
Heavy Artillery Brings the Power in Today’s GRIT WOD
Today’s GRIT WOD is bringing the heat. “Heavy Artillery” is an explosive combat fitness circuit designed to torch calories, sharpen striking technique, and build full-body strength. You’ll cycle through 90 seconds of all-out effort, with just 15 seconds to switch between stations. No time to overthink—just dig deep, move hard, and trust your training.
Whether you’re crushing it in the group fitness class at the Academy of Self Defense in Santa Clara, or adapting this workout from home, you’re about to light up every major muscle group.
Let’s break down the battlefield.
WOD Breakdown: “Heavy Artillery”
8 Rounds: 90 Seconds On, 15 Seconds to Switch
- Freestyle Punches & Elbows – Let it fly. Think speed, precision, and power. Shadowbox like you’re in the ring.
- KB Chest Press – Lying down or on a bench, drive those kettlebells up. Keep the core engaged.
- Echo Bike – All gas, no brakes. Push and pull for max intensity.
- Bottoms Up Press – Grip strength meets shoulder stability. Control is key.
- Battle Rope – Slam, wave, spiral—just don’t stop moving.
- Fireman Squat – Simulate a rescue carry. Heavy object cradled in arms, squat deep and strong.
- KB Swings – Explosive hip drive. Core tight, spine neutral.
- Freestyle Kicks & Knees – End with a bang. Channel your inner striker and go wild.
This circuit is fast, furious, and full-body focused. You’ll cycle through functional strength, cardio bursts, and combat conditioning in one killer endurance workout.
Coaching Tips
- Don’t gas out early. 90 seconds is deceptively long. Set a steady pace and build up.
- Power through transitions. You only get 15 seconds—have your gear set up ahead of time.
- Own your form. Sloppy reps = missed gains. Focus especially on technique during presses and swings.
- Adjust as needed. Modify exercises to match your level, especially if you’re just getting into group fitness.
At-Home Options
No Echo Bike? Sub in:
- High-knees sprint in place
- Burpee-to-squat jumps
- Jump rope or mountain climbers
No Kettlebells? Use:
- Dumbbells or resistance bands for chest press and presses
- A backpack or sandbag for Fireman Squat
No Battle Rope? Try:
- Plyo push-ups
- Medicine ball slams (or heavy bag)
- Fast alternating punches in a squat stance
You can recreate this GRIT workout at home with a little creativity and a lot of hustle. No excuses.
Warm-Up Guidance
Before you go heavy, fire up your engine:
- 2 rounds:
- 30 sec Jumping Jacks
- 10 Bodyweight Squats
- 10 Arm Circles (each direction)
- 5 Push-ups
- 10 Standing Knees to Elbows
- Light shadowboxing (1 min)
- Practice KB movement patterns with no weight
“Heavy Artillery” doesn’t mess around—and neither should you. This workout hits every angle of fitness: strength, speed, stamina, and skill. Whether you’re in the GRIT room surrounded by a badass community, or sweating solo at home, this WOD is about one thing—showing up and giving it your all.
Don’t just read about it. Experience it.
👉 Start your free two-week trial now and train alongside Santa Clara’s most welcoming, high-energy crew.
Or check out the GRIT program to see what real functional fitness looks like.