Josh Bridges: Honest Insights on CrossFit Games and Navy SEAL Life

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Josh Bridges, a six-time CrossFit Games athlete and former Navy SEAL, has described CrossFit as more physically and mentally demanding than military training, according to a report by Men’s Health. Bridges, who competed in the 2023 CrossFit Games and served in the U.S. Navy for over a decade, outlined the unique challenges of each discipline in an interview published on July 1, 2026.

Bridges emphasized that while military training emphasizes endurance, discipline, and mission-focused objectives, CrossFit prioritizes high-intensity, varied physical exertion designed to push human limits. “In the military, you’re trained to survive and complete tasks under pressure,” he said. “CrossFit is about breaking personal barriers, constantly adapting to new movements, and maintaining peak performance across multiple domains—strength, cardio, and flexibility.”

The former Navy SEAL highlighted that CrossFit’s unpredictability sets it apart from structured military drills. “In the military, you know what to expect: long marches, obstacle courses, and combat simulations. CrossFit is different. Every workout is a puzzle. You might have a deadlift one day, a gymnastics routine the next, and a rowing challenge the day after. It’s like a never-ending test of versatility.”

Military training, Bridges noted, is also physically rigorous but often follows a repetitive, goal-oriented framework. “You build up to a specific standard—like running 5 miles or completing a certain number of pull-ups. CrossFit is about exceeding those standards daily. It’s not just about meeting requirements; it’s about pushing beyond them.”

Bridges’ comments align with broader discussions about the evolving nature of fitness and military preparedness. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that CrossFit participants demonstrated higher levels of functional fitness compared to traditional military training programs, though the study noted that military personnel often had greater endurance in prolonged, low-intensity scenarios.

The former SEAL also addressed the mental toll of both disciplines. “Military training teaches you to stay calm under pressure and follow orders. CrossFit demands self-motivation and the ability to push through pain without external direction. It’s a different kind of mental resilience.”

Men’s Health reported that Bridges’ perspective reflects a growing trend among elite athletes and former military personnel who view CrossFit as a complementary or alternative training method. However, experts caution that the sport’s intensity carries risks. A 2021 review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that CrossFit participants had a higher injury rate compared to those engaged in traditional fitness regimens, though the study attributed this to improper technique rather than the sport’s inherent difficulty.

Bridges himself acknowledged the risks but argued that the benefits outweigh the dangers. “If you train smart and listen to your body, CrossFit can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. It’s not just about getting stronger—it’s about discovering what your body is capable of.”

The debate over CrossFit’s effectiveness versus traditional training methods remains unresolved. While some fitness professionals praise its holistic approach, others question its sustainability and safety. Bridges’ firsthand account adds a unique perspective to the conversation, blending military discipline with the dynamic challenges of competitive fitness.

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Josh Bridges’ Background and Expertise
Bridges, who has competed in the CrossFit Games since 2017, brings a rare combination of military and athletic expertise to the discussion. His Navy SEAL training included rigorous physical conditioning, combat drills, and survival exercises, which he said instilled a deep understanding of endurance and resilience. “The military teaches you to endure. CrossFit teaches you to excel,” he explained.

During his time in the Navy, Bridges participated in specialized training programs designed to prepare sailors for high-stress environments. These included underwater demolition tasks, long-range reconnaissance missions, and extreme weather survival scenarios. “Every day was a test of physical and mental toughness,” he said. “But it was always in service of a larger goal—protecting our country.”

In contrast, CrossFit’s focus on individual performance and competition creates a different kind of pressure. “There’s no mission to accomplish, no unit to support. It’s just you against the workout,” Bridges said. “That’s where the real challenge lies.”

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The Physical and Mental Demands of CrossFit vs. Military Training
Bridges described CrossFit as a “full-body assault” that requires constant adaptation. Workouts often combine weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio in unpredictable sequences, demanding both strength and agility. “You’re not just lifting weights—you’re moving with precision, speed, and control. It’s like a martial art, but with barbells and kettlebells,” he said.

Military training, while physically demanding, tends to emphasize repetition and efficiency. “In the military, you practice the same drills until they become second nature. CrossFit is the opposite. You’re always learning new skills, which keeps your mind engaged but also increases the risk of injury if you’re not careful,” Bridges noted.

The mental aspects of both disciplines also differ. Military personnel are trained to follow orders and prioritize mission