The Roots of CrossFit

Luke Espe • October 20, 2022
A man lifting a barbell with the words the roots of crossfit behind him

CrossFit is defined as "constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity".  This simple yet effective training method is where 12 Labours CrossFit was born from and why we have this incredible family today. That is why we are excited to refocus the 12 Labours Community to reflect this methodology once again. 

 

We all remember our first CrossFit workout and how that feeling drew us in closer into the box. Common words like benchmark, couplet, chipper, thruster, hero WOD, and Grace captured our attention into CrossFit even more. Your first experience at 12 Labours CrossFit probably resonated with this similar sentiment. We may all have different reasons for doing CrossFit, but the shared suffering and support among those that surround us has allowed us to keep pushing forward.

 

“Getting back to our roots reminds me of when I started CrossFit back in 2012 and also when I joined 12 Labours CrossFit in 2015.  Back then, there were no regimented program cycles or standardized days for particular WODs and I didn't care about any of that anyways.  Each day I came to the gym to throw down, build friendships, and leave knowing I was fitter than when I showed up. That is what I want to provide for our community as we go forward, a safe, fun, and productive workout environment no matter what day you show up.” -Coach Jeff Milam

 

The biggest change will be moving away from our "Cycle" format that we've followed over the past few years. We’ve completed structured programs around squat cycles, gymnastics progressions, weightlifting complexes and more. There was a lot of specialization in those elements that proved to be super beneficial in the previous months and most recently with a ton of squat clean PR’s!

 

Going forward, expect less patterned programming and more variation on a weekly basis. Any day you show up you'll get a great workout that will keep you engaged and allow you to continue your fitness growth over the months and years.

For those that are interested in getting some more volume in your training, we will also include accessory work as part of your weekly programming. This may include weightlifting, aerobic sessions, gymnastics skills, functional bodybuilding and more. More details to come.

 

In fitness,

-The 12 Labours Team

MORE RECENT POSTS

By Chelsea Espe January 8, 2026
We are excited to celebrate Brie Binder as our Athlete of the Month! Brie’s CrossFit journey began back in 2007 in California. After moving to the East Coast, she trained at CrossFit DC, just a short distance from 12 Labours. When her family eventually settled in the area, joining 12 Labours was an easy decision after hearing great things through the MACC community. You will most often find Brie in the 9:30am or 3:30pm classes. She loves Olympic lifting, especially snatching, and is a fan of bar muscle ups. Right now, she is working toward ring muscle ups and continuing her return to training after welcoming her son in June, an inspiring example of consistency and resilience. When asked what she loves most about 12 Labours, Brie shared: “The coaches, the programming and the community. I've been at a lot of different CF gyms and this is by far the best one. The level of coaching and in-house programming is rare, and the community is positive and supportive.” Outside the gym, Brie is a constitutional law attorney. She enjoys spending time with her family and getting outdoors whenever she can. Brie, your dedication, positivity, and commitment to both your fitness and your family inspire our entire community. Congratulations on being our November Athlete of the Month
January 4, 2026
At 12 Labours, strength is for everyone. It is not reserved for advanced athletes or those with years under the bar. Strength is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and built at any stage. While our facility supports many styles of training, the powerlifting program exists to give members a clear, structured path to getting stronger. You do not need prior experience. You do not need to know the lifts. You only need a willingness to learn and show up consistently. A new training cycle begins this Tuesday, January 6th, making it an ideal time to start. Powerlifting is a strength sport built around three barbell movements. Each lift is taught from the ground up, with an emphasis on safe positions, clear standards, and steady progress. The Big Three lifts are: The Squat, which develops lower body strength and full-body stability. The Bench Press, the primary upper body pressing movement. The Deadlift, a foundational test of total-body strength. Every lifter begins somewhere. Our coaching approach meets you at your current level and progresses at a pace that makes sense for you. Loads are personalized, technique is prioritized, and progress is measured over time. Whether this is your first time touching a barbell or you are returning after time away, you belong on the platform. Although the work under the bar is individual, the environment is collective. Training alongside others builds accountability, confidence, and consistency. Members support one another through spots, feedback, and shared effort. No one trains alone here. Powerlifting rewards consistency and patience. Structured training and clear goals create momentum, whether that goal is learning proper technique, building confidence, or adding weight to the bar. The process is the same for everyone: show up, train with intention, and improve steadily. Yes, this is for you. Experience is not required. Competition is never mandatory, but it is available to anyone who wants a tangible goal. This cycle will build toward Maryland States, a local meet open to all, taking place March 21 to 22, 2026. Competing is about participation, preparation, and shared experience, not winning. Our next training cycle begins Tuesday, January 6th, giving you plenty of time to learn the lifts, build strength, and feel prepared. Schedule: Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:30 PM 12 Labours Annapolis See you in the gym.
By Mel McCamley December 5, 2025
We’re kicking off the new year with one of our favorite annual traditions: the Resolution Games, taking place on Saturday, January 31 at the Annapolis District. This in-house pairs competition features approachable divisions for every 12 Labours athlete and gives our entire community a chance to come together and test their fitness in a supportive environment. Event Details Location: 12 Labours Annapolis District Date: Saturday, January 31 Format: In-house pairs competition Divisions:: Sport, Fitness & Wellness Registration: Live now on Competition Corner Closes: January 3 at 11:59PM ET Cost: $120 per pair NEW THIS YEAR — Allied Teams Columbia’s Special Olympics group is excited to announce the addition of Allied Teams to this year’s event. These same-sex teams will pair one Special Olympics athlete with one 12 Labours member, completing the “Wellness” workouts side-by-side. We’re proud to bring this inclusive, community-driven addition to the 2025 Games. Email edgilbe@carrollk12.org The Resolution Games are all about connection, celebration, and testing your fitness in a fun, supportive environment. Whether it’s your first competition or your fifteenth, this event brings the entire community together to start the year with purpose and momentum Kick off your year with purpose, connection, and a great day of fitness. Grab your partner and secure your spot today!
More Posts

you can ACHIEVE your goals with us

CrossFit is meant for all levels of fitness, and our universally scalable model is built for you.