3 minute read
The "Murph Challenge"
By Brad Giglio
Each year people all over the country and even the world participate in the “Murph” workout. This workout is a Memorial Day staple for the CrossFit community and has grown into the “Murph Challenge.” What is the workout? ● Run 1 mile ● Complete 100 Pull-ups ● Complete 200 Push-ups ● Complete 300 Air Squats ● Run 1 mile *Do all of this wearing a 20-pound vest
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This workout is named after Lt. Michael Murphy, a Navy Seal (May 7, 1976 – June 28, 2005) who gave his life to signal support while the rest of his fire team was being suppressed and attacked by enemy fighters. For these courageous acts, he was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
We engage in this workout as a way to say, “thank you.” Of course, this is nothing compared to what the men and women of our Armed Forces endure in their time of service and combat. Nor does it realistically represent the sacrifice Lt. Murphy made. However, what it does is honor uniquely, and especially the value of one life sacrificed for another. Not just once, but yearly, we reflect on this brave soldier’s life and service and honor him with our effort.
This reflects what America is and has been known for. The idea that sacrifices made for others are not only worth it but part of the very moral fabric of who we are. As American soldiers, we stand up for what is right and humanity in the face of all types of adversity. Whether on a grand scale or simple, small acts of kindness, the sacrifice is worth it, the cost unquestioned. That is what sets American soldiers apart.
The “Murph Challenge” is our way of willingly putting ourselves through a physical hardship to represent and remember the sacrifice Lt. Murphy made.
As Americans, especially those who have served, Memorial Day is tough! I know many people are out to celebrate the extended weekend and enjoy BBQs and time with friends and family. As a veteran and a person who lost many friends overseas - many within arms reach of me; Memorial Day is about deep reflection. I often wrestle with guilt and find myself asking why I survived, and they paid the ultimate sacrifice. It doesn’t get any easier. Year after year, I continue to see their faces and remember. I am sure many fellow Veterans reading this have endured the same hardships or worse. This is my challenge to you. Use the “Murph Challenge” as a way to show that you are willing to push yourself and go beyond what is comfortable. You don’t have to use a vest or even do all the reps of the movements, but do something that day that is challenging to you physically. I know many of us honor the fallen in our own private ways. This year let’s do the “Murph Challenge” in honor of all those who lost their lives fighting for our freedoms. Grab a battle buddy and get moving and show everyone what it means to have the spirit of Lt. Murphy and every other Soldier, Sailor, Airmen, Marine, or Coast Guard that has made the same sacrifice! https:// themurphchallenge.com/
Need a place to do the challenge among other patriots? Visit us at CrossFit Due North and sign up to do the “Murph” with us! (231) 421-1160, https://www.crossfitduenorth.com.
