What does it take to transform from promising talent to elite competitor? For Erica Folo, the answer lies not in the gym, but between the ears.

Erica's journey began as a sprinter who was drawn to CrossFit after spotting a "jacked" teammate who was secretly training at a local box. Despite her initial assessment of the warehouse gym as "looking like a jail," she found herself immersed in the community. Natural talent quickly became evident, leading to a CrossFit Games appearance as a teen in 2018.

Then came the unexpected plot twist – a departure from serious training during university years where partying took priority over PRs. It wasn't until 2022 that Erica returned to competitive fitness, initially joining a team before surprising herself by surpassing her teammates' abilities. The physical capacity was always there, but something was missing.

The breakthrough moment came during a brutal mental breakdown at the 2024 Syndicate Crown semifinal. Despite impressive early performances, Erica describes entering the final day convinced she would fail: "I could tell you I lost the last workout before it even started." That painful experience catalyzed a transformation in her approach to competition.

Fast forward just months later, and we witness a completely different athlete mentally. Describing her approach to a crucial qualification event, Erica reveals: "My brain was just literally shut off... when I'm able to shut my brain off and literally just complete the work, knowing what rep scheme I'm going to do, that is the key for me."

Now deliberately seeking uncomfortable training scenarios that trigger her ego's resistance, Erica builds bridges between her exceptional physical capabilities and a developing mental game that could propel her to the sport's highest levels. Her story reminds us that the greatest battles in fitness are often fought not against weights or workouts, but against the limitations we place on ourselves.

Want more insights on developing your mental game for competition? Subscribe to the Misfit Podcast for weekly conversations with the sport's most compelling athletes and coaches.

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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.

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What would happen if you decided that something was possible instead of impossible? Brandon True's remarkable transformation from struggling CrossFit athlete to two-time semifinals competitor provides a compelling answer to that question.

Brandon's journey began with a casual bet against two 40-year-old CrossFitters who claimed they could beat him in a workout. His competitive spirit ignited, Brandon dove headfirst into CrossFit with the ambitious goal of reaching the CrossFit Games. Little did he know the mental and physical challenges that awaited him on this path.

The turning point came after his first semifinals appearance in 2023, where he finished near the bottom of the field. "I felt like I didn't belong there," Brandon reveals, describing both his performance and physical appearance compared to other competitors. This painful experience became the catalyst for profound change. Working closely with coach Drew Crandall, Brandon embarked on a comprehensive transformation that addressed everything from his nutrition to his mindset.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Brandon's story is his battle with self-limiting beliefs. Despite being exceptionally strong – with impressive numbers in cleans, squats, and deadlifts – Brandon struggled with movements like snatching. When faced with a heavy Isabel workout during qualifying, his initial reaction was "I can't do this." Yet through a powerful mindset shift and targeted coaching, he completed what he thought impossible, proving that many performance limitations exist primarily in our minds.

Perhaps most remarkable was Brandon's transformation in running workouts. After finishing last in a running event at his first semifinals, Brandon made a life-changing decision: "I will never come in last place in a running workout again." Through dedicated aerobic development and mental toughness, he turned his greatest weakness into a competitive strength.

What's your impossible challenge? What would happen if you simply decided it was possible? Take inspiration from Brandon's journey and discover what might be waiting on the other side of your self-imposed limitations.

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

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Imagine training for years but never truly reaching your potential. This episode reveals why linear progression—the simple concept of systematic improvement—might be the missing piece in your fitness journey.

We begin by introducing "The Ramp Theory," a powerful visualization tool that explains why so many athletes fail to progress despite consistent training. Picture yourself as a cyclist facing a massive jump. Starting at the bottom with no momentum leads to failure; beginning high on the ramp with enough runway creates the momentum needed for success. This metaphor perfectly captures how proper progression sets you up to surpass previous limitations.

What makes linear progression so effective is its versatility across all training domains. For strength work, we explore multiple variables beyond simply adding weight—increasing reps, sets, improving technique, or manipulating rest periods. We share specific rules for accessory work that prevent plateaus and build sustainable progress. Machine-based conditioning offers perhaps the clearest application through the Gears Matrix, allowing precise improvements in pace, wattage, or RPMs across different energy systems.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when we discuss applying these principles to metcons, skill work, and even mobility. By identifying specific variables to track and improve within complex workouts, you can continue progressing where most athletes plateau. For gymnastics and technical movements, we emphasize breaking skills into component parts and progressively checking more boxes over time.

Perhaps most importantly, we address the mindset needed for long-term success. The athletes who consistently improve year after year aren't necessarily those with the most natural talent—they're the ones who understand that progress comes from small, consistent improvements accumulated over time. They prioritize proper technique over ego, building foundations that support continuous growth rather than chasing short-term numbers on the whiteboard.

Whether you're struggling with plateaus or simply want to maximize your training efficiency, this episode provides a framework that works for athletes at any level. Tune in to discover how to create momentum in your training and finally break through barriers that have held you back.

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

Misfit Athletics Programming:
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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

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What separates the physically capable from the truly elite competitors? In this revealing episode, we take you behind the scenes at the Syndicate Crown CrossFit competition to examine the critical mental game that makes all the difference when athletes step onto the competition floor.

Fresh off witnessing the intensity of high-level CrossFit competition, we unpack what makes execution under pressure so difficult – and so important. The physical capacity of these athletes is undeniable, but what truly differentiates them is their ability to execute strategies effectively when the pressure mounts and adapt when things inevitably go sideways.

We share an in-depth analysis of Misfit athlete Erica Folo's performance, including both her dominant first-place finish in "Regionals Revenge" and a dramatic fall during a handstand walk workout that tested her mental resilience. These contrasting moments perfectly illustrate our central thesis: "You don't rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your training." The habits you build in training – both mental and physical – determine your capacity to perform when it matters most.

For coaches and athletes alike, we explore the psychology behind competition nerves, breaking down how the same physiological response (increased heart rate, adrenaline) can be channeled either as energizing "fight" energy or debilitating "flight" anxiety. The difference often comes down to preparation, strategy, and the mental frameworks you've developed long before competition day.

Whether you're a competitive CrossFit athlete or simply someone who wants to understand the psychological components of high-performance, this episode offers actionable insights on developing strategic thinking, mental toughness, and the ability to adapt when your perfect plan meets the messy reality of competition. Join us for a fascinating journey into the minds of elite competitors and the coaches who guide them.

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

Misfit Athletics Programming:
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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

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

Misfit Apparel at sharpentheaxeco.com
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Thanks for clicking like and don’t forget to subscribe!

How much does the time of day affect your workout performance? According to our latest deep dive, it could be impacting your results by as much as 25-30%.

During this illuminating episode, we unpack the fascinating relationship between mental load and physical output. Even with perfect nutrition, hydration, and recovery, the accumulated stress of daily life dramatically alters how your body responds to training stimuli. The science is clear—mental and physical resources pull from the same reserves, making that evening workout feel disproportionately difficult compared to your morning sessions.

We examine how this phenomenon affects athletes across all levels, from CrossFit Games competitors to everyday fitness enthusiasts. The tendency to misinterpret these normal performance fluctuations leads many into negative feedback loops, where one disappointing session breeds another. Learning to observe these challenges objectively rather than judgmentally becomes as critical as any programming or nutrition strategy.

Between previewing the exceptionally well-designed Syndicate Crown workouts and analyzing what makes effective competition programming, we reveal why a workout that appears identical on paper feels completely different at 9am versus 7pm. For coaches and athletes alike, understanding these patterns provides invaluable insight into optimizing training schedules and maintaining consistent progress.

Whether you're following our newly launched offerings on Strivee or simply trying to maximize your results in the gym, this episode offers crucial perspective on working with—rather than against—your body's natural performance rhythms. Listen now to transform how you approach your training schedule and mental preparation.

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

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The long-awaited Off-Season Block 2 program launches May 26th, bringing exciting changes to Misfit Athletics' programming structure and delivery platforms.

We're thrilled to announce three new subscription tiers tailored to different athlete needs: Pro ($69/month) for elite athletes with two daily sessions and direct coach access through Telegram; Comp ($49/month) bundling Hatchet, Masters, and GPP together for maximum flexibility; and standalone GPP ($29/month) for busy professionals seeking general fitness. Additionally, we're expanding beyond Fitter to offer programming through Strivee, giving athletes their choice of platforms.

The cornerstone of Off-Season Block 2 is the Texas Method back squat program, proven to add 20-40 pounds to your 5RM over nine weeks when approached strategically. The program balances Olympic lifting technique work through tempo pull cleans and positional snatches with heavy pressing and supplementary strength work. For athletes following the conditioning bias track, expect structured zone 2 training and multi-gear conditioning pieces designed to develop proper pacing.

This program continues our emphasis on C2 bike training and running – essential tools for developing the metabolic capacities needed at the highest levels of competition. We're structuring conditioning sessions to help athletes understand and implement the Gears Matrix concept, creating consistency in intensity across varying time domains.

Perhaps most inspiring is the continued success of our Hatchet program, with athletes qualifying for semifinals three years running while balancing full-time careers. This demonstrates that following the appropriate program for your situation can lead to remarkable results without requiring a professional's schedule.

Ready to make meaningful improvements during this critical off-season period? Visit misfitathetics.com to select your program and start building the foundation for next year's competitive success.

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

Misfit Athletics Programming:
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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

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What happens when an entirely new fitness competition bursts onto the scene with high production values and a roster of elite athletes? We take you inside the inaugural World Fitness Project (WFP) event in Indianapolis for a comprehensive, no-holds-barred review of this potentially game-changing addition to the competitive fitness landscape.

Drawing from firsthand experience at the event, we dissect everything from the competition programming to production quality, athlete treatment, and media access. The verdict? Surprisingly smooth operations for a first-time event, with punctual heats, excellent warm-up spaces, and professional staff that created a positive athlete experience throughout. The programming leaned heavily toward pulling gymnastics with a preference for shorter time domains—a consistent thread that's emerging across competitive fitness.

What stood out most was the incredible closeness of the field. The fitness level demonstrated was so uniform that athletes were separated by mere seconds, with dramatic moments like the men's leader dropping to fourth place on the final event due to a single missed lunge. This speaks volumes about how the sport has evolved, where formerly "outlier" performances have become the standard across entire fields of elite competitors.

But the bigger question looms: can events like this capture the casual fan? Despite excellent execution, attendance appeared moderate, particularly on Friday and Sunday. We explore the challenge of explaining "what this is" to potential spectators outside the fitness community bubble and discuss what might be needed for long-term growth in a crowded competition landscape.

Whether you're curious about alternatives to the CrossFit Games or simply interested in the evolution of competitive fitness, this episode offers valuable insights into what may be the future of the sport. Have you watched any WFP events? Let us know your thoughts on how these newer competitions compare to established formats!

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

Misfit Athletics Programming:
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https://misfitathletics.fitr.training/t/misfitathletics/

Misfit Affiliate Programming:
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Ever wondered why Forrest Gump's iconic cross-country journey began with Nike Cortez shoes? Our newest training phase draws inspiration from this powerful symbol of fundamental movement - running - while building a comprehensive foundation for the entire training year ahead.

The Cortez Phase represents our commitment to starting fresh with the most basic and essential human movements. We're focusing on deadlifts as our primary barbell movement, alternating between heavy strength days and conditioning integration to build both absolute strength and work capacity. This methodical approach ensures athletes develop proper posterior chain engagement that transfers to virtually every other movement pattern.

For gymnastics, we're emphasizing strict pulling and pushing movements that establish true upper body strength rather than relying on momentum or compensation patterns. Our approach to progressive scaling in these movements recognizes that bodyweight exercises require the same thoughtful programming as loaded movements - your body is the weight.

Perhaps most significantly, we've made running our conditioning bias. Running forces athletes out of the gym and away from machines, revealing true movement efficiency without equipment to mask compensations. Our detailed approach to running preparation addresses everything from big toe mobility to hip stability, recognizing that quality movement starts with proper joint preparation.

Throughout this podcast, we emphasize that movement quality must precede load or intensity. As a coach, this phase offers a perfect opportunity to establish or reset fundamental movement patterns with your athletes. For gym owners, we discuss how creating top-down buy-in for programming philosophy creates a culture of intentional practice rather than mindless exercise.

Ready to join us for this foundational journey? Visit teammisfit.com and click "Sign Up Now" for a two-week free trial on StreamFit, SugarWOD, or PushPress. Experience programming that builds not just immediate fitness, but long-term athletic development for life.

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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.

If you'd like to join the Misfit family and get fit head to the link in our Instagram bio to get started today.

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!