As we look at this massive 2026 calendar, the one thing that will determine your success is how well you recover between these high-intensity blocks. That’s why we’re partnered with Thirdzy. Their PM Recovery Collagen is a staple for us because it’s melatonin-free and focuses on actual restorative sleep and joint health. If you’re serious about competing this year, don’t overlook your sleep. Go to thirdzy.com and use code JASONZZZ for 20% off your order.”Jason Grubb and Rick Stevenson kick off the New Year by tackling the most pressing topic for any competitive athlete over 35: the 2026 Masters Competition Calendar. With the season structure evolving, Jason and Rick provide a high-level overview of the major milestones ahead, from the upcoming CrossFit Open to the specialized qualifiers that define the Masters journey.

The conversation goes beyond simple dates, diving into the logistical and strategic realities of the season. They break down the “backfilling” process for major events, the nuances of the new semifinal structure, and why this year feels more “stacked” than ever before. Whether you are aiming for the Masters CrossFit Games in San Jose or looking at community-driven events like Wodapalooza, this episode serves as your essential guide to navigating the year ahead. Jason also shares a personal story about a recent ride-along with his son in Denver, offering a grounded perspective on life outside the gym and the importance of finding balance amidst a busy competitive schedule.

Key Takeaways

* The 2026 Schedule is Loaded: Between the CrossFit Games season, Legends, and community events, athletes have more opportunities—and decisions—to make than ever before.

* Mastering the Qualifiers: A deep dive into how qualification paths work this year, including the technicalities of how spots are backfilled for major competitions.

* Priority Planning: Why understanding the full year’s calendar now is critical for managing your recovery, budget, and peak performance windows.

* Recovery is Non-Negotiable: As the volume of available competitions increases, prioritizing tools like Thirdzy becomes essential for staying healthy throughout a long season.

Chapters

* 00:00 New Year Greetings and Weather Talk

* 01:20 Jason’s Personal Update: The Denver Ride-Along

* 06:09 2026 Competition Calendar Overview

* 08:22 Current Qualifiers and Events

* 09:57 Upcoming CrossFit Open and Wodapalooza

* 19:28 Qualification Paths for Masters Competitions

* 21:27 The Backfilling Process Explained

* 23:21 Upcoming Semifinals and Community Events

* 28:55 The Busy Competition Calendar for 2026

* 33:02 Looking Ahead: Future Competitions and Opportunities

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