The second week of the 2025 CrossFit Open is here, and Workout 25.2 is ready to test athletes of all levels. Whether you’re aiming to maximize your score, improve efficiency, or simply survive the workout, having a solid strategy in place can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll break down key tips and approaches to help you perform at your best in Open Workout 25.2.
Breaking Down the Workout
Before diving into strategies, let’s review what 25.2 entails:
For time:
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- 21 pull-ups
- 42 double-unders
- 21 thrusters (weight 1)
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- 18 chest-to-bar pull-ups
- 36 double-unders
- 18 thrusters (weight 2)
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- 15 bar muscle-ups
- 30 double-unders
- 15 thrusters (weight 3)
WEIGHTS:
- Women: 65, 75, 85 lbs (29, 34, 38 kg)
- Men: 95, 115, 135 lbs (43, 52, 61 kg)
Time Cap: 12 minutes
As with most Open workouts, 25.2 will likely challenge your endurance, gymnastics proficiency, and ability to manage fatigue. Here’s how to approach it smartly.
General Strategy
1. Control Your Pacing from the Start
- This workout ramps up in difficulty, so avoid going all-out in the early rounds.
- A smooth, controlled pace in the pull-ups and lighter thrusters will save energy for the heavier barbell and bar muscle-ups later.
- Avoid long rest breaks—if you need to rest, take quick 3-5 second breaths and get back to work.
Movement-Specific Tips
Pull-Ups, Chest-to-Bar, and Bar Muscle-Ups
Break Reps Before You Need To:
- Unbroken pull-ups are possible, but small, quick sets (e.g., 7-7-7 or 6-5-5-5 for chest-to-bar) may help with grip preservation.
- Muscle-ups will be the biggest separator in this workout. If these are a struggle, aim for quick singles with short rest rather than big sets that leave you burnt out.
Use Efficient Kipping Movements:
- If you butterfly, ensure your rhythm is smooth.
- For bar muscle-ups, focus on aggressive hip drive and fast turnover—don’t rush the press-out at the top.
Relax Your Grip When Possible:
- This is a grip-taxing workout. Relax your grip slightly on the pull-up bar between reps to avoid early fatigue.
Double-Unders
✅ Stay Relaxed & Breathe:
- Keep shoulders and wrists loose and relaxed—tense arms will spike your heart rate.
- Breathe every few reps to keep your heart rate under control.
✅ If You Struggle with Double-Unders:
- Break into manageable sets (e.g., 21-21 or 18-18) instead of going unbroken and failing.
- If you trip, reset quickly and get right back in—don’t let frustration slow you down.
Thrusters (Increasing Weights)
Go Unbroken on Light Thrusters (if Possible):
- The first barbell is light, so aim for unbroken or two quick sets (e.g., 12-9).
- Drop the bar only if absolutely necessary—it takes extra energy to clean it back up.
Middle Weight (Weight 2):
- This is where fatigue sets in. Break into controlled sets (e.g., 10-8 or 9-9) to avoid redlining.
Final Heavy Thrusters (Weight 3):
- Singles or small sets (e.g., 5-5-5 or 6-5-4) work best.
- Focus on explosive leg drive—don’t let your shoulders take over too soon.
- If you fail a rep, rest a few seconds, take a deep breath, and reset properly.
Transition Efficiency
- Don’t waste time between movements. Get to the next station, take a breath, and start.
- Place your jump rope near your barbell to minimize walking distance.
- Have a mental plan before each movement—know when to break and when to push.
Final Thoughts
This workout is all about pacing, grip management, and efficient movement.
Start smooth, save your grip, and push hard in the final minutes.
Stay mentally composed on the bar muscle-ups—this is where many athletes will struggle.
If you execute the right strategy, you’ll finish strong and maximize your Open performance! Good luck!
For more expert breakdowns and insights, stay tuned to The Rx Review. 💪🔥
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