Communication is key. This statement holds true in many areas of life but especially in the gym where we rely on one another to safely explore and push beyond our limits. Whether using a spot during our bench press work sets, helping each other stretch, or spotting each other while upside down in a handstand or on the rings, being on the same channel as your spotter is a matter of trust and safety. Recently, Becky and the 7pm crew were perfecting their handstands and thought that it would be good to have a safe word so their spotter knew when to help them or when to help them down in the case of the handstand. And viola, “¡jalapeño!” was born, and has spread like wildfire.

The use of safewords is not uncommon as Kelly Starrett, owner of CrossFit San Francisco and CrossFit Mobility and Recovery Seminar teacher, instructs his athletes and clients how and when to use a safeword in a way that has put “brisket” on a whole new level. With HSPUs being the focus of our Challenge this month, it is especially important to be on the same page as our spotter to help us kick up into and out of the bands. So when things start to get a little too hot for your taste just shout “¡jalapeño!” to your spotter and they’ll give you a hand and help you out of your spicy situation.

REST DAY 07.03.10