hero_wod

Braswell - Crossfit Workout

AMRAP 40

12 Burpees
9 Hang Power Cleans @43/29 kg (95/65 lb)
18 Wall Ball Shots @9/6 kg (20/14 lb)
200 meter Sandbag Run @27/18 kg (60/40 lb)

Execution and Focus

The Hero Workout "Braswell" is designed to push your limits with an AMRAP of 40 minutes. This workout consists of 12 Burpees, 9 Hang Power Cleans, 18 Wall Ball Shots, and a 200-meter Sandbag Run. Each movement serves a distinct purpose: Burpees test your cardiovascular capacity and full-body coordination, while Hang Power Cleans focus on strength and explosive power from the hips. Wall Ball Shots improve your leg strength and endurance, and the Sandbag Run incorporates functional strength and stamina. The combination of these exercises challenges both your physical capabilities and mental fortitude, making it an ideal workout for serious athletes looking to test their endurance and resilience.

Strategy and Finish

To maximize your performance in "Braswell," start with a controlled and rhythmic pace for the first 10 minutes, allowing your body to acclimate to the demands of the workout. Aim for each round to take approximately 3–5 minutes, adjusting based on your fitness level. Maintain efficiency during the Hang Power Cleans by using good form and minimizing rest between reps. For Wall Ball Shots, focus on a consistent throw and catch to maintain rhythm. The Sandbag Run should be approached with a steady effort, as it can be a significant factor in your overall score. In the last 5–10 minutes, dig deep and aim to push through fatigue, as completing even a few additional rounds can significantly impact your final tally.


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How do you perform the Braswell workout

Learn how to crush this hero workout

For the Braswell hero workout, perform an AMRAP for 40 minutes. Start with 12 burpees, ensuring you jump high at the top and land softly to protect your knees. Follow this immediately with 9 hang power cleans, using a barbell. Focus on a smooth transition from the ground to the shoulders, keeping your elbows high.

Next, complete 18 wall ball shots, aiming for a target about 10 feet high for men and 9 feet for women. Keep your core engaged and squat down properly. After the wall balls, head out for a 200-meter sandbag run, maintaining a steady pace while securely gripping the bag.

Repeat this circuit for the full 40 minutes, pushing your limits for endurance and strength.

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An image showing someone getting ready to scale the Braswell hero workout

How do you scale the workout

The hero wod "Braswell" can be done by everyone

Reduce the burpees by performing them on an elevated surface or step, which can provide a safer alternative for beginners. If needed, lower the repetitions to 6 or 8 to maintain intensity while ensuring proper form.

For the hang power cleans, use a lighter weight, such as 30–50 lbs, or scale to dumbbell cleans. This adjustment keeps the movement effective without risking injury.

For wall ball shots, consider using a lighter ball or performing wall ball squats without the throw to maintain the movement pattern while reducing overall intensity. Aim for 10 shots instead of 18.

On the sandbag run, shorten the distance to 100 meters or switch to a bodyweight run or jog to ensure you can maintain a steady pace.

How do you score the WOD

See if you beat your friends in the hero wod "Braswell"

Your score for the Braswell workout is determined by the total number of full rounds completed, along with any additional repetitions of the listed exercises after your last completed round.

A round consists of performing 12 Burpees, 9 Hang Power Cleans, 18 Wall Ball Shots, and completing a 200-meter Sandbag Run.

For example, if you complete 8 full rounds and then finish 6 Burpees after your last full round, your score would be 8 full rounds + 6 additional reps, equating to a total of 114 reps.

It’s important to keep track of each component of the workout to ensure accurate scoring, maximizing your performance during the AMRAP 40.

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What are the tips and strategy to use

Here is how to gain an edge in the "Braswell"

Begin with a steady pace during the first few rounds to build endurance. Focus on maintaining form rather than speed, especially during burpees and wall ball shots. Transition quickly but efficiently between movements to minimize downtime.

Utilize your legs for power during the sandbag run to conserve energy for the later rounds. Break up the hang power cleans into manageable sets if needed to avoid fatigue, ensuring that your grip remains strong throughout the workout.

Hydrate before starting and consider pacing each segment according to your fitness level. Listening to your body and adjusting as needed can help maintain a consistent effort during the entire 40-minute AMRAP.

What is a good score for the Braswell workout

Check out how you did in the "Braswell"

A good score for the Braswell workout is determined by the number of rounds completed in the 40-minute AMRAP format.

For elite male athletes, a score of 20 to 22 rounds is exceptional, while elite females typically achieve between 17 to 19 rounds.

Intermediate athletes should aim for 9 to 11 rounds, while advanced athletes may complete 13 to 15 rounds.

Successfully hitting these targets indicates not only skilled pacing but also significant muscular endurance and cardiovascular fitness.

A score exceeding 18 rounds overall is a strong indicator of advanced performance in this challenging workout.

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What is the intended stimulus for the Braswell workout

What part of your body is being challenged in the "Braswell"

The Braswell workout, structured as an AMRAP 40, is intended to enhance cardiovascular endurance, muscular stamina, and overall resilience. The combination of burpees, hang power cleans, wall ball shots, and a sandbag run creates a comprehensive approach to fitness that challenges multiple muscle groups while demanding continuous movement.

Each component is designed to build metabolic conditioning, requiring athletes to be both explosive and efficient. The burpees elevate heart rates quickly, while hang power cleans engage major muscle groups for strength and coordination. Wall ball shots add a dynamic element of power, and the sandbag run tests not only strength but also grit over a distance of 200 meters.

Overall, Braswell promotes relentless effort in a timed setting, encouraging athletes to push their limits and effectively manage fatigue.

What is the World record for the Braswell workout

What is the fastest time for the "Braswell"

The world record for the Braswell workout, which features an AMRAP format over 40 minutes, has not been officially recognized. However, unofficial reports indicate impressive performances within the CrossFit community.

Elite male athletes are said to achieve scores ranging from 20 to 22 rounds, while elite females reportedly complete between 17 to 19 rounds. Achieving these scores demands exceptional conditioning, with each round requiring a pace that approaches sub-1-minute intervals.

The workout consists of 12 Burpees, 9 Hang Power Cleans, 18 Wall Ball Shots, and a 200-meter Sandbag Run, all of which contribute to the difficulty and intensity of this challenging routine.

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Who are we honoring with the hero wod "Braswell"

Why are we doing the "Braswell" workout?

The hero workout, Braswell, is named in honor of United States Army Sergeant First Class Matt Braswell. He served valiantly and made the ultimate sacrifice while deployed in Afghanistan. This workout serves as a tribute to his dedication and courage, embodying the spirit of honor and remembrance.

Each movement in the workout represents the high level of physical fitness and resilience required of those in the armed forces. Through this challenging routine, participants pay homage to SFC Braswell and all service members who have given their lives in service to their country.

What kind of exercises are in the Braswell hero workout?

  • Burpee

    The burpee is a simple, full-body movement that combines a squat, plank, and jump into one explosive exercise. It’s a staple in nearly every burpee workout thanks to its ability to build cardio endurance, coordination, and mental toughness — fast.

    In this workout, burpees spike your heart rate, challenge your engine, and require no equipment. Whether you're doing them over a bar, onto a target, or just flat out, burpees are a true test of grit and conditioning.

  • hang power clean

    The hang power clean is a dynamic barbell movement that builds explosive power, coordination, and full-body strength. A staple in many hang power clean workouts, it focuses on lifting the bar from the “hang” position (above the knees) to the shoulders — without a full squat.

    In this workout, hang power cleans challenge your hip drive, grip, and timing, making them ideal for both strength work and high-intensity conditioning. Whether you're cycling reps or going heavy, the hang power clean develops efficient movement and athletic explosiveness.

  • running

    Running is one of the most effective ways to build cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and mental toughness. A foundational element in many running workouts, it adds intensity and pacing challenges to both short sprints and longer distances.

    In this workout, running boosts your engine, footwork, and recovery capacity, especially when paired with strength or skill-based movements. Whether you're hitting meters or minutes, running is essential for building a well-rounded fitness base.

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