Masters In Motion

As we look at this massive 2026 calendar, the one thing that will determine your success is how well you recover between these high-intensity blocks. That’s why we’re partnered with Thirdzy. Their PM Recovery Collagen is a staple for us because it’s melatonin-free and focuses on actual restorative sleep and joint health. If you’re serious about competing this year, don’t overlook your sleep. Go to thirdzy.com and use code JASONZZZ for 20% off your order.”Jason Grubb and Rick Stevenson kick off the New Year by tackling the most pressing topic for any competitive athlete over 35: the 2026 Masters Competition Calendar. With the season structure evolving, Jason and Rick provide a high-level overview of the major milestones ahead, from the upcoming CrossFit Open to the specialized qualifiers that define the Masters journey.
The conversation goes beyond simple dates, diving into the logistical and strategic realities of the season. They break down the “backfilling” process for major events, the nuances of the new semifinal structure, and why this year feels more “stacked” than ever before. Whether you are aiming for the Masters CrossFit Games in San Jose or looking at community-driven events like Wodapalooza, this episode serves as your essential guide to navigating the year ahead. Jason also shares a personal story about a recent ride-along with his son in Denver, offering a grounded perspective on life outside the gym and the importance of finding balance amidst a busy competitive schedule.
Key Takeaways
* The 2026 Schedule is Loaded: Between the CrossFit Games season, Legends, and community events, athletes have more opportunities—and decisions—to make than ever before.
* Mastering the Qualifiers: A deep dive into how qualification paths work this year, including the technicalities of how spots are backfilled for major competitions.
* Priority Planning: Why understanding the full year’s calendar now is critical for managing your recovery, budget, and peak performance windows.
* Recovery is Non-Negotiable: As the volume of available competitions increases, prioritizing tools like Thirdzy becomes essential for staying healthy throughout a long season.
Chapters
* 00:00 New Year Greetings and Weather Talk
* 01:20 Jason’s Personal Update: The Denver Ride-Along
* 06:09 2026 Competition Calendar Overview
* 08:22 Current Qualifiers and Events
* 09:57 Upcoming CrossFit Open and Wodapalooza
* 19:28 Qualification Paths for Masters Competitions
* 21:27 The Backfilling Process Explained
* 23:21 Upcoming Semifinals and Community Events
* 28:55 The Busy Competition Calendar for 2026
* 33:02 Looking Ahead: Future Competitions and Opportunities


Get full access to The Jason Grubb Journal at jasongrubb.substack.com/subscribe

As we approach 2026, it’s time to cut through the noise and build a nutrition strategy that actually lasts. We are unlocking the vault to bring you one of our most impactful episodes to date—a masterclass in simplifying your diet for the new year.
In this replay, Jason Grubb and Rick Stevenson reconnect you with EC Synkowski, the founder of Optimize Me Nutrition. If your 2026 goals involve looking better, performing harder, or simply feeling your best without a restrictive diet, this conversation is your starting line.
This episode is powered by Thirdzy. Start your 2026 recovery routine now. Imagine hitting your workouts harder and waking up feeling unstoppable. That’s what Thirdzy’s PM Recovery Collagen does. It’s like a pre-workout for your sleep, fueling your body’s active recovery processes without melatonin or sedatives. Just one scoop before bed supports deeper, more restorative sleep so you can crush your fitness goals. 👉 Visit thirdzy.com and use code Jasonzzz to save 20%.
What You’ll Learn for the Year Ahead:
* The 800 Gram Challenge: Forget counting every calorie. EC breaks down her foundational approach that focuses on adding high-quality foods (fruits and veggies) rather than subtracting everything you love.
* The Three Pillars Method: A sustainable framework to keep your habits on track long after January 1st.
* Myth Busting: We tackle the internet’s favorite debates—including the truth about seed oils and why potatoes deserve a place on your plate.
* Budgeting for Health: Practical tips on how to eat like a pro without breaking the bank.
* The Psychology of Eating: How your identity influences your food choices and how to shift your mindset for long-term success.
Whether you are an athlete aiming for the podium or just looking to optimize your daily energy, this episode offers the fresh perspective you need to dominate 2026.
Key Takeaways:
* Simplifying Nutrition: Why actionable, straightforward advice wins over complex diet fads.
* 800 Gram Challenge: The power of volume eating for health and performance.
* Budget-Friendly Nutrition: High-value nutrition doesn’t have to be expensive.
* Nuanced Debates: A clear look at potatoes, seed oils, and junk food.
* Travel Tips: How to maintain your standards while on the road.


Get full access to The Jason Grubb Journal at jasongrubb.substack.com/subscribe

Sponsored by Thirdzy – Better Sleep. Better Recovery.
Description
In this festive episode of Masters in Motion, Jason Grubb and Rick Stevenson lean into the holiday spirit—ugly sweaters, Christmas foods, and all—while breaking down one of the biggest Masters competitions of the year: the Legends Championship.
The guys dive deep into the programming challenges, standout athlete performances across age groups, and what made this year’s Legends event both fun and demanding. They also look ahead to the future of Legends, the evolving semi-final structure, and what it means for Masters athletes heading into the next season—including the excitement around the 20th anniversary CrossFit Games location announcement.
To wrap it up, things get light-hearted as Jason and Rick debate favorite holiday foods and traditions, reminding us that balance, community, and joy are just as important as competition.
💤 Powered by Thirdzy — Better recovery starts with better sleep.Thirdzy’s Rest & Recovery Collagen helps you fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up more refreshed — without melatonin or sedatives.👉 Save 20% at thirdzy.com with code Jasonzzz.
🔥 Also sponsored by Kineon Move+Reduce pain, speed up recovery, and keep training harder for longer with Kineon Move+, the red-light therapy device trusted by athletes who need to stay in the game. I use the Move+ daily on knees, elbows, and shoulders — anywhere inflammation tries to slow me down.
If you want faster healing, less pain, and better movement…👉 Save 10% with code: jasongrubbfitness at kineon.io


Get full access to The Jason Grubb Journal at jasongrubb.substack.com/subscribe

In this inspiring conversation, Jason Grubb and Rick Stevenson sit down with Val Voboril, a CrossFit legend known for her longevity, resilience, and passion for sport. Val opens up about what’s kept her going strong for over two decades in endurance sports, the importance of finding joy in training, and how community plays a vital role in an athlete’s journey.
She shares practical insights on balancing hard work with fun, managing motivation over the years, and maintaining a healthy mindset around performance and competition. Whether you’re an athlete or a coach, Val’s wisdom reminds us all that the key to long-term success isn’t just grit — it’s joy.
💤 Powered by Thirdzy — Better recovery starts with better sleep.Thirdzy’s Rest & Recovery Collagen helps you fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up more refreshed — without melatonin or sedatives.👉 Save 20% at thirdzy.com with code Jasonzzz.
🔥 Also sponsored by Kineon Move+Reduce pain, speed up recovery, and keep training harder for longer with Kineon Move+, the red-light therapy device trusted by athletes who need to stay in the game. I use the Move+ daily on knees, elbows, and shoulders — anywhere inflammation tries to slow me down.
If you want faster healing, less pain, and better movement…👉 Save 10% with code: jasongrubbfitness at kineon.io
🔑 Takeaways:
* Val emphasizes the importance of finding your why in sport.
* Durability comes from balancing hard work and fun.
* A supportive community helps sustain motivation and growth.
* Joy and curiosity should remain central to every training session.
* Longevity in sports requires adaptability and self-awareness.
* Competition is part of the journey — not the destination.
* Athletes thrive when they focus on process over outcome.


Get full access to The Jason Grubb Journal at jasongrubb.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Masters of Motion, Jason Grubb and Rick Stevenson are joined by Joe Linton to discuss the exciting future of the 2026 CrossFit Games and the long-awaited return of in-person qualifiers for Masters athletes. Joe shares exclusive details about the Legends Championship — set to take place at the iconic Del Mar Arena, a historic CrossFit venue — and how this event will reshape the Masters competition landscape.
From qualification structure and programming insights to drug testing policies and community engagement, this conversation dives deep into what athletes can expect. The hosts and Joe emphasize creating unforgettable experiences for both competitors and fans while honoring the spirit and history of CrossFit.
Powered by BOLDER ATHLETE — Smart training for Masters Athletes by 6x CrossFit Games Masters Champion, Jason Grubb. 👉 Visit bolderathlete.com and get 3 weeks of training for free.
🔑 Takeaways:
* In-person qualifiers for Masters athletes are officially returning.
* The Legends Championship will be held at Del Mar, a classic CrossFit venue.
* Qualification spots will be earned through quarterfinal performance.
* Community feedback continues to shape the evolution of Masters events.
* Drug testing will align with CrossFit HQ standards for integrity.
* Event programming will celebrate CrossFit’s historic workouts.
* In-person competition provides unmatched energy and camaraderie.
* The Legends team is committed to athlete experience and safety.
* The event aims to sell out and create an electric spectator environment.
* The ultimate goal: build a lasting tradition for Masters athletes at Del Mar.
🧠 Chapters:00:00 – Introduction and Overview of the 2026 CrossFit Games01:49 – Details of the Legends Championship Semifinal04:26 – Qualification Process and Athlete Participation11:46 – Community Expectations and Event Logistics15:24 – Unique Features of Legends Events20:39 – Drug Testing Standards for Competitions21:48 – Programming and Coordination with CrossFit HQ23:13 – Competition Structure and Scoring23:54 – Competing in Multiple Qualifiers25:15 – Opportunities for U.S. Athletes26:10 – International Representation in Competitions27:46 – Adjustments for Masters Athletes30:31 – In-Person vs. Online Qualifiers32:02 – The Experience of Competing in Person35:07 – The Significance of Semi-Finals37:54 – Future Plans for Legends Events


Get full access to The Jason Grubb Journal at jasongrubb.substack.com/subscribe