Saturday, April 30, 2011

Memorial Day Murph - A Way To Remember

We are exactly one month from Memorial Day. For many people, that day has come to mean little more than a barbeque, or the unofficial start of summertime activities. But it's more than just a three day weekend, it's a day to remember the men and women who have died in the service of our nation.

If you want to be inspired by one such group of dedicated servicemen, head on over to the Memorial Day Murph site and read about Operation REDWING and Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Michael P. Murphy. For years, Crossfit Affiliates have honored this fallen warrior with the workout "Murph", and now there is a yearly day to do this workout as a means to raise funds for several charities: the Wounded Warrior Project, the Lone Survivor Foundation, and the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Memorial Scholarship Foundation.

This workout is not for the faint of heart (or body), it involves a 1 mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 pushups, and 300 squats, then another 1 mile run. I imagine it's going to take me a fair while to accomplish (hopefully I won't have to take a nap in the middle to complete it). And since I can't do 100 real pull-ups, I'll be using one of the Crossfit pull-up bands to help me out there. But, we've got a month to get ready, so if anyone wants to join me in doing the Memorial Day Murph, it doesn't take a lot of equipment or space, but it makes a big difference.

The Ironmom Extra Mile:  History of Memorial Day

3 comments:

Relentless Forward Commotion said...

Our local CF is doing this challenge. Alas, I can't even do a single pull up! One day, one day. Regardless, great way to recognize all of those who sacrifice SO much for the rest of us!!

Dai "Moose" Manuel said...

Great post! It just so happens I'm doing Murph today at my local box (CF Renegade)... Not a favorite WOD of mine, but definitely appreciate its history. (http://www.daimanuel.com/2008/12/06/the-origin-of-murph-crossfit-wod/)

Good luck with the WOD! Looking forward to hearing how it went for you.

Dai

Robin said...

Heather, does your CF have pull-up bands? I certainly can't do 100 pullups without using one!