WHAT IS YOUR WHY? - THE 2026 CROSSFIT OPEN

Stephanie Nickitas • February 4, 2026

WHAT IS YOUR WHY? 
THE 2026 CROSSFIT OPEN

CrossFit recently asked me to share a few thoughts on video on this year’s Open and what it means to me. I wanted to pass that message along to you as well because the Open isn’t just something we do here at CFWP. It’s something much bigger.


Every year when the CrossFit Open rolls around, many of us ask ourselves, “Why should I do this AGAIN?” Or, some people might even say, “What IS the Open? I’ve never heard of it”. While the workouts change, the reasons we show up can look very different from person to person.


For some, the Open is about the leaderboard, chasing scores, testing limits, and seeing how far you’ve come.


For others, it’s about simply participating in something new, committing to three weeks of consistency, or doing something that feels a little uncomfortable alongside people who support you.


In the past, it’s been both of those for me. But as I thought about it, this year is more about giving BACK to CrossFit itself. CrossFit has changed my life and the lives of countless others around the globe. We owe a debt of gratitude to the methodology that reshaped the world of fitness. By participating in the Open I’m showing my support AND thankfulness for what CrossFit has done for me and the hundreds of members that have passed through CFWP over the last 12+ years. 


These reasons and everything in between are exactly what the Open is meant to be.


When you sign up and take part, you’re stepping into something bigger than a single workout. You’re connecting to the long history of CrossFit and the role you play in keeping this GLOBAL community strong in the future.


So, if you are on the fence, remember, you don’t have to approach it like anyone else. There’s no “right” way to do the Open. Show up in the way that makes sense for you. Put in the effort you’re proud of. Celebrate the wins, big or small, lean into the energy of doing this together, and connect with the global community. You can register below!

REGISTER HERE

*As a reminder, the first Open workout, 26.1, will be announced on Feb. 26th and we will do it in all classes on Friday Feb. 27th.
*Workouts 26.2 and 26.3 will be done in classes on March 6th and March 13th. As it gets closer, I will send out details on logistics.

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Product Spotlight: Suji Blood Flow Restriction & Recovery Cuffs

By Stephanie Nickitas • February 16, 2026
Suji Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) and Recovery Cuffs are a powerful tool for training and recovery, especially for anyone who wants results with less joint stress. Blood flow restriction training works by partially restricting venous blood flow to a working muscle. This creates a significant training stimulus even when using lighter loads or a restricted range of motion, making it possible to build or maintain strength without placing excessive stress on the joints, muscles, and tendons. Why Blood Flow Restriction Works With BFR training, you can: Use lighter weights while still creating muscular fatigue Maintain or build strength during injury or deload phases Reduce stress on joints and irritated tissues Increase muscle activation with lower mechanical load Train effectively even with a restricted range of motion or limitation This makes it an excellent option for anyone working around pain, mobility limitations, or looking to train smarter and extend longevity in the gym. Recovery Benefits In addition to training benefits, Suji cuffs are designed with recovery in mind. The compression and release cycles help improve circulation and reduce soreness between sessions. Instead of relying on bulky leg and arm compression sleeves, these cuffs provide a lightweight, portable alternative that can be used at home, in the gym, or while traveling. They’re simple, efficient, and easy to incorporate into a routine, even while relaxing at home in the evening. Who They’re For Suji cuffs are especially helpful for: Anyone dealing with injuries Those with limited range of motion Anyone needing a lower-impact training option Busy professionals who want an efficient recovery tool Frequent travelers who don’t want extra equipment A Personal Note While working around a squat limitation due to a hip impingement, I’ve been using the Suji cuffs to maintain leg strength without aggravating the issue. So while I'm dealing with this injury, the cuffs allow me to get a significant training stimulus by limiting my range of motion and using less weight during squats, lunges, and deadlifts. On the recovery side, they’ve also made it easier to bounce back between sessions. If you’re interested in trying them, I can run through a demo session in the gym. We were also given a special discount code for our community that is linked below. Please reach out if you have any questions!
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