As we get closer to the 2016 CrossFit Games we see more and more Games athletes incorporating diverse movements and odd objects into their programming. These athletes know that the CrossFit Games will introduce some combination of new movements, types of events, and equipment every year and that 2016 will be no different.
Looking in the Past
Here are some notable new elements we have seen in previous years…
- 2011 – Beach/Ocean swim, softball throw, L-sit for time, max handstand walk, and the Killer Kage with stationary bike.
- 2012 – Pendleton Triathlon, military obstacle course, standing broad jump, and the Double Banger.
- 2013 – Pool swim with bar muscle-ups, long distance row, and the Pig.
- 2014 – Sprint sled and thick diameter ropes.
- 2015 – Paddleboard, Pig 2.0, yoke carry, hurdles, 200-pound kettlebells and the now infamous pegboard.
And these are just related to the individual competition.
On the Horizon
The 2016 CrossFit Games will absolutely include some combination of new movements, types of events or equipment. Here are some that have been hinted/rumored over the past few years.
- Triple-Unders – Many athletes have posted on social media them practicing this high skill movement.
- Atlas Stone – The 2015 CrossFit Invitational showcased atlas stones in the speed clean ladder so they are likely to show up at the games sooner or later.
- Vertical Jump – An event seen at the NFL combine that would be a great skills test for the Games.
- Hammer Throw – Iceland’s Thuridur Erla Helgadottir was just seen practicing her throw and it would be an entertaining field event to include.
- Handstand Obstacle Course – We’ve seen Games athletes walk on their hands on a straightaway, but can they handstand walk up steps or around pylons.
For now, all we can do is wait until Dave Castro starts dropping hints on social media and reveals the events during the Games.
