The CrossFit-Oly Hybrid

Looking to emphasize O-Lifts in your CrossFit training? Bob Takano explains how to do it and what you can expect.

For the last two years, I’ve been coaching weightlifters and conducting a strength-and-conditioning program within CrossFit boxes. I’ve also been instructing in Coach Mike Burgener’s CrossFit Oly seminars for about the same length of time. Consequently, I’ve run into a number of individuals who are interested in continuing with their CrossFit training while improving their performance in weightlifting.

The two realms have very disparate goals that often seem directed at cross purposes. The obvious question, then, is how to combine the two in order to achieve the best possible outcome?

Because the physiological demands are so different, it must be understood that combining Olympic lifts with CrossFit training will not provide the very highest levels in either. There must be a compromise. The final outcome, however, will be the result of the goals set by the individual.