The 2019 CrossFit season will be one that is remembered as a season of change. The Regionals were replaced with Sanctionals, the Open was more challenging than ever, more athletes will be competing for the title of “Fittest on Earth,” and more people are being recognized in the fitness community than ever before.

But that is not where the changes have stopped. There are other changes taking place that won’t just affect the Games competitions. They will change how they are presented as well as how the media covers it. The intended result is projected to be a better experience for the fans watching, the people covering it, and the athletes participating in this historic competition. 

New Media Guidelines

On June 20, the official Games website released a statement that covers the guidelines for the media that will be in Madison. Among the new changes include allowing photographers and videographers to use professional equipment as well as selfie sticks. So long as the use of the equipment is non-commercial as well as not able to interfere in the experience for athletes, judges, or anyone in attendance, use will be permitted. In their own words, “bring your big lenses and tripods.” This can enhance the way that those covering the event can present it to the fans. 

Personal Use & Social Media

You may be aware that the Games recently decided to suspend their social media channels including Facebook and Instagram. This was due to concerns about users’ privacy and security as well as Facebook deleting of a seven-day meal plan post. As of this writing, the accounts have not been reactivated and there has been no update as to if or when the accounts will be. In spite of this, they’re aware that the fans may want to share their experiences at the Games with their followers.

Because of that, the statement also reads that “event attendees are welcome and encouraged to use photos, videos, and audio recordings (‘media’) from the event for personal use.”

This means they can share posts on personal accounts so long as they are non-commercial and posts can be displayed on websites so long as they don’t sell products/services or attempt to appear as official to CrossFit. Of course, they can also share what they capture with their followers, friends, and family.

Anyone who does want to use media in a professional manner are still encouraged to seek credentials.

The “World Feed”

In a separate press release also on June 20, the Games site announced the news that many fans have hoped for. In years past, the Games have been presented on networks like ESPN and CBS. Keeping with the theme of change as well as the mission of making the Games more global, the news came that there will be a professional feed streaming the entire event. This feed will also have “open-source” options for broadcast partners to call the action so more fans can watch the festivities as they happen.

So not only will more athletes be able to compete, but now more media personalities can make names for themselves within their nation or market. More outlets can share the events and results as they happen live. In short, there will very likely be more eyes watching the Games than ever before. The athletes competing on the biggest stage in fitness can be potentially performing in front of the biggest audience to date, between those in Madison and those watching around the world.

The 2019 CrossFit Games start on Aug. 1 and run through Aug. 4. Check back with FloElite early and often for the latest news and updates leading up to the Games, as well as what takes place in Madison.

Roger Lockridge is from Lewisburg, West Virginia. His work has been featured on numerous platforms and magazines in the fitness industry over the last 10 years. You can find him on Twitter and Instagram @rocklockridge.