We all have goals. Areas we want to improve, whether it’s nutrition, training, finances, or relationships. We want results. But here’s the thing: the only way to know where you are and then determine if your action plan is taking you toward your goal is to track your results.
You gotta keep score.
What Gets Measured Gets Managed
This is a famous business phrase for a reason. When we consistently attach numbers to an action, we get a clear understanding of its effect. We’re not stuck with ambiguous “I think this is working” or “I think I’m getting better.”
We know exactly what’s happening, and we can use this information to drive toward the results we want.
CrossFit Open Results Are Valuable Data
When we record our results on the Open leaderboard, we get incredibly valuable data on how we compare to our peers this year and year over year, how we’re improving, and the areas of weakness we need to address.
The Open is an incredible diagnostic tool, but only if we post our numbers.
You gotta keep score.
Keeping Score Is a Huge Part of CrossFit
We often ask athletes, “If you’re not recording your numbers, are you still doing CrossFit?”
Yes, you are, but you’re not taking full advantage of the program. Without recording your results, you have no idea what areas are improving, where you might be stagnating or getting worse, what’s out of balance, and what specifically needs to be done to improve your fitness.
CrossFit prides itself on using measurable, observable, and repeatable data to drive our training and optimize results.
You gotta keep score.
You’re Going to Wish You Recorded Your Results
For those who just want to do the Open for fun or are hesitant to record their numbers, we get it. It’s not easy to show the world where you’re at in black and white.
Just know that five years from now, you’ll regret not recording your results, because the fitness transformation story they would tell about you would be amazing. You’d have an accurate, objective record of the incredible work you’ve done and the unbelievable results you’ve achieved. Just like before-and-after photos in a transformation contest, your Open results highlight your fitness journey in a very compelling way.
You gotta keep score.
Good luck, and I’ll see you on the leaderboard.
About the Author
Stephane Rochet is a Senior Content Writer for CrossFit. He has worked as a Flowmaster on the CrossFit Seminar Staff and has over 15 years of experience as a collegiate/tactical strength and conditioning coach. He is a Certified CrossFit Trainer (CF-L3) and enjoys training athletes in his garage gym.