Dr. Brandon Vaughn Recertified as an Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)

We’re proud to announce that Dr. Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS — founder and CEO of Vertex PT Specialists — has officially been recertified as a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).

This distinction highlights our ongoing commitment to expert-level care for patients across Columbia, Irmo, Cayce, Lexington, and the greater Midlands.

What Does “Board-Certified Orthopaedic Specialist” Actually Mean?

This is one of the highest credentials a physical therapist can earn in the U.S.

To achieve it, PTs must demonstrate:

  • Thousands of hours in orthopedic-specific patient care
  • Advanced clinical reasoning and mastery of movement science
  • A passing score on a rigorous national board exam
  • Ongoing recertification every 10 years

Only about 6% of licensed PTs nationwide hold this title — and fewer still maintain it for multiple decades.

Dr. Vaughn first earned his OCS in 2015, and this latest recertification extends through 2035 — a 20-year span of sustained clinical excellence.

Why This Matters If You’re a Patient

If you’re searching for a physical therapist in Columbia, SC for any of the following:

  • Back or neck pain
  • ACL rehab, rotator cuff, or post-op recovery
  • Sports injuries or running-related pain
  • Or simply a conservative, high-level care approach that avoids meds or unnecessary procedures…

Then working with a board-certified orthopedic PT makes a difference.

At Vertex PT, you’ll get:

✅ Individualized, research-backed rehab
✅ 1-on-1 care with experienced clinicians
✅ Faster, safer return to sport or daily life
✅ Prevention-focused strategies for long-term success

Local, Trusted, and Proven

With clinics in Cayce, Irmo, and Downtown Columbia, Vertex PT serves patients from Lexington, Richland County, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing a chronic issue, expert help is close by.

✅ Verified Through 2035

Dr. Vaughn’s board certification can be officially verified through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.

Ready to Work With a Proven Specialist?

Plenty of PTs talk the talk. Fewer commit to decades of mastery, professional development, and consistent results.

If you’re ready to experience the difference, book your visit with Vertex PT Specialists today.

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Running Through Pain? How to Know If It’s a Stress Fracture (And What to Do Next)

Is It Just Soreness or a Stress Fracture?
Shin pain is common in runners. But when does it go from normal soreness to something more serious, like a bone stress injury (BSI), also known as a stress fracture?

At Vertex PT Specialists, we work with runners across Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, Lexington, and Richland County who want to avoid long layoffs and come back strong. Knowing when and how to safely return is critical.

How to Know If You’re Ready to Return to Running
Here are objective tests you can try at home. These Physical Performance Tests (PPTs) are adapted from Chris Johnson one of the top clinicians in running rehab.

✅ 1. Single-Leg Calf Raise
Hold 30 to 40% of your body weight in the same-side hand while doing 6 to 8 slow, controlled reps.
✅ 2. Step Downs
Perform 15 lateral step downs from a 7 to 8 inch step without pain or compensation.
✅ 3. Pogo Jumps
Pogo in place for 60 seconds to a metronome at 150 bpm.
✅ 4. Single-Leg Hop
Hop on one leg at 150 bpm. If you can’t keep the rhythm or feel pain, you may need more prep.
✅ 5. Zig-Zag Hops
Perform 20 seconds of side-to-side hops in a zig-zag pattern. Focus on control, not speed.

If you struggle with any of the above, it’s probably too early to resume full running volume. That’s where we come in.

Our Approach: Helping Runners Return Safely
At Vertex PT, we go beyond rest and generic advice. You’ll get a customized plan including:

  • Strength and stability training (hips, calves, foot intrinsics)
  • Plyometric progression
  • Gait retraining (like cadence and contact time)
  • Guidance on footwear and training errors
  • Return-to-run programming specific to your sport and goals

We don’t guess. We test.

Serving Runners Across the Midlands
We help runners in Columbia, Irmo, Cayce, Lexington, and nearby areas get back to doing what they love without fear of re-injury.

Whether you’re training for the Governor’s Cup, qualifying for Boston, or just want pain-free jogs after work, we’ve got your back.

Start Today
Visit us: vertexpt.com
Call: (803) 973-0100

And for a deeper dive into Bone Stress Injury (BSI) research and rehab, check out the original work from Chris Johnson.

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South Carolina Governor Meets with Dr. Brandon Vaughn to Discuss the Future of Physical Therapy


Dr. Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS owner and founder of Vertex PT Specialists, met with Governor Henry McMaster at the South Carolina Statehouse to address critical issues affecting the physical therapy profession and patient access to care.

Their discussion focused heavily on the growing impact of Medicare reimbursement cuts, which continue to threaten independent practices and limit care availability—particularly for South Carolina’s aging population. Dr. Vaughn emphasized how these cuts create barriers for seniors who rely on physical therapy to maintain independence, recover after surgery, and avoid unnecessary imaging, medications, or more invasive procedures.

The conversation also covered the site-neutral payment loophole, which allows hospital systems to charge significantly higher rates than private clinics for the same services. This discrepancy not only increases costs for patients and taxpayers, but also places small, independent providers at a financial disadvantage—despite offering the same, and often more personalized, care.

Dr. Vaughn and Governor McMaster explored ways to escalate this issue at the federal level, including direct communication with congressional representatives and healthcare policymakers in Washington, D.C. Their goal: to advocate for fair reimbursement models that support small businesses and preserve patient access to quality care.

Beyond policy concerns, the meeting highlighted physical therapy’s essential role in the broader effort to Make America Healthy Again (MAHA). As Dr. Vaughn explained, physical therapy helps people stay active, avoid surgery, prevent chronic conditions, and reduce healthcare costs system-wide.

Vertex PT Specialists remains deeply committed to this mission across all of its service areas, offering one-on-one care in Columbia, Cayce – West Columbia, Irmo, and through outpatient home health physical therapy in Lexington and Richland Counties.

To learn more or get started with care, contact us here.

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2025 Vertex Pump & Run 5K 

When is it? Saturday March 29th, 2025

Where is it? Vertex PT Specialists in Cayce, SC (located across from Krispy Kreme)

Who is it for? Anyone looking to test their strength and endurance, PR their 5K, or just come out to run/walk and have a good time!

The Vertex Pump & Run is an event that measures overall fitness by testing both strength and endurance.

In the competition, participants bench press a percentage of their body weight. Each lift (up to a maximum of 30 reps) reduces their 5-kilometer run time by 30 seconds. There will be ten (10) age/gender divisions. Depending on age, men must bench press 60% to 100% of their weight, and women 40% to 70% of their weight.

Weigh-in and bench press begin at 7:00 a.m. The running portion of the 5K Pump & Run starts at 8:30 a.m. Participants can choose to register for the 5K run/walk only, which also starts at 8:30 a.m.

The 5K race will be timed by Strictly Running and is part of Columbia Running Club’s Tour de Columbia. The race will start and finish at Vertex PT.

Entry to the Pump & Run or the Vertex 5K includes a T-shirt that is guaranteed if you register before March 10th!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

 


Example:

  • A 45-year-old female who weighs in at 150 lbs will bench press 60% of her bodyweight for reps, which is 90 lbs.
  • She successfully bench presses 90 lbs for 15 reps.
  • She then runs a 5k and finishes in 24 minutes.
  • Her recorded time is therefore 16 minutes and 30 seconds, after reducing her 5k time by 7 minutes and 30 seconds due to her 15 successful bench press reps.

BENCH PRESS RULES

  1. Starting Position
    • The lifter must lie on their back with their head, shoulders, and buttocks in contact with the bench surface.
    • The lifter’s feet must be flat on the floor. If a lifter’s feet cannot comfortably or securely reach the floor due to height, blocks may be placed under their feet to provide a stable and level surface. These blocks must not elevate the heels higher than a natural flat-foot position.
    • Shoes must not have excessively thick soles that artificially elevate the heels.
  2. Grip and Bar Position
    • The lifter’s eyes must be directly under the barbell when positioned on the bench.
    • The grip width of the barbell is not specified, but it must be evenly distributed on both sides of the lifter’s body.
    • The lifter must use a thumb-around grip, which must be maintained throughout the lift.
  3. Lift Execution
    • The barbell must be lifted from the rack stands and lowered under control to touch the lifter’s chest.
    • The lifter must press the bar upward immediately from the chest to the fully locked-out position with elbows extended. One repetition is counted when the barbell reaches this locked-out position.
    • The lifter must hold the bar steady in the locked-out position before lowering it back to the chest. Resting on the chest is not allowed.
    • A maximum of 30 unbroken reps is permitted. If the lifter racks the bar or requires assistance, their score will be the total number of completed reps.
  4. Spotting and Safety
    • A spotter will be present for safety and must intervene only if the lifter requests assistance or cannot complete the lift.
    • The lifter’s score will reflect the last fully completed repetition before racking or requiring spotter intervention.
  5. Special Accommodations for Shorter Lifters
    • Lifters who are unable to securely place their feet flat on the floor due to height are permitted to use blocks under their feet to achieve a stable position. The blocks must ensure a natural, flat-footed stance without elevating the heels artificially.
    • The blocks used must be approved by event organizers to ensure consistency and fairness.

COURSE MAP


SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR TITLE SPONSOR!

We are thrilled to have the Samuels Reynolds Law Firm as the title sponsor for the Vertex Pump & Run. Their unwavering support for local events like ours demonstrates their commitment to strengthening our community.

As a locally owned boutique law firm based in Columbia, SC, Samuels Reynolds Law Firm specializes in workers’ compensation and personal injury cases. With over 57 years of combined experience, they offer personalized attention, in-depth knowledge, and skilled legal representation to clients across South Carolina.

If you or a loved one need trusted legal guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to them at 803.779.4000 or visit their website at samuelsreynolds.com.

Thank you, Samuels Reynolds Law Firm, for helping make the Vertex Pump & Run possible!

 

Race Day Schedule 

7:00 am – Packet pick up, Late Registration

7-8:00 am – Weigh in and Bench Press

8:30 am – 5K race begins for EVERYONE

10:00 am – Awards Ceremony

Packet Pick Up

Friday, March 28th – 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m

Saturday, March 29th – 7:00 a.m – 7:30 a.m

 

Registration Cost

5k Run – $40

Pump & Run – $45
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Mastering Dry Needling for the Quadratus Lumborum (QL)

At Vertex PT Specialists, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of physical therapy techniques. In our latest video, Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, demonstrates and instructs on the proper technique for dry needling the Quadratus Lumborum (QL)—a vital treatment for addressing low back pain and dysfunction.

Check out the video below to see Brandon guide you through this advanced dry needling technique step by step:

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a powerful treatment designed to relieve muscle pain, trigger points, and movement restrictions. By using thin, sterile needles, physical therapists can target specific muscle groups, leading to:

  • Improved Circulation: Enhances the healing process by increasing blood flow.
  • Pain Relief: Releases tension in tight muscles.
  • Enhanced Mobility: Restores proper function and range of motion.

Why Focus on the QL?

The Quadratus Lumborum is a deep-seated muscle located in the lower back. Dysfunction in the QL can lead to:

  • Persistent low back pain
  • Limited hip mobility
  • Referred pain to the glutes or pelvis

Brandon Vaughn’s demonstration highlights how precise dry needling can effectively alleviate QL-related symptoms, making it an invaluable tool in physical therapy.

About Brandon Vaughn

Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, is a seasoned physical therapist and the owner of Vertex PT Specialists. With a wealth of experience and advanced certifications, Brandon specializes in helping patients achieve optimal recovery and performance. In this video, he shares his expertise to empower other therapists and educate patients about effective treatment options.

Why Choose Vertex PT Specialists?

At Vertex PT Specialists, our team of highly trained therapists uses evidence-based techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or recovering from an injury, we’re here to help.

Learn More or Book an Appointment

Want to know more about dry needling and how it can benefit you? Contact us today at info@vertexpt.com or call 803-973-0100 to schedule your appointment.

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Regain Control: How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help Urinary Incontinence

At Vertex PT Specialists, LLC, located in Columbia, SC, we are committed to helping individuals regain control over their lives through effective and personalized physical therapy solutions. One area we specialize in is pelvic floor therapy for those experiencing urinary incontinence. If you’re struggling with leaks or other bladder issues, this post will guide you through what urinary incontinence is, its causes, and how pelvic floor therapy can help.

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine, which can happen to people of all ages. However, it’s especially common in women due to factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. It can impact daily life, self-confidence, and even physical activity, but the good news is that pelvic floor physical therapy offers a proven solution.

Common Types of Urinary Incontinence:

  • Stress Incontinence: Leakage caused by activities like sneezing, coughing, laughing, or exercise.
  • Urge Incontinence: A sudden, intense urge to urinate that’s difficult to control.
  • Mixed Incontinence: A combination of stress and urge incontinence.

At Vertex PT Specialists, our Women’s Health Physical Therapists are trained to assess and treat all forms of incontinence with a tailored approach.

Common Causes of Urinary Incontinence

Several factors can contribute to urinary incontinence, including:

  • Pelvic Floor Muscle Weakness or Tightness: Muscles may not function properly to support the bladder.
  • Poor Bladder Habits: “Just-in-case” bathroom trips can lead to bad habits.
  • Hormonal Changes, Pregnancy, or Childbirth: These events can weaken the pelvic floor.
  • Chronic Constipation or Straining: Increased abdominal pressure can damage pelvic muscles.
  • Nutrition and Hydration Issues: Caffeine, alcohol, and dehydration can irritate the bladder.

Our team  focuses on identifying the root cause of your incontinence to create a treatment plan that works for you.

How Does Pelvic Floor Therapy Help?

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to strengthen, relax, and coordinate the muscles in the pelvic region. Here’s how we can help:

  1. Internal and External Assessments:
    • Our Women’s Health PTs assess muscle strength, coordination, and areas of tightness or tenderness both internally and externally to provide a comprehensive evaluation.
  2. Personalized Treatment Plans:
    • Bladder Habits: Education on healthy bladder routines.
    • Guided Kegel Exercises: Learn proper technique with external cuing to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
    • Soft Tissue Mobilization (STM): Address muscle tightness or scar tissue in internal and external structures that may contribute to incontinence.
  3. Education and Empowerment:
    • We educate patients on the connection between lifestyle factors (hydration, nutrition, and exercise) and pelvic health.

Tips for Improving Bladder Health

In addition to pelvic floor therapy, here are some actionable tips you can use today:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water, but avoid overhydration or dehydration.
  • Bladder Training: Avoid “just-in-case” bathroom trips. Aim to urinate every 2-4 hours.
  • Limit Irritants: Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks if they irritate your bladder.
  • Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor: Engage in pelvic floor exercises under the guidance of a professional.

Take the First Step Toward Freedom from Leaks

If you’re experiencing urinary incontinence, don’t wait to seek help. At Vertex PT Specialists in Columbia, SC, our Women’s Health Physical Therapists, Dr. Carly Holthausen, PT, DPT, and Dr. Katie Bailey, PT, DPT, are here to provide expert care tailored to your needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment:
Visit us at vertexpt.com
Call us at (803) 973-0100

Take control of your pelvic health and live life without limitations—schedule your appointment today!

Why Choose Vertex PT Specialists?

With a commitment to quality care and a team of experienced specialists, Vertex PT is your trusted partner for all your physical therapy needs in Columbia, SC. We offer comprehensive pelvic floor therapy, empowering our patients to regain control of their lives.

At Vertex PT Specialists, we don’t just treat conditions—we treat people. Let us help you on your journey to better health.

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Dr. Brandon Vaughn Featured on “The Game of Wealth” Podcast

We are excited to share that Dr. Brandon Vaughn, founder of Vertex Physical Therapy, was recently featured on Season 2, Episode 8 of The Game of Wealth Podcast!

In this episode, Dr. Vaughn dives into the story behind the creation of Vertex PT, sharing the challenges and triumphs of building a practice that prioritizes quality care, community involvement, and professional growth. He discusses Vertex’s core values and how they continue to shape the company’s success and its reputation for excellence in physical therapy.

If you’ve ever wondered what drives the vision behind Vertex PT or what it takes to grow a values-driven business, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen now: S2 EP8: Brandon Vaughn, Founder of Vertex Physical Therapy

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Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab

Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab

Download Here

Recovering from an ACL injury can be challenging, but with the right tools and strategies, you can improve your outcomes. Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab is a comprehensive guide that combines evidence-based practices with the latest in peptide therapy to support recovery and long-term health.

Written by Dr. Brandon Vaughn, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, this guide provides clear, actionable protocols tailored to each stage of recovery.

What’s Inside:

  • Phase-Specific Recovery Protocols: Step-by-step guidance for using peptides like BPC-157, TB-500, CJC-1295, and IGF-1 LR3 during each stage of ACL rehab.
  • Nutritional Support: Practical recommendations for optimizing recovery through diet and supplementation.
  • Case Studies: Real-world examples showing how peptides can accelerate healing and reduce downtime.
  • Safety Guidelines: Tips for sourcing, reconstituting, and administering peptides responsibly.

Who Is This For?

  • Physical Therapists: Gain insights into incorporating peptide therapy into your practice.
  • ACL Patients: Learn how to actively support your recovery with targeted strategies.
  • Athletes and Enthusiasts: Reduce injury risk and improve recovery with peptide-based solutions.

Why This Guide?

Brandon Vaughn shares over 15 years of clinical experience, combining innovative therapies with practical recovery advice. This guide is designed to provide a balanced and evidence-based approach to ACL rehabilitation.

Stay Updated:

Follow Brandon on Instagram for the latest updates on peptide therapy and recovery tips: @bvthept.

Start improving your recovery today. Download Peptide Therapy: For ACL Rehab and explore how peptides can make a difference in your healing process.

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2024 Vertex Pump & Run 5K 

When is it? Saturday April 20th, 2024

Where is it? Vertex PT Specialists in Cayce, SC (located across from Krispy Kreme)

Who is it for? Anyone looking to test their strength and endurance, PR their 5K, or just come out to run/walk and have a good time!

The Vertex Pump & Run is an event that measures overall fitness by testing both strength and endurance.

In the competition, participants bench press a percentage of their body weight. Each lift (up to a maximum of 30 reps) reduces their 5-kilometer run time by 30 seconds. There will be ten (10) age/gender divisions. Depending on age, men must bench press 60% to 100% of their weight, and women 40% to 70% of their weight.

Weigh-in and bench press begin at 7:00 a.m. The running portion of the 5K Pump & Run starts at 8:30 a.m. Participants can choose to register for the 5K run/walk only, which also starts at 8:30 a.m.

The 5K race will be timed by Strictly Running and is part of Columbia Running Club’s Tour de Columbia. The race will start and finish at Vertex PT.

Entry to the Pump & Run or the Vertex 5K includes a T-shirt that is guaranteed if you register before April 1st!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

 


Example:

  • A 45-year-old female who weighs in at 150 lbs will bench press 60% of her bodyweight for reps, which is 90 lbs.
  • She successfully bench presses 90 lbs for 15 reps.
  • She then runs a 5k and finishes in 24 minutes.
  • Her recorded time is therefore 16 minutes and 30 seconds, after reducing her 5k time by 7 minutes and 30 seconds due to her 15 successful bench press reps.

 

BENCH PRESS RULES

  • The lifter must lie on their back with their head, shoulders, and buttocks in contact with the bench surface. The lifter’s feet must be flat on the floor, and the shoes must not have an excessively thick sole that could elevate the heels. The lifter must position themselves correctly on the bench so that their eyes are directly under the bar.
  • The grip width of the barbell is not specified, but it must be evenly distributed on both sides of the lifter’s body. The lifter must grip the bar with both hands using a thumb-around grip. This grip must be maintained throughout the lift.
  • The lift begins when the barbell is lifted from the rack stands and lowered to the lifter’s chest. The lifter must lower the bar under control to touch their chest, and then immediately press the bar upward until their elbows are fully extended.
  • One repetition is counted when the lifter lifts the bar from their chest to the fully “locked out” position with the elbows extended. The lifter must hold the bar steady in this position before lowering the bar back down to their chest.
  • The lifter is allowed to rest at the top of the lift but not on the chest.
  • The lifter can perform a maximum of 30 unbroken reps before racking the bar. If the lifter fails to complete 30 reps, their final score will be the total number of reps completed.
  • A spotter will be present to ensure the lifter’s safety. The spotter must be ready to take the bar if the lifter cannot complete the rep or if the lifter requires assistance during the lift.
  • If the lifter racks the weight or requires the use of a spotter, the bench press or “pump” portion is complete, and the lifter’s last full rep will be counted towards their final score.

 

Race Day Schedule 

7:00 am – Packet pick up, Late Registration

7-8:00 am – Weigh in and Bench Press

8:30 am – 5K race begins for EVERYONE

10:00 am – Awards Ceremony

Packet Pick Up

Friday, April 19th – 8:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m

Saturday, April 20th – 7:00 a.m – 7:30 a.m

 

Registration Cost

5k Run – $40

Pump & Run – $45
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FITTEST PHYSIO 2023: EVENT 3 MOVEMENT STANDARDS

At the call of “go,” the 12:00 clock will start. The athlete starts with their jump rope and moves through the “chipper” portion of the workout, finishing with their last set of double-unders or single-unders. After the athlete has completed the last set on the jump rope, they will move to the pull-up bar and complete as many bar muscle-ups (Rx) or pull-ups (scaled) as possible in the remaining time. The score for this workout is the TOTAL repetitions completed for the entire workout, not just the muscle-ups or pull-ups. Athletes who choose to perform the scaled version of the workout will have their scores appear right after the Rx scores on the leaderboard (so the top scaled score will be right after the lowest Rx score).

Double-unders or Single-unders:
For the double-under, the jump rope must pass completely under the athlete’s feet twice on each jump for the rep to count. On the single-under, the rope only has to pass under the athlete’s feet once on each rep. You are allowed to start the workout already holding your jump rope.

Deadlifts:
The weight on the deadlifts is the same for both divisions (185/125). Every rep starts with the barbell on the ground and finishes with the athlete standing all the way up with knees and hips in full extension. Touch-and-go reps are allowed, but excessive “bouncing” is not allowed. Sumo versions of the deadlift are not allowed.

Handstand push-ups:
On the handstand push-ups, the rep starts and ends with the athlete upside down and feet against the wall (facing away from the wall). You can use a mat under your head, but your hands must be at the same level as a mat. For example, you cannot have your hands on the ground and an abmat under your head as this would shorten your range of motion. If you would like to use something like an abmat, you would have to have your hands on plates or risers to make them even with the top of the abmat. Kipping or strict reps are allowed, but you must reach full extension with feet on the wall for the rep to count.

Hand release push-ups:
For the hand release push-ups, each rep starts and ends in a plank position with elbows fully extended. The chest must touch the ground, and the athlete’s hands must completely leave the ground at the bottom of the rep before re-engaging and pressing up to the plank position.

DB snatch:
The weight on the DB snatch is the same for each division. Each rep starts with the DB on the ground, and the athlete must reach full extension of the knees and hips, and full shoulder flexion at the top (lock the elbow out!). The athlete can switch hands at any point between reps (including on the way down), but both heads of the DB must touch the ground at the bottom before beginning the next rep. You must alternate arms, so if you fail a rep, you have to repeat that arm before switching again. Your opposite hand cannot be in contact with your body during the rep (CrossFit Open standard).

Toes-to-bar:
On the toes-to-bar, the athlete must establish a hang position to start the rep. Both feet must touch the bar BETWEEN the hands for the rep to count, and if stringing reps together, both feet must pass back behind the plane of the bar at the bottom (arch position).

Abmat sit-ups:
For the abmat sit-up, at the bottom, your hands must touch the ground above your head before initiating the rep upward. The rep is complete once the athlete’s torso is vertical (just touching your feet is not enough if your torso does not reach the vertical position). Arm swing is allowed here, and with each rep, you must touch the ground over your head to begin the next rep.

Bar muscle-ups:
After the athlete has completed the ‘chipper’ portion of the workout, they move to the pull-up bar to complete as many reps as possible in the remaining time of bar muscle-ups or pull-ups. For the bar muscle-up, the athlete must establish a hang position with arms straight at the bottom and finish above the bar with arms fully locked out. Any type of kip is allowed (gymnastics kip, glide kip), but the athlete’s feet must not go above the bar at any time or it will be a no-rep.

Pull-ups:
For the pull-up, kipping or strict pull-ups are allowed. Each rep starts with the athlete hanging under the bar and arms at full extension and finishes with the chin above the bar. Pronated, supinated or mixed grip is allowed.
If you have any questions, please email josh@vertexpt.com.
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