WodBase

Open 12.1

AMRAP

The opening workout of the 2012 CrossFit Open. Seven minutes of burpees. Simple in design, brutal in execution. This workout became infamous for its pure test of conditioning and mental fortitude.

The Workout

7-minute AMRAP

  • 1Burpees
Equipment Needed
None (or box for RX+)
Target Time

Beginner

80-100 reps

Intermediate

100-120 reps

Advanced

120-140 reps

Strategy & Tips

Open 12.1 is deceptively simple: as many burpees as possible in 7 minutes. No complexity, just relentless work. This is a pure test of conditioning and mental toughness.

  • Find a sustainable pace from the start—don't go out too fast
  • Breathe rhythmically—exhale on the jump, inhale on the way down
  • Aim for 15-18+ burpees per minute for a competitive score
  • Use the full 7 minutes—don't stop before time expires
  • This will hurt—embrace the discomfort

Pacing

Consistent pace throughout. If you're doing 20+ burpees in minute 1, you'll likely crash. Find a sustainable rhythm and maintain it.

Scaling Options

Scaled

  • Burpees (step-back/step-up allowed)

RX+

  • Burpee box jump overs (24/20 in)
Benchmark Times

Elite

150+ reps

Advanced

130-150 reps

Intermediate

100-130 reps

Beginner

70-100 reps

Workout Variations

Extended 12.1

Longer time domain

12.1 + Box

Added complexity

Sprint 12.1

Shorter, faster

Frequently Asked Questions