Open 16.5
For TimeOpen 16.5 was a repeat of the infamous 14.5, giving athletes a chance to test their progress. The same descending ladder of thrusters and bar-facing burpees remains one of the most challenging Open workouts ever programmed.
The Workout
21-18-15-12-9-6-3 reps for time
- 1Thrusters (95/65 lb)
- 2Bar-Facing Burpees
Time Cap: 20 minutes
Equipment Needed
BarbellWeight plates
Target Time
Beginner
16-20 minutes
Intermediate
12-16 minutes
Advanced
8-12 minutes
Strategy & Tips
Open 16.5 is a repeat of 14.5—the same brutal combination of thrusters and bar-facing burpees. Knowing your 14.5 time helps with pacing strategy.
- If you did 14.5, you know what to expect—plan accordingly
- Break thrusters into manageable sets from the start
- Burpees are where you can make up or lose time
- The final rounds should feel fast—empty the tank
- Mental game is huge—stay present, one rep at a time
Pacing
Aim to beat your 14.5 time if you have one. Controlled start, build through the middle, sprint the finish.
Scaling Options
Scaled
- Thrusters (65/45 lb)
- Bar-Facing Burpees (step over allowed)
RX+
- Thrusters (115/80 lb)
- Bar-Facing Burpees
Benchmark Times
Elite
sub 8:00
Advanced
8:00-11:00
Intermediate
11:00-15:00
Beginner
15:00-20:00
Workout Variations
16.5 Light
Reduced weight
Extended 16.5
More rounds
16.5 Row
Added cardio
Related Workouts
Frequently Asked Questions