There is a fine balance between using metrics to guide your training and becoming overly fixated on daily results.

Tracking data too closely can lead to counterproductive habits, such as "rep shaving" during classes or attempting to force progress, often undermining long-term consistency and general enjoyment. But failing to track performance at all can result in a lack of clarity regarding progress and this is something many people in CrossFit expereince.

In the earlier years of CrossFit, single-modality testing and benchmarking were popular. Standarising tests like a 2km row, a max set of pull-ups, or a max back squat, provides more legibility into your fitness than a mixed CrossFit workout.

This appreciation for simple tests has largely been replaced by online leaderboards and constant comparison against others. In many cases, athletes would benefit more from using single-modality tests to get a clearer idea on what they need to work on. Listen to find out more about the different types of standardisation, tests and benchmarking we've explored over the years.

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These podcasts are posted in video format on YouTube as well.

Show Notes:

[2:00] Finding a sweet spot with tracking and goals but not taking it too seriously

[4:30] Recording training in training diaries, apps and on the whiteboard

[7:00] Using numbers to get more out of training

[10:30] Luke getting confused with American terminology

[12:45] Having a records board at the gym

[16:00] The Level Method and getting buy-in from members

[19:50] Training metrics in CrossFit

[24:00] Using metrics as a coach versus an athlete

[25:00] Having different levels of basic fitness benchmarks