CrossFit Terminology: The Meaning of 'BJ' and Other Common Abbreviations

What does BJ stand for in CrossFit?

In the standardized lexicon of CrossFit, the abbreviation "BJ" does not stand for any recognized or official movement, workout, or concept. It is not a standard term you would typically encounter in official programming or the CrossFit Journal.

Addressing the Abbreviation "BJ" in CrossFit

When engaging with CrossFit programming, athletes and coaches rely on a specific, largely standardized set of acronyms and abbreviations to efficiently describe movements, workouts, and equipment. This shorthand is crucial for quickly communicating complex Workout of the Day (WOD) structures. However, it's important to clarify that "BJ" is not a part of this official or widely recognized CrossFit terminology.

It is possible that "BJ" might be a non-standard, informal abbreviation used within a specific local gym ("box"), a personal note, or a misunderstanding. In such cases, its meaning would be contextual and not universal.

Common CrossFit Acronyms and Abbreviations

To provide clarity and educate on what is standard, here is a list of frequently used and officially recognized CrossFit abbreviations:

• AMRAP: As Many Rounds/Reps As Possible
• ATG: Ass To Grass (referring to squat depth)
• BP: Bench Press
• BS: Back Squat
• BW/BWT: Bodyweight
• C&J: Clean and Jerk
• DL: Deadlift
• DU: Double-Unders
• EMOM: Every Minute On the Minute
• FS: Front Squat
• GHD: Glute Ham Developer (a piece of equipment, also refers to exercises performed on it like GHD Sit-ups or GHD Back Extensions)
• HSPU: Handstand Push-Up
• KB: Kettlebell
• KBS: Kettlebell Swing
• K2E: Knees-to-Elbows
• ME: Max Effort
• MetCon: Metabolic Conditioning
• OHS: Overhead Squat
• PC: Power Clean
• PJ: Push Jerk
• PR: Personal Record
• PS: Power Snatch
• PU: Pull-Up
• RM: Repetition Maximum (e.g., 1RM for one-rep max)
• Rx: As Prescribed (completing a WOD with the exact specified weights, movements, and standards)
• SDHP: Sumo Deadlift High Pull
• SN: Snatch
• SQ: Squat
• TGU: Turkish Get-Up
• T2B: Toes-to-Bar
• WOD: Workout of the Day

Potential Misinterpretations or Related Terms

While "BJ" is not standard, it's worth considering what it might be informally confused with or intended to represent in a non-standard context:

• Box Jump: This is a very common CrossFit movement. While "BJ" might be used informally by some, the standard abbreviation is typically just "Box Jump" written out, or sometimes implied within a WOD description. The movement involves jumping onto a raised box.
• Burpee Jump: Less common, but a burpee often concludes with a jump (either over an object or a jump to clap overhead). Again, "BJ" is not a standard abbreviation for this.
• Typographical Error: It's possible "BJ" is a typo for another abbreviation, such as "PJ" (Push Jerk) or "BP" (Bench Press), though these are distinct movements.

Why Abbreviations Are Used in CrossFit

CrossFit programming often involves complex combinations of movements, repetitions, and time domains. Abbreviations serve several key purposes:

• Conciseness: They allow coaches and programmers to write WODs quickly and efficiently, saving space on whiteboards or in online posts.
• Clarity: For those familiar with the lexicon, abbreviations provide a clear and unambiguous description of the workout.
• Standardization: The widespread use of these terms helps maintain consistency across different CrossFit affiliates globally.

How to Clarify Unfamiliar Terms

If you encounter an abbreviation or term in a CrossFit setting that you don't recognize, the best course of action is always:

1. Ask Your Coach: Your CrossFit coach is the primary resource for clarifying any part of the WOD or specific movements.
2. Consult Official Resources: The CrossFit Journal, official CrossFit.com programming, and reputable CrossFit textbooks or resources adhere strictly to the standardized terminology.
3. Cross-Reference: If unsure, compare the unknown abbreviation to lists of common CrossFit terms to see if it's a variation or a less common but still recognized term.

In conclusion, while the world of CrossFit has a rich and functional vocabulary of abbreviations, "BJ" does not hold a place within its official or widely accepted terminology. Understanding the established lexicon is key to safely and effectively participating in and understanding CrossFit programming.