Ever wondered how technology can reshape your fitness journey? Discover insights on our latest episode of the Herd Fit Podcast with coaches David Syvertsen @davesy85 and Sam Rhee @bergencosmetic as we introduce the innovative Train by PushPress app at CrossFit Bison. 

We promise to explore how this app transforms traditional score-logging methods and enhances athletes' ability to track their progress seamlessly. Say goodbye to outdated whiteboards and join us in this journey towards smarter training.

As we navigate the intersection of competition and community, the episode takes a deep dive into how gym culture can be influenced by auto-ranking systems. The balance between fostering healthy competition and maintaining a supportive environment is essential, and we discuss potential adaptations like chronological score displays to ensure inclusivity. Our conversation reveals the dynamic landscape of gym culture and why it’s crucial to maintain a supportive atmosphere, even as high performers push their limits.

Lastly, we explore the profound impact of self-worth and personal growth on fitness culture. Drawing from personal experiences, we discuss the often-overlooked pressures of leaderboards and social media on athletes' mindsets. Shifting the focus from ego-driven competition to self-improvement, we highlight the role coaches play in guiding athletes towards healthier attitudes. Join us as we champion the virtues of logging workouts consistently and emphasize quality-driven training over chasing numbers.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Christy Link-Petillo @kristy_link, a pivotal force in the CrossFit world and former owner of Brazen Athletics, joins David Syvertsen @davesy85 to share her remarkable journey from yoga enthusiast to CrossFit trailblazer. Christy's story is one of inspiration and transformation, ignited by witnessing the strength and camaraderie of female athletes at regional events. Through her experiences, we uncover the essence of a thriving gym culture, one that fosters community and connection, which played a significant role in Brazen Athletics’ success. Her insights are invaluable to understanding how passion and community intertwine to create a supportive CrossFit environment.

As we continue our conversation, we navigate the uncharted waters of CrossFit's growth from its raw, community-driven beginnings to a more structured approach post-pandemic. Balancing the zeal for fitness with the realities of business ownership during challenging times is no small feat, and Christy opens up about this delicate dance. Our discussion peels back the layers of developing internship programs for coaches and highlights the importance of integrating them seamlessly into the community. Christy emphasizes the necessity of gym owners staying actively engaged to nurture both coaches and members effectively.

In our final segment, Christy and I delve into the intricacies of expanding a CrossFit gym while maintaining a personal fitness journey. We explore the challenges of running multiple locations and the hustle required to ensure quality across the board. The conversation turns to the impact of high-intensity workouts on health, advocating for a balanced approach to fitness. As we wrap up, Christy reflects on the powerful impact of movement and fitness in transforming lives and shares her forward-looking aspirations in golf-specific fitness training. Her story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the ever-evolving fitness landscape.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Discover the keys to a balanced life as Coach David Syvertson and actor Rafi Silver uncover strategies for achieving sustainable health in this episode of the Herd Fit Podcast. We kick things off with Bison gym's Reset Challenge, a motivating initiative that encourages long-term lifestyle changes over fleeting resolutions. Rafi, a familiar voice on our show, shares his journey of balancing nutrition for his acting career while staying committed to his fitness goals. Together, we shed light on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through the lens of personal goals and professional demands.

Mindfulness takes center stage as we explore its transformative power in fitness and daily life. I recount my personal path of embracing mindfulness, emphasizing how it reshaped my approach to stress and enriched my overall well-being. Rafi's guidance illuminated the importance of focusing on the process rather than just the outcomes, highlighting how mindfulness fosters curiosity and diminishes self-judgment. We share stories of how being present has improved not only athletic performance but also personal growth and fulfillment.

The episode concludes with insights into the profound impact of mindfulness on life’s challenges, particularly as athletes navigate the aging process. We discuss how mental training can shift focus from physical metrics to a more holistic approach to well-being. By integrating compassion and loving-kindness practices, listeners learn how mindfulness can enhance self-awareness and promote resilience. Tune in to discover how these practices can help manage stress, anxiety, and transitions, leading to a more rewarding and balanced life.

Join us as we tackle the question: What makes the CrossFit Open a must-experience event for everyone, whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro? Coaches David Syvertsen @davesy85 and Sam Rhee @bergencosmetic promise a journey of personal growth, camaraderie, and a test of your limits, as they unravel the often mixed emotions surrounding this global competition.

Feel the pulse of the CrossFit community as we explore how the Open serves as a universal fitness test, opening doors to self-discovery and pushing athletes beyond their comfort zones. We emphasize the inclusivity and supportive environment that the Open fosters. Whether you're competitive by nature or simply curious about your capabilities, the Open offers a unique opportunity to unlock potential and foster personal development.

The episode also champions the themes of persistence, vulnerability, and unity within the CrossFit community. We argue for participation in the Open as a vital part of one's fitness journey and community engagement. By embracing vulnerability and accountability, athletes confront challenges and celebrate progress. From achieving personal milestones to overcoming unique fitness challenges, this episode encourages celebration, unity, and moving forward together, proving that the Open is far more than a competition—it's a testament to personal and communal growth.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Have you ever wondered what it takes to compete at the highest levels of fitness while maintaining your sanity? Join us in an exciting episode as Coach David Syvertsen @davesy85 sits down with the 2024 Legend Championship @thelegendschampionship athletes —Dan Coda @dannehnj, Mindy Macdonald @mindymacd, and Kathleen Staunton @stautie3. Fresh from the competition arena, these elite athletes open up about the mental and physical challenges of pushing through intense, high-pressure workouts. Dan shares his triumphant story of reaching a long-sought milestone, while Mindy and Kathleen recount their strategic approaches to overcoming setbacks, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the world of competitive fitness.

As the conversation unfolds, we explore the profound personal growth that occurs between the second and third years of competitive fitness. Our guests reveal how experience combined with mindfulness can offer a powerful edge in multi-day events that demand travel and adaptation. Discover how these athletes handle the balance between self-criticism and self-compassion, and learn practical strategies for managing mental focus during intense competitions. Whether it's the thrill of starting with a rapid workout or the grit required to push through exhaustion and personal limits, this episode is packed with insights for anyone striving to enhance their competitive edge.

We wrap up with reflections on the emotional journey of competition, touching on everything from the camaraderie and community support that inspires growth to the disappointment of unmet goals. Through candid discussions on the thrills of outdoor events and the complexities of adaptive lift strategies, we celebrate the perseverance required to navigate the highs and lows of athletic competition. This episode offers a wealth of motivation, encouraging athletes to embrace both the struggles and triumphs on their path to becoming their fittest selves. Whether you're an aspiring competitor or someone inspired by stories of resilience and growth, this conversation promises to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the journey toward fitness excellence.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Can you really reach the pinnacle of CrossFit without a dash of luck? Join Coaches David Syvertsen @davesy85 and Sam Rhee @bergencosmetic as they dissect the 2025 CrossFit Open's latest shake-ups. We tackle the burning question of how well the shorter season might serve the community. 

We share insights on the adjustments athletes must embrace as they gear up for February 27th's kick-off. You'll learn the targeted strategies to adapt to a season that's as thrilling as it is challenging.

The CrossFit scene is evolving, and we're here to guide you through the maze of changes in competition structure. As we reflect on the transition from the 2011-2018 era to the current setup, we ponder the impact of financial incentives tied to Open registrations. 

Are initiatives like the Community Cup the answer to rekindling unity? We explore these pivotal shifts and offer a glimpse of how to navigate the financial and logistical challenges posed by the quarterfinals.

As we wrap up with an exciting discussion about a new partner competition format, we celebrate the pairing of master's athletes with younger competitors. This innovative approach aims to rejuvenate the competitive spirit and broaden the demographic reach. 

We explore how these partnerships foster camaraderie and community ties, even amidst heightened competition stress. Plus, those wary of the loss of quarterfinals might find a silver lining in the changes this season brings. Join us for an episode packed with insights, motivation, and a call to embrace the evolving world of CrossFit.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Marissa Liza @marissa_1082 joins coach David Syvertsen @davesy85 on the Herd Fit Podcast to unravel the rising phenomenon of HYROX, a fitness trend that’s capturing the hearts—and muscles—of athletes worldwide. Together, we dive into our personal journeys through the adrenaline-pumping world of HYROX races in Toronto and Dallas, where running meets strength training in a perfect blend. We share the compelling reasons behind our switch from CrossFit to HYROX dissecting how these two challenging disciplines uniquely complement each other by enhancing aerobic capacity and mixed modal work, while posing their own exciting challenges.

What ignites the fire in fitness enthusiasts to throw themselves into the HYROX challenge? This episode uncovers the motivations behind these grueling yet exhilarating races, whether you go it alone or team up with a partner. Our conversation takes a candid look at the preparation strategies—both logistical and mental—that ensure participants are ready to tackle whatever the race throws at them. We also delve into the dynamics of the race day atmosphere, from strategic planning to humorous mishaps, providing tips and insights on navigating through the unexpected twists of competition.

Training for such high-stakes events brings its own set of rewards and challenges, especially for those transitioning from CrossFit. Marissa and I reflect on how our CrossFit backgrounds have equipped us with the resilience and mental toughness needed for HYROX, while acknowledging the importance of adaptability and inclusivity in these fitness races. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a newcomer looking for a new adventure, this episode offers a comprehensive look at why HYROX is becoming the ultimate fitness challenge of choice, highlighting its appeal to a wide range of fitness levels. Join us for an engaging discussion filled with laughter, tactical insights, and the shared joy of pushing boundaries.

#hyrox @crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Uncover the secrets to achieving your fitness goals with confidence and purpose with the promiseto guide you through the art of structured progressions. Join coach @davesy85 as he demystifies how both individualized and group fitness programs can elevate your performance and prepare you for life's physical challenges. In this episode, he explores the tried-and-true methods employed at CrossFit Bison, from rowing time trials to increasing back squat volumes, ensuring that you progress at your own pace without the stress of comparing past performances.

Dive deep into the mental and psychological aspects of fitness progressions with him, as he shares his personal experiences and insights. Discover how to avoid the common pitfalls of switching programs prematurely and the importance of committing to a routine for at least two to three months to achieve real progress. Engage in a heartfelt discussion about balancing structured training with life's unpredictability and the flexibility of training schedules at Bison. Whether you're preparing for a high-stakes race or simply looking to enhance your general physical preparedness, this episode is packed with strategies and inspiration to help you navigate your fitness journey with resilience and determination.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

Can overcoming challenges in the gym transform your life outside of it? Coaches David Syvertsen @davesy85 and Sam Rhee @bergencosmeticbelieve it can, and we unpack the pivotal role confidence plays in both fitness and coaching. We share stories from our CrossFit community at Bison and Brock's Taekwondo classes, highlighting how confidence transcends physical achievements and prepares us for real-life scenarios. Join us as we spotlight the inspiring journeys of our interns, Keith and Tara, whose preparation and communication skills are crucial to their growing confidence.

Reno's remarkable shift from triathlon to CrossFit and bodybuilding serves as a testament to building confidence through experience. Discover how focusing on the process rather than results can lead to small victories that fuel larger achievements. Reno's story underscores the powerful connection between fitness, mental toughness, and life success, showing that confidence isn't just about what happens in the gym—it's a mindset that permeates all aspects of life. We also tackle strategies to combat negative self-talk that can undermine confidence and performance, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience.

Confidence isn't just about seeking external validation—it's about finding purpose and balance in oneself. We explore the emotional highs and lows of athletic performance and the need for athletes to maintain humility and resilience amidst success and setbacks. Learn how mindfulness and realistic self-assessment can help athletes harness confidence as a tool for growth rather than relying on external approval. We wrap up with an exploration of coaching culture, urging coaches to prioritize the service and well-being of athletes over personal recognition, thereby fostering a positive gym environment that champions authentic confidence and growth.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness

What if stepping out of your comfort zone could revolutionize the way you run your gym? Join us as we unpack our transformative experience at the CrossFit Northeast Affiliate Summit, where we discovered the power of collaboration and community within the CrossFit world. Embracing the spirit of shared learning, we explore the ripple effect such events can have on enhancing gym operations, member retention, and the overall CrossFit experience.

The weekend kicked off with an invigorating workout alongside CrossFit's top leaders, including CEO Don Fall and Director of Global Affiliates Jada Koons. Their participation not only showcased authentic leadership but also reinforced the vital role of community in CrossFit. We recount the memorable Friday night workout led by Denise Thomas, which broke the ice and built camaraderie among attendees. These shared moments highlighted the importance of engagement and the sense of belonging that underpins the CrossFit ethos.

Our reflections go beyond just workouts, delving into the profound impact of mentorship and coaching. We share personal stories, like Denise Thomas's journey influenced by inspirational mentors, emphasizing how encouragement and authenticity can lead to lasting change. By fostering open communication and sharing knowledge with fellow affiliate owners, we advocate for a stronger, more united CrossFit community. This episode is a call to action for gym owners to prioritize growth, strategic decisions, and genuine care to maximize gym value and impact, ultimately enriching the lives of athletes and owners alike.

@crossfitbison @crossfittraining @crossfit @crossfitgames #crossfit #sports #exercise #health #movement #crossfitcoach #agoq #clean #fitness #ItAllStartsHere #CrossFitOpen #CrossFit #CrossFitCommunity @CrossFitAffiliates #supportyourlocalbox #crossfitaffiliate #personalizedfitness