The CrossFit Open is one of the most celebrated events in the fitness world. For three weeks each year, athletes of all levels test their limits, cheer on their peers, and create unforgettable memories within their local gyms.
Yet, this year, John Wooley made the decision to step back from the competition, and he’s not alone.
Here’s why he’s skipping the Open this year—and why it’s perfectly okay if you decide to do the same.
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A Turning Point for CrossFit
This year has been anything but ordinary for the CrossFit community. Following a controversial event at the CrossFit Games, many athletes and affiliate members have expressed concerns about the organization’s direction. For some, it sparked a loss of trust, leaving them hesitant to dive into this year’s Open.
Over the past few weeks, CrossFit has introduced new changes to the Open format, including the debut of the Community Cup, which replaces Quarterfinals. The goal? To create a more inclusive competition that emphasizes community involvement. These efforts aim to reignite excitement and bring clarity to what athletes can expect moving forward.
Who Actually Competes in the CrossFit Open?
While the CrossFit Open feels like a major event in the fitness world, participation numbers tell a different story. Historically, only about 16%-17% of affiliate members sign up to compete officially.
Even during CrossFit’s peak in 2018, with over 15,000 affiliates and 400,000 participants, the majority of members didn’t pay the $20 entry fee. However, many still participated in the workouts at their local gyms, proving that community engagement doesn’t always rely on formal competition.
This reality hasn’t changed much. Last year, with around 11,000 affiliates, CrossFit recorded 344,000 participants—again, roughly 16%-17% of the network. This means most members enjoy the Open experience informally, whether they’re paying to compete or simply showing up for the workouts.
How to Decide if the Open is Right for You
If you’re on the fence about signing up for the Open, consider asking yourself a few key questions.
1. Does it align with your goals?
For those who thrive on competition and love tracking progress, the Open is a fantastic opportunity to measure improvement. The leaderboard allows you to compare yourself to others at your fitness level, providing valuable data for long-term growth.
If you’re someone who loves setting goals and watching your progress unfold over time, participating in the Open can offer a rewarding experience.
2. Are you ready to challenge yourself?
One of CrossFit’s greatest strengths is its ability to teach resilience. The Open workouts expose weaknesses, pushing athletes to confront areas that need improvement.
Whether you’re an elite athlete or prefer scaled workouts, the Open can deliver lessons that extend beyond fitness. Conquering tough challenges during these workouts can inspire growth in other areas of life as well.
3. Does it benefit your local community?
While the Open is a global competition, its heart lies in local affiliates. Participation—whether formal or informal—strengthens gym camaraderie and fosters a sense of belonging.
This year, CrossFit is emphasizing affiliate engagement, even incentivizing gyms to boost participation rates. Showing up to support your gym can make a meaningful difference, even if you don’t officially sign up.
4. Do you still support the brand?
Finally, some athletes may be questioning whether the Open aligns with their values or if it’s worth the $20 fee. Participating in the Open is an investment in an experience, much like entering a 5K race or local fitness competition.
If you feel the Open offers value and reflects your fitness goals, then it’s worth the cost. If not, skipping it is a valid choice. Letting CrossFit know what you value through your choices is an important form of feedback.
Why I’m Sitting This Year Out
After 10 years of participating in the CrossFit Open, I’ve decided to step back this season. My current fitness goals don’t align with the Open’s format, and I feel I’ve gained valuable insights from past competitions that I’m now applying to other areas of my training.
That doesn’t mean I’m sitting on the sidelines entirely. I plan to cheer on my gym community, celebrate others’ achievements, and enjoy the camaraderie that the Open brings. For me, this year is about supporting others while pursuing different goals.
Your Choice, Your Experience
Whether you sign up for the CrossFit Open or decide to skip it, the most important thing is showing up. Support your gym’s Friday Night Lights, high-five your peers, and celebrate the hard work happening around you.
The Open is just one of many ways to connect with the CrossFit community and challenge yourself. Whatever path you choose, make sure it serves your goals and brings you joy. Above all, have fun—because that’s what CrossFit is all about.
