Beginner strategy

Ledesma: train the right version of the test.

A practical starting point for athletes building toward the full Ledesma HERO WOD. Use the plan, then adjust with a qualified coach when needed.

Choose your current level

Strategy overview

Your work starts with the right dose.

Focus on modified movements and sustainable pacing to accumulate rounds without hitting failure.

Recommended gear

Pacing

Control the start, stay aware of your movement quality, and give yourself a chance to finish with intent.

Aim for 3-5 complete rounds

Rounds should take 4:00-6:00 each

Rest as needed on parallette HSPU

Keep moving on medicine ball cleans

Movement

Use these cues to retain the purpose of the workout while respecting the ability you bring to it today.

Parallette HSPU: Scale to box HSPU, pike push-ups, or regular push-ups

Toes-to-Rings: Scale to knees-to-elbows, knee raises, or sit-ups

Med Ball Cleans: Full squat clean, catch in squat position

Scaling

Scaling is not an afterthought. It is how you stay in the workout, practice useful positions, and build toward what comes next.

Choose an option that keeps good form and preserves as much of the workout’s character as your current ability and available equipment allow.

Box HSPU or pike push-ups instead of parallette HSPU

Knees-to-elbows or V-ups instead of toes-to-rings

Lighter medicine ball (14/10 lb)

Reduce time cap to 15 minutes

Reduce reps to 3-7-12

Coach notes

Tip 01

Parallette HSPU add significant range of motion

Tip 02

Toes-to-rings require strong grip and core

Tip 03

Medicine ball cleans are recovery movement

Tip 04

Set up equipment close together

Next step

Review the full standard, use the strategy that matches your current capacity, and keep the work honest.