benchmark_wod

The Chief is Dead - Crossfit Workout

AMRAP 4 (x5)

3 Power Cleans - @135/95 lb
6 Push-Ups
9 Air Squats
12 Deadlifts - @135/95 lb

Execution and Focus

The Chief is Dead is an intense benchmark workout that emphasizes both strength and conditioning through a classic AMRAP format. In just 4 minutes, athletes will cycle through 3 Power Cleans, 6 Push-Ups, 9 Air Squats, and 12 Deadlifts, testing both their technical proficiency and muscular endurance. This combination of movements not only challenges multiple muscle groups but also pushes cardiovascular limits, making it a comprehensive test for anyone looking to gauge their fitness level. The workout is scalable, allowing athletes of varying abilities to modify weights and reps without compromising the overall challenge.

Strategy and Finish

To optimize your performance during The Chief is Dead, begin with a manageable pace, aiming to complete each round within 1-2 minutes. Focus on maintaining proper form during each Power Clean to avoid injury and maximize your efforts. The Push-Ups should be executed strictly, aiming for unbroken sets if possible, while the Air Squats should be performed with full depth to ensure activation of the glutes and quads. The Deadlifts should be approached with a focus on maintaining a strong back and proper hip hinge, allowing for efficient transitions between movements. As you near the end of the AMRAP, push through any fatigue and aim to complete one or two additional rounds, as each rep counts towards your final score and ranking!


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How do you perform the The Chief is Dead workout

Learn how to crush this benchmark workout

To perform the AMRAP 4 workout, start by executing 3 Power Cleans, focusing on a strong pull from the ground and keeping the bar close to your body. Engage your legs to drive the weight upward and maintain a solid catch position.

Next, transition into 6 Push-Ups. Keep your core tight, and ensure your elbows are at a 45-degree angle as you lower and raise your body. Aim for full range of motion.

Follow this with 9 Air Squats. Keep your chest up, and push your hips back as you descend, ensuring your knees track over your toes. Stand tall at the top.

Conclude the sequence with 12 Deadlifts. Set your feet shoulder-width apart, hinge at the hips, and maintain a flat back while lifting the barbell from the ground. Repeat for the duration of the AMRAP.

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How do you scale the workout

The benchmark wod "The Chief is Dead" can be done by everyone

Reduce the weight on the power cleans to ensure you can maintain good form throughout the sets. A weight around 65-95 lbs (30-43 kg) is appropriate for most beginners.

For the push-ups, consider doing them on your knees or adjusting to an elevated surface to build strength gradually. Aim for 5-10 reps per set if standard push-ups are challenging.

When it comes to air squats, ensure proper depth and technique. If needed, use a box or wall for support to maintain balance.

For deadlifts, lower the weight to 75-135 lbs (34-61 kg) to focus on form and execution instead of heavy lifting.

Lastly, adjust the total duration to 8-12 minutes or lessen the repetitions according to your fitness level.

How do you score the WOD

See if you beat your friends in the benchmark wod "The Chief is Dead"

Your score for the workout AMRAP 4, titled The Chief is Dead, is calculated by counting the total number of complete rounds you finish, along with any extra repetitions performed after the final full round.

Each round consists of 3 Power Cleans, 6 Push-Ups, and 9 Air Squats, totaling 18 reps per round. You'll also need to complete 12 Deadlifts at the end of your rounds.

For example, if you complete 5 full rounds, and then perform 3 Power Cleans, 2 Push-Ups, and 1 Air Squat in your final round, your final score would be 5 rounds plus 6 additional reps, resulting in a total score of 5 + 6 = 66 reps.

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What are the tips and strategy to use

Here is how to gain an edge in the "The Chief is Dead"

Begin with a controlled pace, especially during the early rounds to avoid fatigue. Focus on maintaining good form for each movement, ensuring that power cleans are executed explosively while keeping the core engaged. For push-ups, consider doing them in sets, breaking after 3 or so to minimize overall fatigue.

Utilize a steady rhythm for air squats, emphasizing depth and form to maximize effectiveness. Transition quickly between movements; efficiency is key in this workout. For deadlifts, keep the weight manageable to ensure you can maintain a strong posture throughout.

Lastly, stay mentally focused and track your rounds, aiming to improve your performance with each attempt. Consistency and pacing will lead to better overall results.

What is a good score for the The Chief is Dead workout

Check out how you did in the "The Chief is Dead"

A good score for the workout "The Chief is Dead," which involves an AMRAP format, can vary based on experience and fitness level.

Intermediate: 6–8 rounds. Advanced: 9–11 rounds. Elite: 12+ rounds. Achieving more than 12 rounds signifies exceptional endurance and efficiency in movement.

To determine your score, total the completed rounds and reps within the 4-minute time frame. This workout focuses on combining strength and stamina, so pacing is key.

Consistent performances in this workout will enhance overall fitness and can indicate progress in your training regimen. Aim to challenge yourself while maintaining proper form.

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What is the intended stimulus for the The Chief is Dead workout

What part of your body is being challenged in the "The Chief is Dead"

The Chief is Dead is intended to push the limits of muscular endurance and aerobic capacity within a short time domain. Athletes will engage in a continuous cycle of power cleans, push-ups, air squats, and deadlifts, fostering a blend of strength and stamina.

This workout format encourages athletes to maintain a consistent pace while battling fatigue, making strategic choices in movement efficiency. As rounds progress, cumulative fatigue will demand mental fortitude and resilience to complete the workout effectively.

The simplicity of the movements allows for a focus on technique while ensuring a full-body challenge, ultimately enhancing functional fitness and preparing athletes for varied physical demands.

What is the World record for the The Chief is Dead workout

What is the fastest score for "The Chief is Dead"

The Chief is Dead is a challenging AMRAP workout that pushes athletes to their limits, requiring both strength and endurance. Unofficial top scores observed within the CrossFit community for elite male athletes typically range from 20 to 22 rounds, while elite female athletes often achieve scores between 17 and 19 rounds.

These exceptional performances necessitate maintaining a rapid pace, with sub-1-minute rounds. Achieving such scores demands not only physical prowess but also mental resilience, especially as fatigue sets in during the workout.

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Who are we honoring with the benchmark wod "The Chief is Dead"

Why are we doing the "The Chief is Dead" workout?

The benchmark workout "The Chief is Dead" honors the legacy of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jason A. K. Hargis, a U.S. Army soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice during his service. His dedication and bravery exemplify the spirit of heroism and commitment to duty.

This workout serves as a tribute to those who have served in the military, reminding participants of the sacrifices made by our armed forces. The physical challenges of the workout reflect the strength and resilience needed in times of adversity.

What kind of exercises are in the The Chief is Dead The benchmark workout?

  • Deadlift

    The deadlift is one of the most effective strength movements in any fitness program. It targets the posterior chain — including your glutes, hamstrings, back, and core — making it a cornerstone of any deadlift workout.

    In this workout, deadlifts develop raw strength, posture, and pulling power. Whether you're lifting light for speed or going heavy for strength, the deadlift builds a solid foundation for both performance and injury prevention.

  • push up

    The push-up is a foundational bodyweight movement that strengthens the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. A staple in any push-up workout, it’s effective, scalable, and requires no equipment — making it perfect for all fitness levels.

    In this workout, push-ups develop upper body endurance, stability, and control, especially under fatigue. Whether performed strict, hand-release, or elevated, the push-up is a timeless movement that builds strength and resilience.

  • air squat

    The air squat is a fundamental bodyweight movement that builds lower body strength, mobility, and endurance. As a key component of many air squat workouts, it targets the quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core—all without equipment.

    In this workout, air squats help develop proper squat mechanics, balance, and muscular stamina, making them perfect for warm-ups, high-rep conditioning, or scaling strength-based movements.

  • power clean

    The power clean is a fast, explosive lift that develops full-body strength, speed, and coordination. A staple in Olympic lifting and functional fitness, it’s central to many high-intensity power clean workouts.

    In this workout, power cleans train your hip extension, pulling power, and barbell control, making them ideal for improving athletic performance and barbell cycling. Whether done heavy or for reps, the power clean is key for building functional power and explosiveness.

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