The CrossFit Open 2026 is officially underway, and the first workout — 26.1 — has set the tone for the season. Whether you’re competing for the first time or chasing a Quarterfinals spot, understanding how the Open works and how 26.1 is structured is essential.
This guide breaks down everything athletes are searching for right now:
- What is the CrossFit Open 2026?
- What is 26.1 in CrossFit?
- How does the 26.1 workout work?
- What is 26.1 scaled?
- How does the 26.1 scorecard work?
- How do you submit your score?
- What happens after 26.1?
Let’s start from the foundation.
What Is the CrossFit Open 2026?
The CrossFit Open is a worldwide online fitness competition that kicks off the CrossFit Games season each year. It is designed to be inclusive — meaning almost anyone can participate, from beginners to elite athletes.
In 2026, the Open follows the traditional three-week format:
- Week 1: Workout 26.1
- Week 2: Workout 26.2
- Week 3: Workout 26.3
Each week, a workout is released, and athletes have a limited window (typically Thursday to Monday) to complete the workout and submit their scores.
Who Can Participate?
The Open is structured so that multiple divisions can compete:
- RX Division – Full prescribed weights and movements
- Scaled Division – Modified loads or movements
- Foundations Division – Beginner-friendly options
- Age Group Divisions – Teen and Masters athletes
- Adaptive Divisions – Modified standards for athletes with impairments
This is one of the reasons the CrossFit Open remains one of the largest participatory fitness events globally — it’s not reserved for elite competitors.
When Is the CrossFit Open 2026?
The 2026 season follows the standard release structure:
- Registration opens before the first workout announcement
- Workouts are revealed weekly
- Athletes submit scores by Monday evening (local time cutoff)
Once the three Open workouts are completed, top-performing athletes may advance to the next stage of the CrossFit Games season, which includes:
- Quarterfinals
- Semifinals
- The CrossFit Games
For most participants, however, the Open serves as a benchmark test — a way to measure fitness year over year.
What Is 26.1 in CrossFit?
The naming convention is simple:
- 26 = The year (2026)
- .1 = The first workout of the Open
So 26.1 is the first test of the 2026 CrossFit Open.
Every year, Workout 1 sets the competitive tone. It is usually programmed to:
- Challenge conditioning
- Test movement efficiency
- Create separation early on the leaderboard
Because 26.1 is the first score submitted, it often determines how aggressively athletes need to approach the remaining workouts.
CrossFit Open 26.1 Workout Structure
While specific movements vary year to year, Open workouts typically follow one of these formats:
- AMRAP (As Many Rounds/Reps As Possible) within a time cap
- Chipper-style workout (large set of movements completed once)
- Ascending ladder format (reps increase each round)
- Descending ladder format (reps decrease as intensity increases)
- Time-priority workout (finish as fast as possible under a cap)
The 26.1 workout usually includes a mix of:
- Gymnastics (pull-ups, toes-to-bar, burpees, handstand movements)
- Weightlifting (barbell cycling, dumbbells, kettlebells)
- Cardio elements (rower, double-unders, shuttle runs)
The goal is balanced testing — strength alone won’t carry you, and endurance alone won’t save you.
26.1 Movement Standards
One of the most searched topics during the Open is movement standards. This is critical because reps that don’t meet standards do not count.
Each movement in 26.1 comes with strict requirements such as:
- Full lockout at the top of presses
- Hip crease below knee in squats
- Chin over bar in pull-ups
- Clear rep completion before advancing
If submitting a video for validation, camera angle matters. The workout space must show:
- Full body view
- Equipment setup
- Proper measurement distances if required
- Exactly how scoring and tiebreakers work
CrossFit Open 26.1 Scaled vs RX: What’s the Difference?
One of the biggest questions athletes ask during the CrossFit Open 2026 is:
“Should I do 26.1 RX or scaled?”
Understanding the difference can impact both your leaderboard placement and your overall Open experience.
What Is 26.1 RX?
The RX division means you complete the workout exactly as prescribed — using the official weights, movements, and standards listed in the 26.1 workout description.
That typically includes:
- Full prescribed loading (barbell or dumbbell weights)
- Advanced gymnastics movements if programmed
- Strict adherence to competition standards
RX is ideal for athletes who:
- Can safely perform all required movements at standard
- Are aiming for Quarterfinal qualification
- Have competitive experience in previous Opens
- Want to compare directly against the main leaderboard field
If you start RX, your score will sit on the RX leaderboard. You cannot switch mid-workout — your division must be chosen before submission.
What Is 26.1 Scaled?
The 26.1 scaled version modifies either the weight, the movement complexity, or both.
Examples of common scaled modifications in Open workouts:
- Lower barbell weights
- Jumping pull-ups instead of pull-ups
- Reduced range of motion
- Simpler gymnastics options
The scaled division exists to keep the Open accessible while maintaining challenge.
You should consider scaled if:
- You cannot meet movement standards safely
- The RX load exceeds your consistent training weight
- You are new to CrossFit competitions
- You are returning from injury
Scaled scores are ranked separately. You will not compete directly against RX athletes on the leaderboard.
Should You Choose RX or Scaled for 26.1?
A good rule of thumb:
If you can perform the hardest movement in the workout safely and consistently under fatigue, RX is reasonable.
If you would need to drastically modify reps or risk failed attempts, scaled is the smarter option.
The Open is meant to test fitness — not ego.
CrossFit Open 26.1 Scorecard Explained
Another highly searched question is:
“What is the 26.1 scorecard?”
The scorecard is the official submission format used to log your performance.
Depending on the workout structure, your score may be recorded as:
- Total reps completed
- Total rounds + additional reps
- Time to complete the workout
- Or a capped time with a tiebreak
How Reps Are Counted
For AMRAP workouts:
- Every completed rep counts
- Partial reps do not count
- If you stop mid-movement, that rep is not recorded
For time-priority workouts:
- Your score is the final time when the workout is completed
- If unfinished, you record total reps completed at the time cap
Tiebreakers in 26.1
Many Open workouts include a tiebreak time.
Example scenario:
If two athletes complete 200 reps, the athlete who reached a specific checkpoint faster (like finishing round 3) will rank higher.
Tiebreaks matter significantly for athletes near qualification cutoffs.
How to Submit Your 26.1 Score
Score submission follows a clear process:
- Complete the workout within the allowed window.
- Log into your CrossFit Games account.
- Enter your total reps or time.
- Select your division (RX or scaled).
- Submit before the weekly deadline.
Video Submission Requirements
Video is required if:
- You are in a qualifying position
- You are not judged at a registered affiliate
- You are asked for validation
Your video must:
- Clearly show movement standards
- Display weights used
- Capture full body during movements
- Include visible clock or timer
Failure to meet filming standards can result in score rejection.
How the 26.1 Leaderboard Works
Once submitted, your score appears on the global leaderboard.
You can filter rankings by:
- Worldwide
- Country
- Age group
- Affiliate
- Division (RX, Scaled, Foundations)
Each workout contributes to your overall Open ranking.
Your position after 26.1 is based solely on that workout — but it sets the tone for the remaining weeks.
Strategy Guide for CrossFit Open 26.1
Workout 1 of the Open is rarely about going all-out from the first minute. It is usually designed to punish poor pacing and reward movement efficiency.
Whether 26.1 is an AMRAP, ladder, or time-cap workout, the same strategic principles apply.
26.1 Strategy for RX Athletes
- Control the first 3–4 minutes
Most athletes lose their workout here. Adrenaline is high. Heart rate spikes early. If you redline too soon, recovery becomes nearly impossible later.
Open workouts often feel “easy” in round one. That’s intentional.
- Break before you have to
Instead of pushing sets to failure:
- Break barbell cycling into smart, manageable chunks
- Shake out grip early
- Take 3–5 second breath resets
Planned breaks are always better than forced breaks.
- Protect transitions
Transitions are free seconds. Move quickly between stations. Set your equipment up efficiently before the workout starts so you don’t waste time adjusting plates or repositioning. - Watch the tiebreak
If 26.1 includes a tiebreak checkpoint, push strategically to beat a critical time. That can move you hundreds of leaderboard spots.
26.1 Strategy for Scaled Athletes
If you’re doing 26.1 scaled, your focus should be steady completion, not speed.
- Find a sustainable breathing rhythm
You should never be gasping in round one. If you are, slow down. - Protect your grip
Scaled workouts often still include high-rep pulling or dumbbell cycling. Shake out early and often. - Avoid no-reps
In scaled divisions, technical mistakes cost more than pacing errors. Make every rep clean.
The goal is consistency. A smooth, steady workout almost always beats a fast start and hard crash.
Recommended Warm-Up for 26.1
Open workouts are intense. A rushed warm-up leads to tight movement and poor mechanics.Here’s a smart general structure:
- 5–7 minutes light cardio
Row, bike, or jump rope to elevate heart rate gradually. - Dynamic mobility
Open hips, shoulders, and ankles depending on programmed movements. - Movement rehearsal
Perform light reps of each movement in the workout.
Example:
- Light barbell cycling
- Controlled gymnastics reps
- Short practice sets at workout pace
- Primer round
Complete a small rehearsal round at moderate intensity. Rest fully before starting.
Never jump straight into an Open workout cold.
Common Mistakes Athletes Make in 26.1
- Going unbroken in round one
You feel good. You push. You regret it at minute six. - Ignoring setup
Bar too far away. Chalk bucket misplaced. Camera poorly angled. These small details cost time or invalidate reps. - Poor camera positioning
If filming:
- Ensure full body view
- Show plates clearly
- Confirm timer visibility
- Choosing RX for ego
If the load is beyond your sustainable training range, scaled is smarter. A strong scaled performance beats a failed RX attempt.
What Happens After 26.1?
Once the submission window closes, rankings are finalized for that workout.
Your overall Open ranking will reflect your position relative to all athletes in your division.
Then the focus shifts immediately to 26.2.
Top performers after all three workouts may advance to the next stage of competition:
- Quarterfinals
- Semifinals
- CrossFit Games
For most athletes, the Open is a benchmark season. Your 26.1 score becomes a data point you’ll compare against future years.
Frequently Asked Questions About CrossFit Open 2026 and 26.1
What is 26.1 in CrossFit?
26.1 is the first workout of the CrossFit Open 2026.
The naming system works like this:
- 26 = the year 2026
- .1 = the first workout of the Open
Each year includes three Open workouts (26.1, 26.2, 26.3). Your performance in each one contributes to your overall Open ranking.
What is the CrossFit Open 2026?
The CrossFit Open 2026 is a three-week online competition that marks the beginning of the CrossFit Games season.
Athletes worldwide complete the same weekly workout and submit their scores online. Leaderboards update in real time, allowing competitors to see where they rank globally, nationally, and within their division.
It is open to:
- Everyday gym members
- Competitive athletes
- Teens and Masters
- Adaptive divisions
You do not need to be elite to participate.
What is the 26.1 workout?
The 26.1 workout is the first programmed test released during the Open.
While the specific movements change each year, the structure is usually designed to test:
- Conditioning
- Barbell cycling
- Gymnastics under fatigue
- Movement efficiency
Your score is based on either:
- Total reps completed
- Or time to finish within a cap
What is 26.1 scaled?
26.1 scaled is the modified version of the workout.
It includes:
- Reduced loads
- Simplified movements
- Adjusted difficulty
Scaled athletes are ranked separately from RX athletes.
It is designed to keep the competition accessible while maintaining intensity.
How do I submit my 26.1 score?
After completing the workout:
- Log into your CrossFit Games profile.
- Select the 26.1 workout.
- Enter your total score (reps or time).
- Choose your division (RX or scaled).
- Submit before the weekly deadline.
If required, you may need:
- A judge’s validation
- A video submission that meets filming standards
What is the 26.1 scorecard?
The scorecard is the official scoring format.
It tracks:
- Total rounds completed
- Additional reps
- Tiebreak time if applicable
Tiebreaks are used when athletes have identical rep counts.
When does CrossFit Open 2026 end?
The Open runs for three weeks.
After 26.1, athletes complete:
- 26.2
- 26.3
Once all scores are finalized, rankings determine who advances to the next stage of competition.
What happens after the Open?
After the Open:
Top athletes in each division advance to Quarterfinals.
From there:
- Top performers move to Semifinals
- The best from Semifinals qualify for the CrossFit Games
For most participants, the Open ends after Week 3 and serves as a fitness benchmark for the year.
How to Improve Your Ranking in the CrossFit Open 2026
If your goal is leaderboard improvement, focus on three things:
- Movement efficiency
Smooth reps beat fast sloppy reps. - Strategic pacing
Most Open workouts reward consistent output over explosive starts. - Smart redo attempts
Athletes are allowed to repeat workouts within the submission window. If your first attempt was poorly paced, a second attempt with better strategy can dramatically improve your ranking.
Recovery between attempts is critical:
- Prioritize sleep
- Eat adequately
- Hydrate aggressively
- Light active recovery only
The Open is as much strategic as it is physical.
Final Thoughts: How to Approach CrossFit Open 2026 the Right Way
The CrossFit Open 2026 is more than just three workouts. It’s a structured test of your current fitness, your strategy under pressure, and your ability to execute when it counts.
Workout 26.1 sets the tone.
It exposes:
- Your pacing discipline
- Your movement efficiency
- Your ability to stay composed under fatigue
- How well you understand competition standards
For experienced athletes, 26.1 is the first step toward Quarterfinal qualification. Every rep matters. Tiebreaks matter. Movement quality matters.
For newer athletes, 26.1 is something just as valuable — a benchmark. It gives you measurable data. Next year, when you repeat a similar structure, you’ll know exactly how much fitter you’ve become.
That’s the power of the Open.
The Smart Way to Approach the Remaining Weeks
After completing 26.1:
- Review your performance objectively
Where did you slow down?
Where did your breathing spike?
Were your breaks planned or forced? - Improve your setup
Small efficiency upgrades between movements can save 10–20 seconds per workout. - Protect recovery
The Open is short but intense. Prioritize:- Sleep
- Protein intake
- Mobility work
- Light aerobic recovery
- Stay consistent
Do not let one workout emotionally affect the next. The Open rewards stability across three tests.
Why the CrossFit Open Still Matters
Every year, thousands of athletes ask:
Is the CrossFit Open worth it?
The answer depends on your goals.
If you want:
- A structured fitness test
- Global comparison
- Competition experience
- Accountability
- Motivation to push harder than usual
Then yes — the Open delivers that.
Even if you never plan to qualify beyond Week 3, the experience of lining up for 26.1, submitting a score, and seeing your name on a worldwide leaderboard changes how you train.
It adds purpose.
As CrossFit Open 2026 continues with 26.2 and 26.3, the strategy remains the same:
Control your pacing.
Respect the standards.
Choose the right division.
Execute with intention.
When the final leaderboard locks in after 26.3, you’ll have something concrete — a measurable snapshot of your fitness in 2026.
And next year, you’ll chase it.
