For time
30-20-10-5
Knee raises/knees to elbows/T2B
60-40-20-10
Wallballs 14/20 lbs
400m run after each round
TC: 18
400m Run
21 Kettlebell Swings – @24/16 kg (1.5/1 pood)
12 Pull-Ups
Pull-Ups, Swings, Push-Ups, and Runs
Single-Arm Kettlebell Snatches – @24/16 kg (1.5/1 pood)
Painstorm I is an intense benchmark workout designed to challenge your endurance and strength through a combination of running, kettlebell movements, and bodyweight exercises. The structure consists of three rounds, each beginning with a 400m run to elevate your heart rate, followed by 21 kettlebell swings that target your posterior chain and grip strength, and concluding with 12 pull-ups that focus on upper body strength and muscular endurance. This triplet format not only tests your physical capacities but also your ability to maintain intensity and rhythm under fatigue, making it suitable for a wide range of athletes.
To optimize your performance in Painstorm I, start with a steady and controlled pace during the initial runs to set the tone for the workout while monitoring your breathing. Aim to complete each round in approximately 3-5 minutes, adjusting your rest periods between movements to minimize fatigue. For the kettlebell swings, focus on executing them with a powerful hip drive and a controlled lockout, while your pull-ups should be performed with a consistent rhythm to avoid burnout. As the workout progresses, gauge your energy levels and push harder in the final round, as finishing strong can significantly improve your overall time and ranking on the leaderboard for this benchmark WOD.
To perform the benchmark workout "For Time," start with a 400m run to engage your cardiovascular system, followed by 21 kettlebell swings, ensuring you're using proper form and swinging to at least chest level. After the swings, complete 12 pull-ups, focusing on full range of motion for effective muscle engagement.
For the "Escalating" segment, cycle through pull-ups, kettlebell swings, push-ups, and 400m runs, gradually increasing the intensity with each round.
When tackling the "AMRAP 10," concentrate on single-arm kettlebell snatches, maintaining a strong core and fluid motion with each lift, aiming for as many repetitions as possible within the time frame.


To scale the benchmark workout for time, consider adapting each movement to fit your fitness level. For the 400m run, you might substitute with a 200m run or a 500m row if running isn't feasible.
For kettlebell swings, scale the weight to 12–16 kg or use a lighter dumbbell while maintaining proper form.
If pull-ups are challenging, opt for jumping pull-ups, band-assisted pull-ups, or even ring rows to ensure proper movement mechanics.
Incorporating higher reps or adjusting the time to 14–16 minutes can also make the workout more manageable. Always aim for a workout intensity that allows for form maintenance.
Your score for the benchmark workout "For Time: 3 Rounds" is calculated by completing the required repetitions and distance as quickly as possible. You will time yourself to determine how long it takes to complete 3 full rounds of the workout, which includes a 400m run, 21 kettlebell swings, and 12 pull-ups.
For the escalating workout, your score will vary based on the cumulative total of pull-ups, swings, push-ups, and runs completed in the session. Each movement adds to your final score.
In the AMRAP 10 section, your score consists of the total number of single-arm kettlebell snatches completed within the 10-minute window. This will provide a distinct tally for Painstorm I.


Begin with a steady pace on the 400m run; this will help conserve energy for the kettlebell swings and pull-ups. Focus on a smooth, rhythmic swing, keeping the kettlebell close to your body for better control.
During the pull-ups, utilize a controlled tempo to avoid early fatigue. Consider employing band assistance if needed to maintain form throughout the sets.
For the escalating rounds, start with manageable numbers and increase intensity gradually. Keep rest minimal between exercises to maximize efficiency and maintain heart rate.
In the AMRAP, concentrate on technique over speed for the single-arm kettlebell snatches. Prioritize form, and switch arms as needed to maintain a steady flow.
Remember to hydrate adequately and listen to your body throughout the workout.
For the Painstorm I workout, a good time for completion in the 'For Time' segment – which includes 3 rounds of a 400m run, 21 kettlebell swings, and 12 pull-ups – is under 10 minutes for intermediate athletes.
Advanced participants should aim for around 8 minutes, while elite athletes should strive for sub-7 minutes to demonstrate exceptional fitness levels.
For the escalating portion of pull-ups, swings, push-ups, and runs, tracking performance in rounds is beneficial, with 12-15 rounds considered a solid benchmark for intermediates.
During the 10-minute AMRAP of single-arm kettlebell snatches, 70-90 reps for intermediate and over 100 reps for advanced should indicate a strong score.


The intended stimulus of this benchmark workout is to build cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance while testing overall fitness levels. The 3 rounds of 400m runs, kettlebell swings, and pull-ups create a demanding combination that emphasizes aerobic capacity and grip strength.
The escalating component focuses on the athlete's ability to manage increasing fatigue across various movements, ensuring that each repetition remains efficient and purposeful.
Incorporating the AMRAP 10 of single-arm kettlebell snatches, known as Painstorm I, adds an additional layer of challenge, as it requires explosive power and shoulder stability.
Overall, this workout is designed to enhance functional fitness and mental toughness, pushing athletes to their limits while refining technique and endurance.
The world record for the workout titled Painstorm I has been reported to be around 6 minutes and 30 seconds by elite athletes. This impressive time incorporates three rounds of a 400m run, 21 kettlebell swings, and 12 pull-ups, executed at a blistering pace.
As the workout intensifies, the escalating nature of the pull-ups, swings, push-ups, and runs adds to the challenge, demanding both strength and endurance from the participants.
In the AMRAP 10 segment, elite competitors have achieved around 15 to 20 single-arm kettlebell snatches per arm, showcasing their exceptional skill and conditioning in this explosive workout.


Painstorm I is a benchmark workout that honors the resilience and strength of individuals who face personal struggles and adversities. It serves as a tribute to those who push through pain and challenges, both physically and mentally. This workout encourages participants to embrace discomfort and strive for personal improvement.
The combination of running, kettlebell swings, and pull-ups symbolizes the journey of overcoming obstacles. It reminds athletes to dig deep and find their inner strength, motivating them to continually confront and conquer their own "painstorms."
knees to elbows workout, running workout, toes to bar workout, wall ball workout
30-20-10-5
Knee raises/knees to elbows/T2B
60-40-20-10
Wallballs 14/20 lbs
400m run after each round
TC: 18
Burpee workout, for time workout, thruster workout
21-18-15-12-9-6-3 reps for time of:
Thrusters RX: 30/43
Burpees
dumbbell box step over workout, power clean workout, running workout, wall walk workout
3 Wall Walks
400m Run
5 Power Cleans
18 DB Box Step Overs
box jump over workout, double dumbbell step over workout, ghd sit-up workout, handstand push-up workout
12 Box jump overs
8 Handstand push-ups / Deficit HSPU
12 Double DB Step overs
12 GHD sit-ups
burpee over bar workout, chest to bar workout, Hang Power Clean workout, knee raises workout, knees to elbows workout, pull-up workout, ring r, running workout, shoulder to overhead workout, toes to bar workout
20 Knee raises/knees to elbows/T2B
30 Hang power cleans
20 Shoulders to overhead
30 Ring rows/Pull ups/Chest to bar
20 burpees over bar
Cash out: 800 m run
TC: 14
