4 Rounds for Time
8 Hang clusters
8 Burpee double jump over bar
3 Rope climbs
18 Toes to bar
18 Alt. DB Snatch
Deadlifts – @102/70 kg (225/155 lb)
400 meter Run
The Sugar Daddy benchmark workout comprises a challenging combination of deadlifts and a 400-meter run, structured in a 21-15-9 rep scheme. This workout tests not only your strength but also your cardiovascular endurance and pacing strategy. The deadlifts, set at a heavy weight, demand powerful hip extension and grip strength, while the 400-meter run pushes your aerobic capacity under the fatigue of the previous lifts. This combination creates a comprehensive challenge, ensuring that athletes will need to maintain intensity while managing their energy efficiently throughout the workout.
To optimize your performance in the Sugar Daddy workout, start with a controlled pace on the deadlifts, focusing on form rather than speed. Aim for unbroken sets in the initial round of 21 reps, but be prepared to break them into smaller sets as fatigue sets in. Transition quickly to the run to maximize your time efficiency. The 400-meter sprint will require you to dig deep, so maintain a steady rhythm rather than starting too fast. In the final 9 reps, give it your all, aiming to push through the last deadlifts and giving everything you have left on the final run to secure your best time. Efficient pacing throughout is key to achieving a top score in this benchmark WOD.
To perform the benchmark workout, For Time: 21-15-9, begin by executing 21 deadlifts with a weight that challenges you but allows for proper form. Focus on engaging your core and maintaining a neutral spine throughout the lift.
After completing the deadlifts, immediately transition to a 400-meter run. Keep a steady pace, and focus on your breathing to maintain endurance.
Once back from the run, repeat the deadlifts for 15 reps, followed by another 400-meter run. Finally, complete 9 deadlifts and finish with the last 400-meter run. Your goal is to maintain intensity throughout the workout while ensuring each repetition is performed with good technique.


For the deadlifts, scale the weight to something manageable, such as 60-80 kg for men and 40-60 kg for women. Beginners may also opt for lighter weights to ensure proper form.
For the 400 meter run, consider replacing it with a 200 meter jog or a brisk walk, especially for those newer to running. Alternatively, you could substitute the run with rowing or cycling, aiming for a 1:2 work-to-rest ratio.
If the full workout feels overwhelming, it's acceptable to adjust the rep scheme to 15-12-9 or even 9-6-3 for more manageable sets while still maintaining intensity.
Your score for the Sugar Daddy workout is calculated based on the total time it takes to complete the 21-15-9 repetitions of Deadlifts and 400-meter Runs.
Begin by performing 21 Deadlifts followed by a 400-meter Run. Once completed, move on to 15 Deadlifts and another 400-meter Run. Finally, finish with 9 Deadlifts and the last 400-meter Run.
Record your finish time in seconds. This means if you finish the workout in 8 minutes and 30 seconds, your score would be 510 seconds.
To track your progress, compare your score against previous attempts or benchmark averages for your fitness level.


Start the Sugar Daddy workout at a steady pace, aiming for smooth transitions between movements. During the 400-meter run, focus on maintaining a consistent breathing pattern to conserve energy for the deadlifts.
For the 21-15-9 format, break the deadlifts into manageable sets if necessary. Instead of going unbroken, consider doing sets of 5 or even 3 to maintain form and prevent early fatigue.
Pace yourself throughout the workout, especially during the final 9 deadlifts when fatigue sets in. Always prioritize form over speed to avoid injury. After completing the deadlifts, recover during your run and prepare for the next round mentally.
Stay focused on your technique, and remember that consistency is key to finishing strong.
A good score for the Sugar Daddy workout, which consists of 21-15-9 deadlifts followed by a 400-meter run, can vary significantly based on experience level.
Intermediate athletes should aim for a completion time between 9 to 12 minutes. Advanced participants may finish between 7 to 9 minutes, demonstrating higher efficiency and strength. Elite athletes can achieve times under 7 minutes, showcasing exceptional pacing and muscular endurance.
In general, a score under 10 minutes indicates solid performance, while finishing closer to 6 minutes or less reflects elite-level fitness. This workout emphasizes both strength and cardiovascular endurance, making time a crucial aspect of assessment.


The Sugar Daddy workout is designed to test both strength and cardiovascular endurance in a short, intense format. The combination of performing deadlifts followed by a 400-meter run creates a demanding sequence that challenges muscle fatigue while boosting aerobic capacity.
This benchmark workout aims to push athletes to their limits, emphasizing the ability to transition smoothly between weightlifting and running. Athletes will need to manage their grip strength and overall stamina as they cycle through the deadlifts and runs.
Overall, Sugar Daddy encourages athletes to find efficiency in their movements, maintain proper form under fatigue, and hone their pacing strategies for optimal performance in high-intensity situations.
The workout titled "Sugar Daddy" consists of 21-15-9 repetitions of deadlifts followed by a 400-meter run, performed for time. This high-intensity workout tests both strength and endurance.
The world record for completing the Sugar Daddy workout is reported to be around 3 minutes and 30 seconds for elite male athletes, while elite female athletes have clocked in at around 4 minutes and 15 seconds.
These times are based on exceptional performance and require a combination of explosive strength and fast-paced running to achieve. Athletes must maintain a proficient deadlift technique while maximizing speed during the runs to excel in this challenging workout.


The benchmark workout "Sugar Daddy" honors the late CrossFit coach and mentor, Chris "Sugar" Bader. Known for his unforgettable spirit and unwavering dedication to the fitness community, Bader inspired countless athletes through his coaching and support.
This workout, comprised of deadlifts and a 400-meter run, reflects his commitment to challenging physical limits while fostering camaraderie among participants. The name "Sugar Daddy" embodies the affection and respect his peers held for him, celebrating both his legacy and the impact he made in the lives of those he trained.
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8 Hang clusters
8 Burpee double jump over bar
3 Rope climbs
18 Toes to bar
18 Alt. DB Snatch
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