuit of being better every day – regardless of whether you ever step onto a competition floor.