hero_wod

William Wren - Crossfit Workout

For Time - 21-15-9

Bench Presses - @42.5 kg (95 lbs)
Ring Dips
Hand Release Push-Ups

Execution and Focus

The William Wren workout is a hero WOD designed to challenge your strength and endurance through a classic 21-15-9 rep scheme. This workout features bench presses, ring dips, and hand release push-ups, demanding full-body engagement and muscle coordination. The time-based nature of the WOD pushes you to maintain intensity as you cycle through these movements. By focusing on maintaining good form while encouraging muscular fatigue, athletes can build resilience and stamina, making this workout suitable for those at various fitness levels.

Strategy and Finish

Begin with a manageable pace, especially during the first round of 21 reps, to prevent early fatigue. Expect each movement to take roughly 45-90 seconds to complete. Aim to tackle the bench presses without breaks, as this will help set a strong foundation for the subsequent exercises. The ring dips may require strategic pacing, so consider breaking them into smaller sets if needed. For the hand release push-ups, focus on maintaining a steady rhythm and avoid rushing through the reps. In the last few minutes, dig deep to push through any remaining reps, as finishing strong can significantly impact your overall time and ranking.


Other crossfit Hero workouts 

, , , ,

John Ginley

2 Rounds for Time

10 Push Presses
10 Back Squats
10 Cleans
10 Overhead Squats

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

AMRAP 24

Buy-In: 60/45 calorie Row (together)
Then, AMRAP in remaining time:
Partner A: 100 meter Sandbag Carry
Partner B: AMRAP of:
10 Burpees
10 Kettlebell Swings
10 Air Squats
Switch when Partner A returns
Partners alternate full rounds.

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

4 Rounds for Time

7 Snatches
14 Burpees
21 Wall Ball Shots
500 meter Row

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

5 Rounds for Time

50 Double-Unders
15 Hang Power Cleans
10 Pull-Ups
5 Handstand Push-Ups

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

4 Rounds for Time

400 meter Run
16 Bench Presses
16 Wall Ball Shots
16 Shoulder-to-Overheads
16 GHD Sit-Ups

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

4 Rounds for Time

25 Shoulder-to-Overheads
400 meter Run
15 Thrusters
400 meter Run

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

5 Rounds For Time

Run 400m (0.25 miles)
15 Overhead Squats

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

4 Rounds for Time

2 Legless Rope Climbs
13 Box Jumps
1,985 meter Air Bike
7 Squat Cleans
9 Strict Pull-Ups
200.6 meter Run with a Medicine Ball

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

5 Rounds for Time

12 Burpee Pull-Ups
12 Handstand Push-Ups
31 Thrusters
20 Box Jump Overs

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

EMOM 15

1 Squat Snatch
1 Overhead Squat
Max Bar-Facing Burpees in remaining time

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

How do you perform the William Wren workout

Learn how to crush this hero workout

The William Wren hero workout consists of a challenging sequence of bench presses, ring dips, and hand release push-ups. Start by performing 21 bench presses, ensuring proper form by keeping your feet flat on the ground and your back pressed against the bench. Move smoothly into 21 ring dips, lowering your body until your elbows are at least parallel to the ground, then pressing back up. Follow this with 21 hand release push-ups, releasing your hands momentarily at the bottom for a full range of motion.

Once you've completed the first round, decrease the repetitions to 15 for each exercise, and finally finish with 9 repetitions in the last round. Focus on maintaining good technique throughout, and aim to minimize rest between movements to maximize your workout efficiency.

An image showing someone explaining how to perform the William Wren hero workout
An image showing someone getting ready to scale the William Wren hero workout

How do you scale the workout

The hero wod "William Wren" can be done by everyone

For the bench presses, consider lowering the weight to 50–65% of your one-rep max, ensuring you can perform each set with good form. If necessary, use a spotter or an assisted bench press machine.

For ring dips, beginners can use a resistance band for support or perform bench dips with feet elevated to create an easier modification. Aim for controlled movement rather than full range of motion.

For hand release push-ups, reduce the number of reps to 5-7 per round or elevate your hands on a box or bench to decrease the difficulty. Focus on maintaining a strong core and proper form throughout the sets.

Adjust the workout time by allowing yourself 10–12 minutes to complete the scaled version while still pushing for intensity.

How do you score the WOD

See if you beat your friends in the hero wod "William Wren"

Your score for the hero workout William Wren is calculated by totaling the number of completed sets of 21-15-9 reps for Bench Presses, Ring Dips, and Hand Release Push-Ups. You perform these exercises in a sequence, aiming to complete all reps as quickly as possible.

The score reflects the total time taken to finish the workout, measured in minutes and seconds. Any additional repetitions after completing the last set should factor into your final score. For instance, if you finish the workout and complete 3 extra bench presses, your score would be the total time plus 3 additional reps.

Tracking your performance helps you gauge progress and push your limits in future workouts.

An image showing someone explaining how to score the William Wren hero workout
An image showing two athletes getting the tips and strategy for the William Wren hero workout

What are the tips and strategy to use

Here is how to gain an edge in the "William Wren"

Prioritize form over speed to maintain efficiency throughout the workout. Start with a moderate weight on the bench press to ensure your technique remains solid as you fatigue. Aim for unbroken sets on the ring dips, but if you feel your form slipping, take a brief rest to reset your position. For the hand release push-ups, focus on maintaining a consistent pace; it's better to do fewer reps with good form than to rush through them.

Stay mentally engaged with the workout by counting your reps aloud or using a clock to track your time. This helps keep you focused and maintains your rhythm. Hydrate adequately before the workout and ensure your equipment is set up for quick transitions.

What is a good score for the William Wren workout

Check out how you did in the "William Wren"

A good score for the William Wren workout, performed for time, generally varies based on the athlete's experience level.

Intermediate athletes typically aim to complete the workout in around 8 to 10 minutes, showcasing a solid grasp of strength and endurance.

Advanced athletes often finish in approximately 6 to 8 minutes, demonstrating high levels of fitness and efficiency.

Elite competitors strive for times under 5 minutes, showcasing exceptional strength, speed, and recovery. Achieving this level of performance indicates mastery over the workout's demands.

Ultimately, personal progress should be the main focus, with consistent training leading to improved times and fitness levels over time.

An image showing a board that could be showing what a good score for the William Wren hero workout would be
An image showing the intended stimulus for the William Wren hero workout

What is the intended stimulus for the William Wren workout

What part of your body is being challenged in the "William Wren"

The William Wren workout is structured to test muscular endurance, chest strength, and overall stamina through a progressive, high-intensity format. The combination of bench presses, ring dips, and hand release push-ups is carefully selected to engage multiple muscle groups while emphasizing pushing strength.

This workout's format encourages athletes to maintain a consistent pace, as they cycle through the 21-15-9 repetition scheme. Each movement targets the upper body while demanding core stability and coordination, making it a comprehensive test of functional fitness.

Ultimately, William Wren aims to challenge athletes by promoting resilience in the face of fatigue, pushing them to optimize their performance while managing transitional moments between exercises.

What is the World record for the William Wren workout

What is the fastest time for the "William Wren"

The workout known as William Wren consists of performing 21-15-9 repetitions of Bench Presses, Ring Dips, and Hand Release Push-Ups for time. This format challenges athletes to complete the workout as quickly as possible.

The world record for the William Wren workout remains a topic of debate within the CrossFit community, with unofficial reports suggesting an impressive range between 4 to 6 minutes for top male competitors. Female athletes typically aim for times around 5 to 7 minutes for elite performances.

These times reflect not only strength and endurance but also the ability to maintain speed and efficiency under fatigue. Mastering this workout requires not just physical prowess but also mental resilience.

An image showing someone getting ready to smash the world record for the William Wren hero workout
An image showing something to honor the people behind the William Wren hero workout

Who are we honoring with the hero wod "William Wren"

Why are we doing the "William Wren" workout?

The hero workout "William Wren" honors U.S. Army Captain William Wren, who tragically lost his life while serving in Afghanistan in 2010. He was known for his dedication, bravery, and commitment to his fellow soldiers.

Captain Wren's legacy lives on through this workout, which challenges athletes to push their limits and embody the same tenacity and spirit he displayed in his service.

This tribute serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and encourages participants to honor their memory through fitness and perseverance.

What kind of exercises are in the William Wren hero workout?

  • bench press

    The bench press is a foundational upper-body strength movement where the athlete presses a barbell from chest to full extension while lying on a bench. Central to any serious bench press workout, it’s a proven builder of raw pushing power and muscle mass.

    In this workout, the bench press targets the chest, triceps, and shoulders—developing pressing strength and upper-body control. Whether trained for max strength, hypertrophy, or accessory work, the bench press remains a cornerstone of effective strength programming.

  • ring dip

    Ring dips are a high-skill upper-body strength movement performed on gymnastic rings, requiring control, stability, and pressing power. Common in ring dip workouts, this movement targets the chest, shoulders, and triceps—while demanding intense core and shoulder stabilization.

    In this workout, ring dips develop pushing strength and gymnastic control, forming a key progression toward muscle-ups and other advanced movements. The instability of the rings forces full-body engagement, making ring dips a true test of upper-body strength and control in functional fitness.

  • hand-release push-up

    The handstand push-up is a high-skill bodyweight movement that builds shoulder strength, balance, and core control. Common in advanced handstand push-up workouts, it challenges your upper body like few other movements.

    In this workout, handstand push-ups develop pressing power and gymnastic control under fatigue. Whether performed strict or kipping, the handstand push-up is a true test of body awareness and upper body stamina.

Our own Workouts with the same "For Time" format

for time workout
Two by Two

, , , , ,

2 Rounds

20/26 Cal Row
9 Shoulder to Overhead
12 Front Rack Lunges

Then 2 Rounds

20/26 Cal Run
9 Bar Facing Burpees
12 Power Cleans

TC: 11

Try it
for time workout
Skipping into Sadness

, ,

2 rounds

200 single unders/100 double unders
400 m run
600 m rowing
2 min pause

Try it
for time workout
Cardio Pyramid Scheme

, , , , , ,

For time

30/35 cal Row
30 Leg behind Pistol / Pistol squats
30/35 cal Bike
30 Push ups
30/35 cal Ski

Directly into

25/30 cal Row
25 Leg behind Pistol / Pistol squats
25/30 cal Bike
25 Push ups
25/30 cal Ski

Directly into

20/25 cal Row
20 Leg behind Pistol / Pistol squats
20/25 cal Bike
20 Push ups
20/25 cal Ski

TC: 31

Try it
for time workout
Thrusters & Throttle

, ,

For time

10-8-6-4-2
DB Thrusters -
20-16-12-8-4
Cal Bike

TC: 8

Try it
for time workout
Pyramid Scheme

, ,

For time

12-10-8-6-4-2-4-6-8-10-12
Cal Assault bike
Burpees

TC: 17

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