Hey Crew,

One week out from the 2025 Masters CrossFit Games in Columbus. The air’s thick with that pre-comp buzz—nerves, fire, and a whole lotta grit. I’m not spilling all my secrets (gotta keep some cards close, ya know?), but I’m dropping five battle-tested strategies to help you prep for your big competition. Whether it’s your first local throwdown or a shot at the big stage, these tips—pulled from my own grind—will keep you dialed. Let’s get to it.

5 Keys to Nail Your Competition Prep

Here’s the deal: a week out is make-or-break time. These five strategies, forged from years of chasing podiums, will keep you sharp, fresh, and ready to attack.

  • Train Smart, Not SavageDial back the heroics. A week out, it’s about precision, not max effort. Test your events at ~80% to groove movements without frying your system. Mix in Zone 2 cardio—think steady bike or row—to keep the engine humming without stress. Last year, I pushed too hard and tweaked my calf. Don’t be that guy. Protect your body; one dumb move can cost you everything.

  • Lock in Your Fuel and RecoveryStick to foods you know—nothing new, no risks. Bump carbs for energy, keep protein steady, and hydrate like it’s your job. Sleep’s your secret weapon; prioritize it over late-night strategy chats. I lean on Thirdzy Rest and Recovery Collagen (code Jasonzzz) for that 10g protein hit to rebuild fast. Add in mobility, maybe some red light therapy or Normatec, and stay off your feet between sessions. Fresh legs win.

  • Attack the Mindset, Not the TitleForget past wins or expectations. Approach your comp like it’s your first—hungry, not entitled. Pressure? It’s just people believing in you. Embrace it, but don’t let it own you. I get nervous too, but once the first event kicks off, it’s all focus. Visualize your game plan, then trust it. New venue, new faces—attack the day.

  • Control the ChaosComp days are a circus. Build routines to stay grounded. I eat the same breakfast every morning for control in the madness. Know your schedule: wake, eat, warm up light, compete, refuel, rest, repeat. If you get event details early (like we do this year), map your pacing. If surprises hit, adapt fast—don’t freeze. Hide from the noise between heats to save mental energy.

  • Play the Long GamePatience is your edge. You don’t need to win every event—just stay in the fight. A long comp weekend rewards consistency, not flash. I’ve learned this the hard way: one bad event doesn’t sink you, but losing your cool does. Stay steady, trust your prep, and let the leaderboard sort itself out.

Sponsor Spotlight: Thirdzy Rest and Recovery Collagen

Big props to Thirdzy Rest and Recovery Collagen, my go-to for staying primed. That 10g protein dose fuels recovery, keeping me ready for the next round. Use code Jasonzzz at Thirdzy to grab yours—it’s a must for comp week. Trust me, it’s in my bag for Columbus.

Coaching Takeaway: Prep Like a Pro

From Bolder Athlete: These five keys aren’t just for me—they’re how we coach 500+ Masters globally to crush their goals. Smart training, dialed recovery, and a rock-solid mindset turn grit into wins. Want in? Join our crew.

Let’s Bring It Home

That’s my playbook for the final week—keep it simple, stay hungry, and show up ready. Got a comp coming up? Reply with your questions.

Stay gritty,

Jason🎥 Recent Videos:

Masters in Motion Podcast

Bolder Athlete Podcast

Whenever you’re ready, there are a few ways I can help you:

  1. Unlock your full potential with personalized 1:1 coaching with me. Achieve your fitness goals faster and smarter.  Apply for private one-on-one coaching.

  2. Become a Bolder Athlete → a fitness platform specifically tailored for Masters Athletes aged 35 and older. It deviates from the common practice of merely scaling down routines designed for younger athletes, instead creating programs that address the distinct needs of masters athletes.

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