126: The Rise of Complete Fitness: What It Means for CrossFit’s Future
Feb 7, 2025
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Cole Sager, an 11-time CrossFit Games competitor and new president of CompTrain, shares insights on the transformative trend of 'complete fitness.' He discusses the changing dynamics in CrossFit, emphasizing the need for athletes to adapt to sponsorship challenges and diversify their income. Sager highlights the evolution of fitness priorities, the rise of new competitive formats, and innovative therapies for recovery. He also touches on the importance of nurturing personal relationships and integrating faith into fitness journeys.
Cole Sager argues that the transition to 'complete fitness' aims to empower everyday individuals alongside elite competitors, broadening the appeal of fitness.
The importance of diversifying income sources for athletes is emphasized, as relying solely on competitions is no longer sustainable in the evolving fitness landscape.
Sager highlights the need for athletes to balance competition with personal health and family priorities, promoting a holistic approach to fitness and lifestyle.
Deep dives
Leadership at CompTrain
Cole Sager recently became the president of CompTrain, transitioning the brand from Competitors Training to Complete Training. This change reflects a vision of expanding fitness training methods beyond just competitive athletes to include a broader audience. Sager emphasizes that fitness should not only serve elite competitors but also cater to everyday individuals who want to improve their performance in life. His goal is to ensure that more people can feel athletic and empowered through structured training programs.
Evolution of Competitive CrossFit
The landscape of competitive fitness has shifted significantly, with Sager reflecting on his career as an athlete witnessing these changes. He highlights that many professional CrossFit athletes rely on sponsorships and online presence rather than solely on competition to secure their livelihoods. Sager notes that the appeal of the CrossFit Games has diminished for younger generations, suggesting that the sport needs to evolve to attract new talent and participants. He anticipates that alternative competitive avenues may rise, leading to a diversification of fitness events.
Shift in Athlete Perceptions
With the evolution of CrossFit, there's a growing sentiment among athletes that relying solely on competitions is not a sustainable career path. Sager discusses how younger athletes might focus too much on excelling at competitions without understanding the need to explore other opportunities and diversify their skill sets. The combination of competing and building a social media presence appears to be the new standard for success. As the sport changes, Sager encourages aspiring athletes to consider their long-term viability in the industry.
Personal Fitness Journeys
Sager shares personal insights regarding fitness and achieving balance in life, especially after sustaining an Achilles injury. He emphasizes the importance of setting realistic training priorities and being intentional about fitness goals in the context of family and personal health. His journey showcases how fitness is not just about competition but about maintaining a healthy lifestyle that allows one to engage with their family and community. Sager also acknowledges how these shifts in goals can lead to profound self-discovery and growth.
The Importance of Connection in Marriage
Sager reflects on the significance of being present in small, daily moments with his spouse, Genesee, amidst the chaos of parenthood. He believes that focusing on these mundane interactions is crucial for nurturing a strong marital bond, rather than solely relying on date nights or grand gestures. By emphasizing the value of communication and intentionality in their relationship, he encourages others to cultivate meaningful connections through consistent and loving actions. This perspective aligns deeply with his faith and commitment to family values.
In Episode 126 of The Jason Khalipa Podcast, Jason Khalipa and Gabe Yanez sit down with CrossFit legend Cole Sager to uncover how the fitness world is shifting toward "complete fitness." From adapting to changes in CrossFit, to exploring new trends and opportunities, they dive deep into what this all means for the sport's future. Hear why athletes need to evolve, how priorities are changing, and what it takes to thrive in today’s fitness landscape. Don’t miss this insightful conversation packed with lessons for both athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
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Chapters:
0:00 Cole Sager: New Role as Comp Train President Revealed
2:13 The Rise of Complete Fitness: What Men Need to Know
6:26 How CrossFit Athletes Adapt to Sponsorship Challenges
8:41 Why Diversifying Income is Key for Today’s Athletes
13:00 Fitness Evolution: New Priorities and Competitive Paths
15:01 Game-Changing Trends in Modern Fitness Leagues
18:46 Facing Challenges: Cole Sager’s Lessons in Personal Growth
20:34 Marathon Dreams: Cole Sager’s Fitness Goals
24:06 Fran Workout Reflections: Inside Cole Sager’s Mind
25:56 Why the Fran Benchmark Defines CrossFit Fitness
29:48 Breaking Down Fitness Myths: Growth Beyond Standards
31:48 Recovery Over Grind: Balancing Injury and Family
35:15 Butterfly vs. Strict Pull-Ups: Which is More Effective?
36:57 The Secret to Mastering Pull-Ups Without Injury
40:41 Hybrid Training: The Accessible Fitness Movement
42:34 Simplicity in Fitness: The Future of Staying Fit
46:03 Cole Sager on CrossFit Controversy Participation
47:57 How Community Fuels Fitness and Injury Comebacks
51:37 The Truth About Blood Work and Male Health
53:14 Life-Changing Tips for Better Health and Fitness
56:54 Why Small Acts Save Marriages and Relationships
58:47 Strengthening Bonds Through Everyday Moments
1:02:10 Bible Project Insights: Making Scripture Relatable
1:04:05 New Ways to Apply the Bible in Daily Life
1:07:54 Turning Life Lessons Into Stronger Connections
1:09:48 Long-Term Fitness and Nutrition for Personal Growth
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