Misfit Podcast

Quarterfinals are back, and we’re breaking down exactly what that means for you.
In this episode, we dive into what to expect from the 2026 Quarterfinals based on past data, how to prepare (whether you're following Misfit programming or not), and how we structure our Quarterfinals peaking phase to maximize execution and intensity. We cover volume distribution, workout styles, movement trends, athlete IQ, and how to navigate prep during the Open.
We also get into:
Why Quarterfinals returning is a big deal for the sport
The in-person semifinal structure debate
Movement patterns that consistently show up
How to approach redos and stress during Open season
What makes comp prep different from standard phase training
Sprintervals, in-WOD lifting, and why stimulus is king
If you're aiming for Quarterfinals, chasing Semifinals, or just want to understand how to think like a competitive athlete for the next six weeks, this episode lays it out clearly and practically.
Quarterfinals peaking phase begins February 16th. Execution starts now.
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Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.

Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5
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Misfit Athletics Programming:
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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

Misfit Affiliate Programming:
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Zone 2 training is back, and this time, we’re cutting through the noise.
In this episode of the The Misfit Podcast, Drew and Paige break down what Zone 2 actually is (and what it isn’t), why it’s so misunderstood in the CrossFit space, and how Misfit Athletics practically applies it with everyday athletes all the way up to elite competitors.
You’ll learn:
Why Zone 2 is defined by blood lactate, not heart rate, and what that really means
Simple ways to tell if you’re accidentally living in Zone 1 or drifting into Zone 3
How Zone 2 builds aerobic capacity, mitochondrial density, fat oxidation, and long-term work capacity
Who truly needs Zone 2 (and how much), based on training volume and aerobic background
How Misfit uses Zone 2 to increase volume without crushing athletes during high-stress phases
Real-world execution tips: pacing, warm-ups, warning signs, and how to track progress
The episode also includes a camp recap from a weekend at CrossFit Roots, highlighting high-level coaching, athlete breakthroughs, and why staying a student of the game matters, no matter how long you’ve been in fitness.
If you’re a CrossFit enthusiast who “knows enough to be dangerous,” this one’s for you. Expect practical takeaways, honest nuance, and zero dogma, just how to use Zone 2 as a tool instead of a trend.
Train smarter. Build the base. And stop guessing.
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Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.

Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5
Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT

Misfit Athletics Programming:
https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfit
https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

Misfit Affiliate Programming:
https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/

Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathletics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathletics

Thanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

The CrossFit Open is almost here, and in this episode, Drew and Paige go deep on what actually matters when it comes to performing your best.
This isn’t just another Open preview. It’s a practical breakdown of how to think about the Open: pacing, athlete IQ, movement efficiency, and why the Open matters no matter where you fall on the competitive spectrum — from first-timers to Games hopefuls.
They unpack:
What the Open is really testing (and why fitness still reigns supreme)
The most common movements and workout formats you should expect
How to approach strategy vs. effort, when to push, when to stay smooth
Why grip strength, pulling gymnastics, overhead stability, and leg drive are non-negotiables
The difference between training and practicing
How to use Open simulations to build confidence, sharpen execution, and uncover weaknesses
The role of objectivity, data, and self-awareness in leveling up as an athlete
Why “going hard” isn’t always the same as performing well
They also dive into mindset, flow state, community, and how to reverse-engineer competitive success, plus their usual Read / Listen / Watch recommendations and updates from inside Misfit Athletics.
Whether you’re chasing leaderboard spots or just looking to show up better than last year, this episode gives you a clear framework for attacking the Open with purpose.
Let’s get to work.
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Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.

Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5
Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT

Misfit Athletics Programming:
https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfit
https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

Misfit Affiliate Programming:
https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/

Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathletics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathletics

Thanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

In this special Affiliate Edition of The Misfit Podcast, Drew is joined by Hunter Wood (Misfit Gym Portland owner) and Paige Semenza to break down everything coaches and affiliates need to know as the Mad Jack Phase kicks off — just in time for the CrossFit Open.
This seven-week General Physical Preparedness (GPP) phase is built around versatility, strength, and adaptability, inspired by the legendary “Mad Jack” Churchill — a true jack-of-all-trades. The crew dives into how affiliates can best prepare athletes for Open season, from coaching heavy squat cleans and front squats to managing gymnastics progressions, cardio days, and movement efficiency in real-world class settings.
They also cover:
How to coach front squats and squat cleans more effectively
Teaching gymnastics to mixed-ability classes
Scaling bar muscle-ups for large affiliate groups
Why monostructural conditioning still matters (even when it’s not “fun”)
How to communicate Open strategy to different athlete personalities
Keeping coaches aligned across large staffs
Creating better buy-in and consistency during Open season
Whether you’re an affiliate owner, coach, or athlete, this episode offers practical insight into smarter programming, better coaching communication, and how to help your community thrive during the Open.
Mad Jack Phase starts Monday, January 26th.
Get in the Telegram, grab your free trial, and sharpen the axe (or sword 😈🗡️)
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Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.

Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5
Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT

Misfit Athletics Programming:
https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfit
https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

Misfit Affiliate Programming:
https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/

Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathletics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathletics

Thanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

In this Q&A-packed episode of The Misfit Podcast, Drew and Paige answer questions straight from the Misfit community—starting with Telegram, then social media, and beyond.
They dive into how to balance training with online qualifiers, when Zone 2 work actually matters, and why competition exposure is essential at every stage of an athlete’s journey. The conversation also covers mindset traps like over-analysis, when work ethic becomes a liability, and how to trust the process without losing self-awareness.
You’ll hear practical advice on nutrition, recovery, and long-term progression, plus insights for affiliate athletes looking to improve their health beyond just “working out.” The episode wraps with tips on skill development (including handstand walks and bar muscle-ups) and a reminder that consistency beats intensity when it comes to real progress.
Whether you’re training for competition, getting back into functional fitness, or just trying to move better and feel stronger, this episode delivers actionable guidance with Misfit’s trademark honesty and edge.
Topics covered:
Pacing vs. gamifying workouts
How to integrate qualifiers into training
The value of competition exposure
Over-analysis, self-regulation, and trusting the process
Work ethic vs. burnout
Nutrition basics for performance & body composition
Skill progression for gymnastics movements
Building long-term fitness habits
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Misfits! We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did and you're feeling generous throw us a review and let us know how we're doing, we'd really appreciate it.

Join your fellow Misfits on Telegram, today! It's Free! https://t.me/+4jt4uAMmtFA5NGQ5
Save on the best supplement in the game: https://gorillamind.com/MISFIT

Misfit Athletics Programming:
https://strivee.app/marketplace/p/misfit
https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

Misfit Affiliate Programming:
https://teammisfit.com/subscribe/

Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/misfitathletics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misfitathletics

Thanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!