benchmark_wod

Van Damme - Crossfit Workout

For Time: 1 Round

30 Snatches - @61/135 lb
10 Muscle-Ups
30 Clean-and-Jerks - @61/135 lb
10 Muscle-Ups
30 Thrusters - @61/135 lb
10 Muscle-Ups

Execution and Focus

The Van Damme benchmark workout is a formidable test of strength, endurance, and skill, consisting of a single round that includes 30 snatches, 10 muscle-ups, 30 clean-and-jerks, another 10 muscle-ups, 30 thrusters, and a final set of 10 muscle-ups. This complex sequence is designed to challenge athletes both physically and mentally, pushing them to master various modalities in a continuous flow. The snatches and clean-and-jerks demand explosive power and proper technique, while the muscle-ups require upper body strength and coordination. The thrusters integrate a full-body push, focusing on leg and shoulder endurance, making this workout a perfect benchmark for those looking to enhance their overall fitness and gauge their progress in a high-stakes WOD.

Strategy and Finish

To tackle the Van Damme benchmark workout effectively, start with a solid plan that balances speed and efficiency. In the first several minutes, maintain a controlled pace, focusing on form to reduce the risk of fatigue. Breaking down the snatches into manageable sets can help; aim for sets of 10 or fewer to ensure muscle efficiency. The muscle-ups should be approached with confidence — if you find yourself struggling, consider incorporating transitions to manage fatigue. Keep the clean-and-jerks smart and deliberate, and manage your breathing to sustain energy for the thrusters. In the final moments of this benchmark WOD, dig deep and push through discomfort, aiming to finish strong and proud, marking your performance on the leaderboard for future reference.


Other crossfit benchmark workouts 

, , , , ,

Row Cindy Row

AMRAP 20

5 Pull-Ups
10 Push-Ups
15 Air Squats
20 cal Row

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Chipper

For Time - 1 Round

30 Pull-Ups
50 Wall Ball Shots
50 Sit-Ups
100 Kettlebell Swings
Perform every two minutes: 10 Burpees.

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Open 12.2

AMRAP 10

30 Snatches
30 Snatches
30 Snatches
Max Snatches

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Tiny Dancer

For Time - 4-6-8-6-4

4-6-8-6-4 Reps of Burpee Pull-Ups, Hang Power Snatches;
then 800m Run;
then 4-6-8-6-4 Reps of Push Presses, Strict Pull-Ups.

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Quarterfinals 23.2

AMRAP 12

8 Single-Arm Dumbbell Snatches
8 Single-Arm Overhead Walking Lunges
40 Crossovers

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Saved by the Barbell

Max Reps in 17 min

1 min Burpees
1 min Wall Ball Shots
1 min Deadlifts
1 min Med Ball Sit-Ups
1 min Hang Power Cleans

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Burptacular

For Time - 10 Rounds

10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 Reps
Burpees
Kettlebell Thrusters
Burpees
Kettlebell Sumo Deadlift High-Pulls
Burpees
Kettlebell Swings

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Open 17.4

AMRAP 13

55 Deadlifts
55 Wall Ball Shots
55 calorie Row
55 Handstand Push-Ups

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Assault Man Eater

5 Rounds for Time

Descending Singles Unders
Dumbbell Ground-to-Overheads
Assault Bike Calories
Russian Twists
Deadlifts

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration
Dan

4 Rounds for Time

21
Overhead Squats
400 meter Run

Read More
An image showcasing a crossfit workout, someone performing the crossfit workouts, or to give crossfit workout inspiration

How do you perform the Van Damme workout

Learn how to crush this benchmark workout

To complete the benchmark workout titled "Van Damme," begin with 30 snatches, ensuring proper form by activating your core and using your legs to drive the lift. Follow this with 10 muscle-ups, focusing on a strong transition from pull to dip.

Next, perform 30 clean-and-jerks, concentrating on keeping the bar close to your body and using your legs effectively during the jerk phase. After the clean-and-jerk, repeat the muscle-ups to challenge your upper body strength again.

Finish with 30 thrusters, utilizing a full squat and explosive drive to press the bar overhead, followed by your final set of 10 muscle-ups. Maintain a steady pace throughout and ensure proper recovery between each movement.

An image showing someone explaining how to perform the Van Damme benchmark workout
An image showing someone getting ready to scale the Van Damme benchmark workout

How do you scale the workout

The benchmark wod "Van Damme" can be done by everyone

Reduce the snatch weight to a manageable level, aiming for 20-30 kg (45-65 lbs) to ensure proper form and higher reps. Consider using a kettlebell or dumbbell for each hand if necessary.

For muscle-ups, substitute with band-assisted pull-ups or jumping muscle-ups to maintain intensity. Alternatively, perform ring rows for a full round.

Scale the clean-and-jerk weight to 25-35 kg (55-75 lbs) for manageable lifts. Alternatively, perform shoulder presses with dumbbells.

When addressing thrusters, consider lowering the weight to 20-30 kg (45-65 lbs) or use a lighter barbell. To modify, opt for front squats combined with push presses.

Adjust the total workout time to 15-20 minutes if necessary to accommodate fitness levels.

How do you score the WOD

See if you beat your friends in the benchmark wod "Van Damme"

Your score for the Van Damme workout is calculated by adding the total number of rounds completed to any extra repetitions you performed after your last full round.

For instance, if you finished 1 full round and completed 15 snatches, your score would be 1 round (which counts as 100 reps) plus 15 additional snatches, giving you a total of 115 reps.

If you completed 2 full rounds and an extra 5 clean-and-jerks, you would have a score of 2 rounds (totaling 200 reps) plus 5, resulting in a score of 205 reps.

Remember to keep track of each exercise's repetitions to ensure an accurate total when scoring your performance.

An image showing someone explaining how to score the Van Damme benchmark workout
An image showing two athletes getting the tips and strategy for the Van Damme benchmark workout

What are the tips and strategy to use

Here is how to gain an edge in the "Van Damme"

Approach the Van Damme workout with a strategic mindset. Start by pacing yourself through the snatches to avoid early fatigue. Focus on form rather than speed, especially during the muscle-ups, to maintain efficiency throughout the workout.

For the clean-and-jerks, use your legs to propel the weight, which will reduce shoulder strain. Break the thrusters into manageable sets if needed, utilizing rest periods effectively to recover your grip and shoulders.

Keep transitions smooth and quick but not rushed; plan your movements to minimize downtime. Lastly, maintain a steady breathing rhythm to support endurance as you tackle this demanding benchmark workout.

What is a good score for the Van Damme workout

Check out how you did in the "Van Damme"

The Van Damme workout is a challenging full-body routine requiring exceptional endurance and strength. Scoring for this workout is based on time taken to complete the prescribed exercises.

A good score for this workout would typically range from 8 to 12 minutes for intermediate athletes. Advanced athletes may finish in 6 to 8 minutes, while elite athletes would aim for under 6 minutes.

CrossFit enthusiasts might track their performance in terms of overall muscle stamina and pacing, with a score under 6 minutes indicating remarkable efficiency and physical ability.

An image showing a board that could be showing what a good score for the Van Damme benchmark workout would be
An image showing the intended stimulus for the Van Damme benchmark workout

What is the intended stimulus for the Van Damme workout

What part of your body is being challenged in the "Van Damme"

The benchmark workout, Van Damme, is intended to test and enhance total body strength, coordination, and muscular endurance. Athletes are challenged to perform a dynamic combination of Olympic weightlifting and bodyweight movements, which demands not only physical strength but also mental resilience.

This workout encourages athletes to maintain a steady pace while managing the intensity of muscle-ups, which can significantly tax the upper body. The inclusion of snatches, clean-and-jerks, and thrusters ensures a comprehensive engagement of major muscle groups.

Ultimately, Van Damme aims to push athletes to their limits while promoting efficiency in movement execution and strategic recovery during a high-volume, time-sensitive setting.

What is the World record for the Van Damme workout

What is the fastest score for "Van Damme"

The world record for the 'Van Damme' workout, performed for time, has not been officially documented in CrossFit competitions. However, athletes have reported impressive times in unofficial settings.

Top competitors have demonstrated remarkable speed, completing the workout in approximately 5 to 7 minutes. These times require a combination of strength, endurance, and skill, highlighting the intensity of each movement.

The workout includes 30 snatches, 10 muscle-ups, 30 clean-and-jerks, followed by another 10 muscle-ups and concluding with 30 thrusters. Achieving a world-class time demands not only physical prowess but also strategic pacing throughout.

Competitors often emphasize the necessity of quick transitions between exercises to optimize their overall time score.

An image showing someone getting ready to smash the world record for the Van Damme benchmark workout
An image showing something to honor the people behind the Van Damme benchmark workout

Who are we honoring with the benchmark wod "Van Damme"

Why are we doing the "Van Damme" workout?

The benchmark workout "Van Damme" is honoring the legendary action movie star Jean-Claude Van Damme. Known for his iconic martial arts skills and athleticism, he has made a significant impact on the film industry and the world of fitness.

This workout reflects his intense physical training and dedication to pushing boundaries, much like his roles in various action films. The combination of strength and agility required in the exercises pays tribute to Van Damme's impressive physique and fighting prowess.

What kind of exercises are in the Van Damme The benchmark workout?

  • thrusters

    The thruster is a full-body compound movement that combines a front squat with an overhead press, making it one of the most demanding and effective exercises in any thruster workout.

    In this workout, thrusters develop leg drive, shoulder endurance, and core stability, all while elevating your heart rate. Whether using a barbell, dumbbells, or kettlebells, the thruster is a powerful tool for building strength, power, and conditioning — fast.

  • clean and jerk

    The clean and jerk is a foundational Olympic lift that develops full-body power, coordination, and strength. A key movement in many strength and conditioning programs, the clean and jerk workout combines a pull from the ground (clean) with an explosive overhead lift (jerk).

    In this workout, clean and jerks train your hips, legs, shoulders, and core, making it one of the most effective lifts for building athletic performance. Whether performed heavy for strength or light for speed, the clean and jerk is essential for total-body development.

Our own Workouts with the same "For Time" format

for time workout
Press Rewind

, ,

For time

12-10-8-6-8-10-12
DB bench press
Double DB cleans
Heavy wall balls

Try it
for time workout
D-Ball Gatekeeper

, , , ,

For time

Buy in: 10 D-ball Cleans

5 Rounds:
200 m Run
12 Deadlifts
9 Bar Facing Burpees

Cash out: 15 D-ball Squats

TC: 17

Try it
for time workout
Climb and Conquer

, ,

For time

21-15-9
HSPU
Pistol Squats
3-2-1
Legless Rope Climb

Try it
for time workout
Assault Wave

For Time

40-30-20-10-20-30-40
Calories on Assault Bike

Rest 1:1 between rounds

Try it
for time workout
Rower’s Revenge

, , , , ,

For time

21-15-9
Cal row
Variation of pistols squat/pistol squat

1 min rest

21-15-9
Cal row
Ring rows/Pull ups/C2B

TC: 15

Try it
bookchevron-downarrow-leftarrow-right linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram