Jocko Willink — retired Navy SEAL, founder of Echelon Front, and one of the most respected voices in military fitness — was recently asked his thoughts on CrossFit. His answer is worth breaking down.
What Jocko Said About CrossFit
Jocko has 20 years of Navy service and knows exactly what it takes to build a combat-ready body. When asked about CrossFit, his take was nuanced — and we pretty much agree with him.
Watch the full Jocko Podcast episode here:
The SGPT Take on CrossFit
Having owned and coached CrossFit for over 10 years, here's our honest assessment:
What CrossFit got right:
- Got people off machines and into functional movement
- Introduced bumper plates and proper squat racks to mainstream gyms
- Built community and accountability around training
- Popularized high-intensity conditioning
Where CrossFit overcomplicated things:
- Gymnastics movements that take years to master and aren't necessary for operator fitness
- Olympic lifting under fatigue — high injury risk for minimal functional return
- "Scientific" terminology used to explain simple concepts
- 100% random programming isn't ideal — especially for those who need strength cycles
As Jocko points out: some repetition in programming is good. Strength cycles require progressive overload over time — not random daily variation.
How SGPT Training Is Different
SGPT Online ditched the complicated movements and the jargon. Our programs are built around what actually works for operator-level fitness:
- Functional strength movements you already know
- Structured periodization with strength cycles, endurance blocks, and deload weeks
- Ruck training, swimming, and real-world conditioning
- Mental toughness built into every session
The result is a complete system — not a random daily workout.
Ready to Train Smarter?
🔥 SGPT Silver On-Ramp Program — The smart starting point. Structured, progressive, and built for real results.
💪 SGPT 365 Total Training System — A full year of pre-programmed operator-level training. Strength cycles, endurance blocks, and mental toughness — all mapped out.
🏋️ Tier 1 Development Program — Advanced 90-day tactical fitness for those ready to train at the elite level.
🎯 SGPT Murph Challenge 2026 — Memorial Day is 12 days away. No complicated movements. Just you, the work, and the clock.
HOOYAH!
Coach Brad McLeod
SEALgrinderPT.com