Since yoke frames are uncommon, you’ll often see the farmer’s walk offered as a substitute in workouts that call for a yoke frame. But just because you can switch one piece of equipment for another doesn’t mean you should.
Available in most CrossFit gyms and online at roguefitness.com, yoke frames are indispensable. The most notable difference between a yoke carry and a farmer’s walk is that in a yoke carry, grip strength is eliminated as a limiting factor since the weight is loaded across your shoulders. This lets you use an exponentially higher load and develop inside-out core strength that is transferable to every exercise known to man.
QUICK TIP: Besides building core strength, heavy yoke carries provide intense cardio.
Yoke Carries: Nat’s Advice
The Move
To get the yoke off the ground, stand it up like you would a squat. Then be sure to keep your core engaged at all times. Use quick, shallow breaths as you walk forward with small steps. Maintain posture.
The WOD
Heavy yoke frame carries can be melded into nearly any workout, but this yoke-laden WOD is one for the books.
